Yongala Dive were voted Winners of the ‘Adventure Tourism’ category in the North Queensland Tourism Awards 2011 and also Finalist in the Queensland State Awards for 2011.  After such a tough year for the state and tourism in general we were delighted to receive this recognition.  Dive with the winner in Northern Queensland !

Yongala Dive is a PADI IRRA Resort and the only dive centre based in Ayr.   Established in 2003, we were proud to earn a Tourism Development Award in 2006 and have gained a reputation for providing a professional service while still offering passengers the Northern Queensland ‘laid-back’ day.

Our ’Queenlander style’ Dive Shop is located at the beach for the utmost in relaxation and has been fully renovated, complete with on-site  ’boutique’  Diver’s Lodge to meet the needs of all our passengers and overnight guests. 

Our friendly staff include PADI Instructors and MSDT’s, First Aid and Oxygen Instructors, Skippers and Dive Masters experienced in dive charters along the East Coast of Queensland, especially the SS Yongala wreck.

We aim to provide certified divers with a unique adventure trip to the S.S. Yongala  including a 4WD to the beach and launching from the beach.  As diving enthusiasts working at something we love, we run a professional operation with lots of personal attention, ensuring your dive trip is a memorable experience.

Yongala Express – the fast fun ride to the wreck

Yongala Express is a purpose built 10m long rigid inflatable boat (RIB), powered by twin 200 hp yamaha four stroke outboards - the vessel is perfect for the yongala dive site and loves wave riding, ensuring a fast, fun and safe trip. 

From Alva Beach it will transport you on an exhilarating 30 minute ride to the wreck – with speeds of around 25 knots.  It’s overhead sun canopy and side curtains protect you from the sun, spray and wind – there is even a marine toilet on board for your convenience.

We specialise in small groups – with only 12 passengers and up to four crew on-board this makes your Yongala experience much more personal.  

Why you should dive with Yongala Dive

• The Yongala express dive vessel will get you onto the dive site in as little as 30 minutes, nearest other competitor takes at least 2.5 hours
• Unique 4WD experience from our dive centre to Alva Beach where you board the Yongala Express
• Our Dive Instructor’s have more experienced diving the Yongala than any other
• We visit the S.S.YONGALA 7 days a week, 362 days per year (weather permitting)
• We offer on-site accommodation and free pick ups from Ayr town centre for our dive lodge guests
• Yongala Dive is a PADI Project Aware Go Eco Operator dedicated to protecting the marine environment through responsible practices and enhancing divers awareness of the local aquatic environment.

Detailed information on the ‘Yongala Dive experience’ and how your day will run can be found here