dive trip great barrier reef

Great Barrier Reef Snorkel & Dive Tours

• Day trips and overnight trips
• All gear and training provided
• Learn to dive with the experts
• Professional dive instructors
• Easy cancellations

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Great Barrier Reef Day Trip from Cairns

Whether you’re a snorkeller, first-time diver or certified diver, you'll spend a magical day exploring the reef with us

OceanQuest Overnight Liveaboard Experience

Spend the night on the Great Barrier Reef! Snorkel, intro dive and cert dive options available

PADI Eco Open Water Courses

Learn to dive on the Great Barrier Reef with our range of course options

Scuba Kids (8 Years +)

Try scuba diving for the first time in our pool and enjoy fun underwater games!

PADI Rescue Diver Course

Gain confidence in your dive skills and become a better buddy with this fun and extremely handy course

Instructor Training Program

Kick-start your career in the dive industry with on-the-job training and real life experience

5 STAR DIVE CENTRE

Learn to scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef! Our conveniently located Cairns Dive Centre has PADI 5 Star Instructor Development and PADI 5 Star Career Development status. Whether you’re a complete beginner or you’re thinking of making diving your career, we have a dive course to suit you. Our friendly, expert instructors will ensure you have a safe and fun experience.

Dive Courses

• PADI Open Water Diver courses
• PADI Advanced Open Water course
• Scuba Kids children’s program
• PADI Nitrox Specialty course
• PADI Rescue Diver course
• PADI Divemaster course & Divemaster Training Program
• PADI Instructor Training Program
• PADI Instructor Development Course & I.E.
• PADI Staff Instructor Course

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Scuba Diving the Great Barrier Reef (Complete Guide)

The Great Barrier Reef was designated as a  UNESCO World Heritage Site  in 1981, and for good reason.

This incredible coral reef stretches 1,400 miles of East coast of Australia, from Cape York Peninsula in northeastern Queensland, to Bundaberg in the south – and it can be seen from space! It’s comprised of 600 islands and approximately 2,900 individual reefs.

Not only this, but the Great Barrier Reef boasts over 600 types of coral, which provide homes to 1,625 fish species and 133 species of sharks and rays. 

The Great Barrier Reef is also  one of the seven wonders of the natural world , alongside Mount Everest, the Grand Canyon, and other natural marvels.

Needless to say, scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef is a top bucket list item for all divers and is a must-dive in your lifetime.

You likely have some questions, so let’s get into it!

My Experience

Southern great barrier reef, is the great barrier reef for beginner divers.

The short answer – yes! Many liveaboards and day trip charters are perfect for those who have just obtained their Open Water certification, and a few offer the option to earn your certification on site.

As popular as this site is, it’s also one of the most beginner friendly destinations in the world.

It’s also important to note that most charters are nearly full service, meaning after you set up your gear the first time, they’ll swap tanks for you while you chill on the deck with a pineapple slice in your hand.

You’ll also get a ton of professional photos to choose from!

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What Type of Marine Life Will I See?

As you’d expect, the Great Barrier Reef is teeming with marine life! If you’re a lover of macro (small) creatures, or you’re fascinated with larger species, you’ll find it all here and you won’t be disappointed!

In the winter months of Australian June and July, migratory dwarf minke whales gather – a rare sight!

Some other unique larger pelagic species in this area include beaked whales, sperm whales and bottlenose dolphins. You’ll also spot grouper, cod, and bream fish.

Shark lovers rejoice! There are many shark species that call the GBR home, including the silky, silvertip, whitetip, and grey reef sharks.

You may also run into a whale shark or hammerhead.

Common sightings include the graceful eagle and manta rays, and playful loggerhead and green turtles.

Smaller species can be found in abundance around the corals, making this experience a delight for macro photographers.

Keep your eyes out for clownfish darting around their anemone friends, electric purple anthias, schools of yellow snapper, and of course, colorful parrotfish.

Is the Great Barrier Reef dying?

A 2021 study , reports indicate that region-wide, hard coral cover on reefs was high and had increased to 39% in 2021.

In 2020, most of the surveyed reefs experienced heat stress accumulation that produced widespread coral bleaching, but many reefs affected seem to be recovering this year .

A win for our oceans, however, I’d recommend making your way to the Great Barrier Reef sooner than later, as we can’t predict environmental factors and there’s no guarantee it will be there in 20 years when you’ve finally made time to go!

What’s the Best Time to Visit?

You can scuba dive the Great Barrier Reef with great conditionals all year long! Keeping that in mind, it’s important to note that the kind of experience you’ll have will vary depending on time of year.

This is because seasonal marine life activity and water conditions vary throughout the year.

When is the best time to visit the great barrier reef?

Most divers consider August to December to be the absolute best time to dive the Great Barrier Reef.

This is likely because these months have the greatest water visibility and the least wind and rain.

Looking for specific marine life on your trip?  Manta rays and hammerheads visit the Coral Sea from April to September and Minke Whales make an appearance during June and July.

What Are Diving Conditions Like?

• Water temperature:  Ranges from 73 to 84 o F (23 to 29 o C)
• Visibility:  Inshore day trip dives between 50ft and 100ft, while liveaboard dive trip sites in the Coral Sea can reach 150ft.
• Depth Range:  Mostly between 30ft and 100ft.
• Diving Difficulty:  Many people learn to dive on the Great Barrier Reef, and there are hundreds of sites that are perfect for beginners and to do day trips. More remote reefs such as the Ribbon Reefs and Osprey Reef are best for advanced divers.

Best Areas & Dive Sites of the Great Barrier Reef

With world-class coral reefs, visibility up to 60m, one of the top-rated shipwrecks in the world and a mix of beginner friendly and challenging dive sites – there’s something for everyone at the Great Barrier Reef!

Because of the expansiveness of this coral reef, it can be quite difficult to categorize the major diving areas and break down what you can expect in each region.

Some regions are harder to access than others, making the dive sites more untouched and worth the trek and some are perfect for a one-day adventure to knock the GBR off of your diving bucket list.

Because of the complexity of this expansive area, I’ll be breaking down the Great Barrier Reef into four major dive regions and giving you the 411 on what to expect on your epic adventure. 

Let’s explore!

The Outer Great Barrier Reef

• The most frequently visited area of the Great Barrier Reef
• Closest to shore and easiest to reach by day trip charter
• Accessible to dive resorts and liveaboards
• Beginner-friendly dive sites

The Outer Great Barrier Reef is located in the central region of the entire Great Barrier Reef, approximately 60km offshore from Cairns.

It can be reached within 90 minutes by most high-speed boats.

For this reason, it’s accessible by liveaboards, dive resorts, and day charters. More divers head here than any other region of the Great Barrier Reef. 

This area tends to be shallow and sans-currents, which makes it perfect for beginner divers.

You can expect to see a ton of different hard corals, caverns, ledges, reef fish and sharks, turtles, and more in the outer reef.

During the cooler months, you may be lucky enough to spot whale sharks and manta rays in the outer reefs. Be on the lookout for Maori Wrasse, Jacks, Barracuda, and Trevally. 

Some of the top-rated dive sites in this area include: Thetford Reef ,  Moore Reef ,  Flynn Reef ,  Hastings Reef ,  Norman Reef  and at the far outskirts, Pellowe Reef.

There are liveaboards that explore these sites, including  Rum Runner , which offers short and action-packed trips, lasting just 1 – 2 days, and  Ocean Quest , which offers fluro night dives and is the cheapest option around.

You can always opt to go with a day trip, like I did.

With this option, each morning of your choice, you’ll be taken out to dive the sites and then brought back to land for the night by the dive operators.

• Budget Stay: Asylum Hostel
• Luxury Stay: Cairns Aquarius

I had an absolutely incredible experience on a day trip to the Outer Great Barrier Reef.

We dove three sites: Coral Gardens; Gordon’s; Tracy’s and embarked with The Quicksilver Group.

The surface temperature was around 27 degrees Celsius and there was so much marine life to be seen!

My personal favorites were watching my Dad swim with a Hawks Bill Turtle (age 5-10yrs) and the Divemaster tricking us into thinking that Black Sea Cucumber was ‘Whale Poo.’

Other marine life we encountered included: Clown Fish (Nemo!), Titan Trigger Fish (They will attack & follow you), Coral Trout, White Tip Reef Shark, Bumphead Parrot Fish, Mantas Shrimp; Red Bass (Under the boat), Green Turtle, Giant (color-changing) Clam, Black Sea Cucumber (The “Whale Poop”), Lion Fish, Chevron Barracuda, Great Barracuda, Kuhl Ray, Nudi Branch, Feather Stars, and Boxer Shrimp.

Check out my video of the experience here:

Ribbon Reefs

• Liveaboard is the only option for this area.
• Sites for more experienced divers
• Less visited and more rewarding!

The Ribbon Reefs are a 75-mile chain of ten individual reefs, about 50-100km further north than the Outer Great Barrier Reef.

This area boats some extremely special dive sites and is home to an array of coral and fish species, including Sweetlips, Coral Trout, and Triggerfish.

Generally speaking, the ribbon reefs are no more than 450m wide and tend to be fairly shallow, reaching as high as to 5m below the water’s surface.

Due to their greater distance from the city of Cairns, these reefs are both more pristine, meaning they are very healthy and relatively untouched.

You will see turtles, reef sharks, manta rays and whale sharks during the colder months and cetaceans, including minke whales!

Generally, divers characterize the ribbon reef into 10 separate reefs, which not too surprisingly are numbered ribbon reefs #1 through to #10 – there are many fantastic dive sites around each. Some of the most popular sites include:

• Code Hole: Home to dozens of huge potato cod and some very friendly giant Napoleon wrasse, known locally as Maori wrasse. These Potato Cod reach truly vast proportions due to having been fed by divers for over two decades.
• Steve’s Bommie: An isolated pinnacle with colorful marine life
• Lighthouse Bommie: Known for its population of golden sea snakes

best way to fully explore the best dive sites around all ten of the ribbon reefs is undoubtedly with  liveaboard .

Spoi l sport   great barrier reef liveaboard actually offers special minke whale themed diving expeditions!

Far North Great Barrier Reef

• The most unexplored area of the Great Barrier Reef underwater world
• Regarded as the best diving in Australia
• Deep water sites and wrecks for more experienced divers
• Must visit by liveaboard

This area is generally regarded as one of the very best diving destinations in Australia due to both the superb visibility, pristine coral reef and many large pelagic species found here. 

The most common sharks here are silver tip and grey sharks, but all of the previously mentioned species can also be seen and its common practice to organize special shark feeding dives for those prepared to experience the ultimate adrenaline rush.

It’s important to note that this is one of the few Great Barrier Reef dive sites that’s mainly suited for more certified divers and experienced divers because of poor visibility and strong.

Some of the most popular sites include:

• Osprey Reef: the most northerly of the Coral Sea Reefs. It is a submerged atoll, separated from the continental shelf by a deep-water trough. Most dive sites here are defined by vertical walls rising from the deep, covered in a mish mash of many soft coral species that comprise a dazzling array of colors. The marine biodiversity here is genuinely incredible, with sailfish, marlin, whale sharks, grey reef, silky, silver tip and even hammerhead sharks. There are also green and loggerhead turtles as well as a good chance of spotting eagle rays and even manta rays in the local reefs. 
• SS Yongala : a 110m long former freight steamer that sank in 1911 along with all 124 of its passengers during a tropical cyclone. Only discovered in 1958, the Yongala Wreck is now widely considered to be one of the hands down best wreck dives in the world. Large pelagic fish gather here to feed throughout the year, and whale sharks, rays, and turtles will often make an appearance.

