Double Dive to South Solitary Island Coffs Harbour

Starting at just over $170 per person, the Double Dive to South Solitary Island offers a rewarding day exploring some of Australia’s most vibrant marine environments. In about six hours, you’ll journey from Coffs Harbour to the Solitary Islands Marine Park, renowned for its clear waters, abundant sea life, and warm currents. This tour is designed for certified divers eager to see large sharks, rays, turtles, and schools of tropical and subtropical fish while enjoying the comfort and professionalism of Jetty Dive Centre.

What really sets this experience apart are the small guided groups with experienced Divemasters, ensuring personalized attention and safe, enjoyable dives. The inclusion of tank and weight hire simplifies planning, letting you focus on the thrill of the underwater world. Plus, the boat rides—only 30 minutes each way—are comfortable and well-equipped, making the journey as smooth as possible.

However, be aware that you’ll need your own snorkeling or dive equipment, which can be organized separately. Plus, the tour operates only in good weather, so some flexibility may be required if conditions turn unfavorable. This tour suits those with moderate physical fitness and scuba certification who are eager to encounter large marine creatures in a pristine environment.

Key Points

• Expert guidance ensures a safe and tailored diving experience.
• Vibrant marine life includes sharks, rays, turtles, and diverse fish.
• Comfortable boat ride with snacks, hot drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Small group sizes foster personalized attention and better chances to see marine animals.
• Weather dependency can influence scheduling, so flexibility is helpful.
• Ideal for certified divers seeking a memorable, high-quality underwater adventure.

The Coffs Harbour double dive tour provides more than just two underwater excursions; it offers a carefully curated journey into some of Australia’s most pristine marine environments. Starting at the Jetty Dive Centre at 7:30 am, you’ll head out on a well-maintained, comfortable boat—noted for its efficiency and safety—towards South Solitary Island, about a 30-minute trip. This short ride helps maximize your time underwater, rather than spending hours in transit.

What Happens Before the Dives?

Once at South Solitary Island, the crew—famous for their professionalism and warmth—will assess current conditions to select the best spot. This flexibility guarantees you’ll experience optimal visibility and marine activity. The guides keep groups small, ensuring personalized attention and safety, a feature highly praised in reviews. You’ll be guided by knowledgeable Divemasters, who will help you navigate and identify the abundant life you encounter.

The tour includes tank and weights as standard, meaning you only need to bring your personal snorkeling or dive gear, or rent equipment separately. Though the price covers tanks, you’ll need your own mask, fins, wetsuit, BCD, and regulator if you prefer your own comfort and familiarity.

First Dive: Seeing the Underwater World

Once dropped into the water, you’ll immediately notice the crystal-clear visibility, often over 30 meters, as noted by previous divers. The waters around South Solitary Island are warmer and cleaner, thanks to the East Australian Current, which brings tropical fish and maintains good visibility.

This environment teems with marine life: leopard sharks, grey nurse sharks, marble rays, turtles, and a wide array of large fish. Several reviews mention sightings of sharks and rays, with one diver even describing their first experience seeing large sharks as “great” and “massive.” The guides are skilled at pointing out and helping you enjoy these encounters, whether you’re a seasoned diver or more casual.

Surface Interval & Snacks

Between the two dives, the crew serves tea, coffee, cup-a-soups (vegetarian options available), and snacks. This break allows you to relax, swap stories with fellow divers, and recharge. The boat’s facilities and friendly atmosphere make this pause genuinely enjoyable, adding to the overall value of the trip.

Second Dive: Deeper Into Marine Life

The second descent often reveals more surprises. Many reviewers mention seeing leopard sharks, turtles, rays, and even large schools of tropical fish. The guides remain attentive, ensuring everyone gets the best viewing chances. With small groups, you’ll enjoy a relaxed, stress-free environment, free from the crowded feeling of larger tours.

Returning to Shore

After the second dive, the crew starts heading back to Coffs Harbour, usually returning around mid-morning or early afternoon, depending on conditions. The entire experience lasts about six hours, making it a full but well-paced adventure.

At $173.17, the price might seem steep at first glance, but it includes experienced guides, safety measures, boat transportation, and all tanks and weights. Considering the quality of the marine life, the expert supervision, and the comfort onboard, many find this a worthwhile investment.

You’ll notice that the reviews consistently reflect high satisfaction, with divers praising the knowledgeable crews, well-maintained boats, and stellar underwater encounters. One reviewer summarized it as “a well-organized, skilled, and motivated crew,” emphasizing the attention to diver safety and enjoyment.

This experience is best suited for certified scuba divers comfortable with small-group guided dives. It appeals most to those wanting to see large sharks, rays, and turtles in clear, warm waters, with the added comfort of a professional crew. If you’re seeking a relaxed, well-organized day with high chances of sightings and a friendly atmosphere, you’ll love what this tour offers.

The Double Dive to South Solitary Island combines stunning underwater scenery with professional guidance and good value, especially for divers looking to explore one of Australia’s top marine parks. The small groups, expert guides, and vibrant marine life make it an experience worth considering if you’re in the Coffs Harbour area and already certified to dive.

While weather can influence scheduling, the team’s flexibility and dedication to safety ensure you’ll get the best possible experience. Whether you’re after your first encounter with sharks or looking to deepen your appreciation for marine biodiversity, this tour offers a memorable day that balances adventure with comfort.

If you’re a diver with a love for big marine animals, an appreciation for well-organized trips, and a desire to see vibrant tropical fish against a backdrop of crystal-clear waters, this experience is a solid choice.

Do I need to be certified to go on this tour?
Yes, proof of certification is required. It’s designed for certified divers who feel comfortable diving in small groups.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers tanks, weights, and guidance from experienced Divemasters. Snorkeling equipment and personal gear are not included and should be organized separately.

How long is the boat ride out to the dive site?
It’s approximately 30 minutes each way, making it a quick and comfortable trip.

What should I bring?
Bring your own snorkeling or dive gear if you have it. The crew provides hot drinks and snacks during the surface interval.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 25 travelers, but small enough to ensure personalized attention and safety.

What happens if weather conditions are poor?
The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions aren’t suitable, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Is there an age limit or physical fitness requirement?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, and the tour is suitable for those comfortable with diving. Check with the operator if you have specific health concerns.

The Double Dive to South Solitary Island offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and marine wildlife sightings. It’s ideal for certified divers seeking a beautifully organized day in a pristine marine environment. With knowledgeable guides and stunning underwater vistas, this trip promises a memorable experience for anyone eager to see large sharks, colorful rays, and sea turtles in their natural habitat. Perfect for both seasoned divers and those ready for their next underwater chapter—you’ll leave with stories and memories to cherish.