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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. 

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.

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.

liveaboards in the great barrier reef 

See the availability of liveaboards in the great barrier reef and book online. best price guaranteed. no credit card fees., the rates shown below are per person in usd. some operators may quote in a different currency and the final pricing may vary depending on the latest exchange rates., other useful information.

Practical Information

• Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)
• Language: English
• Time Zone: Australian Eastern Standard Time (GMT+10)
• Electricity: 230V 

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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!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Digital Marketing Expert 👌🏻 (@seacaitlinmccall)

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:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Catherine Kim (@fishiinthec)

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.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Caitlin McCall (@mscaitlinmccall)

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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Great Barrier Reef Tours - Snorkel Tours - Dive Tours

View all the best Great Barrier Reef tours from Cairns, Port Douglas, the Whitsundays, Fraser Island and Magnetic Island on the number one website for Australia's best Great Barrier Reef tours. Choose from dive tours, snorkel tours, sailing tours and luxury yacht charters in the Whitsundays. Swim with Dwarf Minke Whales from Port Douglas, dive with schools of sharks or book a scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef. We are famous for our Family Friendly tours and our 2nd Child Travels Free Deals and our ever popular Reef & Helicopter Combo tours. Also don't forget to check our Hot Deals page too. Over 20 years of living locally and providing only the bet tours and attractions on the Great Barrier Reef.

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Great barrier reef tours.

View all the best Great Barrier Reef tours from Cairns, Port Douglas, the Whitsundays, Fraser Island and Magnetic Island on the number one website for Australia's best Great Barrier Reef tours. Choose from dive tours, snorkel tours, sailing tours and luxury yacht charters in the Whitsundays. Swim with Dwarf Minke Whales from Port Douglas, dive with schools of sharks or book a scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef. We are famous for our Family Friendly tours and our 2nd Child Travels Free Deals and our ever popular Reef & Helicopter Combo tours. Also don't forget to check our Hot Deals page too. Over 20 years of living locally and providing only the bet tours and attractions on the Great Barrier Reef.

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Cairns Scenic Flights - Helicopter Ride Great Barrier Reef - 30 Min |ZM

Our most popular Cairns helicopter scenic flight. This 30 minute Great Barrier Reef scenic flight takes in the highlights of the inner reef from Cairns city.

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Helicopter Flights Cairns - 30 Min Flight - Land 30 Min Vlasoff Sand Cay | ZM

Cairns helicopter scenic flights are available to a remote sand cay in the middle of the majestic Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

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Cairns dive trips, Great Barrier Reef tours, 2-day, 1-night liveaboard dive tour, dive or indulge in limitless snorkeling and sleep under the stars on the Great Barrier Reef.

Cairns Reef Tour | Outer Reef Pontoon | Great Adventures

The stable reef activity platform offers a perfect tour for individuals of all swimming abilities. From snorkelling, diving to an underwater observatory, enjoying the semi-submarine, or simply relaxing on the sundeck there is something for everyone.

Pickup: Cairns, Palm Cove

Cairns Helicopter Flights - Reef & Rainforest - 60 Min Helicopter Scenic Flight |ZM

Cairns helicopter scenic flight combining a spectacular rainforest and Great Barrier Reef land and sea flight.

Cairns Helicopter Ride - 40 Min Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight |ZM

Cairns helicopter flight on the Great Barrier Reef. On this fabulous 40 minute flight, we'll take you far beyond the inner reef.

Green Island Tour & Outer Great Barrier Reef Tour on Pontoon by Great Adventures

A Great Barrier Reef Island and Reef Combo Package Tour Deal. Visit tropical Green Island for 2 hours followed by 3 Hours on the outer reef pontoon.

Pickup: Cairns, Cairns Northern Beaches, Palm Cove

Snorkelling & Diving Port Douglas | Silversonic

Visit 3 stunning dive & snorkel sites on the famous Agincourt Ribbon Reefs. Swim with Whales.

Departing: Port Douglas

Pickup: Cairns, Palm Cove, Port Douglas

Snorkelling & Diving Tours Port Douglas | Quicksilver Pontoon

Our Great Barrier Reef tours are ideal for divers, snorkellers, and non-swimmers, with everything on offer for an amazing day on the reef.

