## Is Cairns the Best Place for Scuba Diving?
Cairns, Australia, is world-renowned for its stunning natural beauty and abundant marine life. The Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, is just a short boat ride away from Cairns, making it a popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers. But is Cairns really the best place for scuba diving?
### Pros of Scuba Diving in Cairns
– The Great Barrier Reef: The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world, stretching over 1,400 miles. It is home to an incredible diversity of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 400 species of coral, and 4,000 species of mollusks.
– Variety of dive sites: There are over 70 dive sites within easy reach of Cairns, each with its own unique features. From shallow reefs teeming with colorful fish to deep walls and shipwrecks, there is something for every level of diver.
– Excellent visibility: The water clarity in Cairns is typically excellent, thanks to the lack of runoff from rivers and streams. This makes it easy to see the underwater world, even at depths of over 100 feet.
– Warm water temperatures: The water temperature in Cairns ranges from 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it comfortable to dive without a wetsuit.
– Abundant marine life: The Great Barrier Reef is home to an incredible diversity of marine life. You can expect to see everything from tiny nudibranchs to giant manta rays and whale sharks.
### Cons of Scuba Diving in Cairns
– Crowds: Cairns is a popular tourist destination, so the dive sites can be crowded, especially during peak season. This can make it difficult to find a quiet spot to dive and can increase the risk of accidents.
– Cost: Scuba diving in Cairns can be expensive, especially if you need to rent equipment or take a liveaboard trip.
– Limited visibility: The visibility in Cairns can be affected by weather conditions and water currents. This can make it difficult to see the underwater world, especially at depths of over 100 feet.
– Strong currents: The currents in Cairns can be strong, especially during the summer months. This can make it difficult to navigate the dive sites and can increase the risk of accidents.
### Conclusion
So, is Cairns the best place for scuba diving? It depends on what you are looking for. If you are looking for a place with a wide variety of dive sites, excellent visibility, and warm water temperatures, then Cairns is a great choice. However, if you are looking for a quiet and secluded dive experience, or if you are on a tight budget, then you may want to consider other destinations.
### Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to go scuba diving in Cairns?
A: The best time to go scuba diving in Cairns is during the winter months (May to October), when the water is clear and the currents are weaker.
Q: What are the most popular dive sites in Cairns?
A: Some of the most popular dive sites in Cairns include the SS Yongala, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Coral Sea.
Q: What are the costs of scuba diving in Cairns?
A: The costs of scuba diving in Cairns vary depending on the type of dive you want to do and the dive operator you choose. However, you can expect to pay around $100 for a single dive and $300 for a day trip.
Q: What are the safety precautions I should take when scuba diving in Cairns?
A: When scuba diving in Cairns, it is important to follow all safety precautions, including:
– Always dive with a buddy.
– Stay within your depth limits.
– Do not touch or disturb marine life.
– Be aware of the currents and tides.
– Listen to your dive guide.