Dive Deep into Adventure: PADI Shark Awareness Course at Solitary Islands Marine Park
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 hours + self-study
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition with basic swimming skills and some prior diving experience preferred but not mandatory.
Overview
Join the PADI Shark Awareness Course at Solitary Islands Marine Park near Coffs Harbour for an adrenaline-packed dive with Grey Nurse Sharks. Learn shark behavior up close while earning your certification in one of Australia’s richest marine environments.
PADI Shark Awareness Course
Ages 12+ • 7 hours + Self-Study
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of diving with Grey Nurse Sharks in the stunning Solitary Islands Marine Park. This unique PADI Shark Diver and Shark Awareness course combines adrenaline and education, offering two exhilarating boat dives and personalized training in small groups. Gain valuable insights into shark behavior while earning your certification.
We sat motionless and watched as 5 Grey Nurse Sharks circled in a gutter only metres from us...
Duration
7 hours (+ Self-Study)
About
The PADI Shark Diver and Shark Awareness course makes you think differently about the amazing, adrenaline filled experience! Learn the correct techniques of Shark Diving, as well as aspects about their behavior and habitat. Exciting & Educational!
Inclusions
- Your PADI Aware Shark Awareness Certification, registered in the PADI database, and digital certification card (E-Card)
- Two beautiful boat dives at the Solitary Islands Marine Park, aboard our world-class boats. No carting your heavy dive gear from the beach into the water!
- Digital Theory
- Small group, 5-Star PADI training, for a more personal experience
- Does not include equipment hire.
Open Water Ocean Dives are subject to weather and availability. Jetty Dive will contact you with any changes
Requirements
- PADI Open Water Scuba Diver Certification or equivalent.
Adventure Tips
Respect Shark Space
Maintain a calm presence and keep a respectful distance from Grey Nurse Sharks to ensure safe, non-intrusive observation.
Check Weather and Sea Conditions
The marine park’s conditions can change rapidly; always confirm good weather and sea states before your dive for a safe experience.
Stay Hydrated Before Dives
Drink plenty of water prior to boat departure to stay hydrated throughout the course.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself and the marine environment by applying biodegradable sunscreen before diving and boat outings.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Grey Nurse Sharks
- Green Sea Turtles
History
Solitary Islands Marine Park was established in 1998 to protect diverse marine habitats and iconic species including the Grey Nurse Shark, classified as vulnerable.
Conservation
Operators strongly promote eco-friendly diving practices and actively participate in marine conservation research to minimize environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Coffs Harbour
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Scuba Mask and Snorkel
For clear underwater vision and easy breathing during surface swims.
summer specific
Wetsuit (5mm or appropriate thickness)
Keeps you warm and protects against stings and abrasions in cooler waters.
spring specific
Dive Computer or Depth Gauge
Helps monitor depth and dive time for safety, especially important during guided shark dives.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin while preventing harm to delicate marine ecosystems.
summer specific