Meet the site
Half Moon Reef is the outer barrier on the south-western side of the Pelsaert Group, the southernmost group of the Abrolhos. Marine Life Network describes its seaward side as a productive reef with morwong, dhufish, coral trout, groper and kingfish, as well as reef sharks. It is the reef that claimed the Zeewijk in 1727.
The seaward face combines coral and limestone structure with the bigger fish typical of an exposed outer reef. It is dived only on calm days from liveaboards, and pairs with the Zeewijk site and the Pelsaert Drop-off. Little else is published about specific sites along the reef.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Half Moon Reef (Pelsaert Group) is recorded as Reef in Geraldton & Abrolhos Islands. The listed access is boat (multi-day/liveaboard). Confirm the actual meeting point, route and permission to visit; a map pin does not establish any of these.
Topics flagged by the stored research
These are questions prompted by the existing notes, not a verified or complete hazard assessment.
- Current and timing
- Ask how the operator assesses the current window for the actual route. Historical tide notes are not a departure instruction.
- Water movement
- Ask how swell and local exposure affect the proposed entry, exit and route.
Historical access notes exist for this record, but have not been independently verified for current use. Request current directions from the operator or site manager rather than following an old entry description.
Questions, answered
Is Half Moon Reef (Pelsaert Group) suitable for my certification?
The record lists Advanced Open Water. That does not establish suitability for every route or day. Share your training, recent experience and equipment needs with the operator and ask about the specific proposed dive.
Can I book Half Moon Reef (Pelsaert Group) through YouDive?
YouDive is an independent research directory. Contact an operator directly to confirm whether it currently runs the trip, the inclusions and the booking terms.
What you might see
Morwong, WA dhufish, coral trout, groper, yellowtail kingfish, reef sharks, corals
Location
Crescent-shaped outer barrier reef of the Pelsaert Group whose seaward face holds morwong, dhufish, coral trout, groper, kingfish and reef sharks.
Before you make plans
Conditions, access and operator schedules can change. This is a location guide, not a dive plan. Ask a local operator about current conditions and suitability for your training and experience.
Sources & further reading
marinelife.org.auRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.