scuba diving tours australia

Dive in Australia

We'll help you plan your Australian Dive Adventures As your personal dive travel buddy we have your covered making diving simpler!

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Australia's most popular marine encounters and scuba diving experiences!

Why the great barrier reef is the ultimate destination for scuba divers.

Scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef should be on your bucket list if you are an avid scuba diver. Learn why this is the ultimate scuba destination here.

Great White Shark Encounters

Great White Sharks are majestic, intriguing and just a little bit terrifying. They are also best seen from the safety of a cage. Port Lincoln is the ‘home’ for Australia’s Great White Shark diving day trips....

Great Barrier Reef, Minke Whale Encounters

A unique & memorable experience with the Dwarf Minke's, the encounters are regular and entirely initiated by the Whale's themselves...

Diving The Great Barrier Reefs Ribbon Reefs and Cod Hole

The Ribbon Reefs lie well to the north of Cairns and are home too many world famous dive sites, including the Cod Hole...

The Coral Sea, Osprey Reef

Adventure Diving - The Coral Sea offers very remote, deep reef diving. Located beyond the borders of the Great Barrier Reef...

Ningaloo Reef - Swimming with Whale Sharks and Manta-rays

Swim with manta rays.

Swimming with manta rays is truly a magical experience, whether you are diving or snorkelling. These gentle, giant rays seem to soar through the ocean, like an eagle riding the thermal currents above...

Australia's Grey Nurse Sharks diving encounters

One of the most impressive sharks you will encounter diving in Australia is the Grey Nurse Shark...

Experience the Great Barrier Reef's Coral Spawning

Great Barrier Reef coral spawning is an amazing natural phenomenon. It happens once a year, creating an amazing underwater snowstorm which both attracts and delights divers, marine biologists and reef lovers from around the world...

Popular - Great White Shark Cage Diving, Port Lincoln - South Australia

Need help planning your Australian diving holiday?

Planning your Australian dive holiday and feeling unsure where to begin? Reach out to us! Our knowledge and services encompass a wide array of Australia’s most sought-after scuba diving destinations and marine encounters. Whether you’re interested in dive courses, liveaboard expeditions, or day tours, we’ve got you covered. We’re your go-to experts for personalised dive travel in Australia!

Unique to Dive in Australia is the ability to book many of the featured trips and dive courses live on the website. Where you see the “INSTANT BOOK” tab, you can search availability using the CHECK AVAILABILITY tab .

Dive in Australia Making diving simpler!

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WHY BOOK WITH US (we accept Visa and Mastercard)

• OUR COMPANY GUARANTEE – Dive in Australia features and sells Australia’s best dive experiences, operators, and dive centres, and is backed by 25 year’s knowledge and experience in marketing dive holidays to the domestic and international dive tourism.
• OUR PRICE GUARANTEE guarantee you the same price as you would pay directly to the dive operator, tour company. Additional travel-related costs, such as flight and accommodation and transfers, are not included in the trip price.
• OUR SERVICE GUARANTEE We offer individual clients assistance in booking diving trips and other iconic tours. Based on our personal first hand experience, we will provide you with all the facts and unbiased opinions needed to help you you choose the right trip.
• We know all the places and marine life seasons that will make your diving trip the most interesting, professionally organized and tailored to the interests of each of you. When booking with us you we will not charge any cancellation fees. We adhere to the operators terms & conditions which we clearly outline in our Travel Document Confirmations.

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Scuba Diving in Australia

Australia offers some of the world’s most breathtaking scuba diving experiences, from the vibrant Great Barrier Reef to the mysterious shipwrecks of the southern coast. With crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and stunning underwater landscapes, Australia is a diver’s paradise.

Our team of travel experts is here to help you plan the perfect scuba diving trip to Australia. We understand that every diver has unique preferences and needs, and we specialize in creating customized itineraries that cater to your specific desires.

Whether you’re looking for an exclusive dive-focused vacation or a trip that combines scuba diving with Australia’s other iconic attractions, we have you covered.

Let us handle all the details, from selecting the best operators and arranging accommodations to organizing transportation and providing expert guides. With our extensive knowledge and passion for diving, we’ll ensure your Australian scuba diving adventure is safe, seamless, and spectacular. Dive into the adventure of a lifetime with our expertly crafted scuba diving trips to Australia.

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Booking  dive group Trips to Australia

About Australia specializes in organizing group dive trips to explore the Great Barrier Reef and other iconic Australian dive destinations. As proud members of DEMA (Diving Equipment & Marketing Association), we are committed to providing exceptional dive travel experiences.

Group leaders can rely on our expertise to tailor unique itineraries that cater to diverse diving interests, whether it’s exploring vibrant coral reefs, encountering marine giants like manta rays, or discovering the unique biodiversity of Australia’s underwater world. We handle all aspects of your group dive trip, from arranging flights, accommodations and transfers to coordinating guided dives with experienced local operators. With About Australia, group leaders can rest assured that every detail is meticulously planned, ensuring a seamless and memorable dive adventure in one of the world’s most captivating marine environments.

the  top Scuba Diving Experiences in Australia

Great Barrier Reef

Liveaboard Dive Boats

Liveaboard trips on the Great Barrier Reef offer an unparalleled diving experience, providing numerous benefits for avid divers. One of the main advantages is the ability to access remote and less-visited dive sites, allowing for more pristine and untouched underwater environments like the world famous Cod Hole. Liveaboard trips can last 3, 4, or 7 nights, offering the flexibility to choose the duration that best suits your schedule and diving goals. These trips also offer the convenience of multiple dives per day without the need to return to shore, maximizing your time in the water and enhancing your overall diving experience. Additionally, liveaboard trips often include night dives, giving divers the unique opportunity to observe nocturnal marine life and witness the reef’s transformation after dark. With comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and professional dive guides on board, liveaboard trips provide a seamless and immersive diving adventure.

Osprey Reef

Lord Howe Island

Lord Howe Island, nestled in the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand, is a hidden gem for divers seeking pristine natural beauty and rich marine biodiversity. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed island boasts crystal-clear waters and an array of dive sites that cater to divers of all levels. Diving at Lord Howe Island offers a unique blend of underwater landscapes, from vibrant coral gardens teeming with colorful fish to dramatic drop-offs and caves adorned with diverse marine life. The island’s marine park ensures protection of its reefs, fostering healthy ecosystems that support an abundance of species, including turtles, reef sharks, and rays. One of the highlights of diving at Lord Howe Island is the opportunity to explore the wreck of the SS “Makambo,” a historic shipwreck resting in shallow waters off the island’s southern coast. This site provides a glimpse into maritime history while offering a habitat for marine organisms.

Minke Whales

Minke whales frequent the waters of the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea, making this region a prime destination for whale enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. During Minke Whale expeditions, expert guides lead small groups on immersive journeys to observe and interact with these gentle giants. Known for their curious nature, Minke whales often approach boats closely, providing awe-inspiring opportunities for close-up encounters and photography. The expedition experience goes beyond whale watching, with guides sharing insights into the whales’ behavior, migration patterns, and conservation efforts. Minke Whale expeditions typically operate during the winter months (June to August) when the whales migrate through the Coral Sea.

Leafy Sea Dragons

Ningaloo Reef

Ningaloo Reef, located off the coast of Western Australia, is a diver’s paradise renowned for its pristine waters and extraordinary marine biodiversity. Stretching over 300 kilometers (186 miles) along the coast, Ningaloo Reef is Australia’s largest fringing reef and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, offering unparalleled diving opportunities. Diving at Ningaloo Reef unveils a kaleidoscope of underwater landscapes, from vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish to majestic coral bommies and expansive underwater canyons. The reef is known for its crystal-clear waters and excellent visibility, often exceeding 20 meters (65 feet), providing divers with stunning views of its diverse marine life. One of the highlights of diving at Ningaloo Reef is the chance to encounter iconic marine species, including manta rays, whale sharks, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reef fish. During the annual coral spawning events, divers can witness the reef come alive with activity as corals release their gametes into the water.

Tutukaka, New Zealand

Fiji Diving

Shark Cage Diving

South Australia offers adrenaline-pumping shark cage diving experiences that bring you face-to-face with some of the ocean’s most majestic and misunderstood creatures. Port Lincoln, known as the “Great White Shark Capital of the World,” is a hub for these thrilling expeditions, attracting adventurers from around the globe. Guided shark cage diving tours typically depart from Port Lincoln and venture into the waters of the Neptune Islands, located in the Spencer Gulf Marine Park. Here, you’ll have the chance to witness the awe-inspiring Great White Sharks in their natural habitat. The waters around the Neptune Islands are renowned for their clear visibility and provide a prime setting for observing these apex predators up close. Shark cage diving in South Australia is not just about the adrenaline rush—it’s also an opportunity to appreciate the beauty and significance of these creatures in their natural environment. The tours operate under strict guidelines to minimize impact on the sharks and their habitat, promoting sustainable tourism practices that support marine conservation efforts.

Fish Rock Cave

why About australia

We’d love to work with you to create a beautiful Australia diving adventure! Here are a few more reasons you should choose us!

