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

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring one of the world’s top shipwreck sites while soaking in the vibrant marine life of the Great Barrier Reef, this tour might catch your eye. It’s a full-day adventure that takes certified divers on two dives to the legendary SS Yongala wreck, all wrapped up with hassle-free logistics—think transport, equipment, and a nourishing lunch included. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and the info available, it’s clearly an experience that appeals to those wanting a full immersion into this iconic underwater landscape.

What stands out right away is how seamless the experience is made to be, especially for divers who want to avoid the stress of organizing gear and transportation. Plus, the chance to see the Yongala wreck, ranked among the Top 10 wreck dives worldwide and protected as a historic site, makes this a pretty special day. That said, it’s not without some caveats—a few reviewers have noted organizational hiccups and the need for certain diving prerequisites.

This tour is best suited for certified divers who want to maximize their time on the reef, especially those eager to explore a renowned shipwreck and encounter Australia’s diverse marine inhabitants. If you’re comfortable with your open water qualification and enjoy guided excursions, this might be right up your alley.

Key Points

• All logistics are handled—from transport to equipment—so you can focus on the diving experience.
• Two dives in one day make it ideal for those short on time but eager to see the reef’s highlights.
• Access to the UNESCO-listed SS Yongala gives you a chance to see one of the world’s top shipwrecks in its natural setting.
• Marine life viewing includes turtles, rays, sharks, and tropical fish—plus the chance to see humpback whales during migration season.
• Tour size is limited to 21 travelers, supporting a more personalized experience.
• Price reflects a full-day, guided experience with all necessary gear, lunch, and transport included, offering good value for a memorable day.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Booking and Arrival

Starting bright and early at 7:00 am from Townsville’s Fuel Wharf, you’ll be greeted by a professional crew passionate about the marine environment. Booking in advance is recommended, with most travelers reserving their spot roughly 36 days ahead. The tour’s round-trip transport from Townsville or Magnetic Island makes it straightforward—no fuss about taxis or separate transfers.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

The tour includes two certified dives at the SS Yongala site, with all gear—tanks, weights, and scuba equipment—prepared for you. This is a real plus for divers who dislike lugging their own gear or worry about equipment quality. The crew is described as experienced, friendly, and safety-conscious, which adds peace of mind.

Lunch, along with iced water, cordial, tea, and coffee, keeps you energized for the day. The tour also offers a Yongala history talk and environmental education, enriching your understanding of this underwater relic and the surrounding ecosystem.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• First stop: SS Yongala Wreck
  Ranked among the Top 10 wreck dives worldwide, the Yongala lies between 15m and 29m deep. It’s known for its stunning artifacts, colorful coral growth, and the vibrant marine life that congregates around it. This site is a haven for turtles, sea snakes, large fish like trevally and gropers, eagle rays, manta rays, sharks, and countless tropical species. During certain seasons, especially winter, you may also spot humpback whales breaching or tail slapping nearby—something many divers remember vividly.

• Second dive site: Usually the same or another part of the reef, depending on weather conditions and group needs. You get to explore two different spots in just one trip, which maximizes your time underwater.

What Real Divers Say

One reviewer, Rebekah M., praised the crew for their excellent guidance and safety measures, even when the surface conditions were choppy. She noted, “They did a great job explaining the site, history, and wildlife,” which shows the crew’s commitment to making the experience both informative and safe.

On the flip side, a less favorable review from Sarah S. mentioned poor organization and equipment guidance, which can put a damper on what should be a fantastic experience. It’s worth noting that Sarah and her partner are advanced divers themselves, so expectations for professionalism and guidance might have been higher. The key takeaway is that, while some reviews highlight minor hiccups, the overall experience tends to be very positive, especially regarding the marine life and the wreck itself.

The Value and Price

At around $350 AUD (~$350.73 USD), this tour offers a comprehensive package—transport, gear, two dives, and a hearty lunch—making it a solid deal compared to booking separate components. For certified divers eager to tick off a top wreck site and enjoy the pristine reef, it’s a worthwhile investment. Keep in mind that some optional extras, like dive guides for less experienced divers or deeper dives, come at additional costs.

Who Should Consider This?

If you’re a certified diver comfortable with open water levels, this trip offers a fantastic balance of adventure and convenience. It’s particularly appealing if you want to maximize your day because you can check off two dive sites with minimal fuss. However, more advanced or private divers looking for tailored experiences might want to explore private charters or different operators.

Practical Details and Tips

• Timing: The tour departs at 7:00 am, so be prepared for an early start. Arriving on time helps ensure a smooth day.
• Physical Fitness: A moderate level of fitness is recommended since the tour involves active diving on a boat and at the wreck site.
• Certifications: Only certified divers can join, with a minimum qualification of Open Water Diver and six logged dives. Divers with fewer than 15 logged dives should opt for a guided experience, available for an extra fee.
• What to Bring: Wear your swimwear, bring a towel, sun protection, and perhaps a light jumper if the weather is cooler. A camera is also recommended for capturing the marine life and wreck.
• Group Size: Limited to 21 travelers, offering a more relaxed atmosphere and personalized guidance.

The Bottom Line: Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day excursion is ideal for certified divers who want to see the famous SS Yongala wreck and experience the diverse marine life of the Great Barrier Reef without the hassle of organizing everything themselves. The inclusion of two dives, transport, gear, and lunch makes it a convenient option for those on a time crunch or visitors who prefer guided, all-inclusive trips.

While some reviews mention organizational issues or equipment concerns, many divers praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning underwater sights. If you’re comfortable with diving and eager to explore one of Australia’s most iconic sites, this tour offers a rich, rewarding experience.

For travelers seeking a straightforward, well-organized way to enjoy the reef’s highlights, with a focus on the impressively preserved SS Yongala, this tour checks many boxes. Just keep your expectations aligned—some logistical hiccups can happen, but the marine encounters and historical sights are nearly guaranteed to be memorable.

FAQs about the Tour

Is this tour suitable for non-divers?
No, this is a certified diver-only experience. If you aren’t certified or don’t have the required logged dives, you might want to look into snorkel or introductory options.

What is included in the price?
The price includes round-trip transport from Townsville, all scuba equipment, two certified dives at the Yongala site, lunch, and drinks like water, cordial, tea, and coffee.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before departure aren’t refundable.

What if the weather isn’t great?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any additional costs?
Optional guided dives for less experienced divers or deeper dives (if applicable) are extra. Dive guides for divers with fewer logged dives cost about A$20, and deeper dives are around A$35.

How early should I arrive?
The tour starts at 7:00 am, so plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early at the meeting point to check in and get ready.

What gear do I need to bring?
Your swimwear, towel, sun protection, camera, and a light jumper for cooler months.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 21 travelers, which helps keep the experience more personal.

Do I need to show my certification on the day?
Absolutely. Bring proof of your diving certification and logged dives as required.

Can I join if I have more than 15 logged dives?
Yes, if you are an experienced diver, you can participate without a guide, but check with the operator if you have specific needs.

In essence, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to get up close with the Yongala wreck and the incredible marine environment of the Great Barrier Reef—perfect for certified divers who value convenience and expert guidance. Just be ready for an early start, and you’re set for a day full of underwater discovery.