moderate
3 days
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness, comfortable swimming and able to handle physical activity during dives and island exploration.
Explore the Great Barrier Reef with a 3-day Open Water Diver Course on Fitzroy Island, Queensland. Learn to dive in small groups, discover vibrant marine life, and enjoy a unique island adventure near Smithfield.
Ages 14+ • 3 day • For complete beginners
Dive into adventure with a 3-day PADI certification course on the breathtaking Fitzroy Island! Experience personalized instruction in small groups, explore vibrant underwater worlds, and enjoy leisure activities like snorkeling and hiking. With eLearning and practical dives, you'll gain confidence and skills to explore depths of up to 18 meters.
You'll become a skilled and confident diver, ready to explore depths of up to 18m independently with a buddy! With small groups, you'll have ample one-on-one time with your instructor, ensuring personalised attention and a smooth learning process.
Embark on a 3-day dive training experience on the stunning Fitzroy Island, just 45 minutes from Cairns by ferry. Choose to stay overnight at the island resort for added convenience and reduced course costs, or depart each morning at 8am from Cairns Marlin Marina and return at 5pm.
After your dives, enjoy free time to snorkel, hike scenic trails, or unwind at Foxy’s Beachfront Bar before the 5pm ferry, or retreat to your island accommodation to fully immerse in the island’s beauty.
Note: Training at Crater Lakes National Park or a mix of both Fitzroy Island and Crater Lakes is also available at a reduced cost.
1. PADI eLearning: The course begins with 5-10 hours of convenient eLearning, where you'll cover all the essential theory at your own pace.
2. With Your Instructor:
Day 1 (Tuesday): Classroom review in the morning, followed by an afternoon confined water session from the beach or pool.
Day 2 & 3 (Wednesday & Thursday): Two open water dives each day from the glass-bottom boat, departing at 10am and 1pm, with sessions concluding by 4pm. Return ferry departs at 5pm.
Are you ready to start your underwater adventure with the PADI Open Water Diver certification? Book now!
Diving can be physically demanding; drink water and relax between dives to avoid fatigue.
Check and double-check your equipment setup to ensure safety and comfort underwater.
Maintain a safe distance from corals and animals to protect the reef’s fragile ecosystem.
Protect your skin and the coral reef by using environmentally friendly sunscreen products.
Fitzroy Island was once a traditional fishing and canoeing site for the local Aboriginal people before becoming a national park in 1939.
Operators emphasize reef-friendly practices to minimize ecological impact, including educating divers on coral preservation and avoiding contact with marine life.
Personal gear increases comfort and fit during the course and snorkeling sessions.
Provided or personal wetsuits keep you warm during cooler months in the water.
spring specific
Useful to record dive details and track your progress throughout the course.
Protect your feet on rocky shorelines and while walking on wet surfaces.
summer specific