26. 5 Day Liveaboard Dive Course – Prodive


The Great Barrier Reef is the ultimate underwater classroom, and there is no more prestigious way to earn your fins than with the Pro Dive Cairns 5-Day PADI Open Water Course. This is the "gold standard" of dive training, meticulously designed to transform curious beginners into confident, certified scuba divers. While many courses rush through the basics, Pro Dive Cairns believes in a comprehensive approach that prioritizes safety, skill mastery, and—most importantly—time spent in the water.

Since 1983, Pro Dive Cairns has built a global reputation for excellence. This 5-day journey is a life-changing odyssey that bridges the gap between the classroom and the deep blue. You won't just learn how to breathe underwater; you will live on the reef itself. By combining two days of intensive land-based training with a three-day, two-night liveaboard expedition, we provide an immersive experience that most divers only dream of. Our PADI-qualified instructors are some of the most experienced in the industry, dedicated to guiding you through every bubble and buoyancy check with patience and expertise. This is your chance to join a global community of explorers and gain a passport to the underwater world that lasts a lifetime.

Your training begins in the tropical hub of Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. The first two days take place at our purpose-built modern training center, featuring deep-water heated pools and air-conditioned classrooms. However, the true magic unfolds during the final three days when you head 60 kilometers offshore to the Outer Great Barrier Reef.

We take our students to the very edge of the continental shelf, where the water is at its most pristine. Pro Dive Cairns holds exclusive access to 19 premium moorings across the Flynn, Pellowe, Milln, and Thetford Reefs. These sites are chosen for their exceptional visibility—frequently exceeding 30 meters—and their diverse underwater topography. You will complete your training dives in sheltered, shallow lagoons teeming with life, before moving on to explore dramatic coral walls and intricate “bommies.” This is a world where sea turtles glide past your mask, giant Maori Wrasse come to say hello, and the coral gardens glow with every color of the rainbow. Learning to dive in such a world-class environment ensures that your very first memories of scuba diving are nothing short of spectacular.

Pro Dive Cairns operates a consistent schedule to ensure you get the most out of your five days.

  • Days 1 & 2: Pick-ups begin around 8:00 AM, with training concluding at approximately 5:00 PM.
  • Day 3 (Departure): Pick-up is at 7:00 AM for an 8:00 AM vessel departure from the Marlin Marina.
  • Days 3 & 4 (On Reef): Activities start with a 6:00 AM wake-up call and end with dinner around 7:30 PM.
  • Day 5 (Return): The final dive is at midday. The vessel returns to Cairns at approximately 4:00 PM, followed by transfers to your hotel.

Please note: You must not fly for at least 24 hours after your final dive on Day 5, so please plan your onward travel for the following day after midday.

The Training Center: Our Cairns facility is one of the best in Australia, featuring two deep-water heated pools and modern, air-conditioned classrooms equipped with the latest multimedia training aids.

The Liveaboard Vessel: For the 3-day/2-night portion, you will stay on one of our three custom-built 23-meter premium catamarans. These vessels are designed specifically for the Coral Sea, with “wave-piercing” hulls that provide a smooth and stable ride.

  • Accommodation: Private, air-conditioned twin-share or double cabins.
  • The Saloon: A spacious, air-conditioned indoor area for dining and socializing.
  • The Dive Deck: A large, functional space with a hydraulic platform that lowers into the water, making entries and exits effortless.
  • Sun Deck: An expansive upper deck with sun loungers for relaxing between dives.

What is the 5 Day Pro Dive Learn to Scuba Dive course?
This is a 5-day beginner-friendly scuba diving course that combines classroom learning, pool training, and a liveaboard trip to the Great Barrier Reef. By the end of the course, you’ll become a certified Open Water diver with internationally recognised qualifications.

Is this a full day tour or multi-day experience?
This is a multi-day experience rather than a single day tour. It runs over five consecutive days, including two days of training followed by a three-day, two-night liveaboard reef trip.

What does the 5-day itinerary involve?
The course typically includes two days of classroom theory and pool training in Cairns, followed by a liveaboard trip where you complete your open water dives and enjoy additional recreational dives on the reef.

How many dives are included?
The course includes 4 training dives plus up to 5 additional fun dives, including a guided night dive, giving you extensive in-water experience.

Where do you go on the reef?
You’ll visit a selection of exclusive outer reef dive sites, with access to numerous locations chosen for the best conditions and marine life during your trip.

Do I need any prior experience?
No prior experience is required. This course is specifically designed for beginners and includes full instruction, training and supervision from qualified dive professionals.

Is this cruise suitable for non swimmers?
This course is not ideal for non-swimmers. You must be comfortable in the water and able to complete basic swim and float tests as part of the certification requirements.

What is included in the course?
The course generally includes all scuba equipment, professional instruction, training materials, accommodation onboard during the liveaboard, meals while at sea, and multiple dives across the reef.

Are meals provided?
Meals are provided during the liveaboard portion of the trip, typically including breakfast, lunch and dinner. Meals are not always included during the classroom training days in Cairns.

Where does the course start?
Training begins at the Pro Dive training centre in Cairns, with transfers available from selected accommodation locations.

How many people are on this tour?
Group sizes vary, but training groups are typically kept relatively small to ensure personalised instruction. On the liveaboard vessel, guest numbers are larger but still managed to maintain safety and comfort.

What marine life can I expect to see?
During your reef dives, you may encounter coral gardens, tropical fish, turtles, rays and reef sharks, with outer reef sites offering excellent visibility and biodiversity.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, toiletries, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and any personal medication. You may also wish to bring a camera or logbook.

Can I take a GoPro or underwater camera?
Yes, GoPros and underwater cameras are allowed and are popular for capturing your dives. Ensure your device is securely attached and suitable for depth, as conditions can vary.

Can I take a drone on the tour?
Drones are generally not permitted due to safety concerns, limited space on the vessel, and regulations within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Is the course physically demanding?
The course requires a moderate level of fitness. You’ll need to be comfortable swimming, carrying dive gear, and spending extended periods in the water.

Are there medical requirements?
Yes, all participants must complete a medical questionnaire. Certain conditions or medications may require medical clearance before diving.

What accommodation is provided?
During the reef portion of the course, you’ll stay onboard a liveaboard dive vessel in shared or twin accommodation, with all meals included.

Will I get seasick?
Conditions on the open ocean can vary. If you are prone to seasickness, it’s recommended to take preventative medication before departure.

What happens in bad weather?
Courses generally operate in most conditions, but itineraries may be adjusted for safety. In rare cases of severe weather, trips may be rescheduled.

Do I get certified at the end?
Yes, upon successful completion of all training components, you will receive an internationally recognised Open Water scuba diving certification.

Why choose this course?
This course offers a comprehensive learn-to-dive experience by combining professional training with a liveaboard reef trip, allowing you to gain certification while diving some of the best sites on the Great Barrier Reef.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Bookings can be made directly from any of the tour or attractions individual pages - or simply give us a call on +61 07 40574312.

All payments are securely processed by the NAB (National Australia Bank) No credit card information is held by us. In fact we never even see your credit card details.

We are an online only agency operating out of offices in Trinity Beach, a suburb on Cairns' Northern Beaches (about a 25 minute drive from the city).

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