Insider Knowledge and Expertise

Bespoke Itineraries

Discover the underwater wonders of Australia with a personalized touch! Our expert team creates custom itineraries that align perfectly with your interests, budget, and schedule. Your dream scuba diving adventure isn’t just a wish—it’s our specialty.

Best Value for your money

Exceptional Customer Service

ARC Accredited

Trust is sacred in the travel realm. As an ARC Accredited Travel Company, we wear our badge of honor proudly, assuring you that you’re dealing with a reputable and trustworthy agency. About Australia’s ARC # 45581863

No Worries Journeys

Planning your dive trip to australia.

Get expert help from an Aussie Specialist who has the knowledge and experience to help you plan and book every detail of your trip.

More Destinations You’ll love

wine & food

Discover Australia’s culinary delights and fine dining experiences, where every meal tells a story of local flavors and global influences. From fresh seafood along the coast to gourmet bush tucker in the outback, Australia offers a diverse culinary landscape waiting to be savored. Uncover the best places to indulge in unforgettable dining adventures across the continent.

Indigenous Culture

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Scuba Diving Trips in Australia

The Great Barrier Reef near Cairns stands out as a world-class destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. Diving in this area, adventurers can explore an underwater world filled with an array of features such as dramatic caves, tunnels, caverns, and shipwrecks. The reef’s wall descends to around 1000 meters, dotted with pinnacles and swim-throughs that create a mesmerizing landscape beneath the waves.

Marine life around Cairns is exceptionally diverse and colorful. Divers can expect encounters with various species of sharks, including grey reef, white tip reef, and silver tip sharks, as well as a plethora of other marine creatures. The waters teem with colorful gorgonian fans, whips, soft corals, and the unique flame file clam, also known as the ‘disco clam’, famous for the flashing light that seems to pulse along its mantle. The area is also home to diver-sized potato cod, stonefish, scorpionfish, octopus, clown anemone fish, turtles, and countless schools of fish, making every dive an unforgettable experience.

What To Expect

Scuba diving.

In Cairns, Australia, scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef presents an adventure through breathtaking underwater landscapes, featuring caves, shipwrecks, and deep-sea pinnacles. Visibility extends to 100 feet, showcasing vibrant marine life, including sharks, colorful corals, and the unique ‘disco clam’. The reef teems with turtles, octopus, and diverse fish populations, offering an immersive experience into the aquatic world. Divers seeking to refine their skills can take advantage of courses in deep diving, night diving, and buoyancy control, enhancing their exploration of this underwater paradise.

You might see:  

• Grey Reef Sharks
• White Tip Reef Sharks
• Silver Tip Sharks
• Diver-sized Potato Cod
• Flame File Clam (‘disco clam’)
• Scorpionfish
• Clown Anemone Fish

Recommended Specialty Courses

• Boat Diving
• Shark Ecology
• Photo & Video
• Night & Limited Visibility
• Deep Diving
• Perfect Buoyancy

Mike Ball Dive Expeditions

Neal Watson’s Bimini Scuba Center operates six dive boats, including a 60-foot glass bottom boat that can accommodate divers, snorkelers and sightseers. Every day they set out to explore the island’s beautiful reefs, wrecks and marine life.

MV Spoilsport

MV Spoilsport is a 30-meter twin-hull liveaboard dive boat, acclaimed as Australia’s most awarded, with a crew of 12 offering top-notch diving and guest amenities, ensuring stability and comfort under all sea conditions. It features air-conditioned cabins, a spacious lounge, sun deck, and exceptional dining services, making it an ideal choice for a luxurious and exhilarating diving expedition in the coral Sea.

Great Barrier Reef

Scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef offers an unparalleled underwater adventure in one of the world’s most famous marine ecosystems. Divers can explore a mesmerizing landscape of coral gardens, dramatic caves, and historic shipwrecks teeming with diverse marine life. From encountering majestic sharks to marveling at the vibrant dance of the disco clam, each dive provides a unique glimpse into the reef’s rich biodiversity. Whether navigating through tunnels or floating alongside turtles, the Great Barrier Reef promises unforgettable experiences for every diver.

Scuba diving in the Coral Sea off Australia’s coast presents an exhilarating experience for thrill-seeking divers. This remote and pristine area is known for its crystal-clear waters and spectacular drop-offs that plunge into deep oceanic trenches. Divers can enjoy encounters with large pelagic fish, hammerhead sharks, and colorful coral formations unique to this part of the world. The Coral Sea is also a hotspot for sighting rare marine species and exploring isolated reef systems, making every dive an exploration into the unknown.

The Great Barrier Reef, situated off the coast near Cairns, Australia, is not only an ecological marvel but also a vibrant cultural hub. The area is steeped in the rich traditions of the Indigenous Australian peoples, particularly the Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal groups, who have maintained a spiritual and custodial connection to this land and sea for thousands of years. These communities share a deep bond with the reef, reflected in their art, stories, and stewardship practices that emphasize respect for natural resources. Cultural tourism thrives here, offering visitors immersive experiences such as guided tours by Indigenous rangers, storytelling sessions, and the opportunity to learn about traditional fishing and land management techniques. This cultural exchange enriches the understanding of the reef’s ecological importance and promotes a broader appreciation of its global significance.

Daintree Rainforest

Recognized as part of the larger Wet Tropics of Queensland, the Daintree Rainforest is one of the oldest continually surviving rainforests on Earth. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers visitors a glimpse into a prehistoric world filled with lush greenery and extraordinary biodiversity. Activities here include guided walks, wildlife spotting, and river cruises, all providing insight into the area’s unique flora and fauna.

Kuranda Village

Accessed via a picturesque cableway or the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway, Kuranda is a charming mountain village nestled within the rainforest. The village is famous for its vibrant markets where local artisans sell handmade crafts, artwork, and jewelry. Other attractions include the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, birdwatching tours, and riverboat cruises, making it a perfect spot for a day trip.

Just a short drive north of Cairns, Palm Cove is renowned for its beautiful beach lined with palm trees and its relaxed atmosphere. It’s an ideal location for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports. The esplanade is dotted with cafes, restaurants, and spas, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and dining. Palm Cove serves as a tranquil escape with all the amenities for a perfect beach day or a romantic evening.

What prior travelers say

“Australia to date is still one of my favorite trips. YOU set sail North on Mike Ball Liveaboards, diving the coral sea about 60 miles south of Papua New Guinea and I cannot ever remember seeing coral so healthy. The reefs were dense, healthy and teeming with life. I was also so lucky to be there during Green Sea Turtle nesting on Reign Island, from the liveaboard we could see thousands of turtles as far as the eye could see, and below the surface it was no different, I did not even know where to lay my eyes. This trip is and was a dream, I certainly hope to return to Australia sooner rather than later. ”  

Traveler Photos

Know Before You Go

Dive Insurance

Dive insurance is required on all Diventures trips. We recommend purchasing DAN dive insurance.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is not required but is highly recommended for all Diventures trips. We recommend purchasing DAN trip insurance.

In Australia, the official currency is the Australian Dollar, abbreviated as AUD. It’s commonly represented by the dollar sign ($), or A$ to distinguish it from other dollar-denominated currencies.

English is the primary language spoken .  

Passport Validity

You need a passport that is valid at the time of entry.

Australia is renowned for its high-quality, diverse food and clean, safe drinking water, offering a wide range of culinary experiences influenced by various cultures.

Need help packing?

We can’t pack for you, but we can share our packing list and travel tips.

Great Barrier Reef Snorkel & Dive Tours

• Day trips and overnight trips
• All gear and training provided
• Learn to dive with the experts
• Professional dive instructors
• Easy cancellations

Let's go diving!

Great Barrier Reef Day Trip from Cairns

Whether you’re a snorkeller, first-time diver or certified diver, you'll spend a magical day exploring the reef with us

OceanQuest Overnight Liveaboard Experience

Spend the night on the Great Barrier Reef! Snorkel, intro dive and cert dive options available

PADI Eco Open Water Courses

Learn to dive on the Great Barrier Reef with our range of course options

Scuba Kids (8 Years +)

Try scuba diving for the first time in our pool and enjoy fun underwater games!

PADI Rescue Diver Course

Gain confidence in your dive skills and become a better buddy with this fun and extremely handy course

Instructor Training Program

Kick-start your career in the dive industry with on-the-job training and real life experience

5 STAR DIVE CENTRE

Learn to scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef! Our conveniently located Cairns Dive Centre has PADI Eco Centre status, PADI 5 Star Instructor Development and PADI 5 Star Career Development status. Whether you’re a complete beginner or you’re thinking of making diving your career, we have a dive course to suit you. Our friendly, expert instructors will ensure you have a safe and fun experience.

