TRAVEL INFORMATION

Diving

What if I am not a certified diver?
Over 30,000 people learn to dive on the Great Barrier Reef each year. If you aren't certified, there are plenty of places to complete a course in Queensland. For more information of course options see the diver training information page on this site.

What if I have never dived before?
Introductory or resort dives, can be undertaken with qualified instructors and are a great way to experience the reef for the first time. For more detail, refer to the introductory and resort dive information page on this site.

As a certified diver, how much diving experience will I need?
Generally diving on the reef is easy, with moderate depths and warm, calm, clear waters. Newly qualified divers will have no problems with an open water dive.

Are there age restrictions for diving?
The minimum age restriction for diving in Queensland is 12 years of age, but it is best to check with your dive operator first. There is no maximum age limit for scuba divers.

Will we dive in groups or in pairs?
This will depend on the site, the dive and the divers' levels of experience. For people travelling alone, dive buddy pairs can be arranged prior to diving.

What diving qualifications can be gained in Australia?
There are two main diving associations in Australia; Scuba Schools International (SSI) and Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). Either of these associations provides you with an internationally recognised qualification. For more detail on certifications see the certification information page on this site.

What qualifications are recognised in Australia?
The majority of internationally recognised diving certifications are valid in Queensland. For a list of international dive associations and minimum equivalent certifications, see the certifications page on this site.

What if I have misplaced my certification card, can I still dive?
Yes you can however, proof of your certification will be required, contact your Dive Association to organise this.

What Diving courses are available?
Queensland offers a range of internationally recognised certifications from entry level to advanced, technical and professional level training. Visit the diver training information pages on this site for more information on diving courses.

Are there companies that cater for mobility-impaired divers?
Yes. Some companies have the facilities to cater for mobility impairments, and details of this can generally be found in their brochures or on their websites.

What depths will I be diving?
The Great Barrier Reef is generally not a deep dive destination. Dive sites have an average depth range of 10 - 25 metres (30-80 feet). As coral relies on sunlight for growth, some of the best snorkelling and diving can be done in shallow areas around the reef top. The maximum recreational dive depth for experienced divers is 40 metres (131 feet). Deeper dives for advanced divers are catered for in the waters of the Coral Sea and off the Southern Queensland Coast.

Can I bring my children on board a day dive boat or live-aboard boat?
Generally children are welcome on day trips to the reef - but must be supervised by parents at all times. It is recommended that if children wish to snorkel that they be able to swim. Live-aboard boats do not generally welcome children under the age of 12 on board, as parents are often diving and cannot supervise them. Confirm arrangements with your Queensland Dive Operator.