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Coral Spawning Tours
Coral Spawning is an annual phenomenon that creates the most amazing underwater display of nature reproducing. Coral Spawning occurs only a few nights every year (usually in November), when many coral colonies simultaneously release egg and sperm for fertilization. Visitors from all over the world come to experience and watch the miracle of this life cycle, often described as an upside down snowstorm as the water fills with brightly coloured micro polyps.
There are a few indicators that assist scientists in the difficult task of predicting when coral spawning may occur each year, although the exact dates can never be guaranteed - it is all up to mother nature. Contributing factors are that the oceans temperature needs to be 26 degrees Celsius or above for the month before, allowing the sperm and eggs to mature. Secondly, they will generally spawn 5 to 7 nights after the full moon in late spring when there is little tidal movement. Thirdly, it will usually be about 2-3 hours after the sun sets, as most of the plankton feeders will be asleep and it allows the fertilized eggs to settle back down to the safety of the reef.
To catch this unique natural wonder of coral spawning, you need patience and just a little bit of luck.
Coral Spawning Night Dive
Rates from: $259
3rd November 2023 | 2nd & 3rd December 2023
Don't miss your chance - Coral Spawning on the Great Barrier Reef and a Night Dive
This boat is operating an exciting night trip to the Great Barrier Reef to see the unique Coral Spawning phenomenon. Marine biologists predict that this is the most likely time for the coral to spawn
Check in: 4:30pm Returns: 10pm
