to beGreat Barrier ReefFrom Bundaberg, the southernmost point of this natural wonder lies close to the coast. Visitors to the area can enjoy offshore diving, reef charters and island tours and even explore shipwrecks and other underwater treasures.
Where can I dive in Bundaberg?
The Bundaberg region is one of the few mainland areas in Queensland where you can dive directly from shore to see coral reefs, schools of reef fish and schools of turtles. Day trips and charters depart from Bundaberg Harbor Marina to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and the area's famous artificial reef. Bundaberg is also the starting point for air and boat trips to Lady Elliot and Lady Musgrave Islands, both of which have rich marine ecosystems with rich wildlife and vibrant coral formations.
What kind of diving trips can I go on in Bundaberg?
The Bundaberg region is the gateway to some of the most diverse dive sites and experiences on the Great Barrier Reef, including:
- land diving
- recife outside diving trip
- recife artisticdiving trip
- lady elliot island
- lady musgrave i.
land diving
A colorful underwater playground borders Bundaberg's coastline and offers a premium beach diving experience. The two most accessible dive sites at Wongarra Marine Park are:
- Hoffman's Rock: Maximum depth of 10 meters, average visibility of 5 to 10 meters.
- Barolin Rocks: Maximum depth 10m, average visibility 5-10m, best diving in calm conditions.
tip:Many Learn to Dive courses attend these locations because they do not require a dive boat, making them an affordable option.
what do i want to see
Hoffman's Rock is covered in hard and soft corals, including marine gorgonians, as well as numerous colorful coral reefs (impressive coral pillars) that attract schools of barracuda, trevally, lionfish, olive sea snakes and live nudibranchs (molluscs). The dive site is also home to turtles and green turtles, stingrays, sea bass and Waubegon sharks.
Barolin Rocks is one of the few dive sites in Queensland where dugongs have been sighted. This is the perfect place for beginners to hone their skills while seeing turtles, rays, sea snakes, nudibranchs, eels, reef fish, coral formations and even baby sharks!
Snorkel trip to the outer reef
Weather permitting, diving trips to the edge of the Great Barrier Reef most often depart from Bundaberg Harbor Marina and fall into two categories:
- One day regular trip
- special submarine
One day regular trip
Boat trips to the southern part of the Great Barrier Reef usually offer a variety of activities and often include a stop at Lady Musgrave Island.diveHorseback riding is an optional activity on these tours, so it's a great choice for families, mixed groups and people who want to experience all the area has to offer, on and off the water. You do not need to be certified by the many instructors and diving masters on board who can guide you through the introductory dive. All equipment is also included. In addition to diving, you can enjoy guided walks in Lady Musgrave National Park, fish feeding andSemi-submersibleLady Musgrave Lagoon Tour.
dedicated diving boat
Experienced divers can explore some of the most remote and hard-to-reach dive sites in the southern Great Barrier Reef aboard a dedicated dive boat. Catering exclusively to certified divers, a handful of scheduled cruises and charter boats operate small group tours to islands and outer reef dive sites beyond Lady Musgrave Island. These full day trips usually allow plenty of time for two dives. Tanks and scales are included on board, and all other equipment and snorkelling equipment can be rented before departure.
tip:Both tours typically take 10 hours, including travel time, so it's best to consider a full day each. expedition.
what do i want to see
Depending on the time of year, you can see as much marine life above the water as below! Whales can often be seen on their annual pilgrimage to and from the Queensland coast later in the year, while full-throated migratory birds are also worth a look. The waters teem with turtles, manta rays, eagle rays, clown fish, trumpet fish, parrot fish and Waubegon sharks.
Diving trip to artificial reef
One of Queensland's most unusual dive sites lies just five nautical miles off the coast of Bundaberg. Reaching 18 meters deep, the Cochrane Artificial Reef is an impressive collection of decommissioned ships and aircraft, consisting of a maze of pipes, pylons and concrete blocks that have been pulled from the sea and sunk several times since the early 1990s. , the 350-tonne gravel sweeper Ceratodus II is positioned alongside the 40-metre Porteur and is flanked by two Mohawks, a 15-seater Kingair, two lightships, a trawler, a landing barge and a water tank. Corals and other marine fauna quickly overwhelm alien structures and attract hordes of marine life.
