Travel Jumping Off Point for the Reef

[PACatter]

So the missus wants to dive the Great Barrier Reef next year, August or September, and I'm trying to research ahead. Curious to hear from anyone who has experience, what's the best jumping off point for Reef trips? I've looked at Cairns, Townsville/Magnetic Island and Port Douglas so far, not sure if anyone could point out which offers the best trips/pubs/restaurants. Any help is appreciated.

 

[rdhopkins2]

Sorry I can't help much with this one but it's on my bucket list too!

 

[CarnDaTigg's]

Port Douglas is the best of the three from my experience (have been to each of the three above). What you will want to do is make sure you go on the outer reef tours as the inner reef whilst good is normally packed with tourists and isn't the crystal clear waters and colourful coral that the photos show.