Dive Courses

• PADI Open Water Diver courses
• PADI Advanced Open Water course
• Scuba Kids children’s program
• PADI Nitrox Specialty course
• PADI Rescue Diver course
• PADI Divemaster course & Divemaster Training Program
• PADI Instructor Training Program
• PADI Instructor Development Course & I.E.
• PADI Staff Instructor Course

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• Heritage Adventurer
• Le Commandant Charcot
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Outerknown Adventures on the Great Barrier Reef

• Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef
• Swim and snorkel Lizard Island
• Discover the pristine Ribbon Reefs
• Learn about Cook’s landing

In the Wake of the Makassans

• Encounter funeral rituals
• Gaze out Kelimutu National Park
• Walk in tracks of Komodo Dragons
• Hike to the summit of Padar Island
• Explore Takabonarate Marine Park

Frontier Lands of Papua New Guinea

• Admire unique wildlife
• Visit Buna and Sanananda
• Lear more about the Dei Dei springs
• Snorkel & Dive on vibrant reefs

Discover the Secrets of Melanesia: Papua New Guinea, The Solomon Islands & Vanuatu

• Discover the jewels of Tetepare
• Explore Vanuatu
• Experience species on Woodlark
• Visit villages in Malaita Island

Top Australia Travel Destinations

• Mitchell Falls
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Australia Trips by Departure Date

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Australia Trips by Duration

• 11 day trips (15)
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Australia Trips by Activity

• Australia wildlife viewing (34)
• Australia snorkeling (21)
• Australia kayaking (13)
• Australia village visits (10)
• Australia stand up paddle boarding (7)
• Australia whale watching (6)
• Australia hiking (6)
• Australia helicopter tours (5)
• Australia scuba diving (4)
• Australia spa relaxation (3)

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Explore the Great Barrier Reef

and your Scuba Diving Education with Pro Dive Cairns

The Great Barrier Reef’s premier PADI Dive Centre & Liveaboard Operator

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most unique marine spectacles; A majestic aquatic wonderland perfect for scuba diving. Since 1983, Pro Dive Cairns has developed an international reputation for quality, professionalism, safety, and value. Specialising in dive courses from beginner to advanced, and three-day liveaboard dive trips, you will receive the very best, personalised experience. Unquestionably the most recognised and highly awarded PADI dive centre on The Great Barrier Reef, Pro Dive Cairns is the number one choice.

Learn to Dive Open Water Certification

Liveaboard Liveaboard Dive Trips

Advanced Ongoing Dive Education

Day Trips Snorkel/Diving day trips

Tour and courses.

Pro Dive Cairns is home to the Great Barrier Reefs premier three-day, two-night liveaboard dive trip; as well as well as a range of PADI certified scuba diving courses. From a five-day Learn to Dive Open Water certification course (run in conjunction with the three-day liveaboard dive trip), through to advanced and professional development courses. Pro Dive Cairns is your number one stop when planning your first or next scuba diving adventure.

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Why Choose Pro Dive Cairns?

5 star padi centre.

Pro Dive Cairns is Australia’s premier 5 star PADI rated, dive and development centre.

Purpose Dive Centre

Centrally located in the Cairns CBD, modern, purpose-built heated dive pools with large air-conditioned classrooms.

Let’s Dive

Access to 19 exclusive and unspoilt dive sites on the Great Barrier Reef.

Dive and learn to dive in a safe and comfortable environment. Your safety is our number one priority.

Personalised

With a maximum of 32 passengers, Pro Dive Cairns provides you with a more personalised experience.

The Great Barrier Reef

18 million-year-old, unique natural wonder filled with marine life.

Pro Dive Cairns Dive Shop

Offering an extensive range of the latest dive products, as well as professional local service and advice, it’s a one-stop shop for all your scuba diving equipment needs.

Visit the Online Dive Shop

Ask The Octopus

Do you need help deciding what trip or courses suit you? The Octopus is here to help! Just answer some very simple questions and The Octopus will steer you in the right direction.

Help me find my Trip!   View all our tours

Pro Dive Cairns Diving Trip Advisor

Are you a certified diver, are you looking to just dive the great barrier reef or combine it with additional certifications.

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Day trip or a multi day liveaboard trip, how many nights are you interesting in spending on the great barrier reef.

3 days | 4 days+

3 Day 2 Night GBR liveaboard

What is your location.

Cairns | Port Douglas

Diving And Snorkelling Day Trips - Ex Cairns

Diving and snorkelling day trips, list of day trips, visit our friends at diving cairns for the best advice on you live aboard options.

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3D/3N Rodney Fox Expeditions

Ningaloo Reef 2024

The Breakers 2024

Extra Divers Villa

The Sunset Resort 2024

VQ3 Lodge 2024

Mike Ball 4nt Coral Sea 2024/25

Mike Ball 3nt Cod Hole 2024/25

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Lady Elliot Island 2024/25

Heron Island

Ningaloo Reef

Australia is the sixth-largest country in the world; it is 50% larger than Europe but has the lowest population density – only two people per square kilometre. Australia is home to the oldest continuous culture on earth, and it is believed Australia’s aboriginal people arrived by boat at least 50,000 years ago.

Many of Australia’s native animals are found nowhere else. It is one of the few countries to have all three groups of mammals – monotremes, marsupials and placentals. Australia is home to more than 800 species of birds, including the iconic emu, kookaburra and cassowary. It also boasts two crocodile species, 4,000 fish species and 50 types of marine mammals.

There’s NOTHING like Australia!

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The Big Reef, and Beyond

There are reefs and there is THE REEF. Australia's Great Barrier Reef remains at the top of many a diver's bucket list, and with good reason. Named as one of the seven wonders of the natural world, it is the largest coral community on the planet and one of the ocean's most biologically diverse habitats. It's all here, from the tiny and the exotic to the largest fish in the sea. Explorations can begin at land-based resorts in Cairns or on Heron Island, while liveaboards give access to renowned sites on the Ribbon Reefs and the Coral Sea. Ashore, all the natural and cultural discoveries of the Land Down under await.

• Best for: Intermediate to advanced divers, photographers and underwater naturalists
• Best season to visit: Year-round, May to October are most popular months for liveaboard trips, and June and July for minke whale encounters
• Weather: Cairns has hot, humid summers and cooler, dry winters. Temperatures typically drop a few degrees as you move offshore. Cyclone season runs from November to May

Things to Do

• Cultural Activities
• Spa and Wellness

Australia Information

About diving in australia.

All dives on the Great Barrier Reef will involve a boat ride. Day trips originating in Cairns and Port Douglas feature fast, spacious motor yachts and catamarans. Liveaboards provide the best access to many prime areas such as the Ribbon Reefs and Osprey Reef. A stay at Heron Island provides shorter boat rides combined with land-based accommodations. Conditions can range from calm and current-free on locations inside the reef to swells and surge when diving exposed sites. Depending on season and location, water temperatures range from 75 to 84 degrees.

Diving in Australia Tips

Months from September to February provide the calmest sea conditions, while the best visibility occurs in the cooler months from June to September. Summer algae blooms may reduce visibility to a degree, but also attract more marine life. The “shoulder season” months of April and November offer a combination of favorable sea states, good water and lesser numbers of divers.

Best Places to Dive in Australia

The internationally-known Cod Hole deserves a space on the bucket list. Equally memorable are the manta cleaning stations at Around the Bend, the migrating minke whales at Lighthouse Bommie, shark dives at North Horn, drift dive at False Entrance and the macro life at Split Bommie.

What to Pack for Diving in Australia

Skin suits to 3mm are ideal in summer, but some divers may need a 5mm in winter. Pack a waterproof cover-up for breezy surface intervals and an extra layer—vest or headgear—for longer liveaboard itineraries, as body core temperatures drop after days of diving. On liveaboards, there's no need to dress up for dinner, so pack light on topside clothing and use a soft bag that can be stowed easily in the cabin. Remember motion sickness meds if susceptible.

Mike Ball Dive Expeditions Spoilsport

From AUD $5,233 (approx. USD $3,575) per person double diver

Heron Island

Liveaboards.

Spirit of Freedom

Some 1,200 miles in length and encompassing more than 13,000 square miles of ocean, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park harbors an astounding variety of marine life, including more than1,600 species of fish, 600-plus types of coral, and more than 6,000 known varieties of invertebrates. Six of the world's seven species of sea turtle swim here, along with 30 species of whales and dolphins, giant black marlin and 133 species of  sharks and rays . Diving activities take place all along the reef, with the northern areas generally considered the best sites. Some reefs are accessible by day trips from either Cairns or Port Douglas, but many of the best sites are reached only via a stay at offshore dive resorts such as Heron Island, or aboard a liveaboard dive vessel. A favorite liveaboard itinerary includes the Ribbon Reefs, where delicate soft corals grow to the size of a Christmas tree and starfish are electric blue. Big animal attractions include mantas, whales and sharks, and noteworthy finds include  blue ring octopus , sawfish, ribbon eels, giant clams, harlequin tusk fish, wobbegong sharks and the giant potato cod. At the Cod Hole, groupers weighing up to 500 pounds interact with divers. Nearby Pixie Pinnacle has an incredible concentration of marine life for one small site - it’s all here - mantis shrimp, leafy scorpion fish, clownfish, lionfish, soft corals, giant fans, a proliferation of crinoids, nudibranchs and much more. Walls hold masses of chevron barracuda, dogtooth tunas and jacks swarm, with passing sharks always a possibility. In June and July, migrating  dwarf minke whales  pass through the Ribbon Reefs, giving divers a rare opportunity to view and interact with these fascinating marine mammals, A rare but not-to-be-forgotten sighting on outside reefs are the black marlin of up to 10 feet in length that will sometimes appear out of deep water. The reef continues north into the Coral Sea, offering some of the most exciting diving in the world. Spanning more than 1.5 million square miles of ocean, the  Coral Sea  contains hundreds of separate reefs, atolls, cays, and seamounts. This region is known for its vertical walls, enormous sea fans, multi-colored soft corals, sharks and amazing water clarity, which routinely exceeds 100 feet.