Another wreck, the 42 meter MV Karma, sank in 2003 8 nautical miles off the coast of Bundaberg and is now 26 meters deep. Experienced divers can swim through her cabin and inspect her boom, double deck bridge, cabin and engine room.
what do i want to see
As well as some of the best wreck diving in Queensland, you'll also see schools of trevally, barracuda, snapper, batfish, lionfish, black kingfish, kingfish and reef fish. Rays, Wobegon sharks, sea snakes, turtles, moray eels, squid and nudibranchs also frolic among these exotic structures.
lady elliot island
lady elliot islandis a small coral reef nicknamed "The First Lady of the Reef", only 10 kilometers from the continental shelf. It is in protected waters but still offers around 20 approved dive sites. Beginners and snorkelers can explore the coral formations close to the beach, while more experienced divers can venture further offshore to explore the shores of the Coral Sea. Most dive sites are only a few minutes by boat from the island. A well-equipped diving center can rent equipment and arrange transport.
tip:Lady Elliot Island is a 25-minute scenic flight from Bundaberg. For divers who wish to explore the surrounding marine park at leisure, there is a 41-room eco-resort on the island.
what do i want to see
The island is famous for its thriving manta ray population. It is also home to breeding and nesting sea turtles, flocks of nesting birds, dolphins and migrating humpback whales.
lady musgrave i.
Loved by divers and diving enthusiasts,lady musgrave i.The biggest gem is its large lagoon. Surrounded by coral reefs with an average depth of 6 to 8 meters, the reef is dotted with reef and exotic reef fish, perfect for beginner divers.
tip:It takes just over two hours to reach Lady Musgrave Island on a high-speed catamaran that departs daily.
what do i want to see
The island is a nesting site for green and loggerhead sea turtles, as well as thousands of nesting and migrating seabirds. Beneath the surface you can see manta rays, moray eels and coral trout. From July to November you can see migrating humpback whales playing in the waters around Lady Musgrave. Whitetip reef and leopard sharks have also been seen feeding near the shallows.
Can I still dive if I'm not certified?
Bundaberg is one of the easiest places to learn to dive and we can help you choose the perfect course or entry level course. Shore diving is an inexpensive way to master diving skills and gain diving experience towards internationally recognized certification. Day trips to Lady Musgrave Island also offer introductory diving as an optional activity, with an instructor and dive master on board each boat. They are ideal for reef visitors who have no experience, certification or equipment, but want to experience diving in a calm, safe and comfortable environment.
When is the best time to dive from Bundaberg?
Bundaberg has one of the mildest subtropical climates in Australia, with constant temperatures that make it comfortable to visit and dive at any time of the year. Some of the best dive sites are found in winter (June to August) when colder currents wash over the reefs, providing better visibility.
tip:Don't miss the "Turtle Season" from November to March.Mon Repos Conservation ParkThe southern Great Barrier Reef is a nesting site for large numbers of sea turtles, including loggerhead and green turtles. Visitors can watch the turtles swim ashore to lay eggs, then watch the hatchlings leave their nests after six to eight weeks before scurrying across the sand for their first dip in the ocean.
What is the water temperature in Bundaberg?
Water temperatures in the southern part of the Great Barrier Reef average 24 degrees Celsius each year. Summers (December to February) can reach a maximum of 26°C and winters (June to August) can drop to 20°C.
Dive articles to help you plan your next adventure
- Scuba diving overview
- Get started with diving
- One day diving trip
- Liveaboard Scuba Tour
- Diving in the Whitsunday Islands
FAQs
Can you see Great Barrier Reef from Bundaberg? ›
Bundaberg is the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef and home to the first two islands of the reef, Lady Elliot Island and Lady Musgrave Island. You can explore these islands by boat or plane on a day trip, overnight stay or week-long escape on your perfect next holiday to the Bundaberg region.
What month is best to dive barrier reef? ›The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is from June to October. This peak season offers some key advantages for travelers. Temperatures hover in the low 60s to mid-80s, and rainfall is uncommon, which means clearer waters and better diving conditions.
How long does it take from Bundaberg to Lady Musgrave Island? ›How Long Does It Take To Get To Lady Musgrave Island? The trip to Lady Musgrave Island is approximately 2 hours 15 from the time we depart Bundaberg and reach the Island.
Is it worth scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef? ›Yes! The Great Barrier Reef is a world heritage site and a bucket list destination. There are so many incredible places to go diving along the reef, including Cod Hole, Ribbon Reef, and Osprey Reef.
