Reef Encounter: Great Barrier Reef liveaboard trips

Experience the Great Barrier Reef like never before with Reef Encounter’s multi-day liveaboard dive trips departing from Cairns. Whether you’re a snorkeler or a diver, our trips offer a range of options to suit every budget and itinerary. What sets a liveaboard trip apart? You get more time to explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, including sunrise and sunset views and the chance for thrilling night and early morning dives.

Daily departures for all liveaboard options are convenient thanks to our day boat, Reef Experience. It provides comfortable and swift transfers between Cairns and Reef Encounter, essentially a permanent fixture on the reef. This flexibility ensures a hassle-free itinerary for your adventure.

Reef Encounter siun deck

Reef Encounter is a spacious vessel with 21 cabins, including double, twin-share, and stateroom options, accommodating up to 42 guests. All cabins are air-conditioned, and feature private ensuite facilities, and linen is provided. Our boat generates its freshwater supply, allowing you to indulge in refreshing hot showers after you explore the Great Barrier Reef. Onboard amenities include an air-conditioned dining saloon, a fully licensed bar, a lounge with a TV, DVD, and games area, and a spacious sundeck with loungers and an open-air hot tub. There’s even a helipad for those interested in scenic reef flights and a glass bottom boat offering tours on demand.

Boutique Floating Hotel

Your Reef Encounter trip includes twin and double stateroom accommodation with ensuites, chef-prepared meals, coffee, tea, and fresh fruit throughout your stay, snorkelling equipment and instruction, a free scuba lesson for snorkelers, glass bottom boat tours, a reef video presentation, and a marine biologist presentation. Reef Encounter is a locally family-owned and operated company that allows you to explore multiple reef sites during your live-aboard stay.

Please note that Reef Encounter charges an additional $100 peak season surcharge per booking per person for bookings made from December 23rd to January 2nd and from March 28th to April 2nd each year.

Please see our important information for medical conditions.

 

Accommodation

Accommodation Information

  • Check-in Time: 10:00 am
  • Check-Out Time: 8:00 am

When you choose onboard accommodation on Reef Encounter, you’re in for a comfortable and memorable experience. Our staterooms feature large windows that provide breathtaking views of the Great Barrier Reef right from your room. Plus, you’ll enjoy the convenience of ensuite facilities, including toilets, showers, and all the towels and toiletries you need, such as soap, shampoo, and conditioner.

We understand the importance of staying connected, so all staterooms are equipped with Australian power outlets, ensuring you can charge your devices effortlessly.

Delicious Meals

The culinary experience aboard Reef Encounter is exceptional. Our talented onboard chef prepares all your meals, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and delectable desserts. You can also enjoy fresh fruit, tea, and coffee throughout the day. We’re committed to catering to all dietary requirements, so please inform us of any specific needs when booking.

Scuba dive and snorkel equipment

To fully immerse yourself in the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, we provide top-of-the-range snorkelling and scuba diving equipment. Our glass bottom boat tours offer a unique perspective on the marine life beneath the surface, while an informative Marine Biology presentation enriches your understanding of the ecosystem.

Onboard, you’ll find a comfortable dining saloon, a TV and lounge area, and an inviting outdoor space. If you’re a coffee enthusiast, our barista coffee will surely please your palate. For relaxation, there’s a freshwater hot tub and a spacious sundeck adorned with sun loungers.

The fully licenced bar ensures you can enjoy your favourite beverages while taking in the beauty of the reef. Easy access to scuba diving and snorkeling platforms means you’re just moments away from your underwater adventures. And for those seeking an elevated view, we even have a helicopter pad for scenic flights.

Reef Encounter offers not only an incredible reef experience but also the comfort and amenities to make your stay truly exceptional.

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Reef Encounter Itinerary

First Day: 7:30 am: Board Reef Experience, our transfer vessel, and enjoy breakfast.

8:00 am: Depart to the Great Barrier Reef.

9:30 am: Arrive onboard the Great Barrier Reef hotel for your ‘Welcome and Safety Talk’ before being shown to your room to settle in and relax.

10:30 am: Water Session: Time to snorkel for all guests before lunch.

