SIAMDIVE
Spirit Of Freedom Pty Ltd 1Spirit Of Freedom Pty Ltd 2Spirit Of Freedom Pty Ltd 3Spirit Of Freedom Pty Ltd 4Spirit Of Freedom Pty Ltd 5Spirit Of Freedom Pty Ltd 6Spirit Of Freedom Pty Ltd 7Spirit Of Freedom Pty Ltd 8Spirit Of Freedom Pty Ltd 9Spirit Of Freedom Pty Ltd 10

Spirit Of Freedom Pty Ltd

Australia · Liveaboard★ 4.8

from AUD 2,500 / person

Plan this trip with AI →
Type
Liveaboard
Built / renovated
1992 / 2008
Length × width
37 m × 7 m
Cabins
11
Nitrox
YES ($)
Wi-Fi
NO
Rental gear
YES ($)

Highlights

  • Voted as Australia's Best Liveaboard by readers of Australasia Dive Log, this boat provides you access to remote and iconic destinations around the Great Barrier Reef
  • Custom-built and comfortable, Spirit of Freedom provides over-water luxury as you explore the mesmerising Ribbon Reefs, an ecosystem of abundant marine diversity
  • Accredited as an Advanced Ecotourism Operator, the highest eco-certification in Australia, ensuring your meetings with turtles, clown fish, dolphins and more will be in harmony with the natural environment
  • Dine on four plentiful, healthy and freshly-prepared meals per day, then grab a beer and relax on the top deck, with gorgeous panoramic views of the sunset, before you retire to your cabin with en-suite bathroom and A/C

About Spirit Of Freedom Pty Ltd

Spirit of Freedom has been voted Australia's Best Liveaboard by readers of Australasia Dive Log, and as an Advanced Ecotourism Operator — the highest eco-certification in Australia — it lets divers of any level explore the Great Barrier Reef in harmony with the natural environment.

Reefs, routes and marine life

Custom-built and comfortable, this vessel sails from Cairns to remote and iconic destinations, from the mesmerising Ribbon Reefs and Cod Hole to the Coral Sea and the Far Northern Reefs toward Horn Island. Beneath the surface you may cross paths with barracuda, whitetip, blacktip, hammerhead and oceanic whitetip reef sharks, eagle and manta rays, leatherback sea turtles and sting rays — alongside turtles, clown fish and dolphins.

Life on board matches the diving. Dine on four plentiful, freshly-prepared meals a day, then grab a beer and relax on the top deck for panoramic sunset views before retiring to a cabin with en-suite bathroom and A/C.

Routes & departures

Coral Sea and Ribbon Reef dive adventure 4Days/4 nights · 14 dives · 81 Departures
  1. 1
    Day 1

    Around 07:30am you will board a twin-engine light aircraft for your scenic flight up the coast to Lizard Island. The Spirit of Freedom crew will greet you on arrival and escort you via tender to the vessel. Safety Briefing,  Crew Introduction, Necessary Dive Paperwork, Cabin allocation and ship orientation will take place before departing the Harbour. We depart for Ribbon Reef Number 10. During the journey to our first dive site for a check dive, please take this opportunity to familiarize yourselves with the vessel and make yourself comfortable.  This afternoon we will have the opportunity for two dives at a choice of sites including Challenger Bay, Lighthouse Bommie, Pixie Gardens, and Pixie Pinnacle. We depart in the evening for a 10 hour crossing to Osprey Reef in the Coral Sea. Please Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

  2. 2
    Day 2

    Two days will be spent diving Osprey Reef (weather permitting). Australia's Coral Sea reefs are renown for crystal clear water with visibility ranging 30 to 100 metres. The landscape is amazing with sheer walls laced with gorgonians, sea whips, and bright yellow soft corals, rising from the ocean floor thousands of feet below. 'North Horn' is a dive site at the tip of Osprey is a site where grey reef sharks, silvertips, and the occasional oceanic congregate, and you can experience a close encounter with the Spirit of Freedom shark attraction dive. Night dives available The night of the second day we will depart Osprey Reef for overnight travel to the Ribbon Reefs.

  3. 3
    Day 3
  4. 4
    Day 4

    At Ribbon Reefs Number 3 you can dive such sites as the sensational Steve's Bommie, Temple of Doom, and Flare Point. A second option for this day, in special weather conditions, is to head south from Opsrey to Bougainville Reef, known for its unusual underwater landscape or caverns, and its partially submerged wreck. In the evening cruise overnight back to Cairns.

  5. 5
    Day 5

    Enjoy a light breakfast on board and a group photo  Unfortunately our trip has come to an end and we have to say goodbye, but we hope to see you again soon!

Good to know

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to return home from your trip It is your responsibility to review and meet the vaccination requirements and visa/immigration requirements for the countries you're visiting Dive accident insurance (to include medical evacuation) is mandatory for everyone who dives: it's your responsibility to have adequate cover in place and to bring your certificate as proof All diving passengers must provide their dive certification card and their logbook: you will be unable to dive unless you can prove you meet the boat's minimum certification level Dive computers are mandatory: please bring your own or arrange with us in advance to rent one Please remember it is your responsibility to ensure you are fit to dive: some liveaboards require you to produce a medical certificate, often dated under two years or under a year, proving you can dive safely Itinerary and number of dives are indicative and subject to weather conditions and may change in advance, and during, your trip - safety will always come first. Itinerary changes do not give you the right to cancel your trip Taxes, levies, or surcharges, if applicable, are indicated in the Online Booking System during the checkout process for informational purposes. Supplements, government taxes, marine park fees, fuel surcharges, harbour fees, rental equipment and other upgrades or surcharges are subject to change at any time pre-booking or post-booking. These changes can be driven by local conditions, extreme weather, changes to government policy, operator decisions, oil prices, or other factors. Changes are outside PADI Travel's control and travelers are responsible to pay any increases. A change in these fees or surcharges does not grant travelers the right to cancel a reservation or dispute the surcharges. We recommend you buy travel and trip cancellation insurance (to include storm coverage where appropriate) Ensure you bring suitable electrical adaptors for the country or countries you are visiting In case of a rescheduled booking or a rebooking to a new dive operator, any payments made for the original booking are non-refundable. Beyond that the cancellation terms apply. Travelers are responsible to be aware of covid travel guidelines, local rules, and procedures for the country they are travelling to and to maintain up to date knowledge of any changes regarding entry requirements or local guidelines. Changes with regard to entry requirements to a country are outside of the control of PADI Travel. As such, customers do not have the right to cancel or seek reimbursement if unable to travel due to any updates to a country's entry requirement, airline flights, or other similar situations. PADI Travel Packages do not include travel insurance. PADI Travel strongly recommends that travelers purchase travel insurance. The Service Provider has the right to operate outside of the standard terms and conditions set out in the booking for rescheduled trips. Standard cancellation policies will not apply to rescheduled trips. The Service Provider reserves the right to make any amendments to booked packages prior to trip dates or during trip dates due to, but not limited to, covid related issues or changing restrictions. 16 years old is the minimum age of a travelling guest on Spirit of Freedom  Any traveller 65 years old or older will require a mandatory Doctors Medical or Dive Medical. 

