Diving off the Great Barrier Reef is certainly one of the most thrilling experiences that anyone can have, especially when you take advantage of some of the best dive sites in this region. One of the most celebrated places to dive in the area is the Cod Hole.
Located about 150 kilometers from Port Douglas, the Cod Hole is on Ribbon Reef #10 which is part of the Great Barrier Reef. Being that far out in the sea, it generally takes four to five days to reach the area by boat from Port Douglas or Cairns. However, from Lizard Island it is merely a day away.
The Cod Hole is arguably one of the most famous dive site in all the Great Barrier Reef. The area is teeming with marine life, but the name comes from the enormous Potato Cods that live around. Because of the popularity of the dive spot, the Potato Cods and Maori Wrasses are very friendly and will even approach divers.
The Marine Life in the Cod Hole:
In addition to the aforementioned Potato Cods and Maori Wrasses, you can find a wealth of marine life in this region. Trigger fish, Emperor Angel fish and White Tip Reef Sharks can be seen in the area. When you first dive down into the depths, you may spot the lacy scorpion fish first as it lays on the coral below. As you descend into the depths, you’ll spot a wealth of sea life including the pygmy seahorses.
There are also many other example of marine life, including the flutemouths, trumpetfish, “Dash-Dot” goatfish can be seen rummaging about amid the gobies and nudibranchs that populate the area.
Diving Requirements & Level of Experience:
Thanks to its natural structure, the Cod Hole is very calm with few currents and good visibility. In fact, it is the perfect spot for underwater photography as the fish will swim up to your camera so you can get some breathtaking photos. There are three moorings which are permanent at the Cod Hole and each one of them will allow you to dive to roughly 10 meters. Divers with little to no experience can swim in these waters as the danger level is small, although it is always recommended that you dive in groups. This is especially true when you travel along a series of ridges made from coral known as the “Supermarket Aisles”.
You can dive in the Cod Hole all year round and always find the area teeming with life. However, it is also teeming with tourists as well since this is one of the most popular areas along the Great Barrier Reef for diving. This means that you may have to go in the off-season.
This text is for information purposes only. It has been written by members of the website and can be inaccurate. Always contact local professional divers before diving.