The cruise explores the northern Ribbon Reefs, including the famous Cod Hole. Other potential sites include Pixie Pinnacle, Challenger Bay, Wonder Wall, Two Towers, Lighthouse Bommie and the Snake Pit. The final selection depends on weather and diving conditions.

The Cod Hole is famous for its enormous potato cod, which are accustomed to divers and often approach closely. The site also features colourful coral formations and abundant tropical fish, providing memorable encounters and excellent underwater photography opportunities.

The itinerary offers up to 11 dives, including a night dive. Typically, two dives are available on the first afternoon, followed by four to five dives per day across the Ribbon Reefs. The actual number depends on conditions and the operational schedule.

The Ribbon Reefs are home to giant potato cod, Maori wrasse, reef sharks, turtles, giant clams, anemones and colourful tropical fish. Divers can also encounter large schools of pelagic fish and a remarkable variety of hard and soft corals. Sightings vary with conditions and season.

Yes, the itinerary includes a night dive on Friday, subject to suitable conditions. Night diving reveals a different side of the reef, with opportunities to observe nocturnal marine life and see coral reef environments under torchlight.

Dynamite Pass is a channel between reef structures where currents can attract passing sharks and other pelagic species. When conditions are suitable, the crew may include a drift dive here, offering an exciting opportunity to observe marine life moving through the channel.

Divers generally plan and conduct their own dives in buddy teams following detailed briefings and within the vessel's safety procedures. Spirit of Freedom provides surface support but does not offer a full guided-dive service as standard. Divers should be comfortable managing their own dive plans.

Conditions vary between sites, with opportunities to explore coral gardens, pinnacles, walls and channels. Currents, swell and visibility can change, so the captain and dive team select sites according to the conditions and the group's capabilities.

Yes. On Saturday evening, Spirit of Freedom anchors in Watson's Bay at Lizard Island, also known as Jiigurru. Guests enjoy an overnight stay in the sheltered bay before going ashore the following morning to explore the island.

Yes. On Sunday morning, guests can take a walk from Watson's Beach towards Mary Watson's cottage, crossing Chinaman's Ridge before returning to the airstrip. The itinerary includes time ashore before the scenic flight back to Cairns.

A one-hour scenic flight from Lizard Island to Cairns is included. The flight provides aerial views of the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding coastline, offering a memorable conclusion to the liveaboard adventure. Transfers back to Cairns city accommodation are also included.

The vessel offers several cabin options, including Ocean View Deluxe, Ocean View Standard, double or twin-share cabins, a Stateroom and quad-share accommodation. Cabins are air-conditioned, have private ensuite bathrooms and receive daily service. Availability and pricing vary by cabin category.

Chef-prepared meals and snacks are included throughout the cruise. Guests enjoy breakfasts, lunches and dinners, with additional food between dives. On Saturday evening, the crew serves a barbecue on the top deck at Watson's Bay, Lizard Island. Special dietary requirements should be advised in advance.

Tea, coffee and drinking water are available throughout the trip. One complimentary house wine, beer or soft drink is served with the evening meal. Other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages can be purchased from the onboard bar.

Spirit of Freedom recommends Open Water certification with at least 10 ocean dives, including five dives within the previous 12 months. Divers should have a good level of fitness and be comfortable diving in open-water conditions. Those who haven't dived recently are encouraged to complete a refresher course before departure