Getting there

Pick up from your hotel at 7.30am for transfer to Cairns General Aviation Airport. At 8:30 your low level flight departs for Lizard Island where you will meet the boat. The Spirit of Freedom crew will greet you on arrival and escort you via tender to the vessel If you want to make your own way to Hinterland Aviation we are attaching directions for you but please let us know in advance This afternoon you will have the opportunity for two dives at a choice of sites including Challenger Bay, Lighthouse Bommie, Pixie Gardens, and Pixie Pinnacle Departure in the evening for a 10 hour crossing to Osprey Reef in the Coral Sea On Monday, you will arrive back into Cairns at 07:00am Enjoy a light breakfast on board and a group photo opportunity before being dropped back to your Cairns hotel around 08.00am.

Departures · 81

DatenightsfromSpots
Oct 15, 2026 – Oct 22, 20267AUD 4,750—
Oct 15, 2026 – Oct 18, 20263AUD 2,500—
Oct 22, 2026 – Oct 29, 20267AUD 4,750—
Oct 22, 2026 – Oct 25, 20263AUD 2,500—
Oct 25, 2026 – Oct 29, 20264AUD 3,20026 left
Oct 29, 2026 – Nov 5, 20267AUD 4,75024 left
Oct 29, 2026 – Nov 1, 20263AUD 2,50026 left
Nov 1, 2026 – Nov 5, 20264AUD 3,20026 left
Nov 5, 2026 – Nov 12, 20267AUD 4,750—
Nov 5, 2026 – Nov 8, 20263AUD 2,500—
Nov 12, 2026 – Nov 19, 20267AUD 5,25026 left
Nov 19, 2026 – Nov 26, 20267AUD 5,25026 left
Dec 3, 2026 – Dec 10, 20267AUD 5,25026 left
Dec 10, 2026 – Dec 13, 20263AUD 2,50026 left
Dec 10, 2026 – Dec 17, 20267AUD 4,75026 left
Dec 13, 2026 – Dec 17, 20264AUD 3,20026 left
Dec 17, 2026 – Dec 24, 20267AUD 4,75026 left
Dec 17, 2026 – Dec 20, 20263AUD 2,50026 left
Dec 20, 2026 – Dec 24, 20264AUD 3,20026 left
Dec 24, 2026 – Dec 31, 20267AUD 4,75026 left
Dec 24, 2026 – Dec 27, 20263AUD 2,50026 left
Dec 27, 2026 – Dec 31, 20264AUD 3,200—
Dec 31, 2026 – Jan 3, 20273AUD 2,50026 left
Dec 31, 2026 – Jan 7, 20277AUD 4,75026 left
Jan 3, 2027 – Jan 7, 20274AUD 3,20026 left
Jan 7, 2027 – Jan 10, 20273AUD 2,50026 left
Jan 7, 2027 – Jan 14, 20277AUD 4,75026 left
Jan 10, 2027 – Jan 14, 20274AUD 3,20026 left
Jan 14, 2027 – Jan 17, 20273AUD 2,500—
Jan 14, 2027 – Jan 21, 20277AUD 4,750—
Jan 21, 2027 – Jan 28, 20277AUD 4,75026 left
Jan 21, 2027 – Jan 24, 20273AUD 2,50026 left
Jan 24, 2027 – Jan 28, 20274AUD 3,20026 left
Jan 28, 2027 – Feb 4, 20277AUD 4,75026 left
Jan 28, 2027 – Jan 31, 20273AUD 2,50026 left
Jan 31, 2027 – Feb 4, 20274AUD 3,20026 left
Feb 4, 2027 – Feb 11, 20277AUD 4,75026 left
Feb 4, 2027 – Feb 7, 20273AUD 2,50026 left
Feb 7, 2027 – Feb 11, 20274AUD 3,20026 left
Feb 11, 2027 – Feb 14, 20273AUD 2,50026 left
Feb 11, 2027 – Feb 18, 20277AUD 4,75026 left
Feb 14, 2027 – Feb 18, 20274AUD 3,20026 left
Feb 18, 2027 – Feb 21, 20273AUD 2,50026 left
Feb 18, 2027 – Feb 25, 20277AUD 4,75026 left
Feb 21, 2027 – Feb 25, 20274AUD 3,20026 left
Feb 25, 2027 – Feb 28, 20273AUD 2,50026 left
Feb 25, 2027 – Mar 4, 20277AUD 4,75026 left
Feb 28, 2027 – Mar 4, 20274AUD 3,20026 left
Mar 4, 2027 – Mar 11, 20277AUD 4,75026 left
Mar 4, 2027 – Mar 7, 20273AUD 2,50026 left
Mar 7, 2027 – Mar 11, 20274AUD 3,20026 left
Mar 11, 2027 – Mar 18, 20277AUD 4,75026 left
Mar 11, 2027 – Mar 14, 20273AUD 2,50026 left
Mar 14, 2027 – Mar 18, 20274AUD 3,20026 left
Mar 18, 2027 – Mar 25, 20277AUD 4,75026 left
Mar 18, 2027 – Mar 21, 20273AUD 2,50026 left
Mar 21, 2027 – Mar 25, 20274AUD 3,20026 left
Mar 25, 2027 – Apr 1, 20277AUD 4,75026 left
Mar 25, 2027 – Mar 28, 20273AUD 2,50026 left
Mar 28, 2027 – Apr 1, 20274AUD 3,20026 left
Apr 1, 2027 – Apr 4, 20273AUD 2,57026 left
Apr 1, 2027 – Apr 8, 20277AUD 4,89026 left
Apr 4, 2027 – Apr 8, 20274AUD 3,29026 left
Apr 8, 2027 – Apr 15, 20277AUD 4,89026 left
Apr 8, 2027 – Apr 11, 20273AUD 2,57026 left
Apr 11, 2027 – Apr 15, 20274AUD 3,29026 left
Apr 15, 2027 – Apr 22, 20277AUD 4,89026 left
Apr 15, 2027 – Apr 18, 20273AUD 2,57026 left
Apr 18, 2027 – Apr 22, 20274AUD 3,29026 left
Apr 22, 2027 – Apr 29, 20277AUD 4,89026 left
Apr 22, 2027 – Apr 25, 20273AUD 2,57026 left
Apr 25, 2027 – Apr 29, 20274AUD 3,29026 left
Apr 29, 2027 – May 2, 20273AUD 2,57026 left
Apr 29, 2027 – May 6, 20277AUD 4,89026 left
May 2, 2027 – May 6, 20274AUD 3,29026 left
May 6, 2027 – May 9, 20273AUD 2,57026 left
May 6, 2027 – May 13, 20277AUD 4,89026 left
May 9, 2027 – May 13, 20274AUD 3,29026 left
May 13, 2027 – May 16, 20273AUD 2,57026 left
May 13, 2027 – May 20, 20277AUD 4,89026 left
May 16, 2027 – May 20, 20274AUD 3,29026 left
Cod Hole and Ribbon Reef Dive Adventure 3Days/3 nights · 10 dives
  1. 1
    Day 1

