## Where to Fly to in Australia for Scuba Diving
Australia boasts some of the most diverse and spectacular scuba diving destinations in the world. From the iconic Great Barrier Reef to the pristine waters of the Ningaloo Reef, there are plenty of places to explore underwater. Here are a few of the best places to fly to in Australia for scuba diving:
### Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world, stretching over 2,300 kilometers along the coast of Queensland. It is home to an incredible variety of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 400 species of coral, and 4,000 species of mollusks.
There are many different ways to experience the Great Barrier Reef, from day trips to liveaboard expeditions. Some of the most popular dive sites include:
Agincourt Reef: This is one of the most popular dive sites on the Great Barrier Reef, and for good reason. It is home to a large variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, turtles, and dolphins.
Lady Elliot Island: This small island is located on the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef. It is home to a large population of manta rays, which can often be seen feeding in the shallow waters around the island.
Osprey Reef: This remote reef is located about 200 kilometers north of Cairns. It is home to a large population of sharks, including tiger sharks, bull sharks, and hammerhead sharks.
### Ningaloo Reef
The Ningaloo Reef is a 260-kilometer long coral reef located off the coast of Western Australia. It is home to a diverse range of marine life, including over 500 species of fish, 200 species of coral, and 600 species of mollusks.
The Ningaloo Reef is a great place to go scuba diving because it is protected from the strong currents of the Indian Ocean. This makes it a great place for beginners to learn to dive or for experienced divers to explore the underwater world at their own pace.
Some of the most popular dive sites on the Ningaloo Reef include:
The Muiron Islands: These two small islands are located about 10 kilometers off the coast of Coral Bay. They are home to a large population of sea turtles, which can often be seen nesting on the beaches.
The Blue Hole: This large underwater cave is located about 20 kilometers north of Coral Bay. It is a popular dive site for experienced divers, as it is home to a variety of sharks and rays.
The Navy Pier: This pier is located about 30 kilometers north of Coral Bay. It is a great place to dive for beginners, as it is home to a variety of fish and coral.
### Other Great Dive Sites in Australia
In addition to the Great Barrier Reef and the Ningaloo Reef, there are many other great dive sites in Australia. These include:
Lord Howe Island: This small island is located about 600 kilometers off the coast of New South Wales. It is home to a diverse range of marine life, including sharks, rays, turtles, and dolphins.
Rottnest Island: This island is located about 19 kilometers off the coast of Perth, Western Australia. It is home to a large population of quokkas, which are small, furry marsupials.
The Cocos Islands: These islands are located about 2,700 kilometers northwest of Perth. They are home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, turtles, and dolphins.
## How to Choose the Right Dive Site for You
When choosing a dive site in Australia, there are a few factors to consider:
Your level of experience: If you are a beginner, you will want to choose a dive site that is protected from strong currents and has clear visibility.
What you want to see: If you are interested in seeing a particular type of marine life, such as sharks or turtles, you will want to choose a dive site that is known for that type of wildlife.
The time of year: Some dive sites are only accessible during certain times of the year. For example, the Great Barrier Reef is best visited during the winter months when the water is calmer.
## Tips for Scuba Diving in Australia
Here are a few tips for scuba diving in Australia:
Get certified before you go: If you are not already certified, you can get certified in Australia. There are many dive schools located throughout the country.
Bring your own gear: If you have your own dive gear, bring it with you. This will save you money on rental fees.
Be prepared for the weather: The weather in Australia can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack for all types of weather.
Respect the marine life: Do not touch or harass the marine life. Remember, you are a guest in their home.
## Conclusion
Australia is a scuba diver’s paradise, with a wide variety of dive sites to choose from. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, you are sure to find the perfect dive site for you. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your scuba diving adventure today!