3 Day Liveaboard — Cairns Great Barrier Reef
Three days on the reef opens up real choice — from a relaxed, accessible getaway to a serious dive expedition. These three operators, all departing Cairns, couldn’t be more different from one another.
OceanQuest — Comfortable & Accessible
A flexible, well-equipped 3-day, 2-night liveaboard suited to snorkellers, first-time divers and families. Visits Norman, Saxon and Hastings Reefs with up to 10 dives available across the trip, plus unique night-dive experiences like Fluoro Diving.
- From $770 (snorkelling) / $855 (certified diving)
- Best for: first-timers, families, flexible travellers
Book OceanQuest 3 Day Liveaboard →
Pro Dive Cairns — Built for Certification
If you want to combine diving with structured PADI training, Pro Dive Cairns is the standout choice — operating since 1983 as a PADI 5-Star Dive and Career Development Centre. This 3-day, 2-night trip includes up to 11 dives (2 night dives) across Flynn, Thetford, Milln and Pellowe Reefs, with Open Water, Advanced and Nitrox courses available to complete on board.
- Departs daily except Tuesday
- Best for: divers wanting certification or structured training alongside their trip
Book Pro Dive Cairns 3 Day Liveaboard →
Spirit of Freedom — For Serious Divers
This is the premium, remote-expedition option — a 37-metre luxury vessel heading to the Ribbon Reefs and the world-famous Cod Hole, with up to 11 dives including a night dive. Recommended for Open Water certified divers with at least 10 ocean dives. Includes a scenic flight back from Lizard Island.
- From $2,530 per person (Quad Share)
- Minimum age 16; guests over 65 require a dive medical
- Best for: experienced divers wanting a genuine expedition, not a casual introduction
Book Spirit of Freedom 3 Night Liveaboard →
Which one’s right for you?
| OceanQuest | Pro Dive Cairns | Spirit of Freedom | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | First-timers & families | Certification/training | Experienced divers |
| Reef sites | Norman, Saxon, Hastings | Flynn, Thetford, Milln, Pellowe | Ribbon Reefs, Cod Hole |
| Dives included | Up to 10 | Up to 11 (incl. 2 night dives) | Up to 11 (incl. night dive) |
| Experience needed | None | None (courses available) | Min. 10 ocean dives recommended |
| Starting price | $770 | Confirm with operator | $2,530 |
Facts current as at July 2026 — please confirm current pricing, availability and experience requirements directly with each operator when booking.