Pickup: Cairns, Cairns Northern Beaches, Palm Cove, Port Douglas

Snorkelling Port Douglas| Low Isles |Island Tour | WD

Low Isles luxury reef trip from Port Douglas. Snorkelling and glass bottom boat tour on Low Isles

Helicopter Flights Townsville - Havannah Island Escape

Private helicopter flight from Townsville to Havannah Island, Includes 1.5 hours on an uninhabited island.

Departing: Townsville city

Small Group Reef Tours | Cairns | Snorkelling & Diving | 2 Reef Sites

Your snorkeling, diving and sailing adventure starts when you set sail from Cairns. Visit two Outer Barrier Reef coral reefs on this award-winning reef trip.

Cairns Reef Tours | Sailing to Michaelmas Cay

Michaelmas Cay day tour from Cairns, sail aboard a luxury catamaran to the Great Barrier Reef for snorkelling, diving and fun-filled island activities.

Cairns Reef Tour by Reef Magic | Pontoon | Glass Bottom Boat | Semi Submarine | Heli Ride

Hop aboard from Cairns on a fast catamaran and head for 5 hours of fun & adventure on the Great Barrier Reef. Our activity platform offers Scuba Diving, Helmet Diving, Guided Snorkelling Tours, and Scenic Helicopter flights.

Green Island FULL DAY Tour by Great Adventures

Family-friendly Reef and island activities at Green Island. Snorkel right off the beach, take an island rainforest walk. Glass Bottom Boat tours available.

Fitzroy Island Tours - Full Day Tour

Take a ferry tour from Cairns to one of the most popular islands on the Great Barrier Reef, Fitzroy Island.

Museum Of Underwater Art - Reef Tour - Snorkel & Dive - AD

Museum of Underwater ART tours now accessible to scuba divers while snorkelers experience the reef from Townsville Far North Queensland.

Cairns Snorkelling Tour - Aboriginal Experience

UNIQUE! Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef with Indigenous Rangers who share their creation stories from the Aboriginal Dreamtime.

Cairns Island Tours – Frankland Islands

Cairns Great Barrier Reef Island tour & River Cruise. Travel with small numbers to snorkel or dive the reef and explore an uninhabited tropical island.

Pickup: Cairns

Cape Tribulation Half Day Snorkel Tour - Great Barrier Reef Trip

Half day snorkel tour from Cape Tribulation to the outer Barrier Reef to snorkel and explore 2 coral reefs

Departing: Daintree Rainforest

Fitzroy Island - Half Day Tour

Half day boat trip to Fitzroy Island for an exhilarating day exploring this World Heritage-listed gem.

Snorkelling & Diving Port Douglas | Calypso

Port Douglas Reef Tour - Full Day Snorkel & Diving on the Great Barrier Reef.

Cairns Reef Tours | Best Value Snorkel & Dive | DD-AQ

Enjoy a Cairns reef tour aboard one of the nicest boats in Cairns to dive and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef. Cruise to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns in luxury. Enjoy two snorkel or dive sites, meet 'Nemo’, turtles and stingrays.

Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flights | 40 & 60 Minutes | GSL

Best value Great Barrier Reef scenic flights from Cairns. Enjoy 40 minute or 60 minute flights across the reef and rainforests.

Luxury Reef Trip Port Douglas | Low Isles | Luxury Sailing & Snorkelling | SAAM

From Port Douglas set sail on a beautiful catamaran bound for Low Isles on the Great Barrier Reef.

Pickup: Cairns Northern Beaches, Palm Cove, Port Douglas

Snorkelling Green Island Tour | By Big Cat

Come on a Great Barrier Reef tour and visit stunning Green Island. Snorkel in lagoons amongst tropical fish and sea turtles.

Green Island Tour | HALF DAY | By Great Adventures

Green Island Half Day Tour, Great option for families or if you only have limited time. Spend a morning or an afternoon snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef for two hours or riding in the Glass Bottom boat.

Cairns Scenic Flights | Great Barrier Reef 40 Minutes Scenic Flight | DAIN

The best way to truly experience a Great Barrier Reef tour from Cairns is on a 40 minute scenic airplane flight

Mission Beach Reef Trip | Snorkelling & Diving

From the stunning coastal town of Mission Beach, you’ll be spirited across the waves to the dazzling shores of Dunk Island. Journeying on to the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll spend your day snorkelling through coral gardens and reef fish.

