What is the best time of year to dive in Queensland?

The warm waters of Tropical North Queensland are ideal for year round diving. Water temperature can vary from 22° to 28° Celsius (75° to 85°F).

How safe is diving the Great Barrier Reef?

The Queensland dive industry has the best safety statistics of any diving destination worldwide. Dive operators are required to comply with strict government workplace health and safety standards.

What is Reef Tax?

Reef Tax, officially known as EMC (Environmental Management Charge) is a government charge, which is currently $4.50 per person per day. This money goes towards research, preservation and management of The Great Barrier Reef. This charge is included in all Pro Dive Cairns dive options.

I have heard about the stinging jellyfish. Can I still go diving?

Stingers, also known as box jellyfish, are coastal dwellers and are never seen on the reef. They breed in the estuaries and live their life on the shoreline, therefore do not pose a threat to divers on the reef. The jellyfish season is from November to April. Swimming enclosures are provided at local beaches for people to swim in.

What will I see diving on The Great Barrier Reef?

A lot! Whether you are a diver or a snorkeller, you will be amazed by what the Great Barrier Reef has to offer. There are up to 1500 species of fish, 350 different corals, 400 species of molluscs and 10,000 species of sponges.

Are there sharks on the Great Barrier Reef?

Yes, there are sharks in every ocean. A variety of sharks inhabit the Great Barrier Reef. What we most commonly encounter are smaller species which pose no threat to divers or snorkellers. The shark that Australia is infamous for, the Great White Shark, does not exist in Far North Queensland.

I have forgotten/lost my certification card/license, can I still dive?

Yes, as long as evidence of certification can be provided. You can do this by contacting your original certifying organizations. We can provide assistance in this area if needed.

When I travel with Pro Dive Cairns, where will I be diving?

We have 16 exclusive dive sites on 4 spectacular outer reefs. The reefs: Thetford, Pellowe, Milln and Flynn are situated on the Outer Great Barrier Reef, South East from Cairns. These sites are rarely visited by other vessels so divers and snorkellers get the exclusive opportunity to view magnificent corals and fish life without the crowds. We generally only ever do two dives at any one dive site.

What depths will I be diving to?

The Great Barrier Reef is generally not a deep dive destination. Our 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.

Do I need my own equipment?

No. Pro Dive includes all equipment you may need for any dive or snorkel package.

What if I am travelling alone? Who will I dive with?

We will arrange a dive buddy for you. A dive guide is available on some dives. There is also an opportunity to have a guided night dive. Before every dive, the dive supervisor conducts a detailed site briefing.