Ninety seconds on the Great Barrier Reef
Picking your boat matters as much as the coral: if you get seasick, the island trips cross far less open water than the outer-reef boats.
By half past eight the boats have cleared the marina. Some work two or three reef sites through the day, with forty five minutes to an hour in the water at each; others moor at a permanent pontoon, a floating platform with shade, deck seating and an enclosed snorkelling area for less confident swimmers, and stay put all day. From November to May, wear the stinger suit the crew hands out: it is marine stinger season. An introductory dive needs no certificate, but eligibility conditions apply, so check them with the operator when you book. If the sea worries you, take any tablets at least half an hour before boarding, eat a light breakfast and sit towards the middle of the boat, where it moves least. If queasiness comes anyway, head for the open lower back deck, look at the horizon and stay out of the toilet.
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