How long is the Spirit of Freedom liveaboard trip?
The experience runs for 3 nights and 4 days. Guests depart Cairns at midday on Thursday and return on Sunday via scenic flight, making it a compact but immersive reef expedition.

How many dives are included?
The trip includes up to 11 dives across the itinerary, including at least one night dive. The exact number may vary slightly depending on weather and conditions.

How many dives are done per day?
Typically, guests can expect between 2 and 5 dives per day, depending on the schedule and conditions. This allows for a relaxed but dive-intensive experience.

Is night diving included?
Yes, this offers a unique opportunity to observe nocturnal marine life and different reef behaviour.

What level of experience is required?
The trip is suitable for certified divers with at least an Open Water certification. It is generally recommended that participants have a minimum of around 10 logged ocean dives and recent diving experience.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
While Open Water divers can participate, this trip is best suited to confident divers due to the remote locations, multiple dives per day, and varying conditions such as currents and deeper sites.

Can non-divers or snorkellers join?
Snorkellers may be able to join on certain departures, but conditions on the outer reef can be more exposed and may limit snorkelling opportunities. The itinerary is primarily designed for scuba divers.

What dive sites are visited?
The trip explores the Ribbon Reefs and Cod Hole, with possible sites including Steve’s Bommie, Pixie Pinnacle, Challenger Bay, and Dynamite Pass. Site selection depends on weather and conditions.

Will I see large marine life?
Yes, the trip is known for encounters with giant potato cod, as well as reef sharks, turtles, and large schools of pelagic fish. Sightings vary but are common in these remote reef areas.

What is included in the tour?
The experience includes accommodation onboard, all meals, tanks, air fills, weights, and up to 11 dives. Transfers, a scenic flight from Lizard Island, and daily cabin service are also included.

Are meals provided?
Yes, all meals are freshly prepared onboard and included throughout the trip. This includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, with beverages provided at set times.

What type of accommodation is provided?
Guests stay in air-conditioned cabins with ensuite bathrooms. A range of cabin types is available, from shared to private options.

What is the liveaboard experience like?
The liveaboard offers a relaxed and social atmosphere. Between dives, guests can unwind on the sun deck, enjoy meals, and share experiences with fellow divers. The vessel remains anchored near dive sites to maximise water time.

Is there a scenic flight included?
Yes, the trip concludes with a scenic one-hour flight from Lizard Island back to Cairns, offering spectacular aerial views of the reef.

Do I need to bring my own dive equipment?
You can bring your own equipment or hire gear onboard for an additional cost. Tanks, weights, and air fills are included in the base package.

Is Nitrox available?
Yes, Nitrox (enriched air) is available for certified divers as an optional upgrade, allowing for extended bottom times.

What should I bring with me?
Guests should bring swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, personal toiletries, and any required dive certification cards. A soft bag is recommended due to limited cabin space.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Yes, the trip involves multiple dives per day and movement around a vessel. A reasonable level of fitness and comfort in the water is required.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may be adjusted depending on weather and sea conditions to ensure safety and the best possible diving experience.

Is there mobile reception or Wi-Fi onboard?
Mobile reception is generally unavailable once offshore, and Wi-Fi is limited or not available. This allows for a fully immersive and disconnected experience.

What is the minimum age?
The minimum age for this trip is typically 16 years, due to the nature of the diving activities and remote locations.

Can I choose my dive schedule?
Divers are generally free to plan their dives within safe guidelines, working with a buddy system and following the advice of the onboard crew.

What makes this liveaboard unique?
This experience stands out for its access to remote reef locations, including the Ribbon Reefs and Cod Hole, as well as the combination of multiple daily dives and a scenic flight return. It offers a deeper, more immersive way to experience the Great Barrier Reef than any day trip.