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Master the Reef: Open Water Diver Course on Fitzroy Island, Queensland - Smithfield

Master the Reef: Open Water Diver Course on Fitzroy Island, Queensland

Smithfieldmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3 days

Fitness Level

Participants should have a moderate level of fitness, comfortable swimming and able to handle physical activity during dives and island exploration.

Overview

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.

Smithfield, Queensland

Open Water Diver Course

Ages 14+ • 3 day • For complete beginners

Water Activities

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About This Adventure

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.

Become a PADI certified scuba diver with this 3-day course!

Program Overview:

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.

Location - Fitzroy Island:

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.

What to Expect:

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.

What's Included:

  • Ferry to and from Fitzroy Island departing Cairns Marlin Wharf at 8am and the Fitzroy Island jetty at 5pm. Students are to meet at the Marina each morning.
  • All SCUBA and snorkel gear
  • eLearning and exam
  • Face-to-face knowledge review
  • PADI certification

What to Bring:

  • Personal snorkel/SCUBA gear (optional)
  • Water, snacks, and lunch, or purchase your lunch at Foxy's Beachfront Bar on Fitzroy Island
  • Towel, sunscreen, and hat

Are you ready to start your underwater adventure with the PADI Open Water Diver certification? Book now!

Adventure Tips

Stay hydrated and rest between dives

Diving can be physically demanding; drink water and relax between dives to avoid fatigue.

Secure your gear before each dive

Check and double-check your equipment setup to ensure safety and comfort underwater.

Respect marine life

Maintain a safe distance from corals and animals to protect the reef’s fragile ecosystem.

Wear reef-safe sunscreen

Protect your skin and the coral reef by using environmentally friendly sunscreen products.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Green sea turtles
  • Parrotfish

History

Fitzroy Island was once a traditional fishing and canoeing site for the local Aboriginal people before becoming a national park in 1939.

Conservation

Operators emphasize reef-friendly practices to minimize ecological impact, including educating divers on coral preservation and avoiding contact with marine life.

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Adventure Hotspots in Smithfield

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Mask and snorkel

Essential

Personal gear increases comfort and fit during the course and snorkeling sessions.

Wetsuit

Essential

Provided or personal wetsuits keep you warm during cooler months in the water.

spring specific

Waterproof dive logbook

Useful to record dive details and track your progress throughout the course.

Sturdy water shoes

Protect your feet on rocky shorelines and while walking on wet surfaces.

summer specific