Which PADI Course/Provider?

Hi guys,

Me & my girlfriend are keen to have a go at diving as currently traveling and in Cairns for 2-3 weeks, we've done some snorkeling at the whitsundays and would love to dive at the GBR.

We've been into town in Cairns and spoken to a few of the tourist info site places and a few of the companies but seem to be getting more confused at the options and prices ranges available to us! At first we were thinking of just doing an introductory dive or two, but after speaking to a helpful guy in the Pro-Dive shop are thinking whilst we're here should maybe go for a 4/5 day PADI course.

Does anyone have any recommendations on what we should be looking for or whether to try an intro dive or just jump into the PADI course? Also any info on the course providers in Cairns would be great.

Sorry for the long post, and thanks for reading!
Greg

PS- Also been reading a lot of recommendations on here for Port Douglas up the coast, as we have our own transport this could also be an option, is the diving there better than off of Cairns? Or is that for more experienced divers?

Since you appear to have the time, Take the Open water course. You will learn how not to hurt yourself and will enjoy your dives more. Besides the Into course "resort course" expires after 12 months. If you plan another trip and want to dive you will have to take it all over again. $$$ Good, Luck enjoy! Most of all be SAFE.

port douglas is awesome there is a guy there called gary diver

Scuba Diving - Port Douglas - Australia - V.I.P. Personal Diving Services

he trains you to a very high standard

its only 4 days, 1 day study 1 day pool 2 days that include 6 dives on the great barrier reef
the 4 dives will be what you would normally need to qualify and then the other 2 is more for your fun.

he also works security at one of the pubs called the outback they do cane toad racing

Port Douglas Resort Accommodation - Blue Leaf Rooms
99$ rooms at a 4.5 star hotel, very nice stayed there for 4 months (work paid)

or if your back packing

Accommodation Port Douglas | Dougies Backpackers Resort | Port Douglas | North Queensland | Australia