I think there’s a general consensus worldwide that diving at the Great Barrier Reef should have a top spot on everyone’s travel bucket list. Deemed one of the 7 wonders of the natural world, this coral laden paradise is the perfect spot for budding snorkellers and experienced divers.
This guide will give you a quick overview on what to expect when snorkelling and diving, great reef sites to check out and important travel tips to ensure you come fully prepared for your trip to the Great Barrier Reef.
SNORKELLING
So what exactly is snorkelling?
It involves wearing a dive mask and snorkelling fins, in shallow water. It’s great for beginners in the water as you can choose to float on the surface while still being able to check out all the action below. You can snorkel for as long as you like, and before you get in the water, the crew on board will go through safety procedures and teach you all you need to know.
Pro Tip: Spend some time at your local pool before you plan to snorkel to get a feel of the water and build on your swimming skills!
DIVING
For a more immersive experience, diving will be your main course of action. There is a minimum age of around 12 years old if you are planning on diving with children so keep that in mind. A lot more equipment is required when you want to dive and crew on board will give you a run down on being safe in the water so that your diving experience is fun and relaxed.
Pro Tip: Plan any flights 24 hours after diving as most tour operators won’t let you dive otherwise.
REEF SITES
Hastings Reef
This outer reef will see you exploring coloured corals and swimming alongside schools of vibrant fish. There are even shallow coral reefs just a metre deep, so you won’t be missing out on any of the action if you choose to stay closer to the surface.
BREAKING PATCHES
An exclusive dive spot, Breaking Patches is home to majestic green sea turtles and mischievous fish. This cigar shaped reef has great visibility due to its layout and closeness to the surface of the water.
WHAT TO BRING
A day out snorkelling or diving with a tour company is just like any other day at the beach. You’ll need to bring a hat, sunscreen, swimmers, protective clothing from the sun and towels. It’s also a good idea to bring a underwater camera with you, most boats will have these for hire so you can show your family and friends your underwater adventures when you go back home!
TRAVEL TIPS
- Get Travel Insurance- Being proactive with getting your travel insurance sorted will save you a lot of worries lest something unexpected happens.
- Buy organic sunscreen- Sunscreen can be quite harsh on the living organisms that are the reefs, so you want to be buying ones that won’t affect the ocean.
- Go out with a tour company- For big days out diving and snorkelling, tour companies like Sightseeing Tours Australia, Great Barrier Reef Tours Cairns and Last Minute Day Tours are going to have access to exclusive reef sites and will look after every aspect of your day. From getting equipment ready, education visitors on why we need to look after the reef and teaching you all you need to know to feel comfortable in diving or snorkelling.
Recommended Great Barrier Reef Tours: 1 Day Great Barrier Reef Tour
