Silversonic Outer Barrier Reef Snorkelling and Diving Adventure

Frequently Asked Questions for Silversonic Outer Barrier Reef Snorkelling and Diving Adventure

• What is the difference between Silversonic and Silverswift?
  Both are identical sisterships, 29-metre high-speed catamarans custom-designed for scuba dive and snorkel operations. Both visit 3 different reef sites and spend 5 hours at the reef. The difference is where they are based and the reef sites they visit. Silversonic departs from Port Douglas and has the choice of 22 stunning Agincourt ribbon reef sites to visit daily. Silverswift departs from Cairns and has the choice of 16 spectacular outer reef sites at Flynn, Pellowe, Milln and/or Thetford Reefs.
• What is the difference between the reef sites Silversonic and Silverswift visit?
  The reef systems that Silversonic and Silverswift visit are approximately 100 km apart giving rise to very different styles of reef formations and marine life. Both provide spectacular experiences for divers and snorkellers. Silversonic takes you to the Agincourt ribbon reef systems at the very outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Parallel to the Continental Shelf, they are recognized as the most pristine eco-systems in the reef's environment. Clear water provides the best possible underwater visibility, encourages rich coral growth and supports spectacular marine life. Agincourt's formations offer large wall dives as well as great bommie and pinnacle sites.
• Are there any sharks on the reef?
  Yes, there are sharks in every ocean and a variety inhabit the Great Barrier Reef. The most frequently seen sharks are white and black tip reef sharks which are quite timid and pose no threat to divers and snorkellers.
• What is the "Outer Edge"?
  The Outer Edge is where the Continental Shelf ends and the deep ocean begins. At the Outer Edge, the ocean floor drops from 30 – 40 metres to hundreds of metres. Ribbon reefs are situated on the edge, hence the name the "Outer Edge".
• Do you really go to the Outer Edge?
  Yes, Silversonic travels to Agincourt reef which is a ribbon reef on the very edge of the Great Barrier Reef. It sits approximately 5 km from the edge of the Continental Shelf.
• How many hours are we at the Reef?
  You will have over 5 hours at the reef sites combined.
• What sort of marine life will we see?
  All of the reef sites offer great ecological diversity and an abundance of marine life. Some of the commonly seen marine life includes turtles, anemone fish (Nemo), lionfish, cuttlefish, moray eels and reef sharks.
• Will we see whales?
  From May to September, there is a bonus of potential whale sightings as these gentle giants migrate to warm tropical waters to mate and give birth. The commonly sighted species are dwarf minke and humpback whales. A unique treat is to see the famous Migaloo, a rare white humpback whale. Silversonic has one of the few permits available from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority that allows guests to swim with dwarf minke whales if encountered. In season, these inquisitive creatures are frequently sighted at the Agincourt Ribbon Reefs where Silversonic visits. This activity is conducted under strict codes of practice.
• What are Lycra Suits? Are there any stingers?
  Lycra suits are available on board to reduce the possibility of stings and irritations while also offering protection from the sun. At certain times of the year (generally November – April), jellyfish, commonly called marine stingers, can affect the seas of Northern Australia. Most jellyfish are harmless to man, however certain varieties may cause a serious reaction. Incidents involving serious marine stings in this area are extremely rare. The crew are conscious of the danger of marine stingers and will take appropriate steps to ensure your protection if they believe conditions are such that there is a possibility of encountering these creatures.
• Do you have foreign speaking dive/snorkel staff?
  The crew do speak several different languages, however, a specific language cannot be guaranteed on any given day of travel due to staff rosters. We recommend you contact the Quicksilver office before travel.
• Do you provide optical masks for snorkellers and divers?
  Standard masks magnify objects underwater by 25%, however, prescription masks are also available ranging from -2 to -7 in strength. Prescription masks are available at no extra charge.
• Do you need to know how to swim to dive?
  Not technically. It is recommended however that if you can't swim but would like to do an introductory dive, that a reef platform such as Great barrier Reef Adventure or Outer Barrier Reef Adventure cruise would be better suited to ensure the best experience.