Meet the site
Split Bommie is a deep-water site on Opal Reef that Scuba IQ describes as wide open spaces, a hotspot for macro photography with nudibranchs and tiny crustaceans. It is listed among Opal's named sites by I Love Cairns as well. As its name suggests, the bommie is divided, with a cleft running through it, creating extra surfaces and crevices. The appeal is the small stuff. The surfaces of the bommie are covered in sponges, hydroids and encrusting corals that provide habitat for nudibranchs, flatworms, shrimps, crabs and other small invertebrates. Patient divers who slow down and look closely will be rewarded with a variety of colourful critters, making this a favourite with macro photographers. The surrounding area is open and deep, giving the site a feeling of space. Larger animals such as reef sharks, rays and schooling fish may pass through, but the focus is usually on the bommie itself. Scuba IQ does not publish depths; the description as a deep-water site suggests the base lies beyond 20 m. Divers should plan carefully, as time spent searching for macro subjects can quickly use up no-decompression time. Current can run around the bommie, so it is best suited to divers with some experience. Visibility is typically 15–30 m. Split Bommie suits experienced divers and macro enthusiasts who want a change from the coral gardens and walls. Bring a macro lens or a magnifier and take your time – this is a site that rewards patience. It is used mainly by small-group operators, so ask for it by name if macro is your interest.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Split Bommie (Opal Reef) is recorded as Pinnacle/Bommie in Port Douglas. 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.
- Planned depth
- Confirm the intended route and training requirements; the recorded maximum is not a target.
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 Split Bommie (Opal Reef) 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 Split Bommie (Opal Reef) 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
Nudibranchs, flatworms, shrimps, crabs, hydroids, sponges, reef sharks, rays
Location
A deep-water bommie site on Opal Reef with wide open spaces, known as a macro-photography hotspot.
Facilities nearby
Departs Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, Wharf Street, Port Douglas – car parking, toilets, cafes and restaurants at the marina; dive shops in town for gear hire and air
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
scubaiq.com.auilovecairns.com.auRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.