Thetford Reef

This dive site, located at Thetford, offers a remarkable experience with an extensive reef stretching nearly 2 kilometers long. The reef’s leeward edge is adorned with scattered coral heads, providing ample opportunity for exploration. Navigation should be carefully managed due to the potential for disorientation; a safety sausage is recommended. The seabed features sandy areas interspersed with vibrant coral bommies and thickets of blue staghorn coral. Keep an eye out for a variety of marine life including giant clams, butterflyfish, rabbitfish, damselfish, angelfish, and occasionally pipefish. Moving towards the bommies reveals numerous swim-throughs—many partially closed on top, creating shafts of light that illuminate the underwater passageways. Be mindful of large gorgonian fans and soft corals within these tunnels, as contact with fins can damage them. Anemones are abundant, hosting various commensal fish and transparent shrimp. The site is a haven for diverse marine species, offering a truly captivating dive experience.