12:00 pm: Lunch. 1:00 pm: Water Briefings: Certified Diver Briefings / Try Scuba Diving Briefings / Snorkel Adventure Briefings.

1:30 pm: Water Session: Scuba dive or snorkel time. 3:00 pm:

Reef Encounter moves to another spectacular outer Great Barrier Reef location.

3:30 pm: Water Session: Scuba dive or snorkel time. Glass bottom boat tour.

Summer Schedule

6:00 pm: Dinner.

6:45 pm: Night Dive Briefings.

7:00 pm: Night dive commences for all those scuba diving.

Winter Schedule

5:30 pm: Night Dive Briefings.

6:00 pm: Night dive begins for all those scuba diving.

7:15 pm: Dinner. 8:00 pm: Dessert.

Next Day: 6:00 am: A wake-up call for the early morning dive and snorkel session.

6:30 am: Water Session: Sunrise scuba dive or snorkel time. Glass bottom boat tour.

7:30 am: Breakfast.

8:00 am: Reef Encounter moves to another spectacular outer barrier reef location.

8:30 am: Water Session: Scuba Dive or Snorkel Time.

10:30 am: Water Session: Scuba Dive or Snorkel Time.

12:00 pm: Lunch.

1:30 pm: Water Session: Scuba Dive or Snorkel Time.

3:00 pm: Reef Encounter moves to another spectacular outer barrier reef location.

3:30 pm: Water Session: Scuba diving, snorkelling, and Glass bottom boat tour are available.

Summer Schedule

6:00 pm: Dinner.

6:45 pm: Night Dive Briefings.

7:00 pm: Night dive commences for all those scuba diving.

Winter Schedule

5:30 pm: Briefing for the night dive.

6:00 pm: Night dive begins for all those scuba diving.

7:15 pm: Dinner. 8:00 pm: Dessert. Last Day:

6:00 am: A wake-up call for the early morning dive and snorkel session.

6:30 am: Water Session: Sunrise scuba dive or snorkel time. Glass bottom boat tour.

7:30 am: Breakfast.

8:00 am: Reef Encounter moves to another spectacular outer barrier reef location.

8:30 am: Water Session: Scuba Dive or Snorkel Time.

10:30 am: Water Session: Scuba Dive or Snorkel Time.

12:00 pm: Lunch.

1:30 pm: Water Session: Snorkel-only session available to passengers before departure

2:45 pm: Departing passengers board the transfer vessel ‘Reef Experience’ for the journey back to Cairns. Complimentary wine, cheese, and biscuits on the return journey.

4:30 pm: Approximate arrival time at the Cairns Marlin Marina. Experience the Great Barrier Reef in all its glory with this comprehensive itinerary, designed for your enjoyment and comfort.

How to get to Reef Encounter

Reef Experience, our transfer vessel to Reef Encounter, departs from Cairns Marlin Marina, specifically from ‘A-Finger.’

Boarding begins at 7:30 am for an 8:00 am departure.

The journey to the outer barrier reef takes approximately 90 minutes, ensuring a comfortable and scenic ride. On your final day, Reef Experience returns to Cairns Marina at around 4:30 pm, concluding your unforgettable Great Barrier Reef adventure.

Where to park

Conveniently, there are multiple parking stations located within walking distance of Cairns Marina. To explore your parking options and find the one that suits your needs best, simply [click here](insert link) to view the available parking facilities. This ensures a hassle-free start to your Great Barrier Reef adventure.

What to Pack for Reef Encounter:

Preparing for your Reef Encounter adventure is easy when you know what essentials to pack.

Here’s a handy checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared:

Swimwear: Don’t forget your swimwear for snorkeling and enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef.

Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the Australian sun with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.

Comfortable Clothing: Casual and comfortable clothing is suitable for onboard activities.

Pack a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring the reef and relaxing on the boat.

Personal Items: Bring essentials like your passport, driver’s license, and required medications.

Towels: Beach and bath towels are provided onboard Reef Encounter.

Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during your trip with a reusable water bottle.

Camera: Capture the stunning underwater scenery and memorable moments with an underwater camera or waterproof case.

Motion Sickness Medication: Consider bringing appropriate medication if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Chargers and Adapters: Ensure your electronic devices stay powered with chargers and any necessary adapters.

