Meet the site
The SS Cooma was a 3,936-ton coastal passenger steamer that grounded on North Reef, at the northern end of the Capricorn Group, in 1926. The ship was subsequently gutted by fire, and her remains now lie in about 5 m of water as a jumble of metal slowly being covered by coral. Despite the damage, the main mechanical components are still recognisable. Divers and snorkellers can identify the boiler, propeller shaft, hull plates and the triple-expansion steam engine among the wreckage, which gives the site genuine historical interest. Coral growth and fish life have colonised the metal, and the structure provides shelter on the reef flat for reef fish and invertebrates. North Reef is also home to one of Queensland's historic lighthouses, and the reef's northern tip includes a tidal channel known for manta rays. Together these features make it a worthwhile stop for private boats and liveaboards passing through the northern Capricorn Group. The shallow depth means the wreck can be enjoyed by Open Water divers and snorkellers alike, but only in calm weather, as surge on the reef is strong whenever swell is running. As a historic wreck, the Cooma is protected under the Underwater Cultural Heritage Act 2018: look but do not remove or disturb anything. The Cooma is one of the larger shipwrecks in the Capricorn Group and a reminder of the navigational hazards these reefs posed to coastal shipping. Snorkellers can see much of the wreckage from the surface at high tide on a calm day, making it a good family stop.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
SS Cooma Wreck (North Reef) is recorded as Wreck in Heron Island & Capricorn Group. 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.
- 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 SS Cooma Wreck (North Reef) 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 SS Cooma Wreck (North 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
Reef fish, corals and algae on wreckage, crustaceans, turtles, reef sharks
Location
Remains of the 3,936-ton coastal passenger steamer Cooma, which grounded on North Reef in 1926 and was gutted by fire, lying as a jumble of metal in about 5 m.
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.