Tongue Reef is a large reef system positioned just inside Opal Reef with one edge exposed to the constant currents of the clear Coral Sea. However, the large "U" shaped formation provides protection from the swell that rolls in from the open ocean.
A shallower group of sites are found here and with names like Turtle Bay you don't need to guess what you'll be finding. While shallower group of sites found here are great for the snorkellers with fantastic coral gardens, there are also some beautiful wall and drift dives to explore in the area. The reef's location and size means plenty of sea-life traffic in an ever changing panorama.
GBRMPA (Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority) classifies Tongue Reef as a "Sensitive" location and has placed strict visitor number limitations on access to the area to ensure this reef remains pristine and abundant. There are only 8 mooring sites permitted and HABA is fortunate to be allocated 3 moorings here due to its history of operation and responsibility.
