Is the water warm at the Great Barrier Reef?

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef in the world. And one of the best places to swim, snorkel and dive!

When in the Great Barrier Reef,  you probably just want to get in the waters and explore the beautiful reefs. But the thought might be daunting if the water is cold. Luckily, throughout the year, the Great Barrier Reef waters are warm. In winter (dry season) the water is about 24 degrees Celsius. While in summer (wet season) the water is about 30 degrees.

What can I do at the Great Barrier Reef?

There is so much you can do when you’re at the Great Barrier Reef. From swimming with marine life to feeling like a celebrity with one of the upgrades.

Snorkelling

Snorkelling is the most popular activity to do in the Great Barrier Reef. It’s so easy to snorkel above the colourful coral and spot all the beautiful kinds of fish. You will learn how to snorkel before doing it on your own.

Diving

Scuba diving is one of the best ways to experience the Great Barrier Reef. You will learn how to scuba dive before jumping into the reef on your own. Helmet diving is another form of diving that’s allowed at the Great Barrier Reef. When you helmet dive, you will be walking along the reef’s seabed. How cool is that! You don’t need to be good at swimming or diving when you do helmet diving.

Glass Bottom Boat

The glass bottom boat is perfect for those who don’t enjoy swimming or who aren’t able to. On the glass bottom boat, you will be able to sit down and look down into the bottom of the boat. The bottom of the boat is glass, so you’re able to see under the waters of the reef. You’ll be able to see the coral and any marine life swimming under the boat.

Top Deck Club

The Top Deck Club experience is one of the upgrades you can choose when you spend the day exploring the reef. You will feel almost like a celebrity when you select this upgrade. You’ll have your own valet service, breakfast and lunch, drinks, and a spot in the Captain’s Wheelhouse Top Deck Lounge. You’ll still be able to snorkel, dive, and enjoy the glass bottom boat with this upgrade.

No matter what time of year you visit the Great Barrier Reef, you can expect the waters to be nice and warm.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.