Logan Merrill The Great Barrier Reef in Australia is one of the wonders of the world. It is over 3,000 miles long, and much of it remains unexplored by humans. Australia actively protects the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s most extensive and diverse coral reef system.
If you are planning a trip to Australia, you are most likely considering an excursion out to see the Great Barrier Reef. Since the reef is so large, you can see it in many parts of Australia: from Cairns down to Brisbane and the Whitsunday Islands!
When my husband and I travelled to Australia, our first stop was the tropical North. We ended up staying in Port Douglas as opposed to Cairns. We actually ended up changing locations after we arrived!
Selecting our Great Barrier Reef excursion
Since traveling to Australia is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, I knew we had to visit the Great Barrier Reef.
There were many options for day trips out to the reef. Most companies offer snorkeling, scuba introduction dives, and certified scuba dives. We ended up booking a tour with Poseidon Outer Reef Cruises, and we highly recommend them.
Their staff was outstanding, and their moorings are more private than other companies. That means that you will be the only catamaran at a location on the reef, while other locations may have several boats at once (think crowded!).
Snorkeling is open to anyone and everyone. Masks, fins, and snorkels are provided. They also offer noodles and life jackets for anyone who is not a strong swimmer or would just prefer to have a little extra flotation. GoPro cameras are also available to rent. I brought a waterproof phone case for my phone, which worked well.
Introductory scuba: No certification needed
Introductory scuba dives do not require you to have a scuba certification or any prior scuba instruction. You can opt to do an intro dive at one or multiple locations along the reef. If you take prescription medications, you must obtain medical clearance before diving, or the crew will not allow you to participate.
Experienced scuba divers can participate in certified dives, but they must hold current scuba certifications to join.
My husband is certified to scuba dive, and he absolutely loves it. He has been trying to convince me to get certified for 6 years now! I am a fairly adventurous girl, but for some reason, I am hesitant about scuba diving.
I was on the fence about trying it the whole time we were planning our trip to Australia, so I went ahead and got medically cleared just in case. Two days before heading out to the reef, I upgraded our excursion from snorkeling only to an intro dive.
Getting ready to dive
As soon as we boarded the catamaran, the crew handed us scuba waivers to review and sign. Since I was so nervous, I requested to do our dive at the first site on the reef, so I could rip the band-aid off.
A certified scuba instructor briefed us on all the safety information as we made our way out to the reef. He was an excellent teacher and was very understanding of the nerves that came with diving for the first time.
We were fitted with wetsuits, masks, respirators, and oxygen tanks. Up to this point, I was feeling pretty confident! Once we reached the dive site, we were required to jump in the water and demonstrate some safety protocols in the water before the dive started.
Unfortunately, as soon as I went under the water, my mask filled with water, and I panicked. I wanted out immediately.
I swam up to the surface, pulled off my mask, and asked to get back on the boat. The crew pulled me out and made sure I was alright, because I was clearly shaken.
My husband and the rest of the group continued with their dive, and all had a great time! While they dove, a member of the crew offered to snorkel with me so that I had some company.
At the remaining two reef sites, my husband and I snorkeled together and had an amazing time. The reef is beautiful, and each site has something different to offer.
My thoughts on the Great Barrier Reef excursion
If you are on the fence about trying the dive, I say go for it!
The group was able to see fish during the dive that I did not get to see while snorkeling. (Hello clownfish!)
Out of 15 new divers, I was the only one who did not complete the dive. That being said, I don’t regret not completing the dive. It simply is not for me. And I was very content swimming around at my own leisure.