Passport and/or Visa Requirements

American citizens are required to have a valid U.S. passport to enter Australia with at least one blank page for the entry stamp. An Australian Visa is required, or if eligible, an electronic visa, through Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) at  www.eta.immi.gov.au . The ETA replaces a visa and allows a stay of up to 90 days. The ETA may be obtained from their website for $20 AUD. Airlines and many travel agents in the United States are also able to apply for ETAs on behalf of travelers. Please note that American citizens who overstay their ETA or visa, even for short periods, may be subject to exclusion, detention, and removal.

Read about Australia's entry/exit requirements  here .

Immunizations

There are no required immunizations for U.S. citizens to enter Australia, but we would always suggest checking with your doctor and the Centers for Disease Control on recommended vaccinations for travel to Australia at Traveler's Health CDC Australia .

Culture and Customs

For visitors from North America, Australia may seem like a favorite cousin who talks a bit funny and never met someone they didn't like. Portrayals of the Land Down Under often include a “no worries” attitude, which is an accurate representation of the hospitality visitors can expect. But laid back can be far from boring. In stark contrast to the cosmopolitan coastal cities to the south, Cairns is not only the gateway to the  Great Barrier Reef  but also the nation's epicenter for outdoor sports and adventures. Big game fishing charters, speedboat runs, jet ski tours and parasailing adventures take place in warm tropical waters, while on land, skydivers, climbers and bungee jumpers shun their fear of heights. Forays into the rainforest take place on foot, aboard motorcycles and mountain bikes or via offload vehicle. Aboriginal parks provide a glimpse of Australia's cultural heritage; zip line canopy rides spice up rainforest tours and crocodile-spotting cruises along the  Daintree River  provide bucket-list bragging rights.

Electricity, Phone and Internet Access

Standard electricity in Australia is 230 volts, 50 cycles. When coming from the United States an adapter will be needed for U.S. items and a step-down transformer could also be required to convert 220/240 Volt to 110/120 Volt. The power outlets use 3 flat pin plugs in a different configuration than U.S. sockets.

The  international access code  for Australia is 61. Please check with your cell phone provider for international data and calling plans.

Many hotels, restaurants and bars offer WiFi.

Water Quality

The tap water is safe to drink and bottled water is available for purchase.

Language & Currency

English is the official language of Australia.

The currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD) and consists of 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2 as coins and notes are $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. You can exchange funds at all international airports in Australia upon arrival or at any bank.

Major currencies can be exchanged at banks and many hotels, with some stores also accepting U.S. currency. Purchases may be made using cash or major credit cards. Check the current exchange rate  here .

Most of Australia uses 3 time zones.

Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST): in New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland, which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (+10 GMT).

Australian Central Standard Time (ACST) in South Australia and Northern Territory, which is 9 1/2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (+9.5 GMT).

Australian Western Standard Time (AWST) in Western Australia, which is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (+8 GMT).

Daylight Saving Time is observed in New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania from the beginning of October to the beginning of beginning of April, at which point AEST becomes AEDT and ACST becomes ACDT daylight savings time and moves by 1 hour. The Northern Territory, Western Australia and Queensland don’t observe Daylight Saving.

Location, Size and Population

Australia, sometimes referred to as the island continent, is the only country that is its own continent as well. Australia is very large - similar in size to the United States at almost 3 million square miles. The continent of Australia is located between the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean.

Australia's population is 24,17 Million (2016).

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ALLWAYS DIVE – By Australian divers. For Australian divers… the world over

Welcome to Allways Dive Expeditions – Australia’s premier dive travel retailer – serving the Australian dive community for over 40 years. .

Allways Dive is one of the most highly regarded names in retail scuba diving holidays in the Southern hemisphere. Here at Allways Dive experience talks – we have successfully and safely sent over 100,000 Aussie divers like you on dive adventures from Palau to Antarctica since 1976. From tech diver in Bikini Atoll to wreck diver in Coron –  whether you’re a newbie diver in Palau , free diver in Koh Tao , spearo in Samoa or a snorkeler in Cuba – Allways Dive Expeditions have got a dive adventure for you.

The team at Allways Dive have been working hard for over 40 consecutive years (100 collectively) to ensure those passionate about the ocean get the best travel experience possible. Whether you know exactly what you want or need help designing and booking your ideal holiday, our staff is on hand to help. Whether it’s Operation Hailstone World War II wreck diving at Truk Lagoon in Micronesia , reef dives in Mozambique , wall dives at the Galapagos Islands in South America ; or how about big fish dives at Nuku Alofa in Tonga , muck diving for tiny critters in Dauin in the Philippines or cold-water diving with Leopard Seals in Antarctica that you’re seeking, our experienced staff at Allways Dive will help you find your dive adventure.

And if one of your party doesn’t dive, or you fancy doing something else alongside your diving, we can advise on destinations that offer activities such as yoga , spa treatments , rock climbing , mountain treks , bird watching , native cooking as well as volunteering and marine conservation work.

Standards – As an ATAS and AFTA licensed travel agent, rest assured that we’ve met all the strict standards and criteria required by those professional bodies – We are the best in the industry!

Expert guidance – Our entire team are destination experts as well as fully trained and qualified travel agents – oh yes – we are all fully qualified divers too who between us have dived most of the destinations we offer.

Convenience- Why spend your valuable time trawling the net – Let us do the work!

We can and do take care of every aspect of your travel, flights, transfers, tours, activities, travel insurance and more all packaged in a neat travel wallet and sent to your doorstep. Our bespoke Dive Packages are created just for you; we take everything that you say into consideration and adjust it till it’s just right and you are happy!

Service – What’s not to like; our personal service is better than the” .com holiday” sites; in fact if you search our webpage and have a question an actual person will get in touch to have a chat and just answer your questions and, if you wish to proceed, start working on your holiday plans with you. So, if want to feel like someone cares about your holiday – we’ve got you!

Hang on Help is on the way – We really doubt you’ll need it but if you experience a problem while travelling, we’re here for you 24/7 – all our documents have emergency contact number should you need us no matter the day or time.

First in service and product – we are leaders in our industry: Browse our site or drop us a line to check out all the alternative and unusual dive destinations we have curated for you!

Diving Opens Up A World Of Opportunity

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What Do You Want To Discover?

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PALAU – SAVINGS

15% off at Walindi Plantation Resort

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TRAVEL ADVISORY – COVID-19 Travel Update

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Check out Palau!

Bikini Atoll – Overwhelming!

Sogod Bay Scuba Resort

Allways Dive Expeditions have worked to contact every passenger either directly or via their booking agent regarding values held over and carried across from trips affected by the COVID19 border closures.

Due to the lapse of time since travel recommenced from all states in Australia domestically and internationally we advise that any and all credits carried due to Pandemic cancellations and reschedules will expire at DEC 31st 2023 .

If you believe you hold a credit with us please reach out and firm up a trip itinerary with us.

Any trip utilising a carried Pandemic credit or value must be confirmed and allocated prior to DEC 24th 2023 on a trip departing no later than JUNE 30 2024 in order for us to finalise the financial year 2023/2024.

No pre pandemic credits will be valid after these dates.

© Copyright 2021 Allways Dive Expeditions Pty. All Rights Reserved.

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CAIRNS & PORT DOUGLAS' BEST SCUBA DIVING

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Scuba Dive In Affordable Luxury With The Premier Five Star Padi Dive Resort

Blue Dive Port Douglas offers the best Great Barrier Reef scuba diving trips, courses, guides and outer reef sites. Our team are dive professionals. Our destinations are the best reef locations for visibility, corals, abundance and diversity of underwater life. Our service is outstanding, providing privately guided dives and dive courses on the beautiful Great Barrier Reef. At Blue Dive, we don’t dive with strangers – we dive with new friends…

YOU WANT THE BEST GREAT BARRIER REEF EXPERIENCE YOU WANT BLUE DIVE

We’re the original Port Douglas scuba company, offering privately guided dives and private PADI Open Water courses since 2008. We are 100% locally owned and operated and are the Port Douglas dive specialists. Our experienced dive team are passionate about ensuring your Great Barrier Reef experience, is the best it can be. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, family or group of friends – and whether it’s on a day trip, multi-day dive course or private charter – Blue Dive will show you the best of the Great Barrier Reef.

