GBR surface waves Oct/Nov

[sansho]

We'll be visiting Australia in late Oct/early Nov this year, for the first time. One of the activities we'll do is do dive the GBR. However, my wife, who snorkels, also can get seasick (Not asking for how to deal with that). If we go do a 3 day liveaboard, she is concerned about the level of waves (by comparison we have experience in New England, the East coast, and Florida in February, which can be quite choppy).

[Get to the question, man!] So, I know it's a very broad question with many variables, however, generally, how would you describe the surface wave conditions around the GBR in Oct/Nov? Assume we'd be Northeast of Port Douglas down to Cairns, although down Townsville direction is an option also.

TIA!

 

[MA]

Hi,

although i'm no weather expert i've taken liveaboard trips at various times throughout the year at the GBR and Osprey.

Oct/nov has been the ideal time for me. I actually had water like glass with no waves in sight. within the GBR you shoudl be ok. Having said that, i've seen many get seasick in realtively flat water so take some tablets just in case!

But there's also no guarantees both times i was up there that time of year i may have been lucky. Just like when i went in Jan and I was unlucky diving amongst cyclones.

Liveaboard wise i'd highly recommend either Spirit of freedom, or undersea explorer. Don't go on the ones that just go the outer reefs - its very disappointing. YOu want to go the ribbon reefs and cod hole!