More about the Yongala wreck:

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Only discovered in 1958, the Yongala Wreck is now widely considered to be one of the hands down best wreck dives in the world. Lying on a 33-meter-deep sandy bottom; this mighty shipwreck is in excellent condition, although it’s illegal to actually swim inside due to the fact that all of its passengers perished, making it a gravesite. Can you say, spooky?

Although the wreck is cool, the main reason for diving here is because of the huge variety of marine life that comes around the wreck.

You’ll spot giant groupers the size of a small car, huge schools of barracuda, manta and eagle rays, several sea turtles, sea snakes, reef sharks and maybe even bull sharks and tiger sharks. 

Osprey Reef is without a doubt among the all-time most off the beaten track dive destinations of the Great Barrier Reef. Generally speaking, you can only visit the Yongala Wreck with those same liveaboards that venture to Osprey Reef.

Only a few liveaboards venture this far, and we recommend going with  Spoilsport .

This area is a little different than the rest, because it isn’t accessible from Cairns, rather further South, but we couldn’t leave out this incredible area!

The Southern Great Barrier Reef is a mecca for mesmerizing marine life. You can expect to see turtles, manta rays and humpbacks whales here.

There are 21 different dive and snorkel sites here. The two top sites are:

• Stay here in Heron Island: Heron Island Resort
• You can also book tours of  Heron Island Research Station , the largest and longest established coral reef study facility on Great Barrier Reef.
• Stay here in Lady Elliot Island: Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort

How to Get There

For the first three areas mentioned, the Outer Great Barrier Reef, the Ribbon Reefs, and the Far North Great Barrier Reef, all you have to do is get to Cairns , which has its own international airport.

If you’re already in Australia, you can also reach Cairns via Queensland Rail or drive there.

To get to the last area mentioned, the Southern Great Barrier Reef, it’s a little more remote.

To get to Heron Island, you’ll need to hear to the nearest commercial airport, located 72kms from Heron Island, in Gladstone via Brisbane with either Qantas or Virgin Australia.

Once in Gladstone, you have a choice of two transfer options to get to Heron Island itself: boat, or the pricier option of the two, helicopter.

Access to Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort is on small aircraft chartered from Seair Pacific to transport our guests to and from the Island.

As Lady Elliot Island is the most remote Great Barrier Reef island regularly accessed, boat access is impractical.

Other Things to Do

Queensland has a ton of attractions and activities available topside as well besides your dive trip. It’s really an outdoor-lovers paradise all around.

I recommend hiking through the tropical rainforests of Daintree or Barron Gorge National Park. It was absolutely lush and beautiful there with so many colorful birds.

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You can also take a tour to visit Aboriginal Rock Art deep in the outback of Australia and get some cultural knowledge from your trip or take a trip to the spectacular waterfalls at Atherton Tablelands.

Top Tips for Diving the Great Barrier Reef

• Even if you don’t want to dive, most dive trips will let you join and snorkel the reef.
• If you don’t have a dive camera, most of the bigger boats have some for rent. They’ll also have a professional underwater photographer who will take photos of you, which you can choose from after the dive.
• Consider a multi-day liveaboard trip if you’re a seasoned diver. You’ll get much more time on the reef and be able to visit different areas.
• Don’t touch the coral. It’s a living organism and touching it can kill it. Do your part to preserve the reef and only touch areas your instructor says you can.

With reports of coral bleaching increasing and large parts of the reef dying off due to warmer ocean temperatures, it’s probably best to try to visit and dive the reef as soon as possible before it all disappears.

It’s worth the trip! Trust me!

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Liveaboard Diving in Great Barrier Reef

What to expect on a great barrier reef liveaboard.

Take a liveaboard in the Great Barrier Reef , Australia and you will be diving one of the ultimate bucket list destinations for not just every diver, but most of the world's population. Great Barrier Reef  liveaboards visit this world-famous and stunning marine area which has earned its name as a 'must visit area' in this spectacular part of the world. Delving a little deeper into people's ambitions, they'll likely cite diving on the Great Barrier Reef - popularly abbreviated to GBR - as one of their life goals. This is for good reason too, as the reef is a 2300 kilometre stretch of unrivalled natural beauty, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, a World Heritage Site , and is THE place to dive on our planet. A liveaboard dive trip is the best way to explore this region as it consists of more than 900 islands and 2900 individual reefs, forming a spectacular turquoise chain from Lizard Island in the north of Queensland, all the way down to close to Heron Island in the south of Australia's 'Sunshine' state.

A Great Barrier Reef liveaboard will take you to the crystal clear tropical waters of the Coral Sea , which is comprised of billions of coral polyps, making it the largest living organism on the planet. It is so large and vast that it is visible from outer space - even if you spent a lifetime exploring the reef, it would be impossible to view it all. Day trips are possible but will only allow you to witness the crowded inner reef for a few hours, and will leave you wishing for more time to explore what is on offer. The best way to truly experience the underwater marvels of this iconic structure is by setting sail on a diving liveaboard cruise lasting a number of days, meaning you will be able to witness a wide variety of the incredible biodiversity that the reef supports. Even aboard a liveaboard cruise, you'll still only touch the surface (pardon the pun!), and no doubt by the end you'll be thinking of planning another similar trip in the near future!

The Great Barrier Reef Underwater

Being the World's largest reef system , you can expect to see pretty much everything you could imagine on a GBR liveaboard tour. You'll see the full complement of reef fish, including Clownfish, Fusiliers, Butterfly Fish, Angelfish, Trout and Batfish, all swimming amongst a backdrop of stunningly colourful hard and soft corals.

If you look hard enough (or more likely your expert Divemaster who'll know where to look!), there's some incredible macro life to be seen as well, such as brightly patterned Nudibranchs and tiny but graceful Shrimp. You won't need to rely on your guide to spot the tons of circling Reef Sharks, elegant Turtles (green and loggerhead), and huge Manta Rays that are present at many sites frequented by liveaboard operators - you'll have to make sure you have your camera handy though as you won't want to miss these creatures in their natural habitat! Other animals that divers report sightings of frequently include Sea Snakes, Cuttlefish, and Leopard Moray Eels.

Some dive sites have their own unique attractions, none more famous than Cod Hole in the northern Ribbon Reefs , home to a friendly and docile family of giant Potato Cod (Grouper), and Maori Wrasse.

All of this life is present all year round, and if you are visiting between June and December, you may have the added bonus of viewing dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, Dolphins and the annual spectacular coral spawning .

It's also not just beautiful reefs and their associated coral gardens that are on the diving radar here either - the SS Yongala wreck is widely recognised as one the finest dive sites on the planet, situated towards the southern end of the reef.

Dive Sites & Areas On The Great Barrier Reef

It would be naive to write about every single dive site on the Great Barrier Reef, as it's likely you'd be here for a lifetime if so! The few 'best of', and on many liveaboard itineraries, are described below:

OSPREY REEF is famous for its 40m+ visibility and almost guaranteed sitings of large numbers of sharks at North Horn. Located in the Coral Sea, and accessible via liveaboard from Cairns, the reef features many small caverns and swim-throughs, making the dive sites here fun for everyone.

RIBBON REEFS Lie to the north of Cairns. Isolated they are only reachable via a few liveaboards. They are a chain of ten individual reefs offering sheltered warm waters, and due to their remoteness are in pristine condition.

MILLN REEF is a spot perfect for snorkelling and diving and is also a great place to do a night dive (sleeping turtles and crabs are common) if you wish. It consists of 3 large coral pillars, located around 60 kilometres from Cairns.

FLYNN REEF Features arguably Australia's best coral garden, is a place where you can see the full array of hard and soft coral that the GBR has on show.

COD HOLE has a resident family of giant Potato Cod which will let you take some fabulous close up photos - there are not many places you can take a selfie with a fish that is likely larger than you! Don't worry though, they're ever so friendly and curious, and love interacting with divers. Here it's common to see the sometimes even larger Maori Wrasse aswell. This site is part of the Ribbon Reefs.

LIZARD ISLAND is a national park on an island of the same name, situated to the very north of the GBR. It's a tropical paradise, ideal for unwinding after a few days of diving or honing your diving skills prior to a trip in the calm, sheltered waters that surround it.

NORTH HORN is one of the more well-known parts of Osprey Reef and is renowned for its famous shark feed, where divers are almost guaranteed to see a wide range of these predators, including Grey Reefs, Silkys, Silvertips and Hammerheads.

BOUGAINVILLE REEF benefits from an exposed position on the outer reef, which does mean it can only be visited by liveaboard and when conditions permit. As a result, it offers some of the most unspoilt and pristine diving in all of Australia, regularly frequented by Manta Rays and Turtles.

SS YONGALA WRECK is a wreck that has long been recognised as one of the finest dive sites in the world. Sunk in 1911, the ship is relatively intact, having developed a mesmerising variety of corals and boasting some of the most diverse marine life on the whole of the GBR.

Tips For Divers

There is diving to suit every level of diver on the Great Barrier Reef , from calm, gentle, warm waters for newbies, to challenging swim-throughs and caves for the more experienced. Some trips will require evidence of dive experience, but there are many that request no minimum logged dives. Most of the time full equipment is available to rent (please check this!), but remember to bring your certification. You'll also want your logbook as recording what you've seen is all part of the fun! Visibility is always great - often well in excess of 25 metres, and sometimes over 40. Water temperatures range from 22 to 30 degrees Celsius.

The native language of Australia is English, although commonly dive crews will speak a variety of others. Currency is the Australian Dollar, and ATMs are easily found onshore (not onboard though!). Internet access, healthcare, and transport in Australia are of high quality, although as always please ensure that appropriate travel insurance has been purchased.

Getting To The Great Barrier Reef

Undoubtedly the best method of exploring the GBR is sailing through the Coral Sea amongst the reef on an Australian liveaboard dive cruise.

LiveAboard.com has several cruises to choose from to suit every budget, with the vast majority departing for the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns' port in Queensland. There are a few small regional airports (for example Townsville, Rockhampton, Lizard Island) where it is possible to fly into from other areas of Australia, but by far the easiest, cheapest and convenient way to visit the reef is to fly directly into Cairns. Its airport has good international connections, allowing most visitors to fly directly from many overseas locations, although many daily flights also arrive here from the major hubs of Sydney and Melbourne, in case one of your first Australian destinations is there.

Great Barrier Reef Diving Reviews

• 317 Verified Reviews
• 9.6 Exceptional

Very relaxed and well organized, very safety concious. The dive sites were carefully selected and differed a lot. In my opinion 'Coral Gardens' was the most beautiful.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in December on the Ocean Quest

• 10.0 Exceptional

Most sites were great. A few lacked fish and live coral. But, that's part of the adventure.

Awesome experience, some sites are like beautiful gardens.

An incredible experience overall.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in January on the Pro Dive Cairns

• 8.4 Very good

Definitely one of the best diving spots on the planet.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in January on the Ocean Quest

• 8.8 Fabulous

The diving was fantastic. It was great that we were able to see so many different parts of the reef with the boat moving twice a day.

Such a wonderful variation of fish and all the beautiful colours of coral were unreal!

Beautiful and full of life

The diving was beautiful, I loved changing sites daily. Incredible sharks after dark experience

Worthwhile.....lived up to expectations

• Marco-Bruno P

Better than expected but the bleaching is really bad...

