Dive the incredible fringing reefs of The 74 Whitsunday Islands
The Whitsunday Islands and the surrounding hundred or so miles of Great Barrier Reef Marine Park offer a wide variety of diving and snorkelling opportunities. The islands are ringed by fringing coral reefs with a high diversity of coral and fish species. The group is also a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef proper, which lies about 34 nautical miles to the north-east of the Whitsunday mainland, about two hours or so by fast dive boat.
Snorkelling and diving is well catered for in the area and the nature of the islands means it is possible to find somewhere that is protected in almost any weather, so that snorkelling and diving can be enjoyed virtually 365 days a year, even when Reef excursions elsewhere along the coast are being cancelled because of wind. For this reason the area has become a popular destination for both the novice and experienced diver.
Certified divers should remember that it’s essential to carry your certification card with you or you will not be able to dive (other than as a beginner, with an instructor). It’s necessary to carry your log book as well.
The information above is taken from:
100 Magic Miles, a book, referred to as ‘the Bible’ in the Whitsunday area because it contains exhaustive, authoritative details of every nook and cranny in the islands.