    Safety Briefing,  Crew Introduction, Necessary Dive Paperwork, Cabin allocation and ship orientation will take place before departing the Harbour. During the journey to our first dive site for a check dive, please take this opportunity to familiarize yourselves with the vessel and make yourself comfortable. Enjoy lunch on board while we cruise to the outer Great Barrier Reef for an afternoon check-out dive and a twilight or night dive. After dinner we cruise north to the Ribbon Reefs. Please Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

  2. 2
    Day 2

    4 - 5 dives, including a night dive if permitted by the authorities. These two days are spent diving along the Ribbon Reefs, from Number 3 to Number 10 Ribbon Reefs. Dive sites and sequence may vary depending on the weather conditions, but will always include at least one dive at the Cod Hole, where you encounter a family of massive and very friendly Potato Cod. Other sites may include Wonder-wall, Pixie Pinnacle, Challenger Bay, Two Towers, Lighthouse Bommie, and the Snake Pit, just to name a few. If the current is right, you may also take a drift dive at Dynamite Pass, well known as a channel for sharks to pass through. 4 to 5 dives will be available each day, including a night dive on Friday. On Saturday evening we overnight at Watson’s Bay, Lizard Island, and enjoy a sunset BBQ dinner on the top deck.

  3. 3
    Day 3

    4 - 5 dives, including a night dive if permitted by the authorities.

  4. 4
    Day 4

    This morning after breakfast you will disembark and say farewell to Spirit of Freedom. On shore at Lizard Island you can take the guided walk from Watson's Beach to Mary Watson's cottage over Chinaman's Ridge and back to the air-strip. Here you will board a twin-engine light aircraft for your low level flight over the reef and / or along the coast back to Cairns. The one hour flight arrives at Hinterland Aviation, Cairns General Aviation Airport around 11.15 to 11:30am Unfortunately our trip has come to an end and we have to say goodbye, but we hope to see you again soon!

Good to know

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to return home from your trip It is your responsibility to review and meet the vaccination requirements and visa/immigration requirements for the countries you're visiting Dive accident insurance (to include medical evacuation) is mandatory for everyone who dives: it's your responsibility to have adequate cover in place and to bring your certificate as proof All diving passengers must provide their dive certification card and their logbook: you will be unable to dive unless you can prove you meet the boat's minimum certification level Dive computers are mandatory: please bring your own or arrange with us in advance to rent one Please remember it is your responsibility to ensure you are fit to dive: some liveaboards require you to produce a medical certificate, often dated under two years or under a year, proving you can dive safely Itinerary and number of dives are indicative and subject to weather conditions and may change in advance, and during, your trip - safety will always come first. Itinerary changes do not give you the right to cancel your trip Taxes, levies, or surcharges, if applicable, are indicated in the Online Booking System during the checkout process for informational purposes. Supplements, government taxes, marine park fees, fuel surcharges, harbour fees, rental equipment and other upgrades or surcharges are subject to change at any time pre-booking or post-booking. These changes can be driven by local conditions, extreme weather, changes to government policy, operator decisions, oil prices, or other factors. Changes are outside PADI Travel's control and travelers are responsible to pay any increases. A change in these fees or surcharges does not grant travelers the right to cancel a reservation or dispute the surcharges. We recommend you buy travel and trip cancellation insurance (to include storm coverage where appropriate) Ensure you bring suitable electrical adaptors for the country or countries you are visiting In case of a rescheduled booking or a rebooking to a new dive operator, any payments made for the original booking are non-refundable. Beyond that the cancellation terms apply. Travelers are responsible to be aware of covid travel guidelines, local rules, and procedures for the country they are travelling to and to maintain up to date knowledge of any changes regarding entry requirements or local guidelines. Changes with regard to entry requirements to a country are outside of the control of PADI Travel. As such, customers do not have the right to cancel or seek reimbursement if unable to travel due to any updates to a country's entry requirement, airline flights, or other similar situations. PADI Travel Packages do not include travel insurance. PADI Travel strongly recommends that travelers purchase travel insurance. The Service Provider has the right to operate outside of the standard terms and conditions set out in the booking for rescheduled trips. Standard cancellation policies will not apply to rescheduled trips. The Service Provider reserves the right to make any amendments to booked packages prior to trip dates or during trip dates due to, but not limited to, covid related issues or changing restrictions. 16 years old is the minimum age of a travelling guest on Spirit of Freedom  Any traveller 65 years old or older will require a mandatory Doctors Medical or Dive Medical. 

Getting there

Pick up from your hotel at 11.00am for transfer to Trinity Wharf Cairns for 12pm boat departure. You will be greeted by the Spirit of Freedom crew, who will give you an orientation of the vessel before departure. Enjoy lunch on board while cruising to the outer Great Barrier Reef for an afternoon check-out dive and a twilight or night dive. After dinner cruise north to the Ribbon Reefs On your last day after breakfast you will disembark and say farewell to Spirit of Freedom and if you would like, you can take the guided walk from Watson's Beach to Mary Watson's cottage over Chinaman's Ridge and back to the air-strip. Here you will board a twin-engine light aircraft for your low level flight over the reef and / or along the coast back to Cairns. The one hour flight arrives at Hinterland Aviation, Cairns General Aviation Airport around 11.15 to 11:30am, where the Spirit of Freedom courtesy coach will meet you for your transfer back to your Cairns city hotel.