Very exciting. I had always wanted to see it

Good, did see some dead coral.

Outstanding views of species of fish and wildlife. Beautiful coral.

Superb visibility, awesome reefs and fish, not to much current

Diving Great Barrier Reef in February on the Spoilsport

Perhaps better condition of coral and marine life compared to diving the same sites 10 years ago

Diving Great Barrier Reef in February on the Pro Dive Cairns

Fantastic, the reefs are healthy - covered in endless hard and soft corals. Healthy marine life population at all levels of the food chain.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in February on the Spirit of Freedom

Picture perfect with 20- 30 meter visibility. The reef looked very healthy with incredible amounts of sea life living on and around it.

• 8.0 Very good

Variable - a lot of damage.

Great dive sites. Lots of versatility.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in March on the Rum Runner

A dream trip—shallow dives mean more time in water enjoying nature, less time consumed with deco time, etc...

Diving Great Barrier Reef in March on the Ocean Quest

amazing very well preserved and lots of marine fauna

Great. Lot of fun and my confidence grew with each dive.

Amazing locations - the skipper knew exactly the best sites

Excellent! Exceeded my expectations

Diving Great Barrier Reef in August on the Pro Dive Cairns

Due to the weather it was only OK, not the best vis on most dives

Ok, vis was about 15 mtrs for most dives, fish life was awesome!

Diving Great Barrier Reef in November on the Pro Dive Cairns

It was lovely, there were no other boats so not invaded by a million other divers.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in April on the Pro Dive Cairns

Even though the visibility was bad for windy weather, still coral was spectacular and there were many kinds of fish

Diving Great Barrier Reef in May on the Ocean Quest

• FRANCESCO G

Some beautiful bommies and healthy reef

Diving Great Barrier Reef in July on the Spoilsport

Disappointing snorkelling, more suited for diving

Diving Great Barrier Reef in September on the Pro Dive Cairns

Beautiful. We went to different sites every day and they were all unique. Some with deep diving, some more shallow with endless flat reefs, some with walls of coral, we saw sharks, rays, eels, turtles, and fish of all kinds. We were also lucky enough to be onboard during the coral spawning.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in November on the Ocean Quest

• Iman Daniel J

Great. No current, good visibility

Visibility wasn't great, due to poor weather, but the Great Barrier Reef is great for diving.

Really beautiful, great visibility and diversity of species.

Water was 30* and visibility was excellent. Reef areas were beautiful.

Reasonable variety of fish, some coral but no sponges at all. Night dive was devoid of any life other than the divers, even the corals looked drab. Needed good navigation skills. Much of the coral has been damaged... presumably back mixture if leaching, but also years of intensive dive activity.

The GBR is definitely impressive in terms of its size and huge variety of life that is available to explore.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in April on the Ocean Quest

About 8 degrees warmer and about 10m better visibility than the south coast of NSW.

Excellent weather and 26C water temperature with exceptional visibility. We were particularly lucky that it was calm in the more exposed Coral Sea locations.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in May on the Spoilsport

Outstanding. Clear waters with visibility between 10 and 25m. Great water temp. Obviously the marine park is exceptional and one of the best in the world.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in June on the Ocean Quest

Amazing! Coral was as colorful, diverse and healthy as i could have expected.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in June on the Pro Dive Cairns

Some beautiful things to see out on the reef. So much sea life and so many turtles! It's sad to see the effects of the warmer climate on the reef but hopefully things will improve.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in July on the Ocean Quest

It was bit sad to see white dead corals at first. 😔 Enjoyed beautiful and awesome corals and variety of fishes around them. I'll come again and again

Diving Great Barrier Reef in September on the Ocean Quest

I don't dive, but I did snorkle all but 1 on of the sessions and it never got old. Each site, even if we returned to one over that time span, was unique. The reef is stunning, has of course suffered from climate change in some places more than others. The guides were informative about what we were seeing, and each shared their special interests. The conditions were generally excellent, with one day that was a bit choppy. The "Sharks in the Dark", chumming off the back end of the boat for chark was very interesting, and to my taste, best experienced from the upper deck!

Diving Great Barrier Reef in October on the Ocean Quest

Perfect. Healthy colourful corals and abundant marine life.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in October on the Pro Dive Cairns

Really good, especially at night. The viz was only moderate at times, and some areas of coral are broken or stressed, but I’d go back

Good but reef not as good condition as 5 years ago

We snorkel and the sight was superior to other reefs

Fine. The coral at the end of the Busselton Jetty was more colourful.

We had very good conditions and saw a great variety of animals. It was great

You could see some bleached spots, but also new corals coming trough. But it was still the best diving spot I have seen in Australia and we’ve seen many animals big and small. The coral reef was dense, huge and divers. I loved it!

Diving the Great Barrier Reef was the best dive experience I have had yet. The coral was so vibrant and the sea life was teaming with life. The night dives were the most exhilarating.

Incredible diving. Some of the healthiest and most varied coral I have seen.

Clear visibility, healthy coralles

Diving Great Barrier Reef in December on the Pro Dive Cairns

• 6.8 Review score

Great! Not really big wall dives, more of a slope and lots of healthy coral gardens.

Amazing! We lucked out with 2 sunny days and clear skies, so the coral and biodiversity were colorful and abundant.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in January on the Rum Runner

Encounters with various tropical fish species. In particular, I could feel the friendliness of the Napoleon fish and could easily see the sea turtle eating. There were also damaged coral reefs, but I liked the brilliance of many fish swimming in a clean underwater environment.

Unfortunately the visibility was very poor due to a recent major storm.

Great diving, tons of fish, turtles, corals

I heard we went at the worst time of year but it was still amazing.

Underwhelming. It was not as colorful or full of sea life as I expected. The visibility was limited.

wonderful. Not much current and shallow beautiful dives.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in March on the Pro Dive Cairns

I not as unique I thought it would be. I do not think it is far better or far different than some other reefs I have dove in the Caribbean. Reefs can be hit or miss. The giant clams were different. Also I think there is more live coral on the GBR than Caribbean reefs.

Amazing - the different coral structures and variety of marine life was really incredible.

The reef is a mind blowing experience! The coral is so vibrant it looks like a blooming garden of underwater flowers.

Don't expect too much! Water is not crystal clear and species are not as good as south east asia. But the coral landscape is great!

Lots of hard corals, several bigger parrot fish, less fry than expected. Less fish then expected some dives, others had lots.

Visibility was not great. Otherwise, wonderful.

A few great days of sunshine in Clearwater followed by some rain and chop that made it a bit foggy on the last day. Can’t stop mother nature.

Ok, not so good vis about 5 meters....windy weather 30 knot winds stirred up the sand.

Saw a turtle lots of sharks unforgettable

Great visibility even though the weather has been quite windy and choppy

• lene feltmann E

The visibily was poor, but most dives gave new discoveries. The night dives were fantastic.

The GBR was gorgeous and the coral was stunning. The most amount of love coral I have seen on a reef and the greatest fish diversity!

I would give 6 out of 10. I was expecting to see more things and big stuff but that wasn't achieved. Did not spot that many sharks either. Not even school of fishes.

• Christopher C

Lived up to all expectations, and we saw a wide range of large and small critters.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in May on the Spirit of Freedom

The reef is spectacular, lots of fish and lots of places to dive.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in May on the Pro Dive Cairns

It was my first time driving but I had a blast. I loved exploring the reef and being surprised by all the sea creatures.

Very good when far away from Cairns in unspoilt reef.

Its one of the best place for the fresh hand to accumulate experience and a lot of things to see

Diving overall was good, although the visibility at times was not optimal.

It was incredible clarity was amazing

More marine lives, especially the stone fish is my favorite

Great visibility and interesting things to see

Diving Great Barrier Reef in August on the Ocean Quest

All good and pretty cool memory

Easy diving, lots of marine life… not the best visibility

Diving Great Barrier Reef in October on the Spirit of Freedom

Colorful coral and a wide variety of sealife on display

Diving Great Barrier Reef in October on the Rum Runner

Amazing. Heaps of life, amazing coral. Lots of variety of life.

Diving Great Barrier Reef in October on the Spoilsport

Amazing coral and marine life

The coral reef was the best I’ve ever seen not a lot of big fish probably due to fishing in the area visibility was great lots of small fish

The coral colors and structures were fantastic.

Nice visibility, super corals, a lot of life. Not a place for big stuff

An excellent and highly recommended experience!

The reef was beautiful. Even without the sun shining for most of the trip, one could see the spectacular array of colors throughout the dive.

Very good even though rainy daily

Great, came in after the cyclone so visibility was altered but was able to see all the marine life I wanted to. Amazing dive experience.

wonderful, we saw tiny stuff, vibrant reefs and many pelagics.

Reef good - really choppy surface

It was amazing seeing all the marine life despite of the weather and visibility under the water.

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Scuba Dive the Great Barrier Reef

Trying to work out where to stay at the Great Barrier Reef? Discover a great selection of accommodation, the length and breadth of the Great Barrier Reef and beyond. Search for hotel rooms and book online.

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Great Barrier Reef's islands are simply enchanting, with the choice of over 100 islands from unique and exotic islands to the world famous Whitsundays.

• Best Islands Near Cairns
• Bedarra Island
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Queensland is unique amongst the Australian states in that it has a number of genuine coastal capitals.

• Airlie Beach
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• Port Douglas
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• Whitehaven Beach

Discover a diverse range of experiences in the Great Barrier Reef.

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• Sky diving at Airlie Beach
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• Adventure Activities
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The Great Barrier Reef is a gathering of brilliant, vivid coral providing divers with the most spectacular underwater experience imaginable.

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Scuba Diving Snorkel and dive the Great Barrier Reef.

If you are a certified Scuba diver or a snorkeller, the Great Barrier Reef has some of the best ocean life in the world. If you have never done a Scuba dive before, the Great Barrier Reef offers some great places to learn to Scuba dive.

The Great Barrier Reef is world renowned for it’s amazing scuba diving locations. Bommies, coral reefs and an abundance of marine life stretch for the entire 2,300km length of the reef.

There are a wide range of dive sites along the Great Barrier Reef, there are calm, protected, shallow spots around the islands, perfect for first-timers, there are gentle reef sites, rich in fish life and corals and the deeper sites on the outer reefs for those with some experience. All sites are best reached by boat ranging from luxury cruisers to spectacular sail boats. For those visitors who have never put their head under the water, but want to see if they can enjoy snorkelling or scuba diving, there are excellent one-day, first-time dive trips.

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef offers a range of scuba dive experiences for both the beginner and the experienced diving expert. Diving expeditions depart daily from all the major cities and towns along the coast and from most island resorts. No matter where you stay on the reef, you are always within a 20 – 60 minute boat ride of an excellent diving spot.

The late, great Jacques Cousteau famously named the Heron Bommie off Heron Island as one of his top ten favourite diving sites in the world.

Douglas Adams, the author of the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy wrote an amusing anecdote about his experience diving at Hayman Island on the reef.

The Great Barrier Reef offers all manner of accommodation for singles, couples and families. The keen diver will be able to fine a suitable location to stay regardless of budget.

The Great Barrier Reef, Australia is one of the natural wonders of the world and a superb place to indulge in the best scuba diving in the world.

Cairns Diving Tour Operators

Diving from Cairns offers a truly unique reef experience for the traveller who seeks a more personalised and relaxed approach to exploring the Great Barrier Reef by mask, snorkel and fins.