GREAT BARRIER REEF LUXURY PRIVATE CHARTERS FOR DIVERS AND SNORKELERS

If this is the trip to tick the Great Barrier Reef off your bucket list, then the ultimate way to do this is on a Blue Dive Port Douglas luxury private charter. The trip will be completely tailored to your needs, be it snorkeling, diving or both. Your vessel will be a top of the range luxury boat, perfect for families, groups and corporate events. For day trips and overnight trips, a Blue Dive luxury private charter is the ultimate way to experience the Great Barrier Reef.

Why Book With Blue Dive Port Douglas

Private guided diving, amazing reef sites, engaging reef info, professional dive masters, freedom from crowds.

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Scuba Dive the Great Barrier Reef

Trying to work out where to stay at the Great Barrier Reef? Discover a great selection of accommodation, the length and breadth of the Great Barrier Reef and beyond. Search for hotel rooms and book online.

• Great Barrier Reef Hotels
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Great Barrier Reef's islands are simply enchanting, with the choice of over 100 islands from unique and exotic islands to the world famous Whitsundays.

• Best Islands Near Cairns
• Bedarra Island
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• Hayman Island
• Heron Island
• Hinchinbrook Island
• Langford Island
• Lindeman Island
• Lizard Island
• Long Island
• Orpheus Island
• South Molle Island
• Whitsunday Island

Queensland is unique amongst the Australian states in that it has a number of genuine coastal capitals.

• Airlie Beach
• Charters Towers
• Daintree Rainforest
• Mission Beach
• Port Douglas
• Rockhampton
• Shute Harbour
• Whitehaven Beach

Discover a diverse range of experiences in the Great Barrier Reef.

• Reef Experiences
• Diving the Reef
• The reef from the air
• Sky diving at Airlie Beach
• Sky diving at Cairns
• Sky diving at Mission Beach
• Adventure Activities
• Cairns Reef Tours
• Glass Bottom Boat Tours
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• Snorkelling The Reef
• Submarine Reef Tours
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The Great Barrier Reef is a gathering of brilliant, vivid coral providing divers with the most spectacular underwater experience imaginable.

• About The Reef
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Scuba Diving Snorkel and dive the Great Barrier Reef.

If you are a certified Scuba diver or a snorkeller, the Great Barrier Reef has some of the best ocean life in the world. If you have never done a Scuba dive before, the Great Barrier Reef offers some great places to learn to Scuba dive.

The Great Barrier Reef is world renowned for it’s amazing scuba diving locations. Bommies, coral reefs and an abundance of marine life stretch for the entire 2,300km length of the reef.

There are a wide range of dive sites along the Great Barrier Reef, there are calm, protected, shallow spots around the islands, perfect for first-timers, there are gentle reef sites, rich in fish life and corals and the deeper sites on the outer reefs for those with some experience. All sites are best reached by boat ranging from luxury cruisers to spectacular sail boats. For those visitors who have never put their head under the water, but want to see if they can enjoy snorkelling or scuba diving, there are excellent one-day, first-time dive trips.

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef offers a range of scuba dive experiences for both the beginner and the experienced diving expert. Diving expeditions depart daily from all the major cities and towns along the coast and from most island resorts. No matter where you stay on the reef, you are always within a 20 – 60 minute boat ride of an excellent diving spot.

The late, great Jacques Cousteau famously named the Heron Bommie off Heron Island as one of his top ten favourite diving sites in the world.

Douglas Adams, the author of the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy wrote an amusing anecdote about his experience diving at Hayman Island on the reef.

The Great Barrier Reef offers all manner of accommodation for singles, couples and families. The keen diver will be able to fine a suitable location to stay regardless of budget.

The Great Barrier Reef, Australia is one of the natural wonders of the world and a superb place to indulge in the best scuba diving in the world.

Cairns Diving Tour Operators

Diving from Cairns offers a truly unique reef experience for the traveller who seeks a more personalised and relaxed approach to exploring the Great Barrier Reef by mask, snorkel and fins.

Diving Day Tours

Great Adventures – Great Barrier Reef Adventure Destination: Outer Barrier Reef (Norman Reef)

Great Adventures – Green Island & Great Barrier Reef Adventure Destination: Outer Barrier Reef plus 2 hour stopover on Green Island

Reef Magic Marine World – Outer Barrier Reef Tour Destination: Outer Great Barrier Reef, Moore Reef

Sunlover Cruises – Outer Barrier Reef Scuba Dive Tour Destination: Moore Reef Pontoon

Quicksilver – Great Barrier Reef Tour Destination: Outer Barrier Reef, Agincourt Reef

Ocean Freedom – Upolu Cay Tour Destination: Upolu Cay & Upolu Reef

M/V Osprey – Outer Barrier Reef Tour Destination: 2 Outer Barrier Reef Locations

Reef Experience – Outer Barrier Reef Tour Destination: Norman, Saxon, Hastings and Michaelmas Reef Locations

Reef Quest – Outer Barrier Reef Tour Destination: 2 Reef Locations on the Outer Barrier Reef – (17 private exclusive dive sites)

Seastar – Michaelmas Cay & Hastings Reef Tour Destination: Michaelmas Cay & Hastings Reef

Great Barrier Reef Experiences

There are plenty of things to experience on Great Barrier Reef.

Townsville Townsville, a thriving metropolis, is the unofficial capital of North Queensland and one of the fastest growing regions in Australia.

Rockhampton Rockhampton is set under Mount Archer, posing an impressive backdrop for the vibrant City centre, coast and the outback beyond.

Charters Towers Charters Towers is one of the most beautiful inland cities in Queensland, with unrivalled architecture and a unique history.

Australia's great natural wonder

More great australian travel destinations.

• Uluru Australia
• Blue Mountains
• Kangaroo Island
• Fraser Island
• Lord Howe Island
• Hunter Valley
• Port Stephens
• Moreton Island
• Great Ocean Road
• Australia's Best Beaches
• Wiki Australia
• Kimberley Australia
• Aussie Hotel Bookings

About 'greatbarrierreef.org'

greatbarrierreef.org is a 'Web Magazine' website that is dedicated to all things related to the Great Barrier Reef. We are passionate about Australia's great natural wonder, its vast marine life, its golden sun-kissed beaches, its warm turquiose waters and the unforgetable experiences that are waiting for all who visit. Our aim is to discuss the Great Barrier Reef, its history, its environment, its marine life and its spectacular destinations. We hope that this website will inspire all who visit, just as much as the Great Barrier reef has inspired us.

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Guide to Australia’s Best Scuba Dive Sites

• Adrian Stacey
• on August 26, 2020
• at 12:56 am

In this article, we look at just some of Australia’s best dive sites

As lockdown restrictions relax and state borders open up, and with international travel still a little way off, it is time once again to be thankful that we live in Australia.

Few, if any countries in the world can boast such a varied assortment of diving. From the vivid corals of the Great Barrier Reef to the spectacular kelp forests of the Great Southern Reef, from whale sharks at Ningaloo to leafy sea dragon at the Mornington peninsular. You can dive with great white sharks or swim with humpback whales.

Perhaps witness the mass migration of the spider crabs, visit one of the many beautiful islands or dive one of the hundreds of wrecks that litter the shores of this diving Eden called Australia. The list of places to go to, and of creatures to see is almost endless. For a little inspiration, we have compiled a selection of world-renowned heavyweights and some lesser-known gems of Australian diving.

Where better place to start than in Queensland home of the iconic Great Barrier Reef. This fantastic living structure is over 2300KM long, is comprised of over 2900 individual reefs and 900 islands and can be seen from space. But diving is not just limited to the GBR, with some amazing wrecks and spectacular dives around the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Northern Great Barrier Reef  –  Cairns

Cairns is the most popular location to access the northern areas of the reef. Divers have the option of day trips out to the likes of Norman, Saxon or Hastings reefs or Liveaboard trips to the more remote Ribbon Reefs and Osprey reef. I was lucky to be on the Spirit of Freedom for their final voyage before the lockdown came into effect. The waters were teeming with life, the hard corals on the Ribbon Reefs were pristine, and the soft corals at Osprey Reef were spectacular.

Mike Ball is currently operating 5-day minke whale trips and will be running 5-day tours to Osprey Reef & Cod hole from August. World class scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea on Australia’s most awarded liveaboard , Spoilsport.

Divers Den are open for courses and day trips to Norman Saxon and Hastings Reefs. The experts since 1974. Day trips, overnight trips and 5-star PADI Dive School

Photo Credit: Adrian Stacey

SS Yongala – Townsville

Speaking of the spectacular, the SS Yongala is often touted as one of the best wrecks in the world, and with good reason. Resting on the sand at a depth of 30 meters, it is a beacon for marine life. Immense schools of fish swarm the coral-encrusted hull, huge rays, sharks and turtles frequent this oasis of marine life, while huge nudibranchs and numerous other critters call the Yongala home.

Adrenaline Dive are once again taking divers to the SS Yongala from there Townsville base. With over 30 years in Marine Tourism, you can relax knowing they have the skills, knowledge and experience of the best spots on the Great Barrier Reef.