Departing: Mission Beach

Port Douglas Luxury Snorkel Tour | Sand Cay Experience | SAMC

Explore Great Barrier Reef coral cays on a luxury catamaran, visit and snorkel at Mackay or Undine Coral Cays. Full day reef trip departing from Port Douglas daily,

Port Douglas Half Day Snorkelling Tour | Morning-Afternoon Snorkel Tour | Low Isles

Port Douglas half day snorkelling tour of Low Isles. Choose morning or afternoon.

Cairns Dive & Snorkelling Tour | Great Barrier Reef Tour | 3 Reefs

Travel by luxury catamaran to 3 reef sites located on the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns. Snorkel and dive, laze on the deck, explore underwater on an introductory dive, guided tours for certified divers are also offered on this tour.

Cairns Reef Tour | HALF DAY Green Island Snorkelling Tour | By Big Cat

Discover Green Island and explore the Great Barrier Reef on this family-friendly half-day tour.

Fitzroy Island Day Trip - Full Day

Be on Fitzroy Island in 45 minutes leaving Cairns on a scenic boat ride to go snorkelling on the reef

Cairns Reef Tours | Helicopter Rides |Dive-Snorkel | Waterslide | Glass Bottom Boat | by Sunlover

Snorkel, dive, unique waterslide, kids pool, glass bottom boat, helicopert flights plus loads more on the Great Barrier Reef.

Great Barrier Reef Tours Cairns - Only 40 Guests - 2 Reef Sites | Snorkel & Dive | T6

All-inclusive luxury Great Barrier Reef trip departing from Cairns. Includes certified dives, introductory dives and snorkel. Enjoy up to 3 dives on 2 amazing reef locations.

Port Douglas Luxury Reef Trip | Half Day Tour | Low Isles & Sunset Sail | Adults Only | SAPM

Departing from Port Douglas this is the perfect 2 in 1 reef trip for an Adults Only luxury sailing tour for those that wish to experience snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, exploring a tropical island and relaxing with a quiet drink on a sunset sail

Pickup: Port Douglas

PADI Advanced Scuba Dive Course | PROD

The PADI Advanced Open Water Diving Course is the popular first step in continuing your dive education. This course will develop your confidence and skills, make your diving more enjoyable and expand your diving options for the future.

Cairns Liveaboard Dive Trips | 3 Day 2 Night Dive Luxury Dive Expeditions | PROD

3 amazing days diving and snorkelling the magnificent Great Barrier Reef from Cairns on our 3 Day 2 Night Tour. Scuba Dive 11 times (including two night dives).

Fitzroy Island & Sunlover Great Barrier Reef Pontoon in a Day

Can you believe it? Fitzroy Island and the Sunlover pontoon on the one day! Amazing snorkelling and diving deals.

Port Douglas Diving & Snorkelling Tour - 3 Reefs

Spend your day on the Great Barrier Reef at the Agincourt Reef system. Snorkelling with diverse marine life and in this amazing World Heritage area.

Helicopter Rides Cairns - 45 Minute Reef & Rainforest

Embark on a 45-minute scenic helicopter flight that offers 30 minutes of exhilarating exploration over the Great Barrier Reef. The journey continues, taking you past Double Island, and then onwards to Kuranda, Barron Gorge, and Stoney Creek.

Helicopter Flights Cairns - Great Barrier Reef - Cairns 60 Minutes

60 minute helicopter flights over the Great Barrier Reef. Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing aerial adventure with the assurance of a guaranteed window seat during our 60-minute scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef.

Port Douglas Sunset Cruise | Luxury Adults Only Sailing | SAS

Luxury sunset sailing tour on a beautiful catamaran from Port Douglas Reef Marina. You’ll be pampered on this splendorous sail as you sip a wine, be tempted by culinary treats, and watch the sun set over the ocean and rainforest mountains.

5 Day PADI Learn to Dive Trip | Great Barrier Reef Australia | PROD

Become a qualified scuba diver with this 5-day PADI ‘open water’ dive course, on the world-famous Great Barrier Reef in Cairns..

