Great Barrier Reef Overview

When To Dive: Most divers prefer to make trips to the Reef from July to December, and during November spawntime. Avoid diving from January to March, in the aftermath of a major storm, south of a recent cyclone, or if the wind speed is above 20 knots.
Where To Dive: Cairns , Port Douglas , Cape Tribulation , Beaver Cay (in Mission Beach;), Magnetic Island , the SS Yongala wreck , and the Whitsundays from Airlie Beach . The reef officially extends all the way to Bundaberg, but much of the reef is protected and off-limits to divers south of Airlie. Areas where it is permitted, however, tend to be much less crowded and less expensive than the more popular areas near Cairns.

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders. It stretches for 2300km, from just off Bundaberg’s shoreline to Papua New Guinea, encompassing hundreds of islands and thousands of coral reefs. This marine wonderland is easily accessible by boat from the Queensland coast. Diving and snorkeling sites and operators are described throughout our Queensland coverage, so that you can get a sense of what you are looking for before you decide on a specific dive operator.

Queensland requires a certification card for all dives. Hervey Bay and Bundaberg have the cheapest PADI certification courses in the state. Before you begin a course or set out on an extended trip, you might want to try an introductory dive with a trained guide to see what it’s all about. Some people find they have so much trouble stabilizing pressure that a multi-day course would be a waste. If you do decide on a course, try to get boat dives instead of shore dives; the sights are usually better offshore. An open water certification is the minimum qualification to dive without an instructor, but more advanced certification levels are available. Medical exams are required for all dive courses and can be arranged through local dive centers and area medical specialists for only $50-$60.

Alternatives To Diving

Diving is the best way to get an up-close view of the reef, but it requires significant amounts of time and money. Snorkeling is a convenient alternative for swimmers; renting a mask and fins can be as cheap as $10 per day, though trips on the reef often run in excess of $130. Gear is sometimes free with sailing trips or hostel stays. Good snorkeling is often available just off the shore. When wearing fins, be aware of where you’re kicking—you may destroy coral hundreds of years in the making. If you want to see the reef up close but don’t snorkel or dive, many companies offer glass-bottom boat tours that glide over coral, fish, and even sea turtles and rays.