Diving YONGALA & MOUA (MUSEUM OF UNDERWATER ART)
DAY TRIPS TO YONGALA & MOUA
Two LEGENDARY DIVE SITES RIGHT ON OUR DOORSTEP
We’re spoiled for choice when it comes to diving in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, but two sites stand out as absolute bucket-list dives when you’re in the Townsville region:
The SS Yongala Wreck – a deep, current-swept wreck dive packed with marine life
The Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) – a one-of-a-kind fusion of art, conservation and reef magic
At Pleasure Divers, we specialise in shore diving—no boats, no fuss, just easy-access dives right from the beach. But if you're keen to explore these epic offshore sites, we’ll point you in the right direction and even help you book!
Need HELP PLANNIG YOUR TRIP?
We’ll take care of your Yongala or MOUA booking for you!
SS Yongala WRECK – AUSTRALIA’S MOST LEGENDARY WRECK DIVE
The SS Yongala isn’t just a dive—it’s an experience. Diving this shipwreck is like stepping into a real-life underwater documentary—it’s hands down one of the best wreck dives on the planet.
Ranked among the top 10 dive sites in the world, this legendary wreck lies off the coast of Ayr, Queensland, around 90km southeast of Townsville. Sitting 30 meters deep, this 110-year-old wreck is a time capsule of history. Since sinking in 1911, the Yongala has transformed into an epic artificial reef, bursting with vibrant corals and totally smothered in marine life.
Expect to see big fish action on every dive, think massive schools of barracuda, swirling trevally, eagle rays, sea snakes and even the occasional shark or whale cruising by. Oh, and did we mention the giant groupers the size of small cars?
This dive is an absolute must-do for any serious diver. But heads up—it’s an advanced dive. The currents are no joke, so you’ll need some solid experience under your belt. If you’re chasing a dive that’s as exhilarating as it is breathtaking, this is the one.
While we don’t run our own trips to the Yongala, we recommend these local legends who can get you there. And for divers who really want to make the most of their Yongala experience, we can privately guide you aboard their vessel if you want to avoid a crowded dive group.
HOT TIP FOR YONGALA DIVING
Getting to the Yongala dive site is hugely weather-dependent. If this site is on your bucket list, make plans to spend a few days more in Townsville or Magnetic Island, so you have backup dates up your sleeve! There’s plenty to see and do in the region—check out this guide for ideas.
Yongala Dive DEPARTING AYR – "THE FASTEST WAY TO GET WRECKED"
Departs From Alva Beach, Ayr (about 1 hour south of Townsville)
Boat Ride 30-40 minutes
Dives 2 guided dives
Cost $320 per person (includes snacks & a classic Aussie sausage sizzle)
Trips Daily (except Tuesdays)
Need help booking?
Reach out to us!
Adrenalin
DIVE & SNORKEL
Departs From Townsville or Nelly Bay Harbour, Magnetic Island
Boat Ride 2.5–3 hours
Dives 2 unguided dives (optional guided upgrade)
Cost $460 per person (includes full gear hire, morning/afternoon tea & lunch)
Trips Wednesdays & Saturdays
Trip Duration 7:50 am pick-up at Magnetic Island, 4:50 pm drop-off to Magnetic Island
Explore MOUA (MUSEUM OF UNDERWATER ART) – WHERE ART MEETS THE OCEAN
The Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) at John Brewer Reef is something truly special. This underwater gallery is designed to inspire conservation, featuring stunning sculptures and coral restoration projects blended into the reef itself. Think of it as a dive site with a message - preserving the reef while being part of it.
Pleasure Divers does not operate MOUA trips, but to check out this highly unique attraction, below are your best options.
SeaLink – SNORKEL MOUA IN CHILL MODE
Want to see MOUA but not keen on diving? SeaLink offers a snorkelling tour for a more relaxed way to explore the sculptures.
Trip type Snorkelling only (no scuba)
Schedule Once per month (check their website for dates)
Cost $325 per person
Need help booking?
Reach out to us!
Adrenalin
DIVE & SNORKEL
Departs From Townsville or Nelly Bay Harbour, Magnetic Island
Boat Ride 2.5–3 hours
Dives 2 unguided dives at John Brewer Reef (optional guided upgrade)
Cost $460 per person (includes full gear hire, morning/afternoon tea & lunch)
Trips Tuesdays, Thursdays & Sundays
Important Trips are weather-dependent and require minimum numbers to run