What town is closest to the Great Barrier Reef? ›By far the closest, and easiest city to choose is Cairns, being the to-go place for Great Barrier Reef tours. Submerge yourself in the city lifestyle before hopping on board a boat and getting up close and personal with this world-famous marine attraction.
Can you swim in the ocean in Bundaberg? ›The Bundaberg Region boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia. There are many to choose from with Bargara being only 15 minutes from Bundaberg City. Elliott Heads, Moore Park Beach, Burnett Heads, Innes Park and Woodgate Beach all offer beautiful swimming and family fun areas.
Is it better to snorkel or scuba the barrier reef? ›To truly immerse yourself in the underwater world that is the Great Barrier Reef, scuba diving is the way to go! Snorkelling can be great for a quick look, but scuba diving can take out any of the frustrations you may face by simply snorkelling along the reefs, such as breathing, vision, and tiredness.
How many days are enough for Great Barrier Reef? ›Honestly, a lifetime is not enough to explore and enjoy all the amazing natural wonders of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef. But if you can't spend your life on holiday, we recommend at least three days in Cairns to discover the main attractions.
When can you not swim in Great Barrier Reef? ›A: It is safe to swim all year round in Cairns, Port Douglas and the Great Barrier Reef but it is highly recommended that you wear a lycra suit when entering the water in the warmer months of November-April.
How many days do you need in Bundaberg? ›Located four and a half hours' drive north of Brisbane, Bundaberg is the provincial hub of Queensland's Wide Bay-Burnett region, and is billed as the southern gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. There's plenty to recommend a stop of three or four days in the city itself.
Are there stingers at Lady Musgrave Island? ›
Are there jellyfish? In an open ocean environment, we cannot guarantee there will be no jellyfish, however we have never had any harmful stingers, and do not experience a “stinger season” (as is the case further north). The sheltered lagoon prevents large jellyfish blooms in the snorkel area.
How much does it cost to stay on Lady Musgrave Island? ›Lady Musgrave HQ glamping beds are priced from $1800 per couple for a two-night, three-day stay ($1350 for singles). Includes transfers, meals, snorkelling and glass-bottom boat tour. Additional costs apply for diving. Day tours cost from $228 a person.
Do you have to wear wetsuit Great Barrier Reef? ›The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most beautiful natural attractions you'll see in the world. Wetsuits are essential to wear while you're snorkelling, or even when you're diving in the Great Barrier Reef.
Where is the best scuba diving in the world? ›- Great Blue Hole, Belize. ...
- Barracuda Point, Sipadan Island. ...
- Maaya Thila - South Ari Atoll, Maldives. ...
- Richelieu Rock, Thailand. ...
- Santa Rosa Wall, Cozumel. ...
- SS Thistlegorm Wreck, Egyptian Red Sea. ...
- SS Yongala Wreck - Great Barrier Reef, Australia. ...
- 1000 Steps, Bonaire.
Whitsundays. Teeming with crystal clear beaches, vivid greenery, and over 74 separate islands to choose from, the Whitsundays is the perfect base point when visiting the Great Barrier Reef.
What is the best time of year to visit Great Barrier Reef? ›The prime time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is between May and October when water temperatures are pleasant for swimming, rainfall is low and underwater visibility is high. You can still have an awesome time outside of these months, but there are a few things you may want to consider.
Is it better to stay in Port Douglas or Cairns? ›If it's pure nature you're looking for within the actual area you'll be staying, it's hard to recommend Cairns over the postcard-style natural surroundings that Port Douglas has to offer, with Port Douglas' proximity to the Daintree Rainforest being an added bonus.
Are there stingers on Bundaberg beaches? ›The wide expanse of sandy beaches is stinger free and ranges from excellent surfing to safe swimming in calmer waters.
Why is Bundaberg famous? ›Bundaberg is most famous throughout Australia and internationally for its signature rum distillery but the regional town is also the ideal base to explore the Southern Great Barrier Reef.
Is Bundaberg water safe? ›UPDATE 7 JANUARY 2022. Bundaberg Regional Council advises all residents in Childers, Woodgate and surrounds that tap water used for drinking is now safe to consume.
Why are snorkels not allowed in swimming pools? ›
During busier swimming sessions or those with lanes, the use of snorkels can restrict the vision of the wearer as their head is predominantly face down in the water and this can cause accidents and injuries to other users in the pool when the wearer inadvertently collides with them.
