Moorings at Ashmore Reef

Moorings at Ashmore Reef will be decommissioned in June, 2026.

Vessels may anchor in the Recreational Use Zone (RUZ) and should be confined to sandy areas of West Island lagoon, or outside the marine park to prevent damage to the reef. Work is underway to establish a suitable anchoring area within the RUZ.

Moorings that remain belong to the Australian Government and are not for public use. Permission may only be granted by the Maritime Border Command under certain circumstances.

Anchoring by commercial fishing, pearling and aquaculture vessels is not allowed.