Cairns Dive Trips | Luxury 3-4-7 Day Great Barrier Reef Tours

Premier liveaboard scuba diving tour on Australia's Great Barrier Reef, exploring the Ribbon Reefs, Osprey Reef and the famous Cod Hole.

Great Barrier Reef Cruises | Luxury Small Expedition Cruises | 7 Nights | 2024 & 2025

Book your berth on our new luxury cruise ship in Cairns on a 7 night Great Barrier Reef Cruise. Our Great Barrier Reef Cruise ship tours from Cairns are for real explorers looking for expedition style cruises.

Cairns Helicopter Ride & Great Barrier Reef Tour with Slide | by Nautilus & Sunlover

Helicopter & pontoon combo. Fly above the Great Barrier Reef, enjoy time on activity pontoon and cruise. Departs Cairns.

Cairns Helicopter Flight & Great Barrier Reef Tour To Pontoon | by Nautilus & Great Adventures

Flying over the Great Barrier Reef at a low level of only 500 feet in a helicopter from Cairns is the ultimate way to experience the magnitude of our Natural Wonder of the World, Australia's Great Barrier Reef.

Swim With Minke Whales Expedition – 7 Nights | MB

Swim With Minke Whale Tours on the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns June – July each year, Book early!

Charter Boat Cairns | Aroona

Private charter boat from Cairns - Whitsundays. Extra options include swimming with Dwarf Minke Whales, masseur, scuba diving, spearfishing, kitesurfing, helicopter flights and more

Departing: Cairns Northern Beaches

Minke Whale Dive Trips Cairns - 4 Night Fly/Dive | MB

Swim with Minke Whale tours on the Great Barrier Reef. 4 Amazing nights on a liveaboard dive boat snorkelling with Dwarf Minke Whales.

Cairns Helicopter Flight & Reef Tour | Nautilus & Reef Magic Cruises

Great Barrier Reef fly cruise scenic helicopter flight, boat cruise to Marine World, a two story pontoon Moore Reef, outer Great Barrier Reef

Cairns Helicopter Flight | Green Island & Pontoon | Nautilus & Great Adventures

Great $$$ value Great Barrier Reef Combo Package Deal. Scenic helicopter flight, Green Island & Outer Reef pontoon.

Superyacht Charter Great Barrier Reef |Port Douglas| 3 Nights | Emerald Lady

Superyacht Charter available 3 night yacht charters from Cairns, Port Douglas, Lizard Island, Magnetic Island, Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef.

Charter Boat Cairns - Day or Overnight Charter - 4 to 8 Guests - ZUL

Charter our custom-built luxury flybridge cruiser for a great family day trip or extended overnight getaways exploring the outer Great Barrier Reef.

Cairns Boat Charter | 6 Guests Day Charter or 4 Overnight | BH

Cairns luxury 43ft private charter boat, 6 guests on day charter or 4 on overnight charters.

Cairns Private Charter Dive Boat Up to 16 guests - Dive With Sharks

Shark Diving expeditions from Cairns on a Private Charter boat for groups of up to 16 divers and snorkelers keen to dive with sharks.

Great Barrier Reef Diving | Cairns Liveaboard Dive & Snorkel Tours

Book your dream liveaboard dive trip on the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns. Gain your SSI Diver Certifications onboard.

Pickup: Cairns, Cairns Northern Beaches, Port Douglas

Cairns Charter Boats | Dive & Snorkel Tour | Great Barrier Reef | Australia

Design your own private charter from 1 - 5 days, for up to 12 guests. Snorkel, dive the Great Barrier Reef.

Cairns Dive Tours | Coral Sea Safari | 7 Nights/26 Dives | Shark Dives | MB

Diving with Sharks. This is one liveaboard dive trip that truly will be one week of your life that you will never forget.

Cairns Dive Trips | Fly Dive Cod Hole | 3 Nights/12 Dives | Shark Dives | MB

Spend 3 spectacular nights on board our dive boat out in the Coral Sea at the famous Cod Hole diving with man sized fish

Cairns Liveaboard Dive Tours | Fly Dive Coral Sea | 4 Nights/14 Dives | Shark Dives | MB

Cairns premier liveaboard dive trip, 4 nights on the Coral Sea, Dive with packs of Sharks

Cairns Charter Boat | Day/Overnight Charter | Snorkel - Fishing | MOA

Luxury private charter boat. Max of 12 guests (snorkel only) and 8 guests (scuba diving). Perfect for families.

