Double Dive to South Solitary Island Coffs Harbour

If you’re a certified scuba diver seeking a memorable underwater experience in Australia’s beautiful Coffs Harbour, the Double Dive to South Solitary Island offered by Jetty Dive Centre is worth considering. This tour promises two guided dives in the Solitary Islands Marine Park, an area renowned for its stunning waters, abundant marine life, and relatively warm, clear conditions thanks to the East Australian Current.

We’re impressed by how highly rated this tour is—boasting a perfect 5.0 out of 5 based on 31 reviews—and 97% of travelers recommend it.

What sets it apart? First, the small-group guided format ensures a personalized experience, and second, the variety of marine creatures—including sharks, turtles, and shoals of fish—makes every moment underwater exciting. That said, the tour is only for those who are certified scuba divers, which could limit some travelers.

Designed for those with a moderate physical fitness level and proper certification, this adventure offers excellent value for the price, especially considering the included tank and weights hire. If you love marine exploration, value knowledgeable guides, and appreciate well-maintained equipment, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Ideal for certified divers seeking guided explorations of vibrant marine ecosystems.
• Small groups ensure personalized attention and safer, more comfortable dives.
• Warm, clear waters thanks to the East Australian Current enhance visibility and comfort.
• Snacks, hot drinks, and a relaxed surface interval keep energy levels high during the day.
• Professional crew with high safety standards and extensive local knowledge.
• Typically booked 26 days in advance, so planning early is recommended.

An Overview of What You’ll Experience

The Double Dive tour is a straightforward yet thrilling adventure designed solely for those with diving certification. The journey begins early at the Jetty Dive Centre in Coffs Harbour, with departure scheduled for 7:30 am. From there, it’s a 30-minute boat trip out to South Solitary Island, giving you a chance to enjoy coastal views and anticipate the underwater magic awaiting you.

Once at the island, the diving team will select the best site based on weather and water conditions—meaning you get the best possible visibility and marine encounters. Under the guidance of a Divemaster, you’ll gear up and descend into a world teeming with life: schools of colorful fish, sharks (including species like wobis, sandbarr, and leopard sharks), turtles, and perhaps even some rays.

The tour includes tanks and weights, but all other equipment—such as wetsuits, masks, fins, BCDs, and regulators—must be organized separately. This setup offers flexibility to divers who prefer to bring their own gear or rent locally.

The surface interval is an appreciated feature—an entire hour with hot beverages, tea, coffee, and snacks, giving everyone a chance to chat about the first dive, relax, and prepare comfortably for the second.

Dive Itinerary: What to Expect

First Stop: South Solitary Island

This island is part of the Solitary Islands Marine Park, a protected sanctuary zone brimming with marine life. The water’s warmer temperature and good clarity, thanks to the East Australian Current, create ideal conditions for spotting a variety of species.

Reviewers rave about the visibility and the abundance of marine creatures. One noted, “We saw plenty of oceanic life including nudis, small fish, and three species of sharks.” The guided nature of the dive means you’ll be in small groups, with your guide pointing out interesting features and ensuring safety.

Second Stop: After a Refresh and Rest

The hour-long surface interval is a highlight for many, with hot water, tea, and snacks on offer. One reviewer mentioned how the crew’s friendliness and attentiveness made the experience extra special, noting, “Staff always friendly, knowledgeable, and professional.”

Second Dive: Fresh Perspectives and New Encounters

Post-interval, you’ll head back into the water for your second dive. Many previous divers have appreciated the calmer conditions they experienced on the second go, with sights like turtles, rays—especially marble rays—and more sharks, depending on the day.

The entire trip concludes with a relaxed ride back to shore, reflecting on what was usually described as “an unforgettable experience.”

Critical Aspects of the Experience

Guided Diving for Safety and Enjoyment

The small-group format means your guides can provide tailored attention and ensure safety. The reviews frequently mention the professionalism and friendliness of the staff—praising names like Julz, Nathan, Lindsay, and Heidi. One diver noted, “The crew is knowledgeable and safety conscious,” which is vital when exploring unfamiliar waters.

Marine Life and Visibility

Many reviewers highlight the fantastic marine encounters—including sharks, turtles, and large shoals of fish. Visibility is often praised, with some mentioning seeing sharks and large rays, making for an exciting underwater journey.

Handling Equipment and Comfort

While tanks and weights are included, you’ll need to rent or bring your own equipment like wetsuits and masks. That flexibility is appreciated, but it’s essential to plan ahead. The boats are described as well-maintained and comfortable, with hot water available on board, which makes a difference during the surface interval.

Pricing and Value

At $182.90 per person, this tour is a good investment for certified divers. It includes two guided dives, tanks, and weights, and the small group size enhances safety and enjoyment. Several reviewers have expressed that the quality of experience surpasses the cost, especially given the professionalism of the crew and the marine diversity.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

The tour requires good weather and can be canceled if conditions aren’t suitable. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, which offers peace of mind. The reviews indicate that cancellations due to weather are handled smoothly, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for certified divers eager to explore the vibrant underwater world of South Solitary Island. If you enjoy small-group guided adventures, value safety, and appreciate the opportunity to see sharks, turtles, and rays in their natural habitat, this tour is a natural choice. It’s also suitable for divers who are comfortable in moderate currents and good physical condition.

However, non-certified travelers or those without gear might need to look elsewhere, as equipment rental isn’t included. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a well-organized, professional experience and have a sense of adventure.

The Sum Up

The Double Dive to South Solitary Island offers a rewarding glimpse into Coffs Harbour’s marine wonderland. With knowledgeable guides, pristine waters, and an impressive variety of marine life—sharks, turtles, and colorful schools of fish—this is a highlight for certified divers in the region. The tour’s emphasis on safety, small-group intimacy, and excellent organization makes it stand out among marine excursions.

If you’re seeking a well-structured, memorable underwater journey that combines adventure with comfort, and you meet the certification requirements, this trip is a fantastic option. It’s especially attractive for divers who want to maximize their time in the water with expert guidance and a relaxed atmosphere.

While it’s priced higher than some other activities, the quality of the experience and the marine encounters it offers justify the cost. Just remember to book well in advance—this tour is popular, with an average booking window of 26 days.

In short, this adventure delivers authentic marine discovery for those ready to explore underwater in one of Australia’s most beautiful marine parks.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-certified divers?
No, it is exclusively for certified scuba divers. If you are not certified, you’ll need to look for other options, such as snorkeling or introductory dives.

What is included in the price?
The price covers two guided dives, tanks, and weights. All other equipment like wetsuits, masks, fins, and regulators must be rented or brought separately.

How far in advance should I book?
Most trips are booked about 26 days ahead, so early planning is advisable to secure your spot.

What should I bring?
Bring your certification proof, personal gear if you prefer, and any additional equipment you need. Don’t forget sun protection and a towel for after the dives.

What is the typical group size?
The tour carries a maximum of 25 travelers, but due to the guided nature, groups are kept small for safety and personalized experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The tour only proceeds in good weather conditions.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, including boat travel, diving, surface interval, and return to shore.

Are there age or fitness restrictions?
The tour requires a moderate physical fitness level, and participants should be comfortable in the water and capable of handling two dives.

If you’re a certified diver eager for a day of exploring Coffs Harbour’s underwater treasures with a friendly, professional crew, this Double Dive at South Solitary Island could be your next highlight. Prepare your gear, book early, and get ready for a memorable adventure beneath the waves.