In researching for a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef, I've come across two tour companies, Great Adventures and Quicksilver, but can't decide between the two. For myself, I wish to do a scuba dive with one of these operators. But, I am traveling with my Mother, and she does not swim, and will not be getting in the water. So, she will be viewing the Reef from submersibles or viewing windows. Given this, which do you recommend? Which company provides the best opportunity to view fish and the Reef for a person not going in the water. Although I realize both companies offer possibiliites, if both are equal, then perhaps I need to decide based on which platform is at the best reef with the most fish. Anyhow, any help is greatly apprecaited. Thanks.

To add, I see that there's another company, Reef Magic, to consider as well. Again, looking forward to advice and recomendations. Thanks.

There's been a huge number of posts on this topic and if you will put the names of the tour companies in the seach box above, you will see lots of comparisons. There are several other companies mentioned in these posts that you may want to consider. It' s tough to choose!

I've been on all three and for me its Reef Magic out of Cairns, hands down. Its smaller than the other two (Quicksilver can take about 400 people), locally owned, doesn't market to large Asian tour groups, and its pontoon is on a great reef site at Moore Reef which is suitable for both divers and snorkellers. Also has a semi-submersible and glass bottom boat for your Mum.

Hi,

absolutely agree with Pat (as is often the case as she's our Queensland expert)!

I've put clients on Reef Magic and they've all been very pleased.

A much smaller alternative to Quicksilver, and IMO, a better option.

Hope this is helpful!

Regards,

Melodie
Certified Aussie Specialist