I got my SSI Open Water Diver’s Certificate on the Great Barrier Reef, off Cairns…

It was one of the sweetest experiences of my life – it really was like visiting another planet.

There were SO many fish, everywhere, all kinds and colours, all around us. We were also lucky enough to see sharks, dolphins, and green turtles.

We were able to feed the fish too, which meant they were close enough to touch…we also got the chance to give one of the turtles a scratch on the back. We cuddled a pineapple sea cucumber (omg that was so strange) and touched giant clams, a black sea cucumber, and stayed WELL clear of the 3 cone shells we found (covered in a very deadly neurotoxin, and they also shoot darts that will paralyse you too).

I would reccommend it to anyone who has the chance to do this. I can’t wait to go again one day.

It took me 3 months to prepare for the trip over there, and we spend 2 days diving out on the reef. I only wish we’d had a whole week out there.