DIVING & SNORKELLING

The Whitsundays and the surrounding hundred or so miles of Great Barrier Reef Marine Park offer a wide variety of diving and snorkelling opportunities. The islands are ringed by fringing coral reefs with a high diversity of coral and fish species. The group is also a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef proper, which lies about 34 nautical miles to the north-east of the Whitsunday mainland, about two hours or so by fast dive boat.

Snorkelling and diving is well catered for in the area and the nature of the islands means it is possible to find somewhere that is protected in almost any weather, so that snorkelling and diving can be enjoyed virtually 365 days a year, even when Reef excursions elsewhere along the coast are being cancelled because of wind. For this reason the area has become a popular destination for both the novice and experienced diver.

Snorkelling is one of the most popular pastimes in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and one of the best ways to appreciate it – in shallow water, where the light and colours are brightest. Snorkelling involves a minimum of fuss with equipment and it gives complete freedom to explore and to observe the creatures of a reef in their own environment.

Diving opportunities range from feet-wetting courses for beginners, in mainland and island resort swimming pools, to full certificate courses, to extended excursions to outer reefs aboard purpose-oriented dive vessels.