Cod Hole - Ribbon Reefs & Coral Sea Adventure 7Days/7 nights · 24 dives
  1. 1
    Day 1

    Safety Briefing,  Crew Introduction, Necessary Dive Paperwork, Cabin allocation and ship orientation will take place before departing the Harbour. During the journey to our first dive site for a check dive, please take this opportunity to familiarize yourselves with the vessel and make yourself comfortable.  Enjoy lunch on board while we cruise to the outer Great Barrier Reef for an afternoon check-out dive and a twilight or night dive. After dinner we cruise north to the Ribbon Reefs. Please Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors  

  2. 2
    Day 2

    Two days will be spent diving Osprey Reef (weather permitting). Australia's Coral Sea reefs are renown for crystal clear water with visibility ranging 30 to 100 metres. The landscape is amazing with sheer walls laced with gorgonians, sea whips, and bright yellow soft corals, rising from the ocean floor thousands of feet below. 'North Horn' is a dive site at the tip of Osprey is a site where grey reef sharks, silvertips, and the occasional oceanic congregate, and you can experience a close encounter with the Spirit of Freedom shark attraction dive. We will depart Osprey Reef for overnight travel to the Ribbon Reefs.

  3. 3
    Day 3
  4. 4
    Day 4

    At Ribbon Reefs Number 3 we will dive such sites as the sensational Steve's Bommie, Temple of Doom, and Flare Point. A second option for this day, in special weather conditions, is to head south from Opsrey to Bougainville Reef, known for its unusual underwater landscape or caverns, and its partially submerged wreck. In the evening we will cruise overnight back to Cairns.

  5. 5
    Day 5

    There is about half a day layover in Cairns while guests embark/disembark and rooms are readied for the new guests Enjoy lunch on board while we cruise to the outer Great Barrier Reef for an afternoon check-out dive and a twilight or night dive. After dinner we cruise north to the Ribbon Reefs.

  6. 6
    Day 6

    These two days are spent diving at the most northern of the Ribbon Reefs, Number 9 & 10 Ribbon Reefs. Dive sites and sequence may vary, but will always include at least one dive at the Cod Hole, where you encounter a family of massive and very friendly Potato Cod. Other sites may include Wonder-wall, Pixie Pinnacle, Challenger Bay, Two Towers, Lighthouse Bommie, and the Snake Pit, just to name a few. If the current is right, you may also take a drift dive at Dynamite Pass, well know as a channel for sharks to pass through. In the evening of the second day we overnight at Watson's Bay on Lizard Island and enjoy a sunset BBQ dinner on the top deck.

  7. 7
    Day 7
  8. 8
    Day 8

    This morning after breakfast you will disembark and say farewell to Spirit of Freedom. On shore at Lizard Island you can take the guided walk from Watson's Beach to Mary Watson's cottage over Chinaman's Ridge and back to the air-strip. Here you will board a twin-engine light aircraft for your low level flight over the reef and / or along the coast back to Cairns. The one hour flight arrives at Hinterland Aviation, Cairns General Aviation Airport around 11.15 to 11:30am Unfortunately our trip has come to an end and we have to say goodbye, but we hope to see you again soon!

Good to know

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to return home from your trip It is your responsibility to review and meet the vaccination requirements and visa/immigration requirements for the countries you're visiting Dive accident insurance (to include medical evacuation) is mandatory for everyone who dives: it's your responsibility to have adequate cover in place and to bring your certificate as proof All diving passengers must provide their dive certification card and their logbook: you will be unable to dive unless you can prove you meet the boat's minimum certification level Dive computers are mandatory: please bring your own or arrange with us in advance to rent one Please remember it is your responsibility to ensure you are fit to dive: some liveaboards require you to produce a medical certificate, often dated under two years or under a year, proving you can dive safely Itinerary and number of dives are indicative and subject to weather conditions and may change in advance, and during, your trip - safety will always come first. Itinerary changes do not give you the right to cancel your trip Taxes, levies, or surcharges, if applicable, are indicated in the Online Booking System during the checkout process for informational purposes. Supplements, government taxes, marine park fees, fuel surcharges, harbour fees, rental equipment and other upgrades or surcharges are subject to change at any time pre-booking or post-booking. These changes can be driven by local conditions, extreme weather, changes to government policy, operator decisions, oil prices, or other factors. Changes are outside PADI Travel's control and travelers are responsible to pay any increases. A change in these fees or surcharges does not grant travelers the right to cancel a reservation or dispute the surcharges. We recommend you buy travel and trip cancellation insurance (to include storm coverage where appropriate) Ensure you bring suitable electrical adaptors for the country or countries you are visiting In case of a rescheduled booking or a rebooking to a new dive operator, any payments made for the original booking are non-refundable. Beyond that the cancellation terms apply. Travelers are responsible to be aware of covid travel guidelines, local rules, and procedures for the country they are travelling to and to maintain up to date knowledge of any changes regarding entry requirements or local guidelines. Changes with regard to entry requirements to a country are outside of the control of PADI Travel. As such, customers do not have the right to cancel or seek reimbursement if unable to travel due to any updates to a country's entry requirement, airline flights, or other similar situations. PADI Travel Packages do not include travel insurance. PADI Travel strongly recommends that travelers purchase travel insurance. The Service Provider has the right to operate outside of the standard terms and conditions set out in the booking for rescheduled trips. Standard cancellation policies will not apply to rescheduled trips. The Service Provider reserves the right to make any amendments to booked packages prior to trip dates or during trip dates due to, but not limited to, covid related issues or changing restrictions. 16 years old is the minimum age of a travelling guest on Spirit of Freedom  Any traveller 65 years old or older will require a mandatory Doctors Medical or Dive Medical. 

Getting there

​ Before the trip The trip starts on Thursday morning 7:30 with a pick-up from your Cairns hotel and transfer to Hinterland Aviation at Cairns General Aviation Airport. Here you will board a twin-engine light aircraft for your scenic flight up the coast to Lizard Island. If you want to make your own way to Hinterland Aviation we are attaching directions for you but please let us know in advance The Spirit of Freedom crew will greet you on arrival and escort you via tender to the vessel. After an orientation of the vessel departure for Ribbon Reef   After the trip Thursday morning after the trip you will disembark and say farewell to Spirit of Freedom On shore at Lizard Island you can take the guided walk from Watson's Beach to Mary Watson's cottage over Chinaman's Ridge and back to the air-strip. Here you will board a twin-engine light aircraft for your low level flight over the reef and / or along the coast back to Cairns. The one hour flight arrives at Hinterland Aviation, Cairns General Aviation Airport around 11.15 to 11:30am, where the Spirit of Freedom courtesy coach will meet you for your transfer back to your Cairns city hotel.

