Background

Coral Greenhouse & Ocean Sentinels: An Underwater Art Adventure

Discover the Museum of Underwater Art at John Brewer Reef: Where art, science, and conservation meet in the Great Barrier Reef's depths.

4.9

Dive into the Great Barrier Reef to explore the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) at John Brewer Reef, featuring the Coral Greenhouse and Ocean Sentinels. This unique underwater museum combines art, science, and conservation, offering snorkelers and divers an unforgettable experience amidst vibrant marine life.

A brief summary to Coral Greenhouse & Ocean Sentinels / MOUA / Museum of Underwater Art

  • John Brewer Reef, Townsville, Queensland, 4805, AU
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Book your tour in advance, as space on boats to John Brewer Reef is limited.
  • Consider bringing an underwater camera to capture the unique art and marine life.
  • Divers should be aware that the Coral Greenhouse sits at a depth of 16 meters, while the Ocean Sentinels are in shallower waters (3-6m), suitable for snorkelers.
  • Be mindful not to touch the sculptures or coral to help preserve the underwater environment.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Boat

    The only way to reach the Coral Greenhouse and Ocean Sentinels is by boat from Townsville or Magnetic Island. Several tour operators offer day trips to John Brewer Reef, including Adrenalin Snorkel & Dive and SeaLink. These tours typically include snorkeling gear, meals, and guidance from experienced crew. The boat trip from Townsville takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Tour costs vary, but expect to pay around $200-$300 AUD per person, including the MOUA mooring fee of $15 and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) Environmental Management Charge (EMC) of $8.

Unlock the Best of Coral Greenhouse & Ocean Sentinels / MOUA / Museum of Underwater Art

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Coral Greenhouse & Ocean Sentinels / MOUA / Museum of Underwater Art

The Coral Greenhouse and Ocean Sentinels, located at John Brewer Reef, form the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA), an innovative underwater museum that blends art, marine science, and coral gardening. Created by world-renowned artist Jason deCaires Taylor, the installations provide a unique perspective on the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem. The Coral Greenhouse is a 72-meter structure that acts as an artificial reef, providing a habitat for diverse marine species. Figurative sculptures inside, modeled after local schoolchildren, highlight the importance of protecting the marine environment for future generations. The Ocean Sentinels, located a short swim from the Greenhouse, feature sculptures of marine scientists and conservationists, honoring their contributions to reef protection. Visitors can explore the museum through snorkeling or diving, encountering vibrant coral formations and a variety of marine life. The experience encourages reflection on humanity's relationship with the ocean and the need for conservation. John Brewer Reef itself boasts a rich history, including a stint as the location of Australia's first floating hotel in the late 1980s. Today, it stands as a testament to the power of art and science in promoting marine conservation.

Popular Experiences near Coral Greenhouse & Ocean Sentinels / MOUA / Museum of Underwater Art

Popular Hotels near Coral Greenhouse & Ocean Sentinels / MOUA / Museum of Underwater Art

Select Currency