Meet the site
Twin Peaks is the best-known dive on Saxon Reef, and Divernet, drawing on Divers Den's Master Reef Guide, rates it among the best dive and snorkel sites on the Great Barrier Reef. Divers Den calls it an unusually varied site: the dive circles two coral bommies with a narrow swim-through between them, and a large tree trunk, carried out from the mainland rivers in some past flood, is wedged between the peaks, an odd and memorable landmark on an outer reef. Beyond the peaks are sandy bays, and the edges of the seagrass that grows in them are one of the few places off Cairns where pygmy seahorses are sometimes found. Moray eels live in holes near the mooring blocks and are often the first animals divers see. The peaks attract reef sharks, trevally and large cod, according to Divernet, and Tusa Reef Tours adds band fusiliers, humbug damsels and numerous nudibranchs. The coral on the bommies is healthy and varied, with calm lagoons nearby for snorkellers. Saxon itself is a small reef, about 1.9 km², sitting between Norman and Hastings; Down Under Cruise & Dive describes it as a haven of marine life and thriving coral colonies, and Dive the World notes it is less crowded than its neighbours, with coral and fish that have not grown wary of bubbles. The tidal current can be swift at Twin Peaks, which keeps the fish active but means divers should follow the guide's timing. It suits all levels in calm conditions, and the swim-through and tree trunk make it a favourite with photographers.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Twin Peaks (Saxon Reef) is recorded as Pinnacle/Bommie 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 Twin Peaks (Saxon 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 Twin Peaks (Saxon 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
Moray eels, pygmy seahorses (seagrass edges, occasional), reef sharks, trevally, large cod, band fusiliers, humbug damsels, nudibranchs, wobbegong sharks, hard and soft corals
Location
Two coral bommies ('peaks') with a narrow swim-through and a wedged tree trunk between them on Saxon Reef, between Norman and Hastings reefs about 55 km north-east of Cairns.
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
diversden.com.audivernet.comtusareeftours.com.aucairnsdiveadventures.com.audive-the-world.comRecord updated 27 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.