Far Northern Reefs Expeditions - Northbound Itinerary7 nights · 24 dives
  1. 1
    Day 1

    Safety Briefing,  Crew Introduction, Necessary Dive Paperwork, Cabin allocation and ship orientation will take place before departing the Harbour. During the journey to our first dive site for a check dive, please take this opportunity to familiarize yourselves with the vessel and make yourself comfortable.  Please Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

  2. 2
    Day 2

    Diving No. 9 & 10 Ribbon Reefs. Starting to the north of Cairns, and finishing to the east of Lizard Island, the Ribbon Reefs are a stunning turquoise chain of 10 individual reefs. Fringing the edge of the continental shelf, this 200km stretch of the Great Barrier Reef lies in a remote region of North Queensland and is only accessible by a few liveaboards. Relatively isolated, these reefs support a huge range of biodiversity from the giant clam with it’s violet fluorescent interior, to the vividly red flame file shell and the elusive leafy scorpion fish. Reef formations include beds of huge plate corals, isolated pinnacles crowned in delicate corals and anemones, walls, channels, caves, canyons and shallow coral gardens. Overnight travel.

  3. 3
    Day 3

    Diving Tijou Reef region. Tijou Reef is located at the southern end of the Far Northern Reefs. The sheltered western side of Tijou Reef is dotted with coral bommies and coral gardens that offer wonderful diving in depths to 30 metres. The bommies in particular are spectacular, covered in pretty corals and often swarming with schools of snapper and trevally. Many reef sharks and turtles are also seen in this area, but the best shark action is found at the northern tip of Tijou Reef. This site, known as Shark City, is a magic wall dive where pelagic fish and sharks gather. Barracuda, trevally, mackerel, tuna, grey reef sharks and whitetip reef sharks constantly patrol this wall, and divers often get buzzed by larger silvertip sharks. Overnight travel.

  4. 4
    Day 4

    Diving Far North region The Far Northern Reefs, which are known as the isolated reefs north of Lizard Island, extending to the east the tip of Cape York peninsula Many of the hundreds of reefs in the region, are yet to be fully explored The Far Northern reefs are famous for their fantastic wall dives, pinnacles alive with fish, massive coral heads and reef fish and invertebrates of incredible variety and colour. The nesting season for the green sea turtle runs from October through February, and November and December sees thousands upon thousands of turtles descending on the many small coral cays in the region. The Spring is also the best weather season to dive the outer walls, offering a great chance of encounters with sharks, manta rays and massive schools of pelagics. 

  5. 5
    Day 5

    Diving Far North region

  6. 6
    Day 6

    Diving Far North region

  7. 7
    Day 7

    Diving Far North region Overnight travel to Horn Island

  8. 8
    Day 8

    Breakfast Unfortunately our trip has come to an end and we have to say goodbye, but we hope to see you again soon!

Good to know

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to return home from your trip It is your responsibility to review and meet the vaccination requirements and visa/immigration requirements for the countries you're visiting Dive accident insurance (to include medical evacuation) is mandatory for everyone who dives: it's your responsibility to have adequate cover in place and to bring your certificate as proof All diving passengers must provide their dive certification card and their logbook: you will be unable to dive unless you can prove you meet the boat's minimum certification level Dive computers are mandatory: please bring your own or arrange with us in advance to rent one Please remember it is your responsibility to ensure you are fit to dive: some liveaboards require you to produce a medical certificate, often dated under two years or under a year, proving you can dive safely Itinerary and number of dives are indicative and subject to weather conditions and may change in advance, and during, your trip - safety will always come first. Itinerary changes do not give you the right to cancel your trip Taxes, levies, or surcharges, if applicable, are indicated in the Online Booking System during the checkout process for informational purposes. Supplements, government taxes, marine park fees, fuel surcharges, harbour fees, rental equipment and other upgrades or surcharges are subject to change at any time pre-booking or post-booking. These changes can be driven by local conditions, extreme weather, changes to government policy, operator decisions, oil prices, or other factors. Changes are outside PADI Travel's control and travelers are responsible to pay any increases. A change in these fees or surcharges does not grant travelers the right to cancel a reservation or dispute the surcharges. We recommend you buy travel and trip cancellation insurance (to include storm coverage where appropriate) Ensure you bring suitable electrical adaptors for the country or countries you are visiting In case of a rescheduled booking or a rebooking to a new dive operator, any payments made for the original booking are non-refundable. Beyond that the cancellation terms apply. Travelers are responsible to be aware of covid travel guidelines, local rules, and procedures for the country they are travelling to and to maintain up to date knowledge of any changes regarding entry requirements or local guidelines. Changes with regard to entry requirements to a country are outside of the control of PADI Travel. As such, customers do not have the right to cancel or seek reimbursement if unable to travel due to any updates to a country's entry requirement, airline flights, or other similar situations. PADI Travel Packages do not include travel insurance. PADI Travel strongly recommends that travelers purchase travel insurance. The Service Provider has the right to operate outside of the standard terms and conditions set out in the booking for rescheduled trips. Standard cancellation policies will not apply to rescheduled trips. The Service Provider reserves the right to make any amendments to booked packages prior to trip dates or during trip dates due to, but not limited to, covid related issues or changing restrictions. 16 years old is the minimum age of a travelling guest on Spirit of Freedom  Any traveller 65 years old or older will require a mandatory Doctors Medical or Dive Medical. 

Getting there

Qantaslink offer daily flights from Horn Island to Cairns. Direct flights to Cairns depart at 10.40am and 14.25pm. Flight time is 1hr 45 mins. Flights to or from Horn Island are not included in the tour, and you need to make your own travel arrangements to arrive at or depart from Horn Island. Due to light aircraft restrictions, your total weight of your luggage is limited to 20 kilograms/45 lb per person, including your dive gear and carry on luggage Spirit of Freedom offers return courtesy transfers from all Cairns City hotels.  If you are staying outside the central district, or at the Northern Beaches suburbs, you will need to arrange your own transfers.  Airport pick-ups are not offered as well, but the operator can drop you to the airport after your Spirit of Freedom trip. Should you wish to use electrical appliances in your cabins that are not 240V you will need to bring your own power converter and adaptor Minimum age for a travelling passenger is 16 years old. All travelling passengers over 65 years old will now need to obtain a dive medical certificate prior to departure. The certificate must be less than 12 months old on the date of departure.

