Scuba Diving Shipwrecks Sunshine Coast

Ex-HMAS Brisbane – Double Dive

Departs Daily

5 hours $189 18 People

Explore One of the World’s Best Wreck Dives Off the Sunshine Coast

Experience the thrill of diving the Ex-HMAS Brisbane, a decommissioned guided missile destroyer now serving as a world-class artificial reef. Located just 2.9 nautical miles offshore, this dive site is perfect for divers of all levels—from Open Water certified to Divemaster and beyond.

Tour Highlights

What to Expect

  • Check-in and gear setup at Sunreef (assistance available if needed)
  • Boat ride across the calm Mooloolah River to the wreck site
  • Thorough dive briefing prior to entering the water
  • Each dive lasts up to 50 minutes or until 50 bar is reached
  • Gear wash and return to Sunreef after diving
  • Explore the outside of the wreck and encounter its diverse marine life. Swim along the hull, visit the engine and control rooms, and marvel at the size and structure of this 133m Charles F Adams Class destroyer.

Dive Site Features

  • Depth: 15m over forward decks, 18m at stern
  • Visibility: 15–20m typical
  • Water temperature: 17°C (winter) – 27°C (summer)
  • Marine life: bull & eagle rays, angler fish, lionfish, nudibranchs, sea hares, squid, juvenile red emperor, snapper, shovelnose rays, greasy cod, octopus, Queensland grouper, resident turtle, yellowtail kingfish
  • Growing corals: soft and hard corals establishing throughout the wreck

History of the Vessel

  • Commissioned: 1967, Royal Australian Navy
  • Length: 133m, approx. 5000 tons
  • Service: Vietnam, Gulf War, humanitarian missions
  • Decommissioned: 2001
  • Scuttled: July 31, 2005, to create an artificial reef off Mudjimba Island

    IMPORTANT UPDATE: Following Tropical Cyclone Alfred (March 9, 2025), the forward smoke stack has moved intact onto the sand—an incredible sight that must be seen! Due to ongoing commercial works, diving is currently external only, with enhanced safety protocols in place.

    Booking Info

    • Diver Requirements: Ages 12+ (Open Water certified or higher)
    • Refresher: If you haven’t dived in the past 2 years, a Scuba Review/Refresher is required (arranged with 3 days notice)
    • Medical: Divers must complete a Divers Statement; doctor clearance required for medication, injury, or medical conditions
    • Pregnancy: Diving is not permitted
    • Night Dive & Weather: Trips confirmed the day before at 3:30 pm via email/text
    • Seasickness: Open water trip—consider medication if prone to motion sickness

    Inclusions

    • Professional dive briefing and safety guidance
    • Access to Ex-HMAS Brisbane double dive (external only)
    • Boat transfer from Sunreef to wreck
    • Gear wash and post-dive support
    • Knowledgeable local crew

    Perfect For

    • Certified divers seeking world-class wreck exploration
    • Divers interested in marine life, shipwrecks, and artificial reefs
    • Visitors wanting a unique Sunshine Coast underwater adventure

    Dive the Ex-HMAS Brisbane and witness history, marine biodiversity, and the sheer scale of one of the world’s most remarkable artificial reefs.

    Book Now

    Ex-HMAS Brisbane – Double Dive Reviews

    “Wonderful experience diving with sunreef (with my unidive group) at the Ex-HMAS Brisbane this weekend. Big thanks to everyone who helped, wonderful skipper (I believe Annette), and especially to my guide Mark – an eye for octopus and a calm, friendly, supporting guide who made it an easy, stress-free, fun dive. Always grateful for guides who accommodate new divers with patience and encouragement. Friendly and welcoming from the front desk to the ocean floor!”

    – Billie L.
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    “We had a wonderful morning diving on HMAS Brisbane. The dive master Abbie and boat driver Ben were so knowledgeable. They were courteous, friendly and at all times had our safety as their priority. It was a truly memorable experience, made even better by these terrific staff. An added bonus was that we got to see a whale breaching with her calf.”

    – Richard C.
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    “Amazing diving, the wreck is top draw and saw a leopard and guitar shark, was cool. The guides and boat crew were great helping you out if you need it. Would highly recommend if in the area.”

    – Dave
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