Nine Mile Reef

Nine Mile Reef is a remote offshore coral reef reached only by boat and renowned for a 2-2.5 m green coral 'Christmas Tree' formation cloaked in clouds of bright orange Anthias. The reef features steep walls, ledges and overhangs with caves, arches and swim-throughs, and a shallow plateau called Breaking Waters (about 3-10 m) that produces dramatic sunlit white sand scenes in very calm conditions. Dives range from about 3 m on the back-reef to roughly 25 m at the deepest ledges, with the main reef typically dived around 18-22 m. Visibility is generally very good, often exceeding 20 m on calm days, and water temperatures range from about 20 °C in winter to 28 °C in summer. The site lies nearly 15 km offshore so boat access is required and a very calm sea state is necessary; currents are not usually severe but divers should plan for the remote location. Certified Advanced divers are recommended for the depth and distance, although shallow areas can be suitable for less advanced divers in perfect conditions.