How bad are the jellyfish/cyclones on the Great Barrier Reef in March?

[abloodworth]

We've set up a 7 day liveaboard on Spoilsport (Coral Sea, Ribbon Reefs, Lizard Island, Bougainville Reef & Osprey Reef) for mid-March. I've read that this is both jellyfish and cyclone season. What precautions would you expect to have to take against jellyfish at this time of year? How bad are they really? Should we expect to get stung? And what happens with a liveaboard if a serious storm hits? Will they cancel/return home if out at sea? Thanks much!

 

[Aquapro Dive Services]

The jellyfish that are of concern are the box jellyfish species and these are typically around the coastal areas and not far out to sea. I have not known of any encounter with box jellyfish in the Ribbon Reef areas in over 30 years diving up here. Stinger suits or wetsuits offer plenty of protection.

Cyclone season is already half way through and its rare that a trip cancels due to cyclones, It is possible and there is usually a weeks warning. Any cancellations due to weather are fully refundable. Its highly unlikely you will get "hit" by a sever storm as its fairly easy to see incoming weather. Also if you are out to sea the boat can return if close enough or just motor to the protection of a nearby port (eg Cooktown or a few places further south).

 

[rabe]

regarding the jellyfish, you'll be fine

for the cyclones, there is not too much you can do it...

 

[Jay]

some handy links re cyclone probability / info.

Tropical Cyclone Outlook for The Coral Sea
Current Tropical Cyclones
Gradient Level Wind Analysis Valid 12 UTC

 

[abloodworth]

Thanks so much everyone! Super helpful info.

 

[FishCity]

We went mid March in 2014 and it was great. Unusually calm, theybsaid. Two weeks later they had a huge cyclone. You takes your chances.