Steve's Bommie

Steve's Bommie (Ribbon Reefs)

Prepare for an unforgettable experience at Steve's Bommie, one of the most celebrated and photographed dive sites on the Ribbon Reefs. This dramatic coral pinnacle, named after diving pioneer Steve Domm, rises majestically from a sandy bottom at approximately 28 to 30 meters, soaring to within just 3 to 5 meters of the surface. It's a vibrant, living tower, completely encrusted with a breathtaking array of soft corals, sea fans, and sponges that create a riot of orange, red, pink, white, and purple hues.

Diving Conditions & Certification

• Difficulty: Advanced
• Certification Required: We recommend an Advanced Open Water certification to fully explore the depths and features of this dive site.
• Depth: Divers will find the pinnacle's base at around 28 to 30 meters, with a memorial plaque for Steve located at 25 meters. The bommie's top reaches within 3 to 5 meters of the surface, making it ideal for multi-level dives.
• Current: While generally mild, currents can vary with the tides, adding an exciting drift element to your dive.
• Water Temperature: The water temperature is comfortable year-round, ranging from 22°C in winter to 29°C during summer, with an average of about 27°C.
• Visibility: Visibility is often excellent, particularly from September to November, frequently reaching 25 to 35 meters.

Marine Life Encounters

Steve's Bommie is a biodiversity hotspot, teeming with both macro and pelagic life:

• Schooling Fish: Divers will be mesmerized by the sheer volume of schooling fish. Expect to navigate through dense "traffic jams" of Bigeye Trevally and Chevron Barracuda swirling through the mid-water column. You can also encounter schools of yellow-lined snapper, Moses perch, yellow-lined goatfish, batfish, surgeonfish, and fusiliers.
• Sharks & Rays: Keep an eye out for Whitetip Reef Sharks cruising the base of the bommie, and occasionally, larger rays and even Grey Reef Sharks.
• Unique Residents: Explore the ledges and crevices to discover the camouflaged Ornate Wobbegong, and marvel at the vibrant Clark's Anemonefish nestled among their anemone hosts. The bommie's surfaces are blanketed in clouds of orange and purple Sea Goldies (anthias). Macro enthusiasts will delight in finding delicate Leaf Scorpionfish, nudibranchs, flatworms, pipefish, lionfish, and mantis shrimps.
• Seasonal Visitors: From June to July, Steve's Bommie is one of the Ribbon Reefs' premier locations for encounters with the majestic Dwarf Minke Whale. These curious cetaceans migrate through the area, offering divers a rare and unforgettable experience.
• Other Species: Divers may also spot green and hawksbill turtles, flaming file shells, and various other colorful reef fish.

Potential Hazards

While an incredible dive site, divers should be mindful of certain hazards:

• Depth: The significant depth of the bommie requires careful dive planning and adherence to no-decompression limits.
• Current: Although typically mild, currents can occasionally pick up, necessitating good buoyancy control and awareness.
• Dangerous Marine Life: As with any vibrant reef, divers may encounter potentially dangerous marine life, including highly venomous reef stonefish. Always maintain a respectful distance and observe marine life without touching.

Steve's Bommie is a highlight for any advanced diver exploring the Great Barrier Reef, offering an unparalleled display of marine life and stunning coral formations that will leave you eager for another descent.