Meet the site
Paradise Reef is a small, isolated reef in the Breaking Patches area that Passions of Paradise uses exclusively. The operator named it after its original boat, which began operating in 1995, and explains that the reef was formerly a fishing area; since being declared a green zone, fish populations have grown markedly, and the site is now notable for coral trout and red emperor, both prized table fish that are rarely seen in such numbers where fishing is allowed. For divers the site is a wall dropping to about 18 m, and Passions describes it as suitable for both divers and snorkellers. The reef's recovery since protection makes it a good illustration of what green zones do: the big predatory fish are present and relatively unafraid, and schools of smaller fish are abundant. The wall carries hard and soft corals, and the usual reef fish, parrotfish, wrasse, damsels, butterflyfish and angelfish, crowd the upper reef, with turtles and reef sharks likely. Because Passions has exclusive use, the site is never crowded with other boats, and the coral shows few signs of diver damage. The modest maximum depth makes it suitable for Open Water divers, and the reef top is shallow enough for snorkellers. Exact coordinates are not published, and published detail is limited to the operator's description, so depths are indicative. It pairs naturally with Long Bommie, the other Passions site at Breaking Patches. Visibility is typically 10-18 m, and the fish are most active on a gently running tide.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Paradise Reef (Breaking Patches) is recorded as Reef in Cairns. The listed access is boat (day trip). 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.
- Other water users
- Ask about vessel activity, exclusion areas and the agreed surface arrangements.
- 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 Paradise Reef (Breaking Patches) suitable for my certification?
The record lists 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 Paradise Reef (Breaking Patches) 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
Coral trout, red emperor, parrotfish, wrasse, damselfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, turtles, reef sharks, hard and soft corals
Location
Small isolated reef in the Breaking Patches area west of Michaelmas Cay, about 42 km north-east of Cairns, used exclusively by Passions of Paradise; a wall to 18 m in a green zone.
Facilities nearby
Departs Reef Fleet Terminal / Marlin Marina, Cairns: toilets, cafes, paid parking; dive gear, tanks and lunch supplied on board
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
passions.com.auRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.