Far Northern Reefs Expeditions - Southbound Itinerary7 nights · 24 dives
  1. 1
    Day 1

    Safety Briefing,  Crew Introduction, Necessary Dive Paperwork, Cabin allocation and ship orientation will take place before departing the Harbour. During the journey to our first dive site for a check dive, please take this opportunity to familiarize yourselves with the vessel and make yourself comfortable.  Please Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

  2. 2
    Day 2

    Diving Far North region The Far Northern Reefs, which are known as the isolated reefs north of Lizard Island, extending to the east the tip of Cape York peninsula Many of the hundreds of reefs in the region, are yet to be fully explored The Far Northern reefs are famous for their fantastic wall dives, pinnacles alive with fish, massive coral heads and reef fish and invertebrates of incredible variety and colour. The nesting season for the green sea turtle runs from October through February, and November and December sees thousands upon thousands of turtles descending on the many small coral cays in the region. The Spring is also the best weather season to dive the outer walls, offering a great chance of encounters with sharks, manta rays and massive schools of pelagics. 

  3. 3
    Day 3

    Diving Far North region

  4. 4
    Day 4

    Diving Far North region

  5. 5
    Day 5

    Diving Far North region

  6. 6
    Day 6

    Diving Far North - Tijou Reef region Tijou Reef is located at the southern end of the Far Northern Reefs. The sheltered western side of Tijou Reef is dotted with coral bommies and coral gardens that offer wonderful diving in depths to 30 metres. The bommies in particular are spectacular, covered in pretty corals and often swarming with schools of snapper and trevally. Many reef sharks and turtles are also seen in this area, but the best shark action is found at the northern tip of Tijou Reef. This site, known as Shark City, is a magic wall dive where pelagic fish and sharks gather. Barracuda, trevally, mackerel, tuna, grey reef sharks and whitetip reef sharks constantly patrol this wall, and divers often get buzzed by larger silvertip sharks. Overnight travel.

  7. 7
    Day 7

    Diving No. 5 Ribbon Reefs at dive sites such as Steve’s Bommie. Starting to the north of Cairns, and finishing to the east of Lizard Island, the Ribbon Reefs are a stunning turquoise chain of 10 individual reefs. Fringing the edge of the continental shelf, this 200km stretch of the Great Barrier Reef lies in a remote region of North Queensland and is only accessible by a few liveaboards. Relatively isolated, these reefs support a huge range of biodiversity from the giant clam with it’s violet fluorescent interior, to the vividly red flame file shell and the elusive leafy scorpion fish. Reef formations include beds of huge plate corals, isolated pinnacles crowned in delicate corals and anemones, walls, channels, caves, canyons and shallow coral gardens. Steve’s Bommie never fails to impress even the most discerning diver. There is not a better way to spend a Sunday morning. Rising up from thirty-five metres to its apex at around five metres. All you need to do is open your eyes to be astounded by the sheer quantity of schooling fish and the pristine condition of the corals. Look a little closer and you will find more of the reef’s masters of camoflage including Stonefish, Leafy Scorpionfish and Wobbegong Sharks. Located at twenty-two metres is a marble plaque commemorating the site’s namesake – ‘Steve’. Overnight travel

  8. 8
    Day 8

    Breakfast Unfortunately our trip has come to an end and we have to say goodbye, but we hope to see you again soon!

Good to know

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to return home from your trip It is your responsibility to review and meet the vaccination requirements and visa/immigration requirements for the countries you're visiting Dive accident insurance (to include medical evacuation) is mandatory for everyone who dives: it's your responsibility to have adequate cover in place and to bring your certificate as proof All diving passengers must provide their dive certification card and their logbook: you will be unable to dive unless you can prove you meet the boat's minimum certification level Dive computers are mandatory: please bring your own or arrange with us in advance to rent one Please remember it is your responsibility to ensure you are fit to dive: some liveaboards require you to produce a medical certificate, often dated under two years or under a year, proving you can dive safely Itinerary and number of dives are indicative and subject to weather conditions and may change in advance, and during, your trip - safety will always come first. Itinerary changes do not give you the right to cancel your trip Taxes, levies, or surcharges, if applicable, are indicated in the Online Booking System during the checkout process for informational purposes. Supplements, government taxes, marine park fees, fuel surcharges, harbour fees, rental equipment and other upgrades or surcharges are subject to change at any time pre-booking or post-booking. These changes can be driven by local conditions, extreme weather, changes to government policy, operator decisions, oil prices, or other factors. Changes are outside PADI Travel's control and travelers are responsible to pay any increases. A change in these fees or surcharges does not grant travelers the right to cancel a reservation or dispute the surcharges. We recommend you buy travel and trip cancellation insurance (to include storm coverage where appropriate) Ensure you bring suitable electrical adaptors for the country or countries you are visiting In case of a rescheduled booking or a rebooking to a new dive operator, any payments made for the original booking are non-refundable. Beyond that the cancellation terms apply. Travelers are responsible to be aware of covid travel guidelines, local rules, and procedures for the country they are travelling to and to maintain up to date knowledge of any changes regarding entry requirements or local guidelines. Changes with regard to entry requirements to a country are outside of the control of PADI Travel. As such, customers do not have the right to cancel or seek reimbursement if unable to travel due to any updates to a country's entry requirement, airline flights, or other similar situations. PADI Travel Packages do not include travel insurance. PADI Travel strongly recommends that travelers purchase travel insurance. The Service Provider has the right to operate outside of the standard terms and conditions set out in the booking for rescheduled trips. Standard cancellation policies will not apply to rescheduled trips. The Service Provider reserves the right to make any amendments to booked packages prior to trip dates or during trip dates due to, but not limited to, covid related issues or changing restrictions. 16 years old is the minimum age of a travelling guest on Spirit of Freedom  Any traveller 65 years old or older will require a mandatory Doctors Medical or Dive Medical. 

Getting there

Qantaslink offer daily flights from Horn Island to Cairns. Direct flights to  Cairns depart at 10:40 and 14:25. Your flight time is 1 hr 45 mins.  Flights to or from Horn Island are not included in the tour, and you need to make your own travel arrangements to arrive at or depart from Horn Island. Due to light aircraft restrictions, your total weight of your luggage is limited to 20 kilograms/45 lb per person, including your dive gear and carry on luggage Spirit of Freedom offers return courtesy transfers from all Cairns City hotels.  If you are staying outside the central district, or at the Northern Beaches suburbs, you will need to arrange your own transfers.  Airport pick-ups are not offered as well, but the operator can drop you to the airport after your Spirit of Freedom trip. Should you wish to use electrical appliances in your cabins that are not 240V you will need to bring your own power converter and adaptor Minimum age for a travelling passenger is 16 years old. All travelling passengers over 65 years old will now need to obtain a dive medical certificate prior to departure. The certificate must be less than 12 months old on the date of departure.

