The Great Barrier Reef in Australia is among the most famous diving spots in the world. It is the largest reef system in the world and is a good place to explore for new and experienced divers. The biodiversity is the main attraction of the reef, which has numerous locations where divers can visit.
The Great Barrier Reef covers 350,000 square kilometers and is the only living structure visible from outer space. According to Fishermen’s Angle, it is home to 1,500 species of fish, including:
- Cardinal Fish
- Butterfly fish
- Clown Fish
The reef also supports 350 coral species, 10,000 sponge species and 4,000 mollusk species, including:
The Great Barrier Reef also hosts the Reef Shark, which are essentially harmless unless provoked. Turtles, dolphins and migrating whales can also be seen close to the reef.
The more notable dive sites at the Great Barrier Reef are:
- SS Yongala
- Ribbon Reef
- The Whitsundays
- HMAS Brisbane
- Heron Island
- Osprey Reef
Diving at the Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is located at the eastern coast of Australia. While there are day trips available for weekend warriors, live-aboard boats are also available for divers who want to explore a good part of the reef. There are many entry points going to the reef from towns along the coast of Queensland. These entry points include:
- Port Douglas
- Airlie Beach
The rich biodiversity and sheer size of the Great Barrier Reef makes it an ideal dive spot. It has shallow areas where beginners can hone their diving skills as well as sites for advanced divers.