Reef Encounter | 3 Day 2 Night Liveaboard Tour
Departure Times
Departure Point: Cairns Marlin Marina, Cairns
Pricing Options
Relax, play and explore with the ultimate Outer Great Barrier Reef experience!
- Immerse yourself in 3 days of snorkelling and diving adventures
- Stylish accommodation, air-conditioning, and indulgent onboard features
- Perfect for snorkellers, intro divers, and certified divers of all ages
- Join the Top Deck Club for tailored comfort and luxury
- Flexibility to stay for as little or as long as you desire
Searching for a longer trip? Ask us about extended stays!
Spend your days snorkelling and diving amongst iconic Great Barrier Reef destinations, relaxing onboard a 35-metre purpose-built catamaran, and enjoying glass-bottom boat tours above unique coral formations. The Reef Encounter 3 Day 2 Night Liveaboard Tour combines the best of underwater adventure, indulgent accommodation, and onboard features to create the ideal reef experience. Perfect for all ages, Reef Encounter offers the flexibility to stay and play in the Great Barrier Reef for as little or as long as you desire!
Highlights
- 35-metre catamaran hotel, designed for optimal comfort and stability
- Overnight twin/double share cabins with private bathrooms
- Option to join the Top Deck Club for tailored luxury and service
- Ample daily snorkelling and diving options, including night diving for certified divers
- Scuba diving demonstration and instruction
- Onboard Chef preparing fresh, delicious meals
- Licensed onboard bar
- Hydraulic lowered dive/snorkel platform for seamless access to the reef
- Sun deck with the perfect vantage point
- Marine biologist presentation on the Great Barrier Reef
- Helipad