What are the rules of scuba diving?

Scuba diving is one of the most exciting experiences you can do on the Great Barrier Reef!

Scuba diving for the first time is an exciting experience, but it can also be a bit scary. Luckily when you choose to scuba dive at the Great Barrier Reef, you get the option to do a diving course. The course is a great and easy way to quickly become a qualified and confident diver! As you’ll learn all of the rules during your course, let’s briefly go over some of the tips you’ll learn on the day so you’re prepared.

Complete a questionnaire

Before you go diving, you will have to fill out a questionnaire to ensure you are suitable. You’ll answer questions like if you have medical conditions (asthma, diabetes, anxiety, etc.) if you’re taking medication, and other medical questions. You must complete this form before going diving to ensure it is safe for you to do so.

Just keep breathing

Almost like Dory singing “just keep swimming”, but just keep breathing! Avoid holding your breath when you are underwater and keep breathing. When keeping up a continuous breathing pattern, scuba diving becomes very relaxing and full of excitement.

Don’t go too far down

If it is your first time scuba diving, don’t go too deep into the water. It’s important to take your time going further into the water so your breathing and lungs keep normal. But of course, if you are fully comfortable, then swim further down to get close to the coral. Just remember if you need to stop, or you’re unsure about something just come back up to the surface and speak with your diving instructor.

Avoid touching the coral and marine life

Speaking of the beautiful coral and marine life, avoid touching them! If possible, try to keep a safe distance between you and the marine life. But we know this can be rather difficult when the animals can swim really close to you.

Speak to your diving instructor

If you have any questions, or you’re worried about something, speak to your instructor. They will happily answer any questions you have and assist with any problems.

If scuba diving isn’t for you, maybe look into snorkelling, helmet diving, or going on a glass bottom boat! You can do one or all of those when booking a tour of the Great Barrier Reef. There are all sorts of different tours you can book, from a deluxe cruise to a three day liveaboard tour!

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.