Departing: Yorkeys Knob

Sunset Cruise - Port Douglas - Private Charter Yacht - INO

Sunset Cruises from Port Douglas on a luxury private charter yacht for 2 hours of stunning scenery

Port Douglas Helicopter Flights - Sand Cay

Exclusive Port Douglas helicopter scenic flight to a remote sand cay in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef

Cairns Dive Tours | Liveaboard Dive Tours | Learn To Dive

Cairns dive trips. Wake up on the Great Barrier Reef! Multi-day luxury liveaboard from Cairns. Dive or snorkel before breakfast, try a Fluoro Night Dive

Cairns Dive Courses | Learn To Dive In Cairns | Great Barrier Reef Diving

If you’ve always wanted to learn to SCUBA dive why not join in with one of the most reputable dive schools in Australia and gain your Dive Certificate on the Great Barrier Reef!

Sunset Cruise Port Douglas - Charter Yacht – 2 Hours - LD

Private charter sunset cruise for 2 hours from Port Douglas hosting 10 guests, relax, enjoy canapes, nibbles sailing the Great Barrier Reef

Green Island Helicopter Flights On The Beach | 15 Mins

Green Island helicopter flights now available from right on the beach from Green Island, choose 10 or 15 minute scenic flights

Departing: Green Island

Pickup: Green Island

Port Douglas Helicopter Flights - Reef - Rainforest - 60 Minutes

The best 60 minute Port Douglas helicopter scenic flight over the World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge, the Great Barrier Reef and also Cape Kimberley, Cape Tribulation, Low Isles, Snapper Island, Cow Bay, Batt Reef

Port Douglas Snorkelling Tour | 12 Guests - ABC Charters

A highly personalised small group snorkelling tour from Port Douglas that takes guests to the best spots on the outer Great Barrier Reef.

Port Douglas Sunset Cruise |Luxury Yacht Charter | Max 45 Guests |SAS | VII

Our Port Douglas private charter sunset sailing tours are 100% pure sailing on the Great Barrier Reef, 1.5 hours of peace and serenity

Great Barrier Reef Helicopter Flight Port Douglas – 45 mins

Great Barrier Reef Helicopter Flight from Port Douglas for 45 mins viewing islands, coral gardens and marine life

Helicopter Flights Port Douglas | 30 Min Rainforest Scenic

From Port Douglas take off on a 30 minute helicopter scenic flight to see the magnificent rainforests of Far North Queensland.

Helicopter Flights Port Douglas – 30 Minutes – Reef Scenic

Port Douglas helicopter scenic flight for 30 minutes flying over the magnificent Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

Port Douglas Luxury Yacht Charter | 33 Guests | SAVI

Luxury Charter Yacht available, for 33 guests sailing from Port Douglas to a beautiful set of tropical islands

Cairns Snorkel & Dive Outer Reef Tour - EVO

Outer Great Barrier Reef dive and snorkel tour from Cairns. Snorkel 2 outer reef sites, Upgrade to semi submersible submarine and diving.

Mackay Reef Trips | Snorkelling Tours Mackay

Mackay snorkel tour and island tour on the Great Barrier Reef. Depart Mackay on a fast boat trip to the outer reef to snorkel the coral outcrops.

Departing: Mackay

Lizard Island Scenic Flight Day Tour | Cairns Scenic Flight | DAINA

Your Lizard Island Day Tour includes return scenic flights above the reef and a full day to explore the island’s snorkel sites, bushwalking trails and beaches.

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This day-long adventure gives you the chance to try your hand at snorkelling, diving, or simply swimming with the colourful array of fish, ancient turtles , and mesmerising coral reefs. You’ll get to discover two of the Great Barrier Reef ’s lesser-known outer reef locations, giving you a unique insight into the natural history of the area.

We kick things off from Cairns, where you’ll board our luxury catamaran and get yourself comfortable for the sail to our first outer reef spot. On the way, you can tuck into a morning cup of tea and take pictures of the surrounding scenery until your heart is content.

