About this spot
Ribbon Reef #10, known locally as the Cod Hole, sits within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area off Australia's Queensland coast. This intermediate dive works best for divers comfortable at depths between 12 and 25 meters. The site draws divers worldwide for a chance to see massive potato cod and other large reef residents in their natural habitat. The dive itself moves through a channel cut into the reef. You'll descend into clearer water where the main action happens. Giant trevally, large grouper, and the famous cod cruise the area. Schools of smaller fish and standard reef residents fill the water column. The bottom composition and structure create natural gathering points for marine life. Access requires a boat trip from Port Douglas or nearby jumping-off points. The Ribbon Reef chain runs parallel to the mainland, so conditions and timing matter. This site sits inside a protected marine park, which means strict regulations apply to all divers and operators. Three community videos exist for this location, offering reference footage. Plan your dive profile carefully—intermediate skills and comfort at these depths are required. The reef itself is alive with activity across the water column, making this a full sensory dive experience.
📖 Guide: Diving in Australia: 61 Sites from Coral Reefs to Cold-Water Wrecks
Dive types
Trip essentials
Everything you need before you pack — checklist, sun, logistics.
Trip checklist
- 🛂 Visa-free or visa-on-arrival
- 📜 C-card + dive insurance (DAN)
- 📔 Dive logbook
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
- 🔌 Plug type I · 230V adapter
- 💊 Seasickness meds + ear drops
- 📱 Offline maps + emergency contact
Quick facts
- 🌓 Moon First quarter · 47%
- GPS
› Sustainability disclosures
From your departure country
- Visa: e-Visa · 90 days max
- Flight: 16h · direct
- Jet-lag: 9h east · 6 days recovery
FAQ
›When is the best time to dive Ribbon Reef #10?
Diving year-round is possible at this location. Check with local operators for seasonal weather patterns and sea conditions, as these affect boat access and surface intervals more than water temperature.
›What depth and difficulty level is this dive?
Ribbon Reef #10 is an intermediate dive with working depths of 12 to 25 meters. Divers should be comfortable descending beyond 15 meters and navigating reef channels. Proper buoyancy control helps you stay safe around coral.
›What marine life will I see?
Giant potato cod are the main draw. You'll also encounter large grouper, giant trevally, and schooling reef fish. Coral formations and smaller invertebrates round out the ecosystem. Specific sightings vary by dive day.
›How do I access Ribbon Reef #10 and are permits needed?
This site sits within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and requires a boat operator. Launch from Port Douglas or nearby mainland ports. All diving must follow marine park regulations. Book through established operators familiar with local rules.