Cash or Card: Some optional activities, snacks, or souvenirs may require cash or card payments.

Toiletries: personal toiletries, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, and specific skincare items. Travel Documents: Keep your booking confirmation and identification handy for a smooth check-in process.

Remember that Reef Encounter provides snorkelling equipment and scuba diving gear, so you won’t need to bring these items. This checklist will prepare you to enjoy your Great Barrier Reef experience.

 

See our Reef Encounter tour packages

Highlights

Nothing compares with how amazing it is to stay on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef!

While you are on board, there will be plenty of opportunities to Snorkel and scuba dive with brightly coloured fish and coral.

At night take in the stars from the top deck or our onboard heated hot tub.

Included

Included in Reef Encounter Stateroom packages

  • Great Barrier Reef accommodation with Reef Encounter, Cairns best Great Barrier Reef liveaboard
  • A variety of spectacular outer Great Barrier Reef locations during your stay
  • Snorkelling or scuba diving, depending on which you select upon booking.
  • Delicious  fresh meals
  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert. Breakfast and lunch is served in a buffet format. Dinner is plated. Fruit is available throughout the day, along with tea and coffee.
  • All dietary requirements will be catered for – please advise us of these when booking.

Optional Extras

  • Barista Coffee
  • Soft Drinks
  • Alcohol
  • Nitrox
  • Tshirts and hats
  • Snacks
  • Photos

What to bring

What to bring

  • Hat,
  • Sunglasses
  • light jacket
  • socks
  • Camera
  • Travel Voucher
  • Certification card and logbook for certified divers
  • Cash or credit card for onboard extras

Reef Encounter is a barefoot experience.

How to get there

Getting to Reef Encounter

Reef Encounter is always on the Great Barrier Reef.

By Boat (included in tariff)

Our sister vessel Reef Experience operates daily transfers meeting up with Reef Encounter.

Boarding starts at 7:30 am on Finger A on the Marlin Jetty, Cairns.

Reef Experience will bring you back to the same destination between 4 and 4:30 pm on your final day.

Helicopter Transfers (optional extra)

Reef Encounter has a helipad on board for guests looking at adding some magic to their stay. You may choose to take a spectacular scenic flight.

Important Information

Cabin Share Advisory: Please note that the allocation of same-gender cabin shares in twin-share cabins cannot be guaranteed.

Important Information for Scuba Divers

This information is for all guests participating in scuba diving activities.

Australia has the strictest scuba diving rules globally and the safest scuba diving record.

Therefore you must understand Queensland’s scuba diving laws.

Great Barrier Reef liveaboard boats are regulated by the Queensland Government Code of Practice and comply with all rules, including the requirements for a dive medical, where applicable, as required by law.

Please complete our dive medical questionnaire as some medical conditions, age and medications may prevent you from scuba diving.

Our mission is always to provide our passengers with the very best Great Barrier Reef tour.

If you have any questions, we will be delighted to assist you.

Please contact our office on +61 7 4037 2700 or email our helpful team today.

Alternatively, you may like to consult your Doctor for a Queensland Dive Medical using the Australian QLD Standard Form AS.4005.1

Flying after Scuba Diving

Plan your travel itinerary.

On the final day of your Reef Encounter stay, your last dive will be completed by 1 pm.

Do not fly or go to altitude for at least 18 hours after scuba diving for a single no decompression scuba dive. You should not fly for 24 hours after your last scuba diving in multiple dives.

If Skydiving or Hot Air Ballooning, you must wait 24 hours after your dive.

We recommend waiting a minimum of 24 hours whenever possible.

Amenities

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Check-In: 10:00 am

Check-Out: 8:00 am

Read policies

Reef Encounter Accommodations

5

2 Reviews for “Reef Encounter”

  1. Alison Broughton
    5

    Excellent Crew! Super helpful and everyone was professional, friendly and made the experience super easy going! The accommodation was great and the meals were fantastic.

    Reply
  2. Greg Lord
    5

    Awesome helpful crew. The food was great and the accommodation exceeded our expectations. Clean and roomy. Thank you so much we will be back!!!

    Reply

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