Once we reach our first location, we’ll brief you on how best to explore the underwater world. You’ll then be given the option to snorkel with the marine life , dive, swim, or simply relax onboard the boat if you’d rather admire the scenery from above.

For lunch, we’ll provide you with a delicious tropical buffet packed full of cold and hot dishes and locally sourced fruit before we head on to our second outer reef location.

Again, you’ll have the chance to dip below the water’s surface, whether that’s by snorkelling, diving, or swimming. Alternatively, you can kick back and relax on board the boat with a refreshing drink in your hand.

You can enjoy afternoon tea as we make our way back to Cairns at the end of the day.

Why Not Check Out Our Other Great Barrier Reef Tours

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The 20 Best Things to Do in Belize, From Barrier Reef Excursions to Cave Tours

Get to know Belize with these suggestions from locals.

Comprised of more than 400 islands and nearly 9,000 square miles of mainland, Belize is home to rainforests, jungles, mountains, rivers, an extensive cave system, and many well-preserved ancient Maya ruins. Adventures on both land and sea make Belize a popular destination, and its beaches and resorts are terrific for visitors who simply want to relax and enjoy the tropical climate .

To better understand the variety of ways travelers might get to know Belize, we gathered suggestions from local experts, including Patricia Johnson, head of trip design at Absolute Belize (and a Travel + Leisure A-List Travel Advisor ); David Benzaquen, general manager at Cayo Espanto ; and multiple team members with Alaia Belize . Anoushka Brandl, commercial director at Matachica Resort & Spa and Gaïa Riverlodge , and Janet Woollam, managing director at Victoria House Resort & Spa , shared their thoughts as well.

This list of things to do in Belize features ideas for everyone, from adventurers and history buffs to foodies and travelers looking to chill out on a lounge chair in the sun.

Tour the ancient city of Caracol.

One of the largest Maya sites in Belize, this ancient city covers about 25,000 acres in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve. “You’ll marvel at the massive pyramids, detailed carvings, and remarkably well-preserved ancient artifacts,” says Johnson. “And you’ll learn fascinating details about ancient Maya culture, from daily life and religion to the ingenuity of their buildings.”

Snorkel or dive in the Great Blue Hole.

Located about three hours by boat off Ambergris Caye, the Great Blue Hole is a ring of coral encircling a huge underwater sinkhole. It’s home to colorful fish, shrimp, groupers, black tip and reef sharks, and other Caribbean marine life. Almost 1,000 feet across and 400 feet deep, the Blue Hole is accessible by dive boat tours.

Fly over the Great Blue Hole on a helicopter tour.

For a birds-eye view, stunning photos, and a thrilling experience, take flight over the Great Blue Hole. Several of our experts suggested this tour, and Benzaquen pointed out that Cayo Espanto “is home to a helipad and partners with a local service provider” for convenient pick-up and drop-off.

Enjoy traditional Belizean dishes.

“I suggest checking out local eateries like El Fogon in San Pedro’s downtown for traditional Belizean food,” says Eric Porter of Alaia Belize. At Matachica Resort, Brandl tells T+L, “The Captain’s Table, a social gathering for eight guests, is a five-course dinner hosted by a different resort team member each time, a true local food experience.”

Explore the underground caves of Belize.

The ancient Maya believed that caves were entrances to the underworld, and in Belize, travelers can explore a number of them by hiking, canoeing, tubing, or swimming. The experience is “an adventure you will never forget,” according to Johnson. “One such sacred cave is Actun Tunichil Muknal , which contains a remarkable collection of artifacts and skeletal remains that have been preserved over the centuries.”

Join a tubing tour through the caves.

Offered by many local tour companies, cave tubing is a visitor favorite in Belize. After a drive to the rainforest, there’s a short hike before you hop on an inner tube to float along an underground river through the natural caves. A guide navigates the tubes, so no paddling is required. Lunch and transportation from a central meeting point are usually included.

Feast on your own fresh catch.

According to Woollam, “Reef fishing with a beach BBQ is fun and widely popular. The fishing is quick and easy, followed by lunch cooked over an open fire. Fresh seafood with Belizean spices, marinades, and condiments has been called the best lunch ever.” Describing a Cayo Espanto excursion, Benzaquen tells T+L, “After snorkeling, you catch your own fish, conch, or lobster, then you head to an uninhabited island beach where your guide will cook your 'catch of the day.’”

