Scuba diving in Queensland, Australia is an unforgettable experience. The state is home to the famous Great Barrier Reef, which is a must-visit for all scuba diving enthusiasts. The reef is home to an abundance of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 600 coral species, and numerous other marine animals.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Experienced Divers:
- Cod Hole: This dive spot is located in the Ribbon Reefs and is famous for its giant potato cod. It is a perfect spot for experienced divers due to its depth and currents.
- Osprey Reef: This remote dive spot is located in the Coral Sea and is known for its large sharks and other pelagic species. The dive spot is also famous for its sheer walls and strong currents, making it suitable only for experienced divers.
- The Yongala: This dive spot is located off the coast of Townsville and is famous for its abundance of marine life, including giant groupers, sea snakes, and turtles. The dive spot is suitable only for experienced divers due to its depth and strong currents.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Beginners:
- The Great Barrier Reef: The Great Barrier Reef is the perfect destination for beginner divers. With numerous shallow dive sites, visitors can witness the beauty of the reef while diving at a comfortable depth.
- Heron Island: This is a great spot for beginner divers with an opportunity to spot green sea turtles and manta rays while diving in shallow water.
- Lady Elliot Island: This dive spot offers clear water with abundant marine life, making it perfect for beginner divers. Visitors can spot giant clams, colorful fish, and coral gardens while diving in shallow water.
Marine Life:
Queensland is home to an incredible variety of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 600 coral species, and numerous other marine animals. Divers can expect to see an abundance of marine life such as sea turtles, reef sharks, rays, eels, and anemones.
Dive Conditions:
Dive conditions in Queensland vary depending on the location and time of year. Generally, the best time for diving is from June to October when the water temperature is warm and visibility is excellent. The water temperature ranges from 68°F to 82°F. Currents can be strong in some areas, making it necessary to dive with an experienced guide.
Cost:
The cost of scuba diving in Queensland varies depending on the location, type of dive, and dive operator. The average cost for a one-tank dive is around $100-$150 AUD, while a two-tank dive costs around $150-$250 AUD. Equipment rental is usually included in the price of the dive, but visitors may need to pay extra for wetsuits, dive computers, or other specialized equipment.