Southern Great Barrier Reef – Gladstone to Bundaberg

At the southernmost reaches of the Great Barrier Reef are the Capricorn and Bunker Group of Islands. Not quite as well-known as their northern counterparts, the diving in this region is every bit as stunning. Some of the region’s highlights include Heron island. This is a tropical paradise with a wealth of beautiful dives, including Heron Bommie which Jacques Cousteau even listed in his top ten dive sites. Lady Musgrave Island boasts pristine reefs set against the backdrop of a vast turquoise lagoon bustling with life. While Lady Elliot Island has become synonymous with the majestic Manta Rays which inhabit these waters year-round.

Heron Island Resort  is open for business and also operates trips to Wilson island for snorkelling. Experience nature at its best on Heron Island, world famous for its spectacular coral reef and a sanctuary for an extraordinary variety of marine life. This natural coral cay provides a genuine eco-experience and the unique opportunity to witness the magic of the world’s largest coral reef. 

Lady Elliot Island  is open once again at a time when the mantas are most active. Lady Elliot Island is a coral cay located at the southern tip of the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef.

Lady Musgrave Experience   are operating day trips out to the island and will soon be opening a dive platform on the lagoon that will even offer underwater accommodation. This will give guest easy access to all the surrounding reefs.

North Stradbroke Island – Brisbane

Accessible by ferry from Brisbane, North Stradbroke island attracts manta rays during the summer month and grey nurse sharks in the winter months. Deep gutters offer the ideal hiding place for loggerhead turtles and wobbegong sharks. If you are really lucky you might even see a humpback whale on its annual migration.

Manta Lodge   is now open for business and taking bookings. Manta Lodge & Scuba Centre is Brisbane’s premier dive facility for high quality, live-in scuba diving training . Located right on the beach at Point Lookout, we specialise in providing world-class scuba diving courses and dive trips to the Moreton Bay Marine Park on beautiful  North Stradbroke Island .

New South Wales

New South Wales is blessed with a vast array of excellent dives and offers a unique underwater experience as warm tropical waters collide with the cold waters of the Southern Ocean. It is probably one off the best places on the planet to dive with grey nurse sharks, it is home to plentiful wobbegongs, boast an annual whale migration and has some magnificent scenery both above and below the water.

Julien Rocks – Byron Bay

Just a 5-minute boat ride from Byron Bays main beach this great dive site is carpeted with, well, carpet sharks! Wobbegongs are everywhere. In the summer months, manta rays and leopard sharks can be found in abundance, and in the winter months, the docile but fearsome-looking grey nurse sharks lurk in the shadows of this rocky dive location.

Sundive   Byron Bay are once again operating trips out to Julien rocks. Established on 1988, Sundive is Byron Bay’s only PAD 5 Star Instructor Development Centre, a rating that represents the commitment to quality, safety and service.

Photo credit: Simone Caprodossi

Fish Rock Cave – South West Rocks

Grey nurse sharks, grey nurse sharks and then some more grey nurse sharks, plus wobbegongs, massive schools of fish the occasional school of hammerheads and did I mention grey nurse sharks, and a cave. A truly fantastic place to dive.

South West Rocks Dive Centre are taking divers out again to see the grey nurse sharks. The South West Rocks Dive Centre is a family owned and operated business leading dives to Fish Rock for the past 40+ years. We dive every day and have the most experienced dive staff in the area.

Jervis Bay – Jervis Bay

200 KM south of Sydney is the idyllic setting of Jervis Bay. Home to a vast marine park. Here divers are treated to sheer soft coral walls, multiple caves and swim-throughs, wrecks including planes and ships, shark nurseries, macro life and miles of rocky coastline. Not to mention a resident fur seal colony and the elusive weedy sea dragon.

Dive Jervis bay  offer day trips to all of the area’s best dive sites. Scuba Diving and Padi Courses .

Photo Credit: Jonathan Mueller

Above the water, Victoria is perhaps best known for the Great Ocean Road scenic drive which includes the famous twelve apostles, Below the water is every bit as spectacular, with hundreds of wrecks and numerous jetties that support a wealth of weird and wonderful marine life. Plus the surreal spectacle of the annual giant spider carb migration.

Mornington Peninsula – Melbourne

The piers at Melbourne’s Port Phillip Bay provide divers with all-weather diving opportunities, being on a bay there’s always a sheltered side where divers can get in and enjoy interacting with resident critters. None more popular than the annual Spider Crab migration made famous by David Attenborough’s Blue Planet 2 with the Rye pier as the famous “Go to” dive site. Additional to this annual event, there are an incredible array of colourful nudibranchs with the Blairgowrie pier/marina as a destination of choice for the sea slug fanatics. These aren’t to be outdone by our state marine emblem, the Weedy Sea dragon commonly encountered around the Portsea Pier.

Bay Play   offer trips to all of the best dive sites in the area. Bayplay offers an array of amazing adventure activities and unforgettable experiences to suit everyone on the Mornington Peninsula.

Photo credit: Matt Krumins

Philip Bay Wrecks – Melbourne

If the pursuit of rusty metal floats your boat (or sunk it in this case), Melbourne has it all! From historic wrecks inside the bay such as the Eliza Ramsden through to a fleet of WW1 British J Class submarines, scuttled after decommissioning, to the more recent and purposely created artificial reef in the ex-HMAS Canberra. From 8 meters of depth to it’s resting depth of 29 meters, the Canberra is a great fun dive for divers of all levels. With 138 meters of wreck to explore across numerous levels, this is a magnet for divers and marine life alike.

Scuba Culture offer regular trips to the area’s wrecks and the piers of the Mornington Peninsular. The biggest range of the best diving & snorkelling products, backed up by unrivalled multi award winning customer service and providing unsurpassed quality diver training to all levels, SCUBA CULTURE, the destination for the astute diver who will only settle for the very best.

Photo Credit: Matt Krumins

Tasmania 

With more than 4,850 km of coastline and 45,000 hectares of marine reserves, the clear coastal waters of Tasmania offer some of the best temperate diving in the world. From the Dramatic walls of at Bicheno to the impressive wreck of the SS Nord. Marine life is also plentiful, dolphins, seals and even penguins call the brisk waters of Tasmania home. Plus of course, the weedy sea dragon, the specimens found in Tasmania are the largest and the most colourful.

Tasman Peninsula – Eagle Hawk Neck

The Tasman Peninsula region offers huge caves, tunnels and canyons, particularly in Waterfall Bay, an area well known for its sea caves. The largest, Cathedral Cave, which is the largest sea cave system in Australia, consists of a massive entrance (maximum water depth 21m), extending back into smaller caverns with narrow tunnels and cross passages. The walls are covered with brightly coloured invertebrates typically found in much deeper water. In addition, there are stunning sponge gardens, the impressive wreck of the SS Nord and colonies of the ever-playful fur seals.

Eagle Hawk Dive Centre is open for business and are taking customers to some of Tasmania’s favourite dive sites. PADI 5 Star Dive Centre is situated on the Tasman Peninsula in southeastern Tasmania at only 1 hour from Hobart.

Photo credit: Karen Gowlett-Holmes & Michael Baron

South Australia

Perhaps best known for cage diving with Great White sharks, this state has so much more to offer. The rugged coastline provides a host of excellent diving opportunities. There is the picturesque Kangaroo Island, the macro divers favourites, Port Hughes and Edithburgh jetties on the Yorke Peninsula, and unique to South Australia the amazing Giant Cuttlefish aggregation near Whyalla each winter!

Neptune Islands – Port Lincoln

The Neptunes are a pristine, wild and rugged paradise – an elemental tour de force – where the planet’s most amazing prehistoric survivor congregates. Male great whites (up to 5-metres) inhabit the islands all year round. The seal pups are born in summer (December to January), but don’t start entering the ocean until winter (April to August). That’s when the giant female great whites (up to 6-metres) come to the Neptunes. That extra metre almost doubles their bodyweight. They are incredible creatures.

Rodney Fox Shark Expeditions Have resumed their tours to see these magnificent creatures. Eco friendly great white shark cage diving in South Australia with the Fox’s! From inventing the shark cage over 50 years ago to current day research based expeditions. The Fox Team are unrivalled in their passion and promotion of this still misunderstood animal. 

Photo credit: Rodney Fox Shark Expeditions

Fleurieu Peninsula   – Adelaide

The Fleurieu Peninsula offers a variety of shore dive sites, including Port Noarlunga Jetty, Second Valley, and The Bluff at Victor Harbor. However Rapid Bay is generally regarded as one of Australia’s best jetty dives, and although you can dive it from the shore, the best part of this large dive site is nearly 500m offshore. It is therefore most easily accessed by boat. It is one of the best spots for sighting the unique leafy sea dragon. Rapid bay is also the site of the ex-HMAS Hobart a stunning coral encrusted wreck.

Underwater Sports visit all of the best dive sites in the Adelaide region. Underwater Sports Diving Centre is a family owned business in Holden Hill, Adelaide, South Australia.