Diving Day Tours

Great Adventures – Great Barrier Reef Adventure Destination: Outer Barrier Reef (Norman Reef)

Great Adventures – Green Island & Great Barrier Reef Adventure Destination: Outer Barrier Reef plus 2 hour stopover on Green Island

Reef Magic Marine World – Outer Barrier Reef Tour Destination: Outer Great Barrier Reef, Moore Reef

Sunlover Cruises – Outer Barrier Reef Scuba Dive Tour Destination: Moore Reef Pontoon

Quicksilver – Great Barrier Reef Tour Destination: Outer Barrier Reef, Agincourt Reef

Ocean Freedom – Upolu Cay Tour Destination: Upolu Cay & Upolu Reef

M/V Osprey – Outer Barrier Reef Tour Destination: 2 Outer Barrier Reef Locations

Reef Experience – Outer Barrier Reef Tour Destination: Norman, Saxon, Hastings and Michaelmas Reef Locations

Reef Quest – Outer Barrier Reef Tour Destination: 2 Reef Locations on the Outer Barrier Reef – (17 private exclusive dive sites)

Seastar – Michaelmas Cay & Hastings Reef Tour Destination: Michaelmas Cay & Hastings Reef

Great Barrier Reef Experiences

There are plenty of things to experience on Great Barrier Reef.

Townsville Townsville, a thriving metropolis, is the unofficial capital of North Queensland and one of the fastest growing regions in Australia.

Rockhampton Rockhampton is set under Mount Archer, posing an impressive backdrop for the vibrant City centre, coast and the outback beyond.

Charters Towers Charters Towers is one of the most beautiful inland cities in Queensland, with unrivalled architecture and a unique history.

Australia's great natural wonder

More great australian travel destinations.

• Uluru Australia
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About 'greatbarrierreef.org'

greatbarrierreef.org is a 'Web Magazine' website that is dedicated to all things related to the Great Barrier Reef. We are passionate about Australia's great natural wonder, its vast marine life, its golden sun-kissed beaches, its warm turquiose waters and the unforgetable experiences that are waiting for all who visit. Our aim is to discuss the Great Barrier Reef, its history, its environment, its marine life and its spectacular destinations. We hope that this website will inspire all who visit, just as much as the Great Barrier reef has inspired us.

Custom website design , development and speed optimisation by Jimmyweb

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SCUBA DIVING THE GREAT BARRIER REEF, AUSTRALIA

  GREAT BARRIER REEF DIVING HIGHLIGHTS

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, this spectacular reef system stretches 1,400 miles down the east coast of Australia , from Cape York Peninsula in northeastern Queensland, to Bundaberg in the south. Comprising 600 islands and close to 2,900 individual reefs, choosing where to dive and what to see can be overwhelming. But don’t let this worry you. There are so many amazing facts about The Great Barrier Reef such as how it and the  Coral Sea boast over 600 types of coral, which in turn provide a home to 1,625 fish species and 133 species of sharks and rays. Wherever you choose to dive, this huge and glorious reef system won’t fail to disappoint, and could likely be one of the best scuba diving trips you’ll ever make. 

Interested in diving the Great Barrier Reef?  View the live availability of some of the best liveaboards in the Great Barrier Reef and book online at the best price or check out our sidebar for specials and workshops! 

Our thanks to Mike Ball Dive Expeditions for images on this page.

Marine Life - Best Dive Sites - Best Time to Dive

Diving Conditions - How to Get There - How to Dive Galapagos

Practical Information - Book a Trip - Underwater Images 

GREAT BARRIER REEF DIVE RESORTS AND LIVEABOARDS

Shore diving the Great Barrier Reef is concentrated around the town of Cairns , where day boats take divers and snorkelers out to the nearby reefs. This world-famous spot is popular with tourists and backpackers so it can get quite busy during peak season. For those willing to venture further north, Port Douglas offers some upmarket resort options as an alternative to the Cairns hostel scene.

The quality of diving improves as you venture further from the mainland, and some of the best sites are only accessible via liveaboard. They offer a range of trips to the outer reefs and into the Coral Sea to dive some breathtaking spots.

Find the best Great Barrier Reef liveaboard for your next dive vacation.

INtro to the Great Barrier Reef

As the largest living structure on Earth, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the best scuba diving destinations in the world, offering a variety and abundance of marine life seldom found elsewhere. Much of the reef falls within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park , and so many of the dive sites enjoy protected status. Beyond the barrier reef itself, the Coral Sea is a hidden gem of scattered reefs and atolls boasting rarely visited dive sites and some of the best diving in Australia. 

 Images courtesy of the Coral Sea Dreaming Liveaboard

Chromodoris annae Nudibranch (LEFT) & Pink Anemonefish (RIGHT) 

View Location on Google Map

The diving season in the Great Barrier Reef is year-round, but the best time to go would highly depend on  what you want to see.

More on the  best time to dive the Great Barrier Reef .  

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Great barrier reef diving information.

great barrier reef MARINE LIFE & PHOTOGRAPHY SPECIES

The Great Barrier Reef is teeming with life, and while some notable macro can be found, it’s the big stuff that really stands out here. The best of the pelagic species tend to gather at the northernmost reefs and atolls where, in the winter months of June and July, large numbers of migratory dwarf minke whales gather. Beaked whales, sperm whales, and bottlenose dolphins also congregate here to feed along the edge of the deep ocean shelf. 

Many shark species reside in the outer reefs, and you may find silky, silvertip, whitetip, and grey reef sharks joining you on your dive. The occasional whale shark or hammerhead passes through, and eagle rays, mantas, loggerheads, and green turtles are all common sights. 

A grey reef shark swims overhead during the shark dive at Osprey Reef.

All along the Great Barrier Reef, an abundance of smaller reef species can be found in the healthy corals. Clownfish darting in and out of their anemones, electric purple anthias, schools of yellow snapper, parrotfish, the list is endless. Larger species such as grouper, cod, and bream share the reef with schooling pelagics, making for a breathtaking array of color and motion.

Read  Christine Shepard’s Bluewater trip report  from her wonderful experience with dwarf minke whales on the Coral Sea reefs.

  If you love the idea of reef diving but don't want to travel too far, check out scuba diving in the Red Sea .

BEST TIME TO DIVE

Queensland’s tropical climate makes the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea superb for diving year-round, but conditions and species do vary between the seasons. The summer months from December through to February enjoy warmer water and great visibility, while the cooler winter months of March to November are the best time to spot large marine mammals such as humpback and minke whales.

Interested in diving with whales? Check out our list of the Best Places to Dive with Whales .

Dwarf Minke Whale

DIVING CONDITIONS

Water temperature: Ranges from 73 to 84 o F (23 to 29 o C)

Visibility: Inshore day trip dives between 50ft and 100ft, while liveaboard sites in the Coral Sea can reach 150ft.

Depth Range: Mostly between 30ft and 100ft.

Diving Difficulty: Many people learn to dive on the Great Barrier Reef, and there are hundreds of sites suitable for beginners. More remote reefs such as Osprey require some experience, and the Ribbon Reefs are best for advanced divers.

BEST DIVE SITES in the great barrier reef

Based on our numerous visits to the area, we've rounded up some of the best dive sites in the Great Barrier Reef:

Osprey Reef: One of the best locations in the Coral Sea, Osprey Reef sits in the very north of the system and has a range of sites including drift diving at North Horn Wall, and the shark feeding amphitheater at North Horn. Large pelagics gather here to feed throughout the year, and whale sharks , rays, and turtles will often make an appearance. 

Ribbon Reefs: This 75-mile chain of ten individual reefs is home to a fantastic array of coral and fish life, and boasts some really special dive sites. The world-famous Cod Hole is home to dozens of huge potato cod and some very friendly giant Napoleon wrasse, known locally as Maori wrasse. Steve’s Bommie , an extraordinary isolated pinnacle, is bursting with colorful life, and Lighthouse Bommie is known for its population of golden sea snakes.

Heron Island: Further south, Heron Island is a notable nesting site for green and loggerhead turtles, so divers are likely to enjoy the company of several of these creatures on each dive. The reefs also feature various cleaning stations, such as the one at North Bommie, which attracts manta rays and turtles in to shallower waters. Heron Bommie, the island’s signature dive site, is home to manta and eagle rays, reef sharks, and flowery cod.

Lady Elliot Island: This world-class dive destination is a coral cay surrounded by pristine fringing reef, home to a large and diverse fish population. Like Heron Reef, it is well known as a hotspot for turtles and manta rays, and the island’s location next to the continental shelf drop-off means there is a chance to swim with visiting humpback whales between May and October.

SS Yongala: Probably the best-known wreck in Australia , the Yongala lies in open water, its deepest point at 100ft. This 360ft wreck is largely intact, and provides an isolated artificial reef sanctuary for all number of species including barracuda, rays, trevally, and even bull sharks.

great barrier reef TRAVEL INFORMATION

HOW TO GET TO THE GREAT BARRIER REEF

There are direct international flights from the US to several Australian airports such as Sydney Airport (SYD) , or from Europe via most major Asia hubs. Then transfer on to Cairns Airport (CNS)  where most of the liveaboards depart from. Local flights are also available out to the reef islands. 

Check out our list of the Best Liveaboard Destinations, here .

HOW TO DIVE THE GREAT BARRIER REEF

By far the best way to experience the Great Barrier Reef is by liveaboard, most of which depart from Cairns for 3-night, 4-night, or 7-night trips. For keen divers we would suggest arranging a minimum of 3 nights at sea. This will allow you to reach some lovely unspoiled spots that the day boats can't get to.

For day trips, the Great Barrier Reef is easiest accessed from Cairns. Dozens of boats of all sizes depart daily out to the local reefs, and the journey normally takes between 30 and 90 minutes. Although there is plenty to see, and it provides an affordable introduction for new divers, the sheer number of visitors to this popular spot has had an impact on the health of the reef. Cairns has a huge number of hotels and hostels to suit all budgets, as well as a busy downtown full of restaurants and bars.

Day trips to the reef are also available from Port Douglas, and boats from here tend to travel further out to the more remote reefs such as Agincourt and Opel. This provides a far better experience for qualified divers, where the reefs are in great health and full of life. Despite the additional travel time, we would definitley reccomend a trip that takes you several hours offshore and away from the busiest reefs. Port Douglas itself is much quieter than Cairns, with mostly resort-style hotels. 

OTHER THINGS TO DO

Queensland has a vibrant tourism industry and there is all manner of attractions and activities available top-side. Popular trips include hiking through the Tropical Rainforests of Daintree and Cape Tribulation, or to the spectacular waterfalls at Atherton Tablelands . Visiting one of the many wildlife parks that specialize in indigenous species is a great day out, or for the more adventurous travelers, enjoy white water rafting on the Barron River, or take part in a cultural tour to visit Aboriginal rock art  deep in the outback.

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Diving in Australia

The Big Reef, and Beyond

There are reefs and there is THE REEF. Australia's Great Barrier Reef remains at the top of many a diver's bucket list, and with good reason. Named as one of the seven wonders of the natural world, it is the largest coral community on the planet and one of the ocean's most biologically diverse habitats. It's all here, from the tiny and the exotic to the largest fish in the sea. Explorations can begin at land-based resorts in Cairns or on Heron Island, while liveaboards give access to renowned sites on the Ribbon Reefs and the Coral Sea. Ashore, all the natural and cultural discoveries of the Land Down under await.

