Cairns Travel Forum

Scuba Diving vs Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef
Posted: Tue April 21, 2009 03:49 AM UTC

For those uncertified, novice divers who have 1 day to visit the Great Barrier Reef, would it be better to snorkel, or are the first-time dives worth it?

We're staying in Daintree so we'd like to do some Jungle Canopy Surfing as well. But diving might make that activity impossible (time-wise). Should we just go with snorkeling? Or would that just be missing too much of the GBR's beauty?

digthegoat

4 replies

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Re: Scuba Diving vs Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef
Posted: Tue April 21, 2009 07:20 AM UTC

I really enjoyed my snorkelling at the GBR but also had the opportunity to go in a mini submarine which gave me more to see. From my personal experience, I would say its a big disappointment if you don't 'get on' with the diving, as was my experience (could cope with hearing myself breathe under water). The snorkelling wasn't as good as diving, I'm sure, but find a trip that gives you the mini-sub option and its less of a problem.

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Gillybob

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Re: Scuba Diving vs Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef
Posted: Tue April 21, 2009 01:08 PM UTC

I did the introductory dive course and we got instruction and two dives and it was awesome. Two words: Do it. i spent a week in Port Douglas (Just north of Cairns) and only did 1 day on the reef.
The rest of the time was at the daintree rainforest, Atherton tablelands, Kuranda, Port Douglas, Mt Molloy and Mossman Gorge. Awesome part of the world IMHO.

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Eggboy

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Re: Scuba Diving vs Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef
Posted: Wed April 22, 2009 03:35 PM UTC

The reef is so magical that snorkelling is adequate. I myself have done the scuba- but quite honestly have to say that the most beautiful corals and fish seem to be nearer the surface.
Its possible to do an 'escorted dive'with an instructorwithout a certificate. You do, however, have to have ahealth check, which is done on board the dive-boat. All equipment can be hired. Daintree is a must see too, so try and fit it in.

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lynnehamman

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Re: Scuba Diving vs Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef
Posted: Fri April 24, 2009 12:06 AM UTC

Unfortunately I am unable to dive (although I have tried very hard :( ). I have snorkled on the reef before and I agree with the previous poster. There is so much activity close to the surface that you can't possibly be disappointed with snorkelling. Obviously I can't compare it to diving, but rest assured that you will still see some stunning sights if you choose to snorkel.

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