Hang with locals at Secret Beach on Ambergris Caye.

The secret is out, and it’s the place for all-day music, food, and drinks. “Alaia’s guests often rent a golf cart to visit Secret Beach, where a day of relaxation, paddle boarding, and jet skiing awaits,” says Jesus Oba, concierge with Alaia Belize. Nearby, The Truck Stop features a beer garden, pool with swim-up bar, movie screen, games, and live music.

Learn all about chocolate.

The ancient Maya are said to have invented chocolate, and the annual Chocolate Festival of Belize celebrates that history, local culture, and more. If you can't attend the May event, there are other options. Brandl suggests that visitors “Experience traditional Maya chocolate making at Ajaw in San Ignacio, then try the delectable chocolate brownie at Gaïa Riverlodge's Five Sisters Restaurant as a midday sweet treat.” In San Pedro, visit Belize Chocolate Company or Mahogany Chocolate .

Dive or snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley.

“Our most popular and sought-after tour is snorkeling or diving among the vibrant marine wildlife in Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley," says Oba of Alaia Belize. "Our guests get a thrill out of swimming with nurse sharks, giant jackfish, blue tangs, and sea turtles. Some guests overcome their fear of getting in the water and come out wanting to go back in."

Experience the Belize Barrier Reef.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and second in size after the Great Barrier Reef of Australia, the Belize Barrier Reef extends more than 180 miles along the coast of Belize. Dive, snorkel, or do as Patricia Johnson suggests: “Hop on a sailing adventure and explore the vibrant marine life, colorful corals, and picture-perfect islands along the Belize Barrier Reef.” Woollam recommends “an easygoing sunset cruise along the reef," noting that most catamarans sail for about two hours.

Browse the shops in San Pedro town on Ambergris Caye.

“As a local, one of my favorite things to do is explore the small shops, restaurants, and bars in San Pedro town," says Eric Porter of Alaia Belize. "If you are an art buff or just looking to take home a souvenir, stroll downtown where small galleries, gift shops, and nifty nooks are in abundance."

Learn about the Garifuna people.

“Experience the culture of the Garifuna people by taking part in traditional drumming and dancing celebrations, sampling local dishes, and even staying in a Garifuna village," suggests Johnson of Absolute Belize. "You’ll come away from this experience with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the richness and friendliness of the Belizean people.” ToursByLocals offers a full-day Garifuna culture tour with convenient pick-up and drop-off.

Get dive certified.

“The proximity of the reef to the resorts makes getting dive certified an easy, safe, and fun experience," says Woollam. "If you have the desire to learn how to scuba dive, dive organizations like PADI have made classroom time a thing of the past. The theory portion of the certification is easily accessible online and can be done at home prior to arriving in Belize.”

Explore Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.

Located about two hours from San Ignacio in the Cayo District of south central Belize, this reserve is home to natural pools , caves, Maya ruins, and waterfalls, including the highest waterfall in Central America, Thousand Foot Falls. Stay within the reserve and above Five Sisters Falls at Gaïa Riverlodge .

Meet new feathered friends.

Grab your binoculars and try to spot some of the nearly 600 species of birds that live in Belize. The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is a great place for birdwatching , and Paradise Expeditions offers a variety of expert guided tours on the mainland and cayes.

Go on a fishing excursion.

On a half-day or full-day deep sea fishing adventure, you’ll be fishing for tuna, mackerel, marlins, and more. For a more casual day of fishing different spots along the reef, you can choose reef fishing in calmer seas. Ideal for families, the latter trip includes rum punch, snacks, sodas, and lunch. Turneffe Atoll is also a favorite fishing destination.

Get active in the Caribbean Sea.

Once you’ve relaxed on the beach and you’re ready to get wet, it’s time for your favorite activity on the water. “While Ambergris Caye is known for its proximity to the reef for snorkeling and diving, our guests also enjoy other adventurous water activities, including parasailing, windsurfing, or jet skiing, which our concierge is able to organize for them,” says Oba of Alaia Belize .

Visit Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center.

More than 150 native animals make the 29-acre Belize Zoo their home. Most of the zoo’s residents are rehabilitated or rescued, and they include tapirs, jaguars, spider monkeys, toucans, macaws, coatimundi, and more. The fully accessible zoo offers VIP guided tours.