• Best for: Intermediate to advanced divers, photographers and underwater naturalists
• Best season to visit: Year-round, May to October are most popular months for liveaboard trips, and June and July for minke whale encounters
• Weather: Cairns has hot, humid summers and cooler, dry winters. Temperatures typically drop a few degrees as you move offshore. Cyclone season runs from November to May

Things to Do

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Australia Information

About diving in australia.

All dives on the Great Barrier Reef will involve a boat ride. Day trips originating in Cairns and Port Douglas feature fast, spacious motor yachts and catamarans. Liveaboards provide the best access to many prime areas such as the Ribbon Reefs and Osprey Reef. A stay at Heron Island provides shorter boat rides combined with land-based accommodations. Conditions can range from calm and current-free on locations inside the reef to swells and surge when diving exposed sites. Depending on season and location, water temperatures range from 75 to 84 degrees.

Diving in Australia Tips

Months from September to February provide the calmest sea conditions, while the best visibility occurs in the cooler months from June to September. Summer algae blooms may reduce visibility to a degree, but also attract more marine life. The “shoulder season” months of April and November offer a combination of favorable sea states, good water and lesser numbers of divers.

Best Places to Dive in Australia

The internationally-known Cod Hole deserves a space on the bucket list. Equally memorable are the manta cleaning stations at Around the Bend, the migrating minke whales at Lighthouse Bommie, shark dives at North Horn, drift dive at False Entrance and the macro life at Split Bommie.

What to Pack for Diving in Australia

Skin suits to 3mm are ideal in summer, but some divers may need a 5mm in winter. Pack a waterproof cover-up for breezy surface intervals and an extra layer—vest or headgear—for longer liveaboard itineraries, as body core temperatures drop after days of diving. On liveaboards, there's no need to dress up for dinner, so pack light on topside clothing and use a soft bag that can be stowed easily in the cabin. Remember motion sickness meds if susceptible.

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Some 1,200 miles in length and encompassing more than 13,000 square miles of ocean, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park harbors an astounding variety of marine life, including more than1,600 species of fish, 600-plus types of coral, and more than 6,000 known varieties of invertebrates. Six of the world's seven species of sea turtle swim here, along with 30 species of whales and dolphins, giant black marlin and 133 species of  sharks and rays . Diving activities take place all along the reef, with the northern areas generally considered the best sites. Some reefs are accessible by day trips from either Cairns or Port Douglas, but many of the best sites are reached only via a stay at offshore dive resorts such as Heron Island, or aboard a liveaboard dive vessel. A favorite liveaboard itinerary includes the Ribbon Reefs, where delicate soft corals grow to the size of a Christmas tree and starfish are electric blue. Big animal attractions include mantas, whales and sharks, and noteworthy finds include  blue ring octopus , sawfish, ribbon eels, giant clams, harlequin tusk fish, wobbegong sharks and the giant potato cod. At the Cod Hole, groupers weighing up to 500 pounds interact with divers. Nearby Pixie Pinnacle has an incredible concentration of marine life for one small site - it’s all here - mantis shrimp, leafy scorpion fish, clownfish, lionfish, soft corals, giant fans, a proliferation of crinoids, nudibranchs and much more. Walls hold masses of chevron barracuda, dogtooth tunas and jacks swarm, with passing sharks always a possibility. In June and July, migrating  dwarf minke whales  pass through the Ribbon Reefs, giving divers a rare opportunity to view and interact with these fascinating marine mammals, A rare but not-to-be-forgotten sighting on outside reefs are the black marlin of up to 10 feet in length that will sometimes appear out of deep water. The reef continues north into the Coral Sea, offering some of the most exciting diving in the world. Spanning more than 1.5 million square miles of ocean, the  Coral Sea  contains hundreds of separate reefs, atolls, cays, and seamounts. This region is known for its vertical walls, enormous sea fans, multi-colored soft corals, sharks and amazing water clarity, which routinely exceeds 100 feet.

Passport and/or Visa Requirements

American citizens are required to have a valid U.S. passport to enter Australia with at least one blank page for the entry stamp. An Australian Visa is required, or if eligible, an electronic visa, through Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) at  www.eta.immi.gov.au . The ETA replaces a visa and allows a stay of up to 90 days. The ETA may be obtained from their website for $20 AUD. Airlines and many travel agents in the United States are also able to apply for ETAs on behalf of travelers. Please note that American citizens who overstay their ETA or visa, even for short periods, may be subject to exclusion, detention, and removal.

Read about Australia's entry/exit requirements  here .

Immunizations

There are no required immunizations for U.S. citizens to enter Australia, but we would always suggest checking with your doctor and the Centers for Disease Control on recommended vaccinations for travel to Australia at Traveler's Health CDC Australia .

Culture and Customs

For visitors from North America, Australia may seem like a favorite cousin who talks a bit funny and never met someone they didn't like. Portrayals of the Land Down Under often include a “no worries” attitude, which is an accurate representation of the hospitality visitors can expect. But laid back can be far from boring. In stark contrast to the cosmopolitan coastal cities to the south, Cairns is not only the gateway to the  Great Barrier Reef  but also the nation's epicenter for outdoor sports and adventures. Big game fishing charters, speedboat runs, jet ski tours and parasailing adventures take place in warm tropical waters, while on land, skydivers, climbers and bungee jumpers shun their fear of heights. Forays into the rainforest take place on foot, aboard motorcycles and mountain bikes or via offload vehicle. Aboriginal parks provide a glimpse of Australia's cultural heritage; zip line canopy rides spice up rainforest tours and crocodile-spotting cruises along the  Daintree River  provide bucket-list bragging rights.

Electricity, Phone and Internet Access

Standard electricity in Australia is 230 volts, 50 cycles. When coming from the United States an adapter will be needed for U.S. items and a step-down transformer could also be required to convert 220/240 Volt to 110/120 Volt. The power outlets use 3 flat pin plugs in a different configuration than U.S. sockets.

The  international access code  for Australia is 61. Please check with your cell phone provider for international data and calling plans.

Many hotels, restaurants and bars offer WiFi.

Water Quality

The tap water is safe to drink and bottled water is available for purchase.

Language & Currency

English is the official language of Australia.

The currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD) and consists of 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2 as coins and notes are $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. You can exchange funds at all international airports in Australia upon arrival or at any bank.

Major currencies can be exchanged at banks and many hotels, with some stores also accepting U.S. currency. Purchases may be made using cash or major credit cards. Check the current exchange rate  here .

Most of Australia uses 3 time zones.

Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST): in New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland, which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (+10 GMT).

Australian Central Standard Time (ACST) in South Australia and Northern Territory, which is 9 1/2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (+9.5 GMT).

Australian Western Standard Time (AWST) in Western Australia, which is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (+8 GMT).

Daylight Saving Time is observed in New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania from the beginning of October to the beginning of beginning of April, at which point AEST becomes AEDT and ACST becomes ACDT daylight savings time and moves by 1 hour. The Northern Territory, Western Australia and Queensland don’t observe Daylight Saving.

Location, Size and Population

Australia, sometimes referred to as the island continent, is the only country that is its own continent as well. Australia is very large - similar in size to the United States at almost 3 million square miles. The continent of Australia is located between the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean.

Australia's population is 24,17 Million (2016).

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CAIRNS & PORT DOUGLAS' BEST SCUBA DIVING

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Blue Dive Port Douglas offers the best Great Barrier Reef scuba diving trips, courses, guides and outer reef sites. Our team are dive professionals. Our destinations are the best reef locations for visibility, corals, abundance and diversity of underwater life. Our service is outstanding, providing privately guided dives and dive courses on the beautiful Great Barrier Reef. At Blue Dive, we don’t dive with strangers – we dive with new friends…

YOU WANT THE BEST GREAT BARRIER REEF EXPERIENCE YOU WANT BLUE DIVE

We’re the original Port Douglas scuba company, offering privately guided dives and private PADI Open Water courses since 2008. We are 100% locally owned and operated and are the Port Douglas dive specialists. Our experienced dive team are passionate about ensuring your Great Barrier Reef experience, is the best it can be. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, family or group of friends – and whether it’s on a day trip, multi-day dive course or private charter – Blue Dive will show you the best of the Great Barrier Reef.

GREAT BARRIER REEF LUXURY PRIVATE CHARTERS FOR DIVERS AND SNORKELERS

If this is the trip to tick the Great Barrier Reef off your bucket list, then the ultimate way to do this is on a Blue Dive Port Douglas luxury private charter. The trip will be completely tailored to your needs, be it snorkeling, diving or both. Your vessel will be a top of the range luxury boat, perfect for families, groups and corporate events. For day trips and overnight trips, a Blue Dive luxury private charter is the ultimate way to experience the Great Barrier Reef.

Why Book With Blue Dive Port Douglas

Private guided diving, amazing reef sites, engaging reef info, professional dive masters, freedom from crowds.

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Scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef: 17+ Things you need to know

The Great Barrier Reef needs no introduction. It’s the most extensive coral reef system on Earth and one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

I spent 3 days diving the Great Barrier Reef, and it was an epic adventure.

After 11 dives, which included night dives and unguided dives, I’m sharing all my tips for scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef. I’ve included when and where to go, how many days you need, costs, and more.

1. There are so many places to go diving in the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is massive!

It stretches more than 2,300 km along Australia’s northeast coast of Queensland, starting in Bundaberg on the south and ending at the tip of Cape York on the north.

While Cairns is arguably the most popular base, there are a few major access points where you can visit the reef.

2. where to dive the Great Barrier Reef

Here are the best places to go diving in the Great Barrier Reef.

Cairns is a great starting point for diving the Great Barrier Reef. I followed this Cairns itinerary , which includes all the best things to do (including scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef).

Cape Tribulation: Located in the Daintree Rainforest (the oldest rainforest in the world), Cape Tribulation is a few hours north of Cairns. It’s the only place on earth where two natural wonders meet up

Townsville is the gateway to the central section of the Great Barrier Reef. You can dive from Magnetic Island and explore the SS Yongala (regarded as the world’s best wreck dive).

Airlie Beach is home to the Whitsundays, a cluster of spectacular islands famous for their white sand and turquoise blue waters.

Bundaberg lies on the Southern Great Barrier Reef. From here, you can visit Lady Elliot Island, Lady Musgrave Island, and Heron Island.

3. Diving the Great Barrier Reef during dry season (winter)

Every Great Barrier Reef travel blog you read will tell you that the best time to go diving is from May to October.

This is the dry season with little to no rain and no stingers. You’ll also have the best underwater visibility.

It’s winter in Australia, but not too cold. The temperatures hover around 26 degrees during the day, but the evenings can get chilly, reaching 17 degrees at its lowest.

4. Diving the Great Barrier Reef during wet season (summer)

November to April is the wet season in northern Queensland. Tropical showers are common, and this can impact the water’s visibility.

But it’s also summer in Australia! Expect hot and humid conditions – but luckily, you’ll have the rain to cool you down.

There are a few benefits of diving in the Great Barrier Reef during the wet season.

• The water temperatures peak at 29 degrees, which is ideal. That’s a whole 7 degrees warmer than during winter!
• It’s also quieter with fewer tourists.
• Coral Spawning takes place in November and December.

5. The best months are September and October

After speaking to a few dive instructors, the best months to go diving at the Great Barrier Reef are September and October.

This is the end of the winter season, so the water and outdoor temperatures are slightly warmer than in June and July.

It’s also outside the trade wind times and stinger season, so you can expect optimal conditional all around.