Photo Credit: David Gordon

Western Australia

This vast state has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to diving. It is home the longest fringing reef in the world, Ningaloo, the untouched Rowley Shoals and the remote Abrolhos islands. In addition to this is highly regarded wrecks of the ex-HMAS Swan and ex-HMAS Perth, Rottnest Island, Murion island, Point Murat Navy pier an annual humpback whale migration and whale sharks galore.

Ningaloo Reef – Exmouth

Ningaloo Reef has it all! This sprawling reef offers pristine corals a remarkable amount of tropical fish and the chance of some spectacular, big animal encounters. This UNESCO world heritage reef is home to turtles, reef sharks and stingrays, manta rays, dugongs and humpback whales. Plus the biggest fish in the sea, the whale shark, feasts here for six months following the annual coral spawning.

Exmouth Dive operates daily trips out to the reef and for whale shark swims. Exmouth, Western Australia, is the gateway to Australia’s iconic Ningaloo Reef – a pristine aquatic wonderland that is home to an abundance of marine life including dolphins, manta rays, turtles, Humpback whales and of course the iconic whale sharks.

Photo Credit: Adrian Stacey (Whale Shark)

Rottnest Island – Perth

Rottnest Island is located a stone’s throw from the city of Perth. This beautiful island is home to a myriad of wildlife, including a fur seal colony, vibrant corals and numerous shipwrecks. The other very different feature of diving around Rottnest and surrounding areas is that the reef is mainly made of limestone.

This means lots of caves and swim throughs as well as a whole new range of marine species which come with this type of reef. Underwater caves which lead from cave to cave and cavern to cavern make some dives feel like you are in a different world. The limestone reef structure differs to the boulder type reef of the south west and it does offer some fantastic underwater landscapes and topography.

Perth Scuba is taking divers out the stunning Rottnest island once again. Perth Scuba is Western Australia’s largest dive centre. We teach PADI and TDI dive courses, have a huge range of dive and snorkelling equipment.

Photo Credit: Johanna Pool

I have only just scratched the surface of the wealth of fantastic dive destination that this diverse country offers. There has never been a better opportunity to experience this diving paradise, so now is the time to plan a road trip or jump on a flight, before the crowds of international tourist return.

Want to read about more great places to dive?

Top 10 Best Dive Sites in the World, Editor in Chiefs Pick

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Diving Tours in Australia

With the global population of divers increasing significantly in recent years, it is little wonder that scuba diving locations in Australia  are increasing in popularity. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a first-time diver, Australia's biodiverse waters are renowned for providing some of the most memorable diving adventures on the planet.

Australia’s west coast boasts the planet's largest fringing reef at Ningaloo Marine Park; an extremely popular Australian   scuba diving  location, situated off the Cape Range National Park near Exmouth. This location is home to Whale Sharks, Sea Snakes, Wobbegongs, Soft Corals, Batfish, Turtles, Manta Rays, Sea Fans, Moray Eels, White-tip Reef Sharks and abundant colourful reel fish. Exmouth Navy Pier, a world-renowned macro diving destination, is a haven for Nudibranchs, Frog Fish, Octopuses, Scorpionfish and Flat Worms. The Muiron Islands, another popular scuba diving location in Australia, is perfect for close encounters with Stingrays, Potato Cod, Sharks, Turtles, Anemones, Clownfish, thousands of fish, and much more.

Many holidays or vacations that incorporate  diving in Australia  include a visit to the incredible Great Barrier Reef; the world’s largest living organism. There are many islands along the the Great Barrier Reef, that are considered amongst the  best diving sites in Australia.  Tropical reef diving in Australia is recognised for its outstanding water clarity, ideal to admire the exceptional underwater landscapes, the healthy coral reefs, the abundance of sharks, Manta Rays and turtles, and a wide range of tropical fish – and explore a wonderful mix of bommies, soft & hard corals and breathtaking coral platforms. 

Australian Wildlife Journeys offers diving tours  across Australia’s two most popular reef systems. Our friendly expert instructors and guides will allow you to experience the wonderful underwater attractions whilst educating you on the importance of preserving these precious ecosystems. Diving tours also provide the opportunity to participate in citizen science projects including Project Manta, Ecocean and Eye on the Reef, which assist scientists in tracking the health and sustainability of the reef.

Check out our Australian diving tours below:

Wildlife Interests: Fish & Marine Invertebrates

Christmas, Cocos & Ningaloo Diving Adventure

From $6,165 AUD

18 days/17 nights

Combine Western Australia with Australia's Indian Ocean Islands for one of the world's great snorkelling and diving expeditions. Christmas Island has over 60 dive sites to choose from and is regarded as one of Australia's best diving regions, due to the high volume of immense 'drop offs' only metres from...

Coast to Coast Diving Australia

From $8,110 AUD

16 days/15 nights

This itinerary connects the world's most famous reef on the east coast, the world's largest fringing reef on the west coast with temperate aquatic activities on Australia's south coast. Explore the world-famous Daintree National Park combined with a four-day liveaboard dive trip of the Great Barrier Reef to see turtles,...

Wildlife Interests: Fish & Marine Invertebrates, Reptiles & Amphibians

Cocos Keeling Island and/or Christmas Island Dive

From $2,750 AUD

7 or 14 nights

Deep drop offs, stunning coral gardens, diverse marine life, incredible vistas and welcoming locals – all things that Christmas & Cocos (Keeling) Islands can offer in abundance. Whilst the islands share many similarities – the dive experience is completely different on each island. Christmas Island has over 60 dive sites...

Dive Christmas Island

From $4,055 AUD

8 days/7 nights

Christmas Island has over 60 dive sites to choose from and is regarded as one of Australia’s best diving regions, due to the high volume of immense 'drop offs' only metres from the shoreline. Sensational visibility of up to 50 metres, ensures that you can observe abundant fish including surgeonfish,...

Great White Shark Cage Dive Packages

From $1,460 AUD

2 days/2 nights

Experience the amazing Eyre Peninsula, with a choice of these two day adventures, encompassing the exhilarating Great White Shark Cage Dive! Experience premium 4WD touring, aquatic activities and culinary offerings across Port Lincoln, Coffin Bay or surrounds. Tour stunning Port Lincoln, nestled on the shores of beautiful Boston Bay where...

Ningaloo Reef Dive Tour

From $270 AUD

Full Day from Exmouth

Right on Exmouth's doorstep, dive the world famous Ningaloo Reef, on one of our three dive boats at Light House Bay, or the West Side. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or keen to try for the first time - you’re sure to have an awesome day as we visit two...

Outer Reef or Islands Scuba Dive & Snorkel

From $295 AUD

Discover the wonders of the Muiron Islands and Ningaloo Marine Park, regarded as one of the most beautiful underwater wilderness areas in Australia. Upon cruising out across the pristine waters, you will spend the day exploring different snorkel and dive sights accessible by boat only, with Dolphins, Rays and Turtles...

Ultimate Summer Snorkelling Adventures

From $4,970 AUD

10 days/9 nights

Discover Australia's best-known ecological wonder, the Great Barrier Reef, with the aquatic playground of South Australia's Eyre Peninsula and the sublime beaches of Western Australia. Immerse yourself in the pristine waters of the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, on a snorkel adventure with resident bottlenose, just outside of Perth. Experience the...

For further information about diving opportunities and species that you can encounter across different seasons, visit our  Fish & Marine Invertebrates  and  Marine Mammals  section.

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Coral Bay, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia

Australia's best diving spots

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With abundant corals, enchanting wildlife and haunting wrecks, there’s nothing quite like diving in Australia.

By Ashlea Wheeler, Deborah Dickson-Smith and Carly Spek

Stretching 1.8km (1.1mi) into the Indian Ocean from the coast of the Margaret River region, Busselton Jetty is a spectacular site to behold in itself, but even greater treasures lie beneath its surface. Since the jetty’s construction in 1865, submerged timber pylons have become home to a vibrant array of marine life, with over 300 species now living in the accidental artificial reef. Large underwater sculptures at the end of the jetty were strategically added to provide even more homes for wildlife and an exciting sight for divers to witness in their explorations.

Guide to Margaret River

From outdoor adventures and epic surf to top-notch wines and serene beaches, there’s little surprise this small region stands out on the big map.

Read time • 4min

About two hours by boat from the shore of balmy, tropical Townsville , you’ll find the Museum of Underwater Art . As the name suggests, this jaw-dropping ocean gallery is a treasure trove of thought-provoking sculptures hidden beneath the waves. Each piece is designed to highlight the critical need for conservation to protect the delicate ecosystems of the Great Barrier Reef . Climb aboard a tour boat and head out to explore the artists and scientists sculpted within the Coral Greenhouse, or the eerie scattering of Ocean Sentinels.

Experience an underwater museum on the Great Barrier Reef

A one-of-a-kind experience awaits at the unique Museum of Underwater Art, submerged in the shallows of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

Consistently voted one of the top ten dive sites in the world, Fish Rock is a small rocky outcrop off the coast of South West Rocks in  New South Wales . Dive into the 125m (400ft) long cave with South West Rocks Dive Centre for one of the most exciting dives imaginable. Feast your eyes on gropers, lionfish, moray eels and wobbegongs before spying grey nurse sharks and stingrays. The creatures majestically cruise through a sandy arena known as ‘the aquarium’, creating an unforgettable scene for divers to enjoy.

