Scuba Dive the S.S. Yongala Wreck on the Great Barrier Reef.

Scuba Dive the S.S. Yongala Wreck on the Great Barrier Reef – An In-Depth Review

There’s something undeniably special about exploring a shipwreck teeming with marine life, especially when it’s as famed as the S.S. Yongala. Based in Townsville, this full-day excursion costs around $332 per person and offers two open-water dives, transport from Townsville or Magnetic Island, and a wealth of underwater wonder. The tour lasts about 10 hours, making it a full-sky experience for those with a love of adventure and the ocean.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it balances adventure with education. You’ll be guided by a crew passionate about marine preservation, and the site itself is one of the top ten wreck dives worldwide, sitting within the UNESCO-listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Two features really stand out. First, the access to one of Australia’s most iconic wrecks, which is remarkably well-preserved and teeming with marine life. Second, the inclusion of two dives with equipment and tanks provided, so you can focus on the experience rather than logistics.

One possible consideration is the requirement that divers should have at least six logged dives to participate independently, which might be limiting for newer divers. Also, weather can affect the day’s schedule, though the company offers full refunds or alternative dates if conditions aren’t suitable.

This tour suits certified divers looking for an extraordinary underwater adventure, especially those who appreciate learning about marine ecosystems and shipwreck history. It’s perfect for seasoned divers who want to tick off a world-class site or adventurous travelers eager to see Australia’s marine wildlife in open water.

Key Points

• Unique Location: The SS Yongala wreck is a top 10 wreck globally, sitting within the UNESCO-listed Great Barrier Reef.
• Included Equipment: Tanks, weights, and scuba gear are all provided, making it easier for you to focus on enjoying the dive.
• Marine Life: Expect to see turtles, sharks, rays, giant trevally, and a vibrant array of tropical fish.
• Educational Element: The tour includes a talk on the wreck’s history and environmental significance.
• Weather Dependence: The experience is weather-dependent, with options for rescheduling or full refunds if conditions are poor.
• Group Size: Limited to 21 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

The Experience in Detail

Getting There and Starting Out

Your adventure begins early at Mariner’s Peninsula, with a pickup and transfer from Townsville or Magnetic Island. The drive to the boat is straightforward, and the crew is known for their professional yet friendly attitude, which sets a relaxed tone for the day.

Once aboard, you’ll quickly settle into the boat’s comfortable environment, enjoying morning tea, coffee, and iced water while preparing for the day ahead. The boat itself is well-equipped for a full-day adventure, with plenty of space to relax and take in the views of the Great Barrier Reef before you even don your wetsuit.

The Journey to the Wreck

The trip out to the Yongala takes roughly 1 to 1.5 hours, giving you time to settle in and soak up some of the stunning scenery. During this time, the crew shares fascinating stories about the wreck’s history—how it sank in 1911 during a cyclone, and how it’s now a thriving artificial reef.

The Wreck and Marine Life

Once you arrive, the real magic begins. The SS Yongala lies between 15m and 29m deep, making it accessible for certified divers with experience. The wreck itself is beautifully preserved, with rusted metalwork, relics, and artifacts that tell stories of the past.

The marine environment is extraordinary. As one reviewer noted, “The crew was excellent. The surface water was choppy, but the staff did a great job follow up to make sure I was ok and safe.” We loved how knowledgeable guides explained the site’s history and the marine species you’re likely to encounter, from sea turtles and eagle rays to sharks and Queensland gropers. The site is protected by law, adding a layer of respect and preservation.

The Dives

You get two open-water dives included in the tour. Tanks, weights, and equipment are all provided, which means you won’t need to worry about hauling gear around or renting unnecessary equipment elsewhere. For divers with less than 15 logged dives, a dive guide is available for an extra A$20, ensuring safety and confidence.

The underwater scenery is breathtaking—the shipwreck is encrusted with corals and teeming with tropical fish. You might also see manta rays or sea snakes, and during whale season, the sight of breaching humpbacks is a real highlight.

Lunch and Amenities

After the first dive, a delicious lunch is served on board. The crew keeps you refreshed with iced water, cordial, tea, and coffee throughout the day, making sure everyone stays well-hydrated. The relaxed atmosphere and good company enhance the entire experience.

Environmental Education and Safety

The tour also features a talk on the wreck’s history and its environmental significance. This educational component helps deepen your appreciation for the site beyond the visual spectacle.

Safety is a priority, with a professional, fun crew and clear instructions. The review from Rebekah highlights this: “The crew was excellent… They did a great job of explaining the site, history, and wildlife.” Weather can sometimes cause cancellations, but they offer full refunds or alternative dates, which makes planning less stressful.

Analyzing the Value

At around $332, this tour is a solid investment for avid divers and marine enthusiasts. The price includes transport, two dives, equipment, lunch, and educational talks, which collectively provide a comprehensive experience. For divers with experience, it’s a chance to see one of the world’s top wreck sites in a protected environment, making it worth every penny.

It’s especially valuable for those who want to combine adventure with learning — the guides’ insights into the wreck’s history and marine life add depth to the experience. The small group size (maximum 21) means more personalized attention, which many find enhances the overall enjoyment.

Who will love this tour?

This experience is best for certified divers with at least six logged dives, eager to explore one of Australia’s most iconic wrecks. It’s also ideal for travelers who enjoy marine wildlife, learning about history, and appreciating natural beauty in a well-organized, safe environment.

Final Thoughts

This scuba adventure at the SS Yongala wreck blends history, wildlife, and adventure into a full-day package that’s hard to beat. The excellent guides, stunning underwater scenery, and top-notch organization make it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting to experience the best of the Great Barrier Reef’s marine life.

While weather can be unpredictable, the company’s flexibility and professionalism mean you’re in good hands. The inclusion of education and safety measures give this trip extra value, especially for divers who want to learn more about the ecological and historical significance of the site.

If you’re a certified diver with a love for exploring wrecks and stunning marine environments, this tour deserves a spot on your list. It’s a chance to see Australia’s underwater treasure with people who genuinely care about sharing their passion for the sea.

FAQs

Do I need to be a certified diver to join this tour?
Yes, only certified divers with at least six logged dives can participate independently. If you have fewer logged dives, a guided dive option is available for an extra fee.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation to and from the wreck, two open-water dives, scuba equipment, lunch, and refreshments like iced water, cordial, tea, and coffee.

Can I cancel if weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled. The tour company prioritizes safety and will advise accordingly.

How many people are on each tour?
Group size is limited to 21 travelers, providing a more personal, less crowded experience.

What marine animals might I see?
Expect to see sea turtles, sharks, rays, giant trevally, and tropical fish. During whale season, you might also witness humpback whales breaching.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The start point is Fuel Wharf, Mariner’s Peninsula, Townsville. The crew will give detailed instructions prior to departure.

In sum, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging, and memorable experience for divers eager to explore one of the world’s most celebrated shipwrecks within the spectacular setting of the Great Barrier Reef. It’s a fantastic choice for those who value safety, education, and the chance to witness an underwater spectacle full of life and history.