6. How to dive the Great Barrier Reef

You can explore the Great Barrier Reef on a day trip like this . But it will be a very busy day. This is because the boat ride to the reef takes 1.5 to 3 hours. Then, it takes another 1.5 to 3 hours to return to the mainland.

If you plan on diving the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns, I highly recommend joining a scuba diving liveaboard tour. This means you spend a night on the reef!

By doing a liveaboard, you also get the chance to do a night dive. This is a phenomenal experience, and you’ll see all those creatures that come out after dark.

7. The best Great Barrier Reef liveaboard tour

Unfortunately, there aren’t many liveaboard options to choose from. And they get booked out quickly as liveaboard diving is in high demand.

I had initially booked an overnight liveaboard from Cairns with Coral Sea Dreaming. It’s a much smaller boat and can accommodate up to 8 guests. I like that it was a small group tour that came with fantastic online reviews.

But I eventually decided to go with Pro Dive as they offer a longer liveaboard option of 3 days (not 2) . But on the downside, Pro Dive has a much bigger boat, and you’re diving with 30+ people on every dive!

I paid just over 1000 AUD for 3 days on the Great Barrier Reef, which was all-inclusive.

8. What it’s like to dive at the Great Barrier Reef

It’s safe to say that everyone planning on diving the Great Barrier Reef has high expectations. It’s pretty hyped up!

I was expecting to see more vibrant coral and bigger schools of fish (or even Grey Nurse and Leopard Sharks like you find when diving in Byron Bay ). Despite this, I still had incredible encounters.

My first night dive was mind-blowing as there were reef sharks everywhere! They’re harmless, but they did come close to us, which was a surreal experience.

We also swam past a massive school of parrot fish, saw the biggest clams ever, and navigated through amazing swim-throughs.

But you must remember that the reef is so big, and every dive site offers a different experience. If you’re an advanced diver, you might prefer the sites closer to the reef’s northern tip or the S.S. Yongala wreck dive.

9. Be prepared for unguided dives

Most Great Barrier Reef scuba diving is unguided. This means it’s only you, your dive buddy, and your trusted compass, deep below the surface.

Before diving in Australia, I had only ever done guided dives. With no clue how to navigate underwater, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous!

The reality is that most people will be in the same shoes as you. But the Great Barrier Reef is a shallow reef with no current.

Generally, your first dive is guided. This allows you to get familiar with the gear and the water conditions.

Before your unguided dive, your instructor will give a thorough briefing about the site and show you how to use a compass. If you’re feeling unsure, you can always request a guide for every dive, but you may need to pay extra for this.

Our first unguided dive was a night dive! I was out of my comfort zone, but it was one of the most incredible experiences.

10. The Great Barrier Reef dive sites are uncrowded

This is a massive pro of diving the Great Barrier Reef – no crowds.

During my 3-day scuba diving liveaboard, I only saw one other boat, and they were diving at a different site to us.

Diving unguided, with only your buddy and no one else around you, is quite something and will make your experience more memorable!

11. Be careful of the stingers

You might be planning your Great Barrier Reef diving trip based on water visibility and weather conditions, but you must also be aware of stingers.

The most popular type of stingers in this area are box jellyfish. Their venom can be fatal to humans, and you’ll find them in the waters from November to April each year.

You can still go scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef during stinger season but will have to wear a stinger suit. The diving operators provide these.

12. Whales on the Great Barrier Reef

Here are a few key attractions:

• June to July: Dwarf Minke Whales
• July to September: Humpback Whales

I was keen to dive with dwarf minke whales, so I booked my 3-day diving liveaboard for July. I didn’t realize these whales don’t actually hang out on the reefs that are closer to the mainland, which I was visiting.

To dive with them, you need to join a specific Minke Whale Liveaboard that goes further north to Ribbon Reef.

We also didn’t see any humpback whales, even though we were there during the annual migration. This is not to say you won’t experience these whale encounters, but the chances aren’t likely unless you book a specific whale liveaboard dive trip.

13. The trade wind pick-up in June and July

June and July are the windiest months on the reef. While this won’t affect your underwater experience of diving the Great Barrier Reef, it can cause rough, windy conditions above the water.

During our diving trip in July, it was super windy. The 3-hour boat ride from Cairns to the reef (and back) was pretty hectic and extremely bumpy! Most people on our trip took sickness tablets.

The rough conditions died down when we got to the reef, but it was still windy throughout the three days.

But don’t avoid July just because of the winds. A friend joined the same liveaboard a week after I did. Her experience was perfect – little to no wind. So, it really is the luck of the draw!

14. You will Dive, sleep, eat, repeat on a Great Barrier Reef liveaboard tour

If you’re doing a Great Barrier Reef liveaboard, be prepared to dive, sleep, eat, and repeat.

It’s full on!

And while you may be tempted to skip a dive in favor of chilling on the sundeck, try to get to all the dives on your itinerary. You never know what sightings you’ll miss out on.

15. Do a dive certification

The Great Barrier Reef is a great place to get your diving certification. You’ll do two days of theory and skills training in Cairns before completing your open-water dives on the Great Barrier Reef.

The conditions are perfect for beginner divers as there are no strong currents, the visibility is excellent, and it’s a shallow reef.

I did my Padi Advanced Course plus Nitrox certification during my liveaboard trip.

16. Don’t spend much time in Cairns before your Great Barrier Reef diving trip

Cairns is the most popular starting point for most Great Barrier Reef dives. There are plenty of dive shops here, and the prices are competitive.

But you really don’t need to spend much time in the city itself.

Book your flights to Cairns so that you arrive the afternoon before your liveaboard departure. This will give you enough time to wander through town and explore the harbor. There’s not much more to see besides that!

17. You can’t fly for 24 hours after your last dive

Remember that if you’re diving the Great Barrier Reef, you can’t fly within 24 hours of your last dive. It’s best to pair your dive trip with one of the below local attractions.

• Cairns and Port Douglas: Spend two more days exploring the lush walking tracks and epic swimming holes in Daintree National Park.
• Townsville: After diving the SS Yongala wreck, visit nearby Magnetic Island. It’s a tropical island paradise with palm-fringed beaches and abundant wildlife.
• Southern Great Barrier Reef: After diving Lady Elliot Island, Lady Musgrave Island, or Heron Island, head to Fraser Island . It’s the largest sand island in the world with epic 4WD tracks.

Great Barrier Reef FAQS

Here are a few things that I often get asked about the Great Barrier Reef. If you have any other questions, drop me a message in the comments section below.

Is it worth diving the Great Barrier Reef?

Yes! The Great Barrier Reef is a world heritage site and a bucket list destination. There are so many incredible places to go diving along the reef, including Cod Hole, Ribbon Reef, and Osprey Reef.

And better yet, Northern Queensland has so much more to offer. Visit the Daintree Rainforest, go 4WD’ing on Fraser Island, live the island life of Magnetic Island, or go sailing through the Whitsundays.

What is the best time of year to dive the Great Barrier Reef?

The dry season from May to October offers the best conditions for diving the Great Barrier Reef.

Looking for the overall best months to plan your trip? September and October!

This is because you won’t have the trade winds during this time, the temperature starts heating up, and the days are sunny. And it’s just before the stinger season, so you won’t need to worry about that either.

Where is the best diving on the Great Barrier Reef?

It depends on what you’re after. If you’re visiting the Great Barrier Reef for the first time, I’d recommend doing a scuba diving liveaboard from Cairns. After three days out at sea, spend another three days exploring the nearby Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation.

But if you’re looking for the best diving on the Great Barrier Reef, the S.S. Yongala is an incredible wreck dive. You should have your advanced certification for this as you’ll be diving as deep as 30m, where the base of Yongala rests.

Are there Great White Sharks in the Great Barrier Reef?

It’s highly unlikely that you will find Great White Sharks in the Great Barrier Reef. This is because the water temperatures in north Queensland are too warm for them. They prefer temperatures between 12-24 degrees.

But there was a sighting of a Great White Shark on the southernmost part of the reef, near Lady Elliot Island. This was in 2020, but it’s only the second time one has been seen near the reef in 25 years.

How many days do you need in the Great Barrier Reef?

If you’re diving the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns, it’s best to do a 3-day liveaboard. This gives you more time in the water as there is so much to explore.

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Are you planning your Great Barrier Reef scuba diving trip? Do you have any questions? Drop me a message in the comments section below.

Looking for more Australian travel inspiration? Check out my other posts!

• 12+ Best Things to do in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
• The Perfect Blue Mountains Itinerary
• Guide to Palm Beach Lighthouse Walk in Sydney
• The Best Mossman Gorge Walks

Hi, I'm Carryn. I’m an adventure travel blogger trying to figure out my way through life by traveling and exploring. Join me as I share my travel guides and tips for life abroad. Find out more about me here .

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Great Barrier Reef

Home > Destinations > Australia > Great Barrier Reef

Top Great Barrier Reef Resorts / Liveaboards

Spirit of Freedom

Pro Dive Cairns Scubapro

Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort

Mike Ball Dive Expeditions: Spoilsport

The biggest hurdle in diving the Great Barrier Reef is working out where to start. A collection of 2,900 interconnected reefs and islands stretching from Lady Elliot Island in the south to the northern tip of Cape York – it’s over 2,000km long. The reefs around Cairns can be reached on a day trip, whereas the reefs from Cairns north, up to the coral sea can only be reached by liveaboard. In the central and southern Great Barrier Reef, staying on an island provides the best option.

The Location tab has a map of the main dive destinations, and if you have 3 or 4 days to a week to spend spend on your dive trip, check out the Resorts and Liveaboards tabs.

The best diving on the Great Barrier Reef is on the ‘outer reef’ – this is the outer edge of the Reef, typically about 50Km offshore – closed to the deeper ocean water. Great Barrier Reef diving options include a day boat, a liveaboard, staying on an island or efficient combinations of the above. It’s easiest to think of the Reef in three parts: Southern, Central and Northern.

Southern Great Barrier Reef

The Southern Great Barrier Reef is defined as the region between Hervey Bay in the South and Gladstone in the North. There are two island resorts in this section of the reef, Heron Island and Lady Elliot Island . There is no resort on Lady Musgrave Island, but it also has great diving and is accessible from Bundaberg and 1770. Being close to the edge of the continental shelf, Lady Elliot Island is particularly famous for great visibility and pelagic action, known as ‘Home of the Manta Ray’. The recently scuttled behemoth, the ex-HMAS Tobruk is accessible from Burnett Heads, a short drive from Bundaberg, as a double dive day trip.

Best time to dive

Water is cooler and clearer in the Australian winter months, when you are also more likely to see mantas (and if you are very lucky, migrating humpback whales) with turtles nesting on the islands between November and March.

Central Great Barrier Reef

One of the main dive areas in the central Great Barrier Reef are the Whitsunday Islands. From there, you can take a day trip to snorkel or dive out of the outer reef, or indeed around the islands.

Two relatively accessible fantastic dive sites along the Central Queensland coast include the world-famous Yongala wreck, which sank in 1911, and the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA). The central section of the Great Barrier Reef is a little further off the Queensland Coast than other sections and as a result has some of the best sites in terms of marine life of the whole Great Barrier Reef.

Adrenalin Dive operate both day trips, and 2/3-night liveaboard trips to the outer reefs of the central Great Barrier Reef, the Yongala Wreck, and the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) out of Townsville. Yongala Dive, based closed to, and just a 30 min boat ride from, the Yongala Wreck offer double dives on the Yongala daily.

