Diving

Australia is known the home of some of the best scuba diving in the world, starring the unsurpassed crown jewel, the Great Barrier Reef, and the awe-inspiring Rowley Shoals and Ningaloo Reef. And there are hundreds of lesser-known, equally beautiful diving destinations to explore. Spectacular underwater flora and fauna; multi-coloured species living in communities, it’s no wonder that Sir David Attenborough recalled his first time diving on the Great Barrier Reef as the most magical thing he ever saw in his life “... just astounding and unforgettable beauty."

The biodiversity in Australia’s marine ecosystems encompasses tropical, temperate and cold water coral reefs, open oceans, seas, seagrass beds, and kelp forests – each hosting a myriad of life to observe. Experienced divers can explore the more remote reefs and locations such as Balls Pyramid (close to Lord Howe Island) or Cod Hole (on the northern tip of Ribbon Reef near Lizard Island). However it doesn’t require expertise to be amongst phenomenal seasonal experiences such as coral spawning or swimming with whales during their migration. Divers can relive the vast history that lies beneath the sea with sunken ships and the suggestion of lost treasures, or help tackle urgent environmental challenges through research, education, and community engagement in citizen science projects.

Besides the diving induced buzz of adventure, diving has been proven to increase emotional wellbeing and concentration capacity, improve blood circulation and relieve stress. In the deep tranquillity of the underwater world, the background noise of life suddenly disappears and you’re left with only the sound of your own breathing, and the intricate clicks and communications of marine life.

Whether it’s the first or hundredth time taking the plunge, there aren’t many sensations in life that compare to the experience of weightlessness and breathing underwater and the sheer wonder of the underwater world.