Why don't you dive with snorkel in mouth? ›So water would rush into your mouth and possibly into your lungs. Diving underwater with the snorkel in your mouth violates the No. 1 rule of freediving safety — to always protect the airway.
How do people stay underwater so long with a snorkel? ›Snorkel masks cover your eyes and nose, so you can see underwater without it going up your nose. The snorkel is a flexible tube that allows you to breathe while you have your face in the water. You hold one end in your mouth and for air exchange to happen, the top of the tube has to poke out about the water's surface.
How long is the boat ride from Cairns to Great Barrier Reef? ›Reaching the Barrier Reef from Cairns and Port Douglas only takes from 35 minutes to one and a half hours depending on your boat type and the location you are going to snorkel and scuba dive, whereas from everywhere else on the east coast of Australia it takes two and half to three hours to reach the snorkelling and ...
How can I see the Great Barrier Reef without diving? ›Take to the skies with a helicopter ride over the Great Barrier Reef. Departing from Cairns and Port Douglas, experience aerial views of the reef with GBR Helicopters, before landing on a remote coral cay with nothing around you but the ocean and a tropical picnic.
How many days do I need in Cairns? ›3 days is absolutely enough time for a fun trip to Cairns!
Then you can have another free day to relax in downtown Cairns or try a fun adventure activity! Though 4 days in Cairns is better, 3 days is still a good starting point for a trip to this vibrant tropical city.
It is recommended to wear a stinger suit as a precaution for any water activities in the Great Barrier Reef. Even if the chances of being stung is low, we wouldn't want anything life-threatening to be happening to you! Best you grab a stinger suit and explore the Great Barrier Reef waters safely.
Can I take shells from the Great Barrier Reef? ›You must not damage, collect or otherwise take coral, including dead coral and protected shell species (that is, giant triton shell, helmet shell and giant clam) in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park unless you have a Marine Parks permit.
Will I see sharks in the Great Barrier Reef? ›Although sharks do appear in the Great Barrier Reef at times, the most common sharks found here are typically harmless to humans. Such as blacktip reef sharks, grey whaler reefs sharks, leopard sharks, epaulette sharks and wobbegong sharks.
Is it worth going to Bundaberg? ›It is also a gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, which holds some of the best snorkelling sites in Queensland and is easy to access. There are many great things to do in and around Bundaberg, which is why Bundaberg is worth visiting.
What do people enjoy about Bundaberg? ›
Bundaberg is home to 15 beaches, and there's one to suit every type of beach adventure and taste. Bargara and Kelly's Beach are local family favourites with patrolled swimming areas.
What is the crime like in Bundaberg? ›Crime Rank: 92.37/100.
Are there crocodiles in Great Barrier Reef? ›Saltwater crocodiles are typically found in the murky waterways, rivers, lakes, and swamps in the Northern region of Australia. However, on occasion, they can be found in the ocean region, with the beaches and islands in the Great Barrier Reef known to have an occasional croc sighting.
Are there snakes on Lady Musgrave Island? ›Snorkel the shallows or dive coral gardens on the northern side and the extensive drop-off on the southern side. Divers and snorkelers may come face to face with manta rays, turtles, schooling fish, reef sharks, colourful reef fish, stingrays and even sea snakes.
Is it safe to swim at Lady Musgrave Island? ›The area around Lady Musgrave Island is relatively safe, but there are some dangers that you should be aware of. Among them are stingrays that abound in the waters around the island.
Can you snorkel off the beach at Lady Musgrave Island? ›You do not have to be a great swimmer to go snorkelling. The unique Lady Musgrave Lagoon offers year round calm water perfect for the first time snorkeller. Our friendly crew will provide a snorkel briefing that explains how to use the equipment and safety information.
Can you stay overnight at Lady Musgrave Island? ›Lady Musgrave HQ Accommodation
In addition to sleeping in a Lower Deck Double Glamping Bed, guests may sleep above the surface in an Upper Deck Island View Queen Glamping Bed. Overnight stays include VIP transfers, meals and snorkelling equipment hire on our luxury catamaran departing Bundaberg Port Marina.
It's a popular nesting ground for turtles
Lady Musgrave Island is a huge nesting ground for green turtles, and to a smaller degree, loggerhead turtles. Visitors to the island between November to February can expect to see mama turtles laying their eggs.
