I'm discovering no where is cheap to fly to... I think we're just going to follow Chris' recommendation and just dive Australia
Hi there,
I'm based in New Zealand and there is a huge variety of diving in Australia and also the South Pacific - but I agree with Chris, I'd focus on Australia to get the most for your budget. There are a number of short liveaboard safaris that would take you to the Outer GBR (great diving/marine life and avoids the crowds in the day boat areas). There are also short liveaboards in western Australia, plus it's whale shark season in western Aus when you're over this way.
Here are some of the short liveaboards to the GBR:
Scubapro III - 3 day outer reef safaris
Ocean Quest - a variety of 2 to 5 day outer reef safaris to choose from
Rum Runner - 2 to 4 day sailing/dive safaris (very budget-friendly option)
It's whale shark season at Ningaloo Reef, Western Aus when you visit. The Shore Thing catamaran offers 3 night dive/snorkel safaris and 5-night Ningaloo safaris. I would personally look into that option plus a short outer GRB safari.
Shore Thing - 3 night dive/snorkel safaris
Enjoy your trip planning. If you change your mind and decide to go diving in the South Pacific as well, I'd recommend
Fiji as it's more accessible than some of the other top dive destinations in the area - yet still has beautiful diving. The soft corals are spectacular! Check out the Great White Wall and Purple Wall dive sites, plus bull shark diving at Beqa Lagoon.
Thanks,
Kathryn