The Yongala Wreck off the coast of Townsville, Queensland, has long been considered one of the world’s top dive sites. This 10-hour excursion offers certified divers the chance to explore the 109-meter steamship and encounter a diverse array of marine life. With two dives included, this day trip promises an unforgettable underwater experience. However, there are a few crucial details to consider before embarking on this thrilling adventure.
Key Points
- The Yongala Wreck, located off the coast of Townsville, Queensland, is a top-five dive site in the world offering a thrilling underwater adventure for certified divers.
- The 10-hour excursion includes pickup and drop-off at Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal and Fuel Wharf, all necessary dive gear, and a tropical buffet-style lunch.
- Divers can explore the 109-meter steamship wreck, encounter diverse marine life, and learn about the captivating history of the SS Yongala.
- The dive site is a challenging yet rewarding experience, with the potential to spot pelagic creatures like giant trevally, manta rays, and even tiger sharks.
- The Yongala Wreck Dive Day Trip is priced at $309.08 per person and is only suitable for certified divers, not children under 10.
Overview of the Yongala Wreck Dive
The Yongala Wreck, a top-five dive site in the world, offers an extraordinary underwater experience teeming with diverse marine life.
Located off the coast of Townsville, Queensland, the wreck is a must-visit destination for certified divers seeking a thrilling and breathtaking adventure.
At $309.08 per person, the Yongala Wreck Dive Day Trip provides a 10-hour excursion that includes two dives at the wreck, a history talk, and the chance to spot dolphins, whales, and sea snakes.
The trip includes all necessary dive gear, mooring fees, water, snacks, and a tropical buffet-style lunch, making it a comprehensive and convenient package for those wishing to explore this renowned underwater world.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Townsville.
Itinerary and Inclusions
Spanning a 10-hour duration, the Yongala Wreck Dive Day Trip offers a comprehensive itinerary that caters to the needs of certified divers.
Commencing from two pickup locations – the Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal and the Fuel Wharf – the excursion transports participants to the renowned Yongala Wreck, with return drop-offs at the same locations.
Included in the package are tanks, weights, and full dive gear, along with the necessary Yongala Mooring fees.
Participants can also enjoy a tropical buffet-style lunch, as well as complimentary water, cordial, tea, and coffee.
With a focus on the diverse marine life and the wreck’s fascinating history, the day trip promises an unforgettable diving experience.
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
The Yongala Wreck Dive Day Trip offers pickup and drop-off locations at both the Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal and the Fuel Wharf, providing convenient access for participants. This allows divers to easily reach the starting point and return to their desired location after the excursion.
| Pickup Locations | Drop-off Locations |
|---|---|
| Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal | Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal |
| Fuel Wharf | Fuel Wharf |
The multiple pickup and drop-off points ensure flexibility and cater to the needs of divers, making the Yongala Wreck Dive Day Trip accessible to those visiting Townsville or Magnetic Island. This thoughtful arrangement enhances the overall experience for participants.
Scuba Diving at the Yongala Wreck
As the highlight of the Yongala Wreck Dive Day Trip, divers can explore the renowned Yongala wreck, one of the top 5 dive sites in the world, and marvel at its diverse marine life.
The 109-meter steamship sank in 1911 and now serves as an artificial reef, teeming with vibrant corals and a vast array of sea creatures.
During the two scheduled dives, participants can encounter giant trevally, manta rays, sea turtles, and even the occasional tiger shark, depending on the season.
The wreck’s depth and complexity make it a challenging yet rewarding dive, offering an unforgettable underwater adventure for certified divers.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyListening to Yongala History
Along With the scuba diving experience at the Yongala wreck, the Yongala Wreck Dive Day Trip also includes an engaging historical talk that provides participants with insights into the vessel’s fascinating past.
The SS Yongala was a passenger and cargo ship that sank in 1911 during a cyclone, resulting in the tragic loss of all 122 people on board.
During the tour, knowledgeable guides share the captivating story of the Yongala, including details about its construction, the fateful final voyage, and the wreck’s subsequent rediscovery.
Listening to this informative presentation enhances the overall dive experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the historical significance of the Yongala and its place in Australia’s maritime heritage.
Spotting Marine Life
Besides the historic wreckage, divers on the Yongala Wreck Dive Day Trip often spot an abundance of diverse marine life, from playful dolphins and majestic whales to elusive sea snakes.
The Yongala is renowned for its rich ecosystem, attracting a wide variety of species. Divers may encounter large schools of fish, vibrant coral gardens, and even the occasional curious sea turtle.
The site’s deep waters and strong currents provide the perfect habitat for pelagic creatures, making each dive a thrilling and unpredictable experience.
Whether you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of a shy sea snake or witness the graceful movements of a humpback whale, the Yongala Wreck promises a captivating underwater adventure.
Restrictions and Requirements
The Yongala Wreck Dive Day Trip imposes certain restrictions and requirements to ensure the safety and enjoyment of participants.
This activity isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old, as the diving can be physically demanding. Plus, only certified divers are permitted to participate. All divers must bring their certification cards as proof of their diving qualifications.
The tour operator provides all the necessary diving gear, including tanks and weights, but participants are responsible for ensuring their own equipment is in good working order.
Pricing and Booking Information
The Yongala Wreck Dive Day Trip is priced at $309.08 per person, covering a range of inclusions to ensure a memorable and hassle-free experience.
This 10-hour excursion includes pickup and drop-off at two convenient locations – the Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal and the Fuel Wharf.
Divers will enjoy two dives at the renowned Yongala Wreck, considered one of the top five dive spots in the world, while also learning about the wreck’s fascinating history.
The package encompasses all necessary dive gear, Yongala Mooring fees, and a delectable tropical buffet-style lunch, along with water, cordial, tea, and coffee.
To participate, divers must be certified, and the activity isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Dive?
Yes, guests can take photos and videos during the Yongala wreck dive. Underwater cameras are allowed, and the diverse marine life provides plenty of photo opportunities. However, divers should be mindful of their buoyancy and not disturb the wreck or its inhabitants.
What Is the Dive Depth and Duration?
The dive depth at the Yongala Wreck is approximately 30 meters, and the dive duration is around 45 minutes. Divers will have the opportunity to explore this world-class dive site and witness its diverse marine life.
Do I Need to Have Dive Insurance?
Yes, dive insurance is required for this Yongala Wreck dive trip. It’s the diver’s responsibility to have appropriate insurance coverage in case of any incidents or emergencies during the dive activities.
Can I Bring My Own Dive Gear?
Participants can bring their own dive gear, but it’s not required. The tour provides all necessary equipment, including tanks and weights. This allows divers to focus on the experience without the hassle of transporting their own gear.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?
There is no minimum number of participants required for the Yongala Wreck Dive Day Trip. The tour operates with a maximum group size and doesn’t have a minimum number of divers needed to run the excursion.
Recap
The Yongala Wreck Dive Day Trip provides an unparalleled opportunity for certified divers to explore one of the world’s top dive sites.
With two dives at the historic wreck, a tropical lunch, and transportation included, this excursion offers a convenient and thrilling adventure.
Whether you’re marveling at the diverse marine life or learning about the Yongala’s captivating history, this day trip is a must-do for any diver visiting Townsville or Magnetic Island.
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