How come saltwater crocodiles don't inhabit the salty reef, you ask? It's a good question – but the Great Barrier Reef's clear water, lack of crocodile-friendly food sources and large swimming distances from the mainland make seeing a crocodile on the outer reef (aka where the reef tours go) extremely unlikely.
Do you need a bra under a wetsuit? ›For women you can wear a sports bra and some sort of compression shorts, or you can wear a swimsuit. You do not want to wear something cotton-based which holds water because it will increase your chaffing. Also, do not wear underwear. Underwear will not dry out and will cause a sore saddle.
Do stinger suits work against jellyfish? ›
Often made out of nylon or spandex for ultimate comfort when in the water, stinger suits not only offer a high level of protection against the harmful stings of jellyfish but can also help to keep out the sun's UV rays while you're swimming, surfing or undertaking a number of different water sports.
What town is closest to the barrier reef? ›By far the closest, and easiest city to choose is Cairns, being the to-go place for Great Barrier Reef tours. Submerge yourself in the city lifestyle before hopping on board a boat and getting up close and personal with this world-famous marine attraction.
What is the most colorful part of the Great Barrier Reef? ›Saxon Reef is famous for its kaleidoscope of colour once the sun shines down upon the water. It has both deep and shallow areas, letting inexperience swimmers take a break from paddling in some parts.
What beach is closest to the Great Barrier Reef? ›The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Australia and is located just off the coast of Mission Beach. There are a range of tour operators in the area that offer day trips to the reef, so you can enjoy snorkelling and diving in the world's largest coral reef system.
What is the diving capital of the US? ›Best Scuba Diving in the Florida Keys
Key Largo, Florida is known as the scuba diving capital of the world. This is because there is a very large amount of dive sites easily accessible to divers. The Florida Keys is located along the 3rd largest barrier reef in the world.
Diving Season: October to May is the best diving season, with lower rainfall, calmer seas, and better visibility.
What is the clearest water for scuba diving? ›Lake Baikal – Russia
It's home to rare freshwater seals, canyons, grottos and marine life you'll never see anywhere else in the world. The lake holds about 20% of the world's fresh water and is over 5,000 feet deep.
Access points to the Great Barrier Reef are scattered between the northernmost town of Cape York and the southernmost coastal town of Bundaberg. The five most popular airports leading to the reef are: Cairns Airport (CNS) is located 5.5km (3.5mi) from Cairns; international and domestic arrivals.
How to see the Great Barrier Reef from Brisbane? ›The Great Barrier Reef is only a short drive or flight from Brisbane. Either as part of an extended trip on the Queensland coast or a few days away you must visit Lady Musgrave Island & Lagoon with Lady Musgrave Experience. Bundaberg is your first port of call & gateway to the Great Barrier Reef from Brisbane.
How far is Bundaberg from the ocean? ›Situated around 15km from the Coral Coast, Bundaberg, North Burnett is synonymous with great beaches, all of which offer different wildlife and aquatic experiences depending on your taste.
Can you see the Great Barrier Reef from Hervey Bay? ›
Did you know you can access the beautiful Great Barrier Reef from Hervey Bay? Only a short 40 minute flight and you are transported to a beautiful marine environment like no other. White sandy beaches surround a resort nestled out in the middle of nowhere.
How many days do you need in the Great Barrier Reef? ›Honestly, a lifetime is not enough to explore and enjoy all the amazing natural wonders of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef. But if you can't spend your life on holiday, we recommend at least three days in Cairns to discover the main attractions.
Where is the best place in Australia to snorkel Great Barrier Reef? ›The Low Isles
The holiday town of Port Douglas in northern Queensland is one of the best places to access the Great Barrier Reef. Just 15 minutes away by boat is the Low Isles, where you can snorkel among corals beside the local population of sea turtles.
Lady Elliot Island
This is the closest Great Barrier Reef island to Brisbane and can be reached via an 80-minute flight aboard Seair Pacific.
It is also a gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, which holds some of the best snorkelling sites in Queensland and is easy to access. There are many great things to do in and around Bundaberg, which is why Bundaberg is worth visiting.
When not to visit the Great Barrier Reef? ›The warm water means one thing: stingers. While marine stingers are found along the Great Barrier Reef all year round, the potentially lethal jellyfish species – Box and Irukandji – enter the waters from November through May.
Can you see whales at the Great Barrier Reef? ›Around 30 species of whale and dolphin are found in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. Dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins are among the most commonly sighted and reported species.