Browse and shop at San Ignacio Market.

Located in the Cayo District in western Belize, this market is set on the banks of the Macal River in San Ignacio. Open every day until 6 p.m., the market gives visitors a true glimpse into Belizean life, with handmade clothing, handicrafts, fruits, vegetables, and herbs for sale by farmers and local craftsmen. Nearby San Ignacio town offers restaurants, bars, and shops.

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What to expect on your beginner dive on the Great Barrier Reef

Written by Cameron Ward

Published: 26/09/2019

Reading time: 4 mins

• Get ready for your Great Barrier Reef adventure with our tips and tricks on how to scuba dive.

The Scuba Diving Basics

How you are taught during the tour, what you will wear, important things to remember, what you will see at the great barrier reef, explore the great barrier reef tours.

One of the best ways to see the Great Barrier Reef is by scuba diving! Sink to the depths of this underwater wonderland and explore the vast maze of coral and marine life. It is an unforgettable experience that is well worth the expense, letting you fully immerse yourself in the underwater world without having to worry about heading to the surface to gulp for air. Here are our tips and tricks for making your first scuba diving experience go as smoothly as possible!

Scuba diving can take some getting used to if you are a first timer! Unlike snorkelling, scuba diving allows guests to stay underwater for prolonged periods, using an oxygen tank to breathe. This allows the underwater explorers to swim along the ocean floor and among the corals and discover things they might have missed if snorkelling. Even if you aren’t the most confident swimmer, scuba diving can be easy! And with your experienced guide leading you through your introductory dive, you can feel safe and happy and able to enjoy this amazing experience.

Baby steps are the key to getting scuba diving correct. When completing a full dive certification, your first intro lesson is usually in a pool, not open water. However, for our beginner dive tours, a simple intro lesson on board the boat gives you all the information you’ll need for the day. You will go through a step by step process of equipment preparation and learn the basic skills of how to handle yourself in the water!

When you are ready to jump in the water, a certified divemaster will be with you all the way to ensure you are comfortable and safe for your dive experience. You’ll head to a maximum depth of eight metres underwater, giving a unique perspective of the reef and its inhabitants.

Gear is crucial for scuba diving, as a faulty set of goggles or fins can turn your experience into a fiasco. Everyone is equipped with a wetsuit, oxygen tank, regulator, googles, and flippers. All you need to bring is your own bathers which you will wear underneath the equipment. Once you start swimming, you’ll only need to focus on two aspects of your equipment, your goggles and your oxygen mouthpiece. The goggles are usually the hardest part to master, with special techniques to clear them from water and to avoid fogging. Make sure to practise these techniques above water prior to plunging into the reef, so that you feel confident when you’re beneath the waves.

Scuba diving can be a fantastic experience, but it should not be taken lightly. Due to the water pressure you experience, waiting 24 hours before flying is a crucial rule. The difference between the underwater pressure and air pressure, as well as the excess nitrogen absorbed during your dive, can affect your body greatly.

Another safety measure that must be completed is the scuba diving medical questionnaire. Breathing issues, ear injuries, or pregnancy can all have an impact on a person’s eligibility to dive so make sure to double check the list before booking your dive!

Simply put, scuba diving along the Great Barrier Reef is worth all the effort! Head out in the early hours of the morning and set off to one of the 2,900 individual coral reefs scattered about. Here travellers are met with wonderous sights, including an array of brightly coloured corals and unique marine animals. Tours normally visit multiple reef spots, where you can see anything from sea turtles to tropical fish and even dolphins!

Related article: A beginner’s guide to snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef

Cairns Tours Package

Destination : Cairns

Duration : 2 Days

Tour type : Day Tour

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Great Barrier Reef Tour from Port Douglas

Duration : 1 Day

1 Day Great Barrier Reef Cruise Deluxe

Great Barrier Reef Premium Snorkelling Tour

Cameron Ward began with a passion for travel and turned it into a thriving tourism business. He co-founded Sightseeing Tours Australia after starting out as a tour guide in Melbourne. Cameron delights in helping visitors get the most from their trip to Australia. Whether he's leading tours or writing about his favourite places, Cameron loves sharing his local insight with fellow travellers.

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