COFFS HARBOUR WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Face to Face with Grey Nurse Sharks: A PADI Shark Awareness Day Out of Coffs Harbour
A PADI Shark Diver and Shark Awareness course run by Jetty Dive Centre in the Solitary Islands Marine Park — two boat dives, digital theory, and a PADI certification in a 7‑hour program plus self‑study.
Face to Face with Grey Nurse Sharks: A PADI Shark Awareness Day Out of Coffs Harbour.
Off Coffs Harbour, in the clear, protected waters of the Solitary Islands Marine Park, the PADI Shark Awareness Course stages deliberate, close-up encounters with Grey Nurse Sharks. Delivered in small groups aboard purpose-built boats, the program pairs two boat dives with digital theory and personalized instruction so divers finish with a PADI Aware Shark Awareness certification and a different, more informed view of shark behaviour and habitat.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Two boat dives with Grey Nurse Sharks
The course includes two beautiful boat dives in the Solitary Islands Marine Park where participants observe Grey Nurse Sharks in their natural gutters and learn safe, respectful approach techniques.
PADI Shark Awareness certification and digital theory
Participants complete digital theory and receive the PADI Aware Shark Awareness certification (registered in the PADI database and issued as an E‑Card) alongside practical, in‑water instruction.
Small groups and boat‑based access
The course runs in small groups with five‑star PADI instruction aboard world‑class boats, avoiding the need to lug heavy gear across beaches and delivering a more personal learning experience.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
A day is part classroom, part adrenaline: digital theory and briefing precede a boat run into the Solitary Islands Marine Park, then two guided boat dives where divers sit, watch and practice the correct techniques for shark encounters. Instruction is focused and personal—small groups mean more one‑on‑one time with instructors—and the experience culminates with PADI certification logged to your record.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Equipment hire is not included, so bring your own certified dive gear or arrange hire in advance; also have your diving certification documentation ready.
The program runs as a 7‑hour day plus required self‑study (digital theory provided).
The course is delivered by Jetty Dive Centre and uses boat access to the Solitary Islands Marine Park so you will embark and dive from purpose‑built vessels.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What certification do I need to join?
You must hold a PADI Open Water Scuba Diver certification or an equivalent qualification before taking the Shark Awareness course.
How long is the course?
The course is a 7‑hour program plus required self‑study through digital theory.
How many dives are included?
The program includes two boat dives in the Solitary Islands Marine Park.
Is equipment hire included?
No — equipment hire is not included and must be organised separately.
Will I receive a certification?
Yes — successful participants receive the PADI Aware Shark Awareness certification, registered in the PADI database with a digital E‑Card.
Are dives guaranteed on the scheduled day?
Open water ocean dives are subject to weather and availability; the operator will contact you with any changes.