Far East Exploratory Trip7 nights · 24 dives
  1. 1
    Day 1

    Safety Briefing,  Crew Introduction, Necessary Dive Paperwork, Cabin allocation and ship orientation will take place before departing the Harbour. During the journey to our first dive site for a check dive, please take this opportunity to familiarize yourselves with the vessel and make yourself comfortable.  Please Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforseeable factors

  2. 2
    Day 2

    Diving Flinders Reef, Coral Sea. Opportunity to do up to 4 dives then overnight travel to Magdelaine Cays

  3. 3
    Day 3

    Diving Magdelaine Cays, Coral Sea. Opportunity to do 5 dives including 1 night dive, followed by overnight travel to Lihou Reef.

  4. 4
    Day 4

    Diving Lihou Reef. Opportunity to do 5 dives including 1 night dive. Remain anchored at Lihou reef overnight.

  5. 5
    Day 5

    Diving Lihou Reef. Opportunity to do 4 dives, followed by overnight travel to Herald Cays

  6. 6
    Day 6

    Diving Herald Cays. Opportunity to do 5 dives including 1 night dive, followed by overnight travel to Holmes Reef.

  7. 7
    Day 7

    Diving Holmes Reef. Opportunity to do 4 dives, followed by overnight travel to Cairns

  8. 8
    Day 8

    Arrive Cairns early morning. Breakfast on board and disembark 7.30am. Unfortunately our trip has come to an end and we have to say goodbye, but we hope to see you again soon!

Good to know

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to return home from your trip It is your responsibility to review and meet the vaccination requirements and visa/immigration requirements for the countries you're visiting Dive accident insurance (to include medical evacuation) is mandatory for everyone who dives: it's your responsibility to have adequate cover in place and to bring your certificate as proof All diving passengers must provide their dive certification card and their logbook: you will be unable to dive unless you can prove you meet the boat's minimum certification level Dive computers are mandatory: please bring your own or arrange with us in advance to rent one Please remember it is your responsibility to ensure you are fit to dive: some liveaboards require you to produce a medical certificate, often dated under two years or under a year, proving you can dive safely Itinerary and number of dives are indicative and subject to weather conditions and may change in advance, and during, your trip - safety will always come first. Itinerary changes do not give you the right to cancel your trip Taxes, levies, or surcharges, if applicable, are indicated in the Online Booking System during the checkout process for informational purposes. Supplements, government taxes, marine park fees, fuel surcharges, harbour fees, rental equipment and other upgrades or surcharges are subject to change at any time pre-booking or post-booking. These changes can be driven by local conditions, extreme weather, changes to government policy, operator decisions, oil prices, or other factors. Changes are outside PADI Travel's control and travelers are responsible to pay any increases. A change in these fees or surcharges does not grant travelers the right to cancel a reservation or dispute the surcharges. We recommend you buy travel and trip cancellation insurance (to include storm coverage where appropriate) Ensure you bring suitable electrical adaptors for the country or countries you are visiting In case of a rescheduled booking or a rebooking to a new dive operator, any payments made for the original booking are non-refundable. Beyond that the cancellation terms apply. Travelers are responsible to be aware of covid travel guidelines, local rules, and procedures for the country they are travelling to and to maintain up to date knowledge of any changes regarding entry requirements or local guidelines. Changes with regard to entry requirements to a country are outside of the control of PADI Travel. As such, customers do not have the right to cancel or seek reimbursement if unable to travel due to any updates to a country's entry requirement, airline flights, or other similar situations. PADI Travel Packages do not include travel insurance. PADI Travel strongly recommends that travelers purchase travel insurance. The Service Provider has the right to operate outside of the standard terms and conditions set out in the booking for rescheduled trips. Standard cancellation policies will not apply to rescheduled trips. The Service Provider reserves the right to make any amendments to booked packages prior to trip dates or during trip dates due to, but not limited to, covid related issues or changing restrictions. 16 years old is the minimum age of a travelling guest on Spirit of Freedom  Any traveller 65 years old or older will require a mandatory Doctors Medical or Dive Medical. 

Getting there

Cairns city accommodation transfers begin at 2.45pm, for a 4.00pm departure. Dinner on board and overnight travel After the trip: Disembark the boat by tender at Portland Roads 11.00am. 45 minutes transfer by air-conditioned coach to Lockhart River township. Land based activities and light lunch. Depart Lockhart approx 4.30pm. Arrival time in Cairns approx 6.30pm followed by transfer to your local hotel

What's included

  • ✓ Chef-prepared gourmet meals, tea, coffee and fountain water at all times, softdrinks and wine with dinner,
  • ✓ Two to five dives are available including the night dives. Cod Hole tour: up to 11 dives, Coral Sea tour: up to 15 dives
  • ✓ Tanks and weight belts, torches for night dives
  • ✓ Spirit of Freedom offers return courtesy transfers from all Cairns City hotels.
  • ✓ Low level scenic flight to/ from Lizard Island on 3 and 4 day trips
  • ✓ Transfer to and from Cairns city hotels
  • ✓ Currently no fuel levy, can however be reinstalled if fuel price rises.
  • ✓ Free dive insurance from Diviac
  • ✓ Free 1 year Premium membership for diviac's logbook (Value of USD 15)
  • ✓ Low level scenic flight to/ from Lizard Island 
  • ✓ Full board, including
  • ✓ Weight Belt/Weights/Tank(s)
  • ✓ Water
  • ✓ Tea
  • ✓ Coffee
  • ✓ Juices
  • ✓ Snacks between meals and after dives
  • ✓ Fins, mask, snorkel (ABC)
  • ✓ PADI PIC (Certification)
  • ✓ Transfer from Cairns Hotels to boat (round-trip)
  • ✓ Australian wines & soft drinks with evening meals
  • ✓ Marine Park Levy, Lizard Island Porterage, and Port fee
  • ✓ 7 Nights on board Spirit of Freedom
  • ✓ 6 dive days, 24 - 26 dives
  • ✓ Tanks & weights
  • ✕ The Reef Levy: $18.00 per person, Port & administration fees $2,00 per person
  • ✕ Drinks outside of evening meal.
  • ✕ Rental equipment available 3 Day Cod Hole AUD 120, notify upon booking and to be paid on board
  • ✕ 4 Day Coral Sea AUD 160, notify upon booking and to be paid on board
  • ✕ 7 Day combined AUD 245, notify upon booking and to be paid on board
  • ✕ Nitrox Package:   3 Day Cod Hole AUD 75, notify upon booking and to be paid on board
  • ✕ 4 Day Coral Sea AUD 105, notify upon booking and to be paid on board
  • ✕ 7 Day combined AUD 180, notify upon booking and to be paid on board
  • ✕ PADI Advance Course AUD 265, notify upon booking
  • ✕ PADI Nitrox Course AUD 295, notify upon booking
  • ✕ Tips not included, not mandatory in Australia.
  • ✕ Currently no fuel levy, can however be reinstalled if fuel price rises
  • ✕ Offset your carbon emissions & preserve reef biodiversity with the SeaGrass Grow Program
  • ✕ Soft drinks
  • ✕ BCD, Regulator with dive computer
  • ✕ PADI Advanced Open Water
  • ✕ PADI Enriched Air Diver (Nitrox)
  • ✕ One way flight Lockhart River to Cairns $390 per person
  • ✕ Marine Park Levy, Port and Admin Fee $20 per person 
  • ✕ Gear Hire. Per piece hire or full gear package, including computer, torch, etc. at $245 for the trip 
  • ✕ Nitrox fills at $10 per fill or $180 for the trip
  • ✕ Soft drinks and alcoholic drinks outside of the evening meal
  • ✕ Only on 7 Night Thursday to Thursday trips: Low Level Scenic Flight to Lizard Island $500 roundtrip per person