In addition to the Museum of Underwater Art, Townsville is also the perfect base for an exciting dive out to the wreck of Steam Ship Yongala. The ship, which sank during a cyclone in 1911, lies mostly intact 14-28m (46-92ft) below the surface. It was found in 1958, and has attracted a wealth of marine life in its 100 years underwater, including vivid soft corals and a population of olive sea snakes. You can book a day trip with Yongala Dive to explore the remains, or take a three-day liveaboard trip with Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive .

Guide to Townsville & Magnetic Island

Townsville is one of the major gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, with the natural wonders of Magnetic Island a short boat ride away.

Rowley Shoals is a group of three ring-shaped reefs located about 300km (186mi) off the coast of Western Australia , which make for an incredible exclusive dive experience. The reefs are only accessible for a short time around October, which means you’ll be one of few who have the privilege to experience them. The vibrant formations are famous for their strong tidal flows – creating exhilarating drift dives – and are home to many large species of fish. Head to Broome and charter a luxe liveaboard cruise to experience it for yourself.

Guide to Broome

A multicultural melting pot, Broome is a tropical delight and the gateway to the Kimberley, one of the world’s great wildernesses.

With only 400 tourists allowed on Lord Howe Island at any one time, it’s almost guaranteed that you will have the dive sites all to yourself. The jagged rocky outcrop of Balls Pyramid, accessible via boat with Dive Lord Howe , is known for an abundance of marine life, including large schools of Galapagos Whaler sharks found nowhere else in Australia. Here, you can explore caves lined with rocky columns and reefs that hold deep-sea species of Ballina angelfish, usually only found at depths of over 100m (328ft).

Guide to Lord Howe Island

Leave the pace of modern life behind when you visit World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island.

The thrill of cage diving with great white sharks is not for the faint-hearted. Port Lincoln (a 50-minute flight from Adelaide ) is the only place in Australia where you can have this adrenaline pumping experience. A day trip with Calypso Star Charters will take you from Port Lincoln to the Neptune Islands to witness these majestic creatures up close in their natural environment. Climb aboard your charter and take the plunge, gazing in awe as great white sharks curiously cruise past your cage.

Stretching along the Western Australian coast near Exmouth, Ningaloo Reef is one of the most incredible diving destinations in the world. The abundant corals are peppered with life, from graceful manta rays to turtles and sharks, but the true highlight of this region is the seasonal wildlife migrations. From late March to late July, you can mix up your dives with days spent snorkelling alongside enormous whale sharks as they pass through the region, or visit from late June to October to get in the water with incredible humpback whales.

Guide to Ningaloo Reef

Beside the red soils of the Cape Range lies the turquoise lagoons of Ningaloo Reef, home to some of the world’s most incredible marine creatures.

Visit the lesser-known Southern Great Barrier Reef from the coastal city of Bundaberg , and you'll find idyllic islands surrounded by extraordinary marine creatures. Heron Island has more than 20 nearby dive sites to choose from, all of which have an abundance of tropical fish and corals.  Lady Elliot and Lady Musgrave Islands offer the opportunity to swim with manta rays, guitar sharks and leopard sharks. The nearby wreck of the HMAS Tobruk is also a drawcard for divers; scuttled in 2018, this enormous wreck has already attracted an incredible amount of marine life.

Guide to the Southern Great Barrier Reef

Majestic manta rays, islands teeming with turtles, lush rainforest and beautiful surf breaks; there’s a reason why we say the ‘great’ starts here.

The Great Barrier Reef is the heart and soul of diving in Australia. The stretch of interconnected reefs and islands has a huge selection of dive regions, each special for different reasons. You can base your stay in Cairns or Port Douglas to choose from a fantastic range of trips, or head out on a liveaboard boat with Mike Ball Dive Expeditions. A highlight of your expedition will be Ribbon Reef, home to some of Australia’s most phenomenal seasonal experiences, including turtle nesting season and a congregation of dwarf minke whales.

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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How I Travel: Natalie Dormer Grew Up Visiting the Beaches in Wales

Given her packed professional schedule and busy home life with a toddler , maybe Natalie Dormer really does just want to chill out with a magazine when she’s alone. Or maybe she’s buttering up her interviewer. “I’m not just saying this: My treat to myself when I get on an airplane is a hard copy of Condé Nast Traveler . I swear to god!” says the actress, who made her name as Margaery Tyrell in Game of Thrones . “And invariably I read about two articles and I fall asleep.”

She’s forgiven for the weariness: This week, her psychological thriller The Wasp hits theaters, of which she is both star and co-producer, and later this year she stars in Audrey’s Children , a biopic about the pioneering pediatric oncologist Dr. Audrey Evans. Ahead, she chatted with Condé Nast Traveler about her most awkward encounter with a fan, why she makes time for the Alhambra , and the region of her native United Kingdom that more international travelers should see.

The coolest film locations she’s ever had: I've been very lucky in my career. I've really worked in some outstanding places. Casanova , one of my first jobs, was shot entirely on location in Venice , which was pretty special. In The Forest , I found myself in Tokyo and below Mount Fuji. Croatia with Game of Thrones —I'm a lucky lady. But I think the real standout for me is Hanging Rock in the region of Victoria, Australia , when I shot Picnic at Hanging Rock . It is the most incredible, sculptural, and weirdly esoteric-feeling place, and it has a stunning view from the top. It's really a very powerful place, as the book suggests. Standing up on the top of Hanging Rock, looking out across the epic Australian landscape, playing a character that was about to jump off, is a standout moment in my memory.

Her favorite mode of transportation: I like trains . I think most of us do. There's something very calming about a train journey, and watching the changing landscape in front of you. But you can't beat a plane. It’s magical getting into this little compartment, [letting] however many hours go past, and getting out and being somewhere else. I’m still very childlike in my excitement about the doors opening on a plane and stepping off into an unknown place.

Her go-to plane outfit: Knowing that I'm most likely going to fall asleep, it tends to be a loose dress or a baggy top over leggings. And I have to say, I do compression socks . It's a habit that I got into when I was training for the marathon, in order to look after my body and my circulation. I tend to always have a pair in my bag. Not so sexy, ladies and gentlemen, but very good for you! Very healthy!

Her priorities when planning a vacation: These days, I need the [whole] package. I need somewhere that's child-friendly . Food is very important; my partner is big on going to a good restaurant, whether it's Michelin[-starred] or something else that is an eating experience. Even if we’re going for a relaxing week, or two weeks, I always aim for one cultural trip. We recently went to Spain, sort of halfway between Granada and Seville , and even though it was a relaxing family holiday, we knew we were going to go to the Alhambra for one day. If you go to the Amalfi coast , you make sure that you go to Pompeii. That one-day pop of culture is important for your brain. But yeah, these days it's like, is it child-friendly? Will David like the food? Oh, and is there a spa for me?

The strangest place she’s been recognized as Natalie Dormer: A sauna in Atlanta . We were shooting The Hunger Games in Atlanta, and you're like, Oh, please don't bring this up now, when I'm nearly naked . It was one of those situations in a sauna or a steam room when you don't want to leave too soon because it looks rude, like you're avoiding the person, so you try and wait out. I mean, it's a whole social mess.

The place in the United Kingdom she thinks more international travelers should see:

The Gower Peninsula on the south coast of Wales . It's 70 square miles of outstanding natural beauty. My grandparents are Welsh, and I remember being taken there a lot as a child. There's some stunning beaches and it's really big for surfers. If you're a camper, the Gower is really beautiful. Wide, sweeping sandy beaches are a novelty in this country. Although you can't guarantee the Welsh weather. You just go with an open mind.

The country she could travel to a million times and never tire of it: The Maldives . I've scuba-dived there three or four times now, and I just keep returning to it. The flora and fauna under the water is amazing. I was on the Baa Atoll recently, looking at manta rays, and it was just incredible. And the Maldivians are so hospitable! They're such a kind, generous nation. Great food, too.

The hotel amenity she cares a lot about: The bath. Obviously you hope for a view. But a bath, like a decent-sized, nice, hot bath that I can sink into at the end of the day, when I'm away from home and I'm shooting, I need that. That's the place where I decompress. I like a shower, but it's not a bath.

A quick way to ruin her vacation day: I hate it when you go to a hotel that's got a really stunning pool, but it's freezing cold. That annoys me. Like in Europe, in August or whatever, the sun is going to warm the pool, so they don't need to heat it. They don't need to worry about it. But if you're there in May or you're having a late holiday in October and the weather hasn't been generous and the pool is freezing? I hate that. The thing I'm realizing is that there's a theme here of hot water.

Where she wants to go next: So many places! I'd love to go to Tibet. I'd love to go to the Galápagos . I'm desperate to dive in Thailand . When I got to Australia, I never made it to New Zealand . And then French Polynesia ! I'm sorry. There's kind of a list. It's all of these places. So much to do! So much wonderful world to see!

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