What are the best dive sites on the Great Barrier Reef near Cairns and Port Douglas?

Question

I'm looking to spend 3 or 4 days out on the reef. I've heard that the reef up in Port Douglas is better. Has anyone had experience with many dive sites and can recommend a dive site and operator?

Answer 1

The low Isles are popular - this is where Steve Irwin died.

(map here on places - http://www.greatbarrierreefinfo.com )

Quicksilver goes there and can leave from Cairns or Port Douglas http://www.quicksilver-cruises.com

Great Adventures leaves from the Cairns Pier http://www.greatadventures.com.au and goes via Green Island to Outer Reef activity platform ..

Both companies are great.

If you walk around town here, especially on the Esplanade there is SO many options and specials daily for the more personal dive operators - so I would suggest wait until you get here and grab the best deal.

Also for something different do the http://www.scubadoocairns.com  or http://www.seawalker.com.au/english_site...

Seasonal info on the GBR - http://www.divethereef.com/Guides/Season...

Have a great time !