Marine life

BarracudaWhitetip reef sharkBlacktip reef sharkHammerhead sharkEagle rayManta rayLeatherback sea turtleSting rayOceanic whitetip shark

Facilities & amenities

Wi-Fi (free)Nitrox ($)Rental Equipment ($)

Reviews · 3

★ 53 guest reviews

★ 5 · Jacob Dunn · 2024-08-11

I had the privilege of being on the July 14 trip aboard Spirit of Freedom with master Tony, director Leo, my dive instructor Deanna, and many other incredible crew. This was my first diving live-aboard experience and it was spectacular. Diving the Great Barrier Reef was a bucket list item for me. This trip exceeded everything that I imagined it might be and it really is hard to pick where to begin summing up the experience. I remember when I was considering booking this trip and was hemming and hawing over whether I could spend this much on a few days of my trip. Asking that question after the trip has an easy answer: I am so glad I took this chance and did it. Here is a (non-exhaustive) list of highlights: - The first day of our trip included a scenic plane ride from Cairns up to Lizard Island (which was spectacular and easily a 500$ value by itself) to meet the boat and several dives (including a night dive). - Subsequent days included visiting Osprey reef - an incredible place further out from the ribbon reefs that had incredibly clear water and dramatic underwater life, coral, and topography. - Owing to a partnership with a university to conduct certain shark research, Spirit of Freedom is allowed to conduct a shark attraction/shark feed that we get to be underwater for. - Going in July, we were at the tail end of Minke whale season and, again owing to a research partnership, we are allowed to snorkel with Minke whales. Having a whale swimming 10-15 feet underneath me was special - especially in a trip that had already had so many individual highlights. Coming out to Osprey, you should have great diving - the crews are what will differentiate the boats. The crew on our trip was amazing. While you as a diver are responsible for your safety, the crew makes sure that there are layers and layers of checks to make sure that making it back to land isn’t an accident. Beyond ensuring safety, the entire crew would go above and beyond. Dives often had a couple of guides who you could follow or keep an eye on to point out cool aquatic life or other finds. Anton put in extra effort to take hundreds of professional grade photographs of the dives and us during the trip and had phots edited for sharing with us by the final day of the trip. Leo always had some way to make us laugh during briefings. As you would pass him your camera before getting out of the water, Matt would often take a second to take a cool video of you exiting the water hyped from a great dive. Deanna, the dive instructor conducting the advanced open water class I took while on board, was both an incredible teacher and knowledgeable diver - having a marine biology background, training dives would be filled with cool side quests and Deanna pointing out all that is cool and so-small-you-might-miss-it-without-expert-eyes on the reef. I am forever grateful for the experiences had on this trip and to the crew for making them possible. (If you are curious what to expect from the plane ride and in+on the water, I have photos posted to https://jacobdunn.ca/spirit-of-freedom-australia-2024 )

★ 5 · Jennifer Morse · 2023-04-09

Diving the Great Barrier Reef is the trip of a lifetime. Coming all the way from the US, I wanted the best experience possible. I was not disappointed. The staff was tremendous: safety conscious, knowledgeable, and top-notch service in every way. I am a fish-fan, and love to see and learn about new fish. The staff was amazing in this regard. They had plenty of fish books on board too! Pretty much every dive was at a new location. We got to see a wide variety of sites and a wide variety of dive conditions. Trip Leader James gave thorough dive briefings, which instilled confidence. I noticed that even the less experienced divers were very comfortable and confident. Nothing was left to chance. Every consideration was given to us. This was my first live aboard experience. Highly recommended.

★ 5 · Jessica Bentley · 2022-06-23

They'll take you out to the reefs of your dreams! The best coral I've ever seen and a great range of other life too Fantastic team on board - everyone was super friendly and helpful. Felt very well looked after in general, and particularly during my debut experience with seasickness... They really took care of everything for us (including putting your fins on and doing a defog & rinse of your mask) so all we had to do was enjoy the dive. Rental equipment all in good shape, including BCDs with integrated weights and easy to use dive computers. Everyone was provided a nautilus lifeline and safety sausage, and they made sure we knew how to use them. They were also happy to play matchmaker for dive buddies and gave great pre-dive briefings - but ultimately we were free to do as we pleased Cabins and shared spaces including the dining area, indoor lounge, and sundeck were all neat, tidy, and well maintained. Each cabin has an ensuite and also localised air-conditioning controls (which doesn't sound like much unless you've been on a boat that doesn't) Also there's hot showers on the dive deck Fantastic food - who knew you could experience great French cooking at sea... Had a good range of different cuisines, and plenty of food across first and second breakfasts, lunch, and dinner, along with afternoon and morning tea. And the scenic flight to meet the boat at Lizard island was pretty special too

Ready to plan this trip?

Our AI checks dates, cabins and prices, and builds your plan — our team handles the rest.

Plan this trip with AI →

More in Australia