About this tour
Earn your PADI Open Water certification over four days based in Cairns, starting with pool sessions and classroom theory before advancing to four dives on the outer Great Barrier Reef. Small groups of up to eight divers train with experienced instructors, culminating in real dives on Australia's most iconic reef aboard the catamaran Evolution. Hotel transfers and meals on reef days are included, giving you a complete entry-level diving qualification recognized worldwide.
Highlights
- Small group classes limited to eight participants per course
- Four outer reef dives plus one complimentary fun dive
- Two full-day catamaran trips on luxury vessel Evolution
- Pool and confined-water training before open ocean
- Daily hotel transfers from Cairns accommodation included
- Internationally recognized PADI certification upon completion
- Lunch provided on reef diving days
What to expect
Your first two days focus on fundamentals: classroom sessions cover dive theory and safety protocols, while pool time lets you practice breathing underwater and master essential skills in a controlled setting. Days three and four take you onto the reef. You'll board Evolution early and spend full days at the outer barrier, conducting four qualifying dives at varying depths under instructor supervision. The reef itself is the classroom now—you'll see what you trained for. Expect physical activity: gearing up, entering water repeatedly, and managing your buoyancy. The boat moves between dive sites, so some travelers experience mild seasickness. By day four's final dive, the skills feel automatic.
Good to know
You must be 12 years old, swim competently, and pass a health questionnaire before starting. Divers over 45 need a physician's clearance. Avoid flying within 24 hours after your last dive. Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimsuit, and cash for onboard extras. Certain medications and medical conditions require a doctor's letter confirming you're fit to dive.
Frequently asked
- How long does 4-Day PADI Open Water Dive Course - Learn to Dive on the Great Barrier Reef take?
- 4-Day PADI Open Water Dive Course - Learn to Dive on the Great Barrier Reef runs for approximately 4 days.
- How much does 4-Day PADI Open Water Dive Course - Learn to Dive on the Great Barrier Reef cost?
- Prices start from USD $669 per person. Final pricing varies by date, group size and any add-ons — confirmed at checkout via Viator.
- Where does 4-Day PADI Open Water Dive Course - Learn to Dive on the Great Barrier Reef run?
- This tour operates around Australia. Specific meeting points and pickup options are listed by the operator at checkout.
- Who runs 4-Day PADI Open Water Dive Course - Learn to Dive on the Great Barrier Reef?
- The tour is sold and operated by its supplier through Viator. Coral Reef Info earns a small commission on bookings made via the link, which keeps this site free for travellers.
- Is the tour confirmed at the listed price?
- The price shown is the operator's "from" price as of our last sync. Final price, currency conversion, group discounts and cancellation policy are confirmed at checkout — always review before paying.
Tour sold and operated by its supplier via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original Coral Reef Info summaries, not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.