Northern Great Barrier Reef

The starting points for the reefs of the northern Great Barrier Reefs are Cairns and Port Douglas. There are several day boats which visit the outer reefs from these cities, offering that classic Great Barrier Reef dive or snorkel experience. Pro Dive offer multi-night trips, and Divers Den offers the equivalent of a floating hotel on the outer reef.

The reefs visited by these boats are less dramatic than those further north in the Coral Sea, with less pelagic action, but no less colourful, with vibrant soft and hard corals and colourful reef fish. Turtles are almost guaranteed, and on a few dive days you should be able to tick off a few of the Reef’s ‘Great Eight’: turtles, giant clams, clown fish, sharks, Maori wrasse, potato cod, whales and manta rays.

The remote northern Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea reefs can only be accessed by liveaboard. Itineraries vary depending on conditions, but 7-day trips usually include the Coral Sea, via the Ribbon Reefs – literally a ribbon of outer reefs that start just north of Cairns and go all the way up to Lizard Island.

Along the ‘Ribbons’ you will encounter clouds of colourful tropical fish, an incredible variety of vibrant healthy corals, giant clams, anemones, huge schools of cruising pelagic fish, and a family of giant potato cod. In June and July it’s possible to snorkel with migrating dwarf minke whales.

Out beyond the continental shelf in the Coral Sea, the spectacular Osprey, Bougainville and Holmes Reefs are renowned for spectacular 1000 metre walls, massive soft corals and sea fans, amazing shark action and exceptional visibility.

Spirit of Freedom and Mike Ball Expeditions Spoilsport offer weekly trips from Cairns to the Coral Sea. You can do a full weekly trip, or a half week trip, joining or departing the tour halfway at Lizard Island via a low level scenic flight.

The northern Great Barrier Reef can be dived year-round, with warmer water between October and March. For clear water and calmer seas, September to January. Turtle nesting season is between November and March and dwarf minke whales can be seen in June and July.

Can be dived with Mike Ball Dive Expedition's Spoilsport.

Lizard Island, Queensland, Australia

Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia

Cairns, Queensland, Australia

Townsville, Queensland, Australia

Whitsunday Island, Queensland, Australia

Airlie Beach, Queensland, Australia

Hamilton Island, Queensland, Australia

Gladstone Airport, Gladstone, Queensland, Australia

Hervey Bay, Queensland, Australia

Bundaberg Airport, Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia

Heron Island, Queensland, Australia

Lady Musgrave Island, Queensland, Australia

Lady Elliot Island, Queensland, Australia

Getting There

Several dive liveaboards operate out of Cairns, with some, like Mike Ball’s Spoilsport visiting the far northern Ribbon Reefs and the Coral Sea, others staying closer to the sites visited by day boats. These, which include Divers Den’s OceanQuest and Pro Dive, offer a more flexible agenda, with daily departures from Cairns.

Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin operate daily flights from most capital cities in Australia to Cairns, Townsville, Bundaberg and Hervey Bay.

Adrenalin Dive & SeaEsta

Heron Island Resort

Lady Elliot Island and Heron Island at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef offer great eco-experiences above and below the water line. Townsville and Magnetic Island in the central Great Barrier Reef offers the famous wreck of the Yongala, some great reef diving and the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA).

Divers Den Oceanquest

At the luxury end you have Mike Ball’s Spoilsport , and Spirit of Freedom . These boats cruise out overnight to the top end (Cod Hole) and the outer most reefs such as Osprey Reef.  The meals are cooked by qualified chefs, the staff to guest ratio is between 1:3 and 1:4 and the cabins are pretty luxurious.  Trips last 3, 4 or 7 days, they typically go out weekly, and usually include a low level flight back. With up to 16 dives in 4 days the cost per dive is around $140, but you need to factor in all the meals and accommodation you’re not paying for whilst you spend 4 days and nights in the lap of luxury not to mention the quality of the diving. Pro Dive Cairns also offer three night trips, though their boats are a little less luxurious.

Another style of live-aboard is a combination of day trip, but with any number of overnight stays on-board a larger vessel that stays on the Reef overnight.  This style of live-aboard is offered by Divers Den , where the day boats Sea Quest, Reef Quest and Aqua Quest deliver divers to the Ocean Quest .  The advantage here is that you get three dives each day from a combination of the two vessels, but also a night dive on the ‘mothership’.

Bashful Bommie on Opal Reef

Cod Hole Coral Sea

Escape Reef Great Barrier Reef

Hardy Reef Coral

Heron Bommie Heron Island

Lighthouse Bommie, Lady Elliot Island

Osprey Reef, Coral sea

Ribbon Reef 9 Great Barrier Reef

Steve’s Bommie Coral Sea

Sudbury Cay Great Barrier Reef

SS Yongala, Coral Sea

Great Barrier Reef & Rainforest

Choose from 3, 4 and 7 day liveaboard trips aboard Mike Ball’s Spoilsport and add on a a Tropical North Queensland Rainforest experience. 

Add an extra night & a Babinda Cassowary, Waterfalls & Dreamtime tour for AUD 370 pp!

Lady Elliot Island – Hottest Diving Deal

Lady Elliot Island is known for its abundance of manta rays, turtles, amazing array of spectacular marine life and unspoilt coral reef.

Stay 5 nights, pay only 4!

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Silverswift Cruises day trip

Cairns Dive and Snorkel Adventures 

• Silverswift Cruises
• Transfers Available
• All Dive equipment

Silverswift  Dive and snorkel from Cairns

Departing daily from Cairns,  Silverswift  is a luxury 29-metre catamaran designed with everything you need to experience an underwater world of colourful marine life in safety and comfort. This trip visits three different sites on The Outer Barrier Reef, allowing certified divers to experience up to 3 dives in a day. Introductory diving is also available onboard for those interested in trying a dive for the very first time.

Adventurous snorkellers can explore spectacular coral formations and underwater gardens awash with vibrantly coloured marine creatures. Locations vary with the conditions, however, each site is chosen for visual impact, ecological diversity, and the challenge of discovery. Onboard, your crew will encourage you to relax and enjoy the comfort of Silverswift with its bar facilities, fresh water showers, air conditioning and a delicious lunch for hungry adventurers. Morning and afternoon tea is provided and the spacious deck areas are ideal for sharing a cold drink and tales of your adventure.

Please Note : some medical conditions may prevent you diving and you will be required to complete a waiver and medical statement prior to the trip. If you have recently/continue to suffer from an illness or condition that may affect your dive fitness,  or are currently taking any prescription medication, you will need to consult a doctor for a 'fit to dive' medical certificate. 

Tour Itinerary

(Subject to variations according to conditions and reef sites visited)

08:00 Check-in

Check-in at Great Adventures reservations counter located inside the Reef Fleet Terminal for your boarding passes. Morning tea served on board.

08:30 Depart

Depart Cairns marina for the Outer Barrier Reef

10:20 Arrive at first dive/snorkel site

11:30 second dive/snorkel site, 12:00 buffet lunch served, 13:30 third dive/snorkel site, 14:30 afternoon tea is served, 14:40 departure back to cairns, 16:15 arrive back in cairns, additional information, what to bring.

• Your camera
• Swimwear and a towel
• Hat, sunscreen and shirt
• Certification card for divers
• Cash for drinks at the bar, credit card for additional dives

Health and safety

Certain medical conditions and medications may preclude some people from diving. For more advice please contact Silverswift. 

Minimum age for diving is 10 years

We recommend that you do not fly within 24 hours of diving

Snorkelling can be a strenuous activity. Please use caution and inform the crew of any medical conditions.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

You can cancel your day trip for any reason at any time up to 24 hours before departure and receive a full refund of all money paid to Pro Dive Cairns. There is no refund for any reason after this time.

Taxes and charges

A Government Environmental Management Charge, Port Departure Tax and administration fee are included in your total fare. The breakdown of cost is provided in the rates table.

Tripadvisor Reviews

Loved every minute of the trip! (except sea sickness, but that's to be expected and the crew were really helpful in that situation!!)Food was delicious, very filling and catered to dietary requirements. 🥗Kevin was professional, friendly, informative and fun. Great instructor when it came to explaining in-depth the Nitrox and how to test the tanks etc. 👌Day and night Dives were amazing, beautiful spots and easy to navigate after briefings and we didn't need guides! Would highly recommend Pro Dive Cairns. Professional, friendly and fun. Will be back again! 💙🐟🦈🐠 Read full review

Excellent experience, crew, trip, food ! Five Stars without any doubt ! Great way to discover the diving world 👍👍 Read full review

This is primarily a training vessel and dives are organized in and around courses. It can be crowded and dives rushed so may not suit all diving types. It is lacking an extra dinghy or RIB for unexpected occurrences considering the amount of people in the water at anytime. Read full review

Pro Dive Cairns Diving Trip Advisor

Are you a Certified Diver?

Are you looking to just dive the great barrier reef or combine it with additional certifications.

Dive Trip | Further Education and Dive Trips

Are you interested in become a certified Scuba Diver?

Yes | No, I'm happy snorkelling

Are you looking for a one day dive experience? Or a multiday liveaboard adventure?

Liveaboard | Day Trip

List of Advance Courses

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Learn To Scuba Dive Open Water Courses

Day trip or a multi day liveaboard trip, how many nights are you interesting in spending on the great barrier reef.

3 days | 4 days+

3 Day 2 Night GBR liveaboard

What is your location.

Cairns | Port Douglas

Diving And Snorkelling Day Trips - Ex Cairns

Diving and snorkelling day trips, list of day trips, visit our friends at diving cairns for the best advice on you live aboard options, secure a $200 qld getaway discount voucher for a trip or course with pro dive cairns.

Silversonic

Silverswift, quicksilver, great adventures, green island, michaelmas cay.

• 3 DAY / 2 NIGHT LIVEABOARD DIVE TRIP
• 5 DAY OPEN WATER COURSE
• Dive Education
• About the Great Barrier Reef

• Outer Reef Pontoons

Dive Boat day trips

Day dive boats are an exciting day best suited to people who are confident in the water. This is an active day, ideal for certified scuba divers and introductory divers, visiting an array of amazing Great Barrier Reef sites over 5 hours. Choose from the Silver Series’ ultra-modern sister ships, Silverswift and Silversonic, and Poseidon for the thrill of diving and adventure snorkelling.

Poseidon - Dive Boat

Outer reef pontoon day trips.

Quicksilver and Great Adventures both operate day trips to pontoons. These pontoons are multi-level reef activity platforms moored permanently at the Outer Great Barrier Reef in exclusive, pristine locations. They provide a spacious, stable base to enjoy a wide range of reef activities in all weather conditions. Guests get to enjoy the facilities of the (air-conditioned) vessel and platform which includes undercover seating, change rooms and freshwater showers, underwater observatory, semi-submersible, snorkelling platforms, specially designed introductory dive areas and sundecks.

Island day trips

The islands of the Great Barrier Reef, with their pristine coral gardens, offer a vibrant variety of marine life for the scuba diver to discover. Michaelmas Cay provides an ideal locations for introductory divers with Ocean Spirit conducting diving from the cay’s shallow waters . Both certified and introductory divers are catered for at Green Island with a range of offshore dive sites reached by dive tender.

Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel

A unique outer great barrier reef tour.

