Responsible Reef Practices - Tip 2 'Diving and Snorkelling' 3:33pm, Wed 14 Apr 2021
Cumberland Charter Yachts are dedicated to Eco-tourism, and have been a certified Eco-tourism operator since 2015, promoting sustainable travel that benefits local communities, culture and heritage to minimise impacts on the environment. We believe it is our responsibility to educate all our charter guests on environmental sustainability.
On your charter, you'll enjoy the many different activities and experiences the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday islands offer and it's important to enjoy them in a responsible and environmentally 'reef friendly' way. Cumberland Charter Yachts have written our own
"Responsible Reef Practice's" guide with a copy provided on each charter yacht. Here we'll share with you the many ways that you can help us keep the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsundays pristine for years to come and enjoy your charter holiday in a sustainable way.
Read about Responsible Reef Practices Tip #1 - Anchoring and Mooring
Read about Responsible Reef Practices Tip #3 - Waste (including sewage) and Litter
Read about Responsible Reef Practices Tip #4 - Around Turtles
Read about Responsible Reef Practices Tip #5 - Around Whales and Dolphins
Read about Responsible Reef Practices Tip #6 - Visiting Islands and Beaches
Read about Responsible Reef Practices Tip #7 - Bird Watching
Diving and Snorkelling
Diving and snorkelling are some of the best ways to take in the spectacular underwater views that the Great Barrier Reef has to offer and to come face-to-face with its captivating marine life. Although divers and snorkellers have had minimal impact upon the Great Barrier Reef so far, there are times when some divers and snorkellers can get a little too close and may stress the marine life or crush and break corals.
Most damage occurs as a result of those who are unable to maintain good control in the water (for example, through fighting a current, or trying to get a closer look, or taking photographs). By having good snorkel and dive practices, you'll be able to preserve this special world for others to experience.
In General
Enhance the quality of your dive experience by learning about the environment you'll visitPractice buoyancy control over sand patches before approaching a reef - test buoyancy whenever you're using
new equipment such as new wetsuits, buoyancy control devices (BCDs) and camerasMake sure you are properly weighted before diving near a reefCheck that all your dive gear is secure before you get into the water so that it doesn't dangle and catch on
the reefMove slowly and deliberately in the water, relax and take your time - avoid rapid changes in directionAvoid making sudden or loud noises underwaterAvoid leaning on, holding onto or touching any part of the reef - this is particularly important when you are
taking underwater photographsAvoid kicking up and disturbing the sand if you're over a sandy areaAvoid touching any animals or plantsAvoid feeding fishStay more than one metre away from giant clamsKeep clear of free-swimming animals (such as turtles, whales and sea snakes). In particular, do not chase,
ride, grab or block the path of these animalsAvoid relocating any marine life, particularly when taking photos and filming.
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Cumberland Charter Yachts is an award-winning company providing exceptional holiday experiences, leaving customers with a lifetime of memories that exceed all expectations.
