Moreton Bay’s Sunken Treasure

Discover the Tangalooma Wrecks

Moreton Bay, off the coast of Brisbane, Queensland, is a paradise for boaters. Its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and stunning island scenery make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure on the water. Among the highlights of Moreton Bay is the Tangalooma Wrecks—an intriguing site of sunken vessels that have transformed into a thriving underwater ecosystem, offering one of the best snorkeling and diving experiences in the region.

 


Setting Out from Brisbane
Moreton Bay is just a short boat ride from Brisbane—about 40 minutes from the Brisbane River to Moreton Island. While there are organised tours to visit the Tangalooma Wrecks, bringing your own boat or PWC offers the freedom to explore at your own pace. The journey across the bay is scenic, with views of the bustling city on one side and the peaceful waters of the bay on the other.

 

The port of Brisbane boat ramp is a fantastic place to launch your vessel, with plenty of parking, a floating pontoon, fish cleaning station and toilet facilities. Navigating from there is simple and the trip out through the port is a sight in its own right. Gigantic container ships and cruise liners are usually moored on the wharf and being loaded and unloaded around the clock. Just be sure to stay well clear of ships entering and exiting port which are often accompanied by multiple tug boats.


Once you reach Moreton Island, you’ll head toward the western side, where the Tangalooma Wrecks are located. These sunken ships are visible just offshore, nestled in shallow waters, making them easily accessible for boaters.

The Tangalooma Island Resort
For those looking to extend their visit, the nearby Tangalooma Island Resort is a popular destination. Located on the western side of Moreton Island, the resort offers accommodation, dining, and a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy guided tours to the wrecks, sand tobogganing on the island’s massive dunes, and even dolphin feeding experiences.


Boaters can anchor near the resort and take a break from their adventures to enjoy the amenities. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or planning a longer stay, the resort provides a convenient base for exploring the island and the surrounding waters.

 




Always be prepared on the water
If you’re planning a boating trip to the Tangalooma Wrecks, here are some key considerations:

  • Weather Conditions: Conditions can change quickly on the water, so check the weather forecast before you go. Calm days are ideal for crossing the bay, but always be prepared for sudden changes in wind or tide.
  • Navigation and Tides: Moreton Bay is shallow in many areas, and some parts can become inaccessible during low tide. Be sure to familiarise yourself with the tidal patterns and navigation channels to avoid running aground.
  • Safety: Ensure your boat is equipped with the necessary safety gear, including life jackets, flares, and a first aid kit. If you plan to snorkel or dive, make sure to bring the right equipment and follow proper safety protocols and check your equipment is in working order before you leave home.
  • Respect the Environment: The wrecks are an important marine habitat. Be mindful of the delicate ecosystem—avoid touching the corals, disturbing wildlife, or anchoring in sensitive areas.

Boating to the Tangalooma Wrecks offers a unique and exciting way to explore the natural beauty and history of Moreton Bay. From the captivating sunken vessels to the rich marine life and opportunities for fishing, snorkeling, and diving, it’s an adventure that combines history, wildlife, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re spending a few hours or the whole day, a visit to the Tangalooma Wrecks is an experience that will stay with you long after you leave the water.


For a memorable boating adventure in Queensland, the Tangalooma Wrecks and Moreton Bay should be at the top of your list.

 

Tips and Highlights

A glimpse into history

The Tangalooma Wrecks consist of 15 vessels intentionally sunk in the 1960s to create a breakwater and artificial reef. The ships, which were once used for commercial purposes, now rest on the sandy bottom of Moreton Bay, creating a perfect habitat for marine life. Over time, the wrecks have become an underwater wonderland, attracting a wide variety of fish, coral, and other marine creatures. Today, the Tangalooma Wrecks are one of the most popular attractions in the area. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a casual visitor, exploring the sunken vessels and their vibrant surroundings is a must-do activity.

Snorkeling and Diving

For those visiting by boat, the Tangalooma Wrecks offer an incredible opportunity for underwater exploration. Boaters can anchor their vessels just off the coast and swim or paddleboard to the wrecks. The waters here are clear, and the shallow depth—ranging from 3 to 10 meters—makes it ideal for snorkelers of all experience levels as well as scuba diving in swimming pool like conditions. As you float over the wrecks, you’ll find schools of colorful fish swimming among the remnants of the vessels, soft and hard corals growing on the hulls, and maybe even a curious sea turtle passing by. For those with diving experience, the wrecks provide a chance to explore deeper into the cargo holds and examine the intricate details of these long-abandoned ships. If diving or snorkeling isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the view from your boat, where the sight of sunken vessels rising from the water is a captivating spectacle in itself.

Fishing and Wildlife

Beyond the wrecks, Moreton Bay is renowned for its fishing opportunities. Anglers can expect to catch a range of species, including snapper, bream, and flathead. Whether you’re casting a line from your boat or fishing from the shore, the nutrient-rich waters provide a fantastic setting for a relaxing day of fishing. Moreton Bay is also a wildlife haven. Dolphins are frequently spotted, and if you visit during the right season, you may even see humpback whales migrating through the bay. These majestic creatures are often visible from your boat, especially during the winter months. The bay’s diverse birdlife, including pelicans and seabirds, adds to the region’s natural beauty.

See A Whale

While it's rare to see whales in the bay you could get lucky like we did and spot a pod of Humpbacks passing by putting on a show. The mother and her calf that we spotted silently glided up on us  while we were filming, maybe curious about what we were up to. It’s remarkable to see these gentle giants of the ocean up close, but be mindful of the laws about exclusion zones. The best thing to do is shut off your engines and sit quietly as they slowly glide by. Give them space and peace and they are sure to return for many years to come. 

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