Eco Certified – committed to sustainability

Australian Owned and operated

Incorporating Indigenous Culture

Activities for all ages & experience levels

Experience two premium outer reef sites

Enjoy one of Cairns’ most unique & exclusive Great Barrier Reef tours. Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel invites you to explore some of the best diving and snorkelling sites on the Great Barrier Reef with our experienced Marine Biologists and Indigenous Cultural Guides. We choose our reef sites based on the best conditions for the day, so you’re truly getting the highest quality snorkelling and diving experience. Our sites include Milln, Flynn, Hastings, Saxon, Norman or Thetford Reef.

Once at the Reef, you will have the opportunity to explore the underwater world with included snorkelling experiences.

Come and jump on board, what are you waiting for?

guided with purpose

Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel pride our-self on our commitment to sustainability. The ECO Certification logo is a globally recognized brand which assists travellers to choose and experience a genuine and authentic tour, attraction, cruise or accommodation that is environmentally, socially and economically sustainable.

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the Land and Sea on which our business operates on throughout Australia. At Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel we acknowledge the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji , Mandingalbay Yidinji, Yirrganydji & Gunggandji people, Traditional Owners of the Sea Country on which our business operates. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; and to Elders past and present.

Customer Reviews

We had the best day on the reef with our 4 and 7 year old kids. The staff was fantastic. Highly recommend the whole experience.

We had a great time snorkeling the outer reef, nearly 1/2 price of other diving companies. Didgeridoo and Dance demonstrations were an added bonus thank you to the captain and crew.

A wonderful personal experience from beginning to end. The crew were lovely and worked hard all day for everyone on board.

I picked Dreamtime because I thought the indigenous touch would be a bit different and more interesting than other tours. There was nothing that I could complain about. I am so pleased I chose this trip, do yourself a favour and book it!

From the stories, history lessons, interactive staff to the stunning reef, i couldn’t have had a better day out on the reef.

This tour was the most relaxed and the most friendliest we have been on in the 10 days we stayed in Cairns. We absolutely loved it. The food was great and plenty of it.

Absolutely amazing! This brand new reef experience is the best one we’ve had in cairns – comfortable, modern, new boat and an energetic, happy, informative crew.

This was a wonderful experience. The staff were so friendly and knowledgable and the reef locations were excellent.

The whole operation was very professional and equally laid back. We felt like we had very personalised service and the crew was outstanding. This was the highlight of my trip to Australia.

Share Your Day With #letsgodreamtime

Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel

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© 2024 Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel.

Passing Thru Travel

16 Captivating Australian Escapes, Spanning from the Outback to the Great Barrier Reef

Posted: May 8, 2024 | Last updated: May 8, 2024

Australia’s appeal lies in its diverse landscapes and rich Indigenous cultures, dynamic cities, and laid-back lifestyle. The country’s vastness offers something for every type of traveler, from the sun-soaked beaches along its coastline to the rugged Outback that defines its heartland. This guide navigates through Australia’s must-visit destinations, uncovering the beauty of the land Down Under and ensuring travelers make the most of their journey across this extraordinary continent.

1. Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Iris Sokolovskaya

The Sydney Opera House, with its iconic white sails, and the Harbour Bridge, affectionately known as “The Coathanger,” are symbols of Australia’s inventive spirit and architectural brilliance. Situated in Sydney Harbour, these landmarks are not just feats of engineering but also cultural and social activity hubs. Visitors can enjoy performances at the Opera House, ranging from opera to contemporary music, and embark on a climb of the Harbour Bridge for panoramic views of the city and beyond. The area surrounding the harbor is vibrant, with waterfront restaurants, parks, and museums that offer a glimpse into Sydney’s soul.

2. Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

Image Credit: Shutterstock / I Shafiq

The Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system, is a marine wonderland that stretches over 2,300 kilometers along the Queensland coast. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to thousands of species of marine life, including colorful coral, fish, turtles, sharks, and dolphins. Visitors can explore the reef through snorkeling, diving, glass-bottom boat tours, and scenic flights, each offering a different perspective on this natural marvel. The reef is a biodiversity hotspot and a critical barometer for the health of our planet’s oceans.

3. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory

Image Credit: Shutterstock / LouieLea

Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) are Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks in the heart of the Red Centre. Uluru, a massive sandstone monolith, holds deep spiritual significance for the Anangu, the traditional Aboriginal owners of the land. Kata Tjuta, a group of large domed rock formations, offers equally breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can explore the cultural center to learn about Aboriginal culture and history, take guided walks around the sites, and witness the spectacular colors of Uluru at sunrise and sunset.

4. The Great Ocean Road, Victoria

Image Credit: Shutterstock / pisaphotography

The Great Ocean Road is a spectacular coastal drive in Victoria, stretching 243 kilometers from Torquay to Allansford. The route is famed for its dramatic scenery, including the Twelve Apostles limestone stacks, rainforests, and beaches. Visitors can explore charming seaside towns, national parks, and iconic surf spots along the way. The road also offers opportunities for whale watching, rainforest walks, and discovering the region’s rich maritime history.

5. Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Atosan

Kakadu National Park, Australia’s largest national park, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ecological diversity and rich Indigenous culture. The park’s landscape encompasses wetlands, rivers, sandstone escarpments, and waterfalls, providing habitats for a vast array of wildlife. Kakadu is also home to one of the world’s greatest concentrations of rock art sites, with paintings dating back over 20,000 years. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the park’s natural and cultural heritage, go birdwatching, or cruise the Yellow Water Billabong.

6. Lord Howe Island

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Steve Todd

Lord Howe Island, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed paradise in the Tasman Sea, is an idyllic escape known for its stunning natural beauty, unique biodiversity, and tranquil atmosphere. The island limits visitor numbers to protect its ecosystems, offering an exclusive experience of pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush rainforests. Activities include hiking Mount Gower, snorkeling in the lagoon, and bird watching. The island’s commitment to conservation ensures a pristine environment for exploring its natural wonders.

7. Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage Area

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Visual Collective

Tasmania, an island state off Australia’s south coast, is famed for its vast, unspoiled wilderness areas, encompassing rainforests, mountains, and white-sand beaches. Over one-third of the island is protected as national parks and reserves, including the UNESCO-listed Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Highlights include the rugged beauty of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, the pristine beaches of Freycinet National Park, and the ancient rainforests of the Tarkine. Tasmania also offers a rich cultural experience, with a thriving arts scene, colonial history, and a focus on gourmet food and wine.

8. Margaret River, Western Australia

Image Credit: Shutterstock / FiledIMAGE

Margaret River is renowned for its premium wineries, stunning beaches, and surf breaks. Located in the southwest corner of Australia, this region combines the joys of gourmet food and wine with the natural beauty of ancient forests and coastal scenery. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings at world-class vineyards, explore limestone caves, hike coastal trails, and enjoy the region’s laid-back lifestyle. Margaret River also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including food and wine festivals celebrating its culinary excellence.

9. The Daintree Rainforest, Queensland

Image Credit: Shutterstock / AustralianCamera

The Daintree Rainforest, part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, is the oldest surviving tropical rainforest in the world. Located in Far North Queensland, this ancient rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef, one of the only places on earth where two World Heritage sites exist side by side. Visitors can explore the forest through guided walks, river cruises, and canopy tours, discovering its rich biodiversity, including unique flora and fauna like the cassowary. The Daintree is also a place of significant cultural importance to the local Indigenous people, offering insights into their traditions and connection to the land.

10. Kangaroo Island, South Australia

Image Credit: Shutterstock / LIBIN THOMAS OLAPRATH

Kangaroo Island, off the coast of South Australia, is a wildlife sanctuary known for its pristine beaches, rugged coastal landscapes, and diverse wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and a variety of bird species. The island offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking in Flinders Chase National Park, sandboarding at Little Sahara, and exploring Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Kangaroo Island is also committed to conservation efforts, with several wildlife sanctuaries and rehabilitation centers that visitors can support.

11. The Whitsunday Islands, Queensland

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mathias Berlin

Nestled in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsunday Islands are a collection of 74 idyllic islands offering some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, including the famed Whitehaven Beach. The Whitsundays are a paradise for sailing, snorkeling, and diving, with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Visitors can explore the islands through day trips, overnight sailing adventures, or by staying on one of the few inhabited islands. The region is a hub for aquatic activities and a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, providing opportunities for coral viewing and underwater photography.

12. The Kimberley, Western Australia

Image Credit: Shutterstock / robert mcgillivray

The Kimberley is one of the world’s last great wilderness areas, located in the northern part of Western Australia. This vast region is known for its dramatic landscapes, including ancient gorges, sprawling cattle stations, unique rock formations like the Bungle Bungles (Purnululu National Park), and cascading waterfalls like Mitchell Falls. The Kimberley is also rich in Aboriginal culture, with numerous sites featuring ancient rock art. The Kimberley can be explored by 4WD, cruising along the rugged coastline, or taking scenic flights, offering different perspectives of this breathtakingly untouched landscape.

13. Byron Bay, New South Wales

Image Credit: Shutterstock / John White Photos

Byron Bay is a coastal town in New South Wales, famous for its stunning beaches, surf spots, and laid-back lifestyle. It’s a magnet for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and alternative living. The town is surrounded by lush rainforests and coastal walks, including the iconic Cape Byron walking track, leading to the most easterly point of the Australian mainland and the historic Cape Byron Lighthouse. Byron Bay is also known for its wellness and spiritual retreats, offering a range of experiences from yoga and meditation to holistic therapies.

14. The Barossa Valley, South Australia

Image Credit: Shutterstock / hddigital

The Barossa Valley, just an hour’s drive from Adelaide, is one of Australia’s oldest and most renowned wine regions. Home to over 150 wineries and cellar doors, the area is celebrated for its Shiraz, among other varietals. The Barossa Valley combines its wine heritage with a burgeoning food scene, featuring farm-to-table dining, artisanal cheese, and locally sourced produce. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, vineyard vistas, and historic towns, making it a picturesque and indulgent getaway.

15. Fraser Island (K’gari), Queensland

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Yannik Photography

Fraser Island (K’gari), a World Heritage-listed site, is the world’s largest sand island, offering an extraordinary mix of rainforests, sand dunes, freshwater lakes, and a 120-kilometer beach highway. The island is famous for its clear, freshwater lakes, including Lake McKenzie and Lake Wabby, and its ancient rainforests growing directly from the sand. Fraser Island is also a prime spot for observing dingoes in the wild, along with whales off the coast during the migration season.

16. Rottnest Island, Western Australia

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jesse Garcia

Just off the coast of Perth, Rottnest Island is a popular day-trip or short-stay destination, known for its crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches, and the friendly quokkas, small marsupials that have become social media stars. The island’s car-free policy makes it a haven for cycling, with numerous paths leading to historic sites, lighthouses, and stunning lookout points. Rottnest is also a fantastic location for snorkeling, diving, and surfing, with rich marine life and shipwrecks to explore.

The Bottom Line

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Benny Marty

Australia’s vastness and diversity offer endless possibilities for exploration, from its ancient landscapes and iconic natural wonders to its vibrant cities and quaint rural towns. Whether immersing yourself in the rich Indigenous cultures, embarking on outdoor adventures, or simply enjoying the laid-back lifestyle and stunning scenery, Australia promises a journey filled with memorable experiences. As you traverse this magnificent land, remember to travel responsibly, respecting the natural environments and local communities that make Australia truly unique. Your adventure Down Under awaits, inviting you to discover the beauty and spirit of Australia, from the Outback to the Great Barrier Reef and beyond.

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The post 1 6 Captivating Australian Escapes, Spanning from the Outback to the Great Barrier Reef was republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Darren Tierney.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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