Overnight & Liveaboard Reef Trips.

A liveaboard is an overnight Great Barrier Reef experience where you stay aboard the vessel rather than returning to Cairns each afternoon. It allows you to spend more time diving, snorkelling and exploring the reef.

Cairns liveaboard experiences range from one-night trips through to multi-night expeditions. Longer trips generally allow access to more remote reef locations and provide more opportunities to dive and snorkel.

Not necessarily. Some liveaboards cater for snorkellers as well as introductory divers, while others are designed specifically for experienced or certified divers. Check the requirements of the individual trip before booking.

Yes. Some liveaboards welcome snorkellers and provide access to the reef from the vessel. However, the activities available to snorkellers vary between vessels and itineraries.

Liveaboards generally offer considerably more diving opportunities than day trips. Depending on the itinerary, certified divers may be able to participate in several dives each day, including night dives on some trips.

A night dive is a scuba dive conducted after sunset using dive lights. The reef can look completely different after dark, with nocturnal marine life becoming active and some daytime species settling into their nighttime routines.

Accommodation varies between vessels. Cabins may be shared or private, with different levels of comfort and facilities. Some vessels offer bunk-style accommodation, while others have more spacious cabins.

Pack light and bring swimwear, comfortable clothing, toiletries, sunscreen, a hat, towel and any personal medication. Space can be limited, so a small soft bag is often more practical than a large suitcase.

Many liveaboards allow certified divers to use their own equipment, although rental equipment is usually available. Check the operator's requirements regarding tanks, weights, computers and other specialised equipment.

Some are. Trips offering introductory diving provide instruction and supervision for new divers, while other liveaboards are aimed primarily at certified divers. Always check the experience requirements before booking.

Some are, particularly those offering snorkelling and other reef activities. If you're travelling with someone who doesn't dive, check that the particular vessel provides suitable activities and facilities for non-divers.