This expedition combines the northern Ribbon Reefs with Osprey Reef in the remote Coral Sea. The trip begins around Ribbon Reefs 9 and 10 near Lizard Island, then travels offshore to Osprey Reef for two days of diving. The final diving day is generally spent at Ribbon Reef No. 3, although Bougainville Reef may be visited when weather conditions permit.

The itinerary offers up to 15 dives across the expedition, including night dives. The number of dives available depends on weather, sea conditions, the itinerary and operational considerations. With multiple dives possible each day, there are plenty of opportunities to explore different reef environments and underwater landscapes.

Osprey Reef is an isolated, submerged volcanic atoll in the Coral Sea, approximately 220 kilometres from the Queensland coast. Its dramatic underwater walls, clear ocean water and remote location create a very different experience from many coastal reef sites. Divers may encounter large pelagic fish, reef sharks and extensive soft coral formations in this remarkable offshore environment.

North Horn, at the northern tip of Osprey Reef, is renowned for shark encounters. Spirit of Freedom may conduct its shark attraction dive here, offering the opportunity to observe grey reef sharks, silvertip sharks and potentially other oceanic species. Sightings and numbers are never guaranteed, as these are wild animals in their natural environment.

The trip offers opportunities to see colourful soft corals, sea fans, gorgonians, sea whips, tropical reef fish, giant clams, turtles and schooling pelagic fish. Osprey Reef is particularly known for its clear water, dramatic drop-offs and shark encounters, while the Ribbon Reefs offer an abundance of coral formations and diverse reef habitats.

The shark attraction dive takes place at North Horn when conditions and the trip schedule allow. Divers can observe sharks gathering in the natural underwater amphitheatre, creating an exciting opportunity for underwater photography and wildlife observation. The experience depends on the conditions and the presence of sharks, so sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Spirit of Freedom recommends Advanced Open Water certification and at least 20 ocean dives, including five dives within the previous 12 months. The Coral Sea is remote and exposed to open-ocean conditions, currents and swell, so recent experience and confidence in the water are particularly important. Less-experienced divers may have their participation limited if their skills are not suitable for the conditions.

The trip is designed around independent buddy diving rather than fully guided dives. Before each dive, the crew provides a detailed briefing covering the site, conditions and safety considerations. Dive staff provide surface support, and Safety Divers may assist less-experienced groups or divers who require additional support. Guests should be comfortable planning and conducting dives with their buddy within their certification limits.

Yes. Night diving offers a different perspective on the reef, when nocturnal marine life becomes active and some creatures that hide during daylight hours may emerge. The dive remains subject to suitable weather, sea conditions and operational decisions.

Several cabin categories are available, including Ocean View Deluxe, Ocean View Standard and Quad Share. Cabins are air-conditioned and feature ensuite bathrooms, while facilities and bed configurations vary by category. Ocean View cabins are generally suited to couples or single occupancy, while Quad Share offers individual bunks. Check the available cabin configuration when booking to ensure it suits your group.

Yes. Chef-prepared meals and snacks are included throughout the expedition, with four meals a day on the main diving days. Tea, coffee and drinking water are available, and wine or soft drinks are provided with the evening meal. Other drinks from the onboard bar are generally charged separately. Special dietary requirements can usually be accommodated with advance notice.

The trip price includes tanks, air fills, weights and a weight belt, along with safety equipment such as a Nautilus Lifeline. Full equipment rental is available, but items such as masks, snorkels, boots and fins may need to be hired separately or brought from home. Nitrox fills are also an additional cost, so confirm the equipment inclusions for your selected fare before departure.

The expedition begins with a scenic flight from Cairns to Lizard Island on Sunday morning. A courtesy transfer takes guests from their Cairns city accommodation to Hinterland Aviation's General Aviation terminal, where the flight departs. On arrival at Lizard Island, the Spirit of Freedom crew meets guests and transfers them to the vessel by tender.

Yes. Spirit of Freedom caters to underwater photographers, with a dedicated camera wash tub and camera table on the rear deck. A workstation with charging outlets is also available in the forward lounge. Bring suitable chargers, spare batteries and any specialist equipment you need, and check outlet compatibility before travelling.

The itinerary is subject to weather and sea conditions, particularly because Osprey Reef is remote and exposed to the Coral Sea. The crew may alter the route or select alternative dive sites if conditions make the planned itinerary unsuitable. Travel insurance that covers trip cancellation or interruption due to weather is strongly recommended, as cancellation and refund terms apply.