Cairns: 4-Day PADI Open Water Course

Great Barrier Reef, Cairns



The Four-Day PADI Open Water Course with Divers Den, combines two days of pool and theory with two day trips to the Great Barrier Reef with full equipment, instruction, and transfers included.

Four-Day PADI Open Water Course with Divers Den in Cairns

This four-day course in Cairns is ideal for beginners seeking PADI certification through pool training and open water dives on the Great Barrier Reef.

Highlights

  • Learn to scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef
  • Receive expert tuition during two days of pool and classroom training
  • Complete four open water dives on the outer reef
  • Explore diverse coral and marine life at top Great Barrier Reef dive sites

Description

The Four-Day PADI Open Water Course with Divers Den offers comprehensive training to become a certified diver. Participants complete two days of pool training and theory lessons at the Cairns dive centre, followed by two day trips to the Great Barrier Reef to perform four open water dives.

All participants must meet medical questionnaire requirements; certain conditions or medications may restrict diving. Check the 'Can I Dive' page on the Divers Den website before booking. The course includes all PADI materials, dive and snorkel equipment with air fills, full tuition, plus refreshments like chilled water, tea, and coffee.

On Day 1, pick-up is available from select Cairns City accommodations, or participants may travel independently to the Dive Centre. After paperwork and theory sessions, pool training begins with a tread water test, finishing around 5:30pm.

Day 2 repeats the pick-up option. Training continues with a 200m swim test, additional skills practice, and theory completion including a multiple-choice exam.

Day 3 involves boarding the vessel at Cairns Marlin Marina for a 90-minute cruise to the outer reef. After a briefing and gearing up, participants complete their first two training dives, practice snorkeling, and finish with four open water dives to qualify for certification. Transfers are included with return to Cairns around 4:30pm.

Includes

  • All PADI materials
  • Comprehensive dive and snorkel equipment, including air fills and full tuition
  • Fresh chilled water, tea, and coffee
  • Two full-day outer reef trips
  • Transfers from select Cairns CBD accommodations

Excludes

  • Snacks and additional beverages
  • Photo and video packages
  • Digital camera hire
  • Premium souvenirs
  • Potential fuel surcharge of $10 per person, per reef day, payable before travel

Important Information

  • Minimum age: 12 years
  • Medical questionnaire and self-assessed declaration must be completed prior to training
  • If medical questions indicate issues, a physician’s letter confirming fitness to dive is required
  • Participants must pass a 200m swim test and a 10-minute treading water test
  • Fuel surcharge may apply due to operational cost fluctuations

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and a sense of adventure. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season.

Frequently Asked Questions

The course includes two days of pool and classroom training, plus four open water dives on the Great Barrier Reef.
The course is designed for beginners and anyone wanting to become a certified scuba diver in Cairns.
Open water dives are conducted at selected outer reef sites of the Great Barrier Reef near Cairns.
The course runs over four days combining pool training, theory, and open water dives.
No prior diving experience is needed; the course is suitable for complete beginners.
Yes, the course includes dives at reef sites with diverse coral and marine life on the Great Barrier Reef.
Equipment is typically provided; check the activity page for specific details about gear.
The course is available year-round, but check the website for current availability and weather conditions.
Certification is awarded upon successful completion of pool sessions, theory tests, and open water dives in Cairns.
The minimum age is usually 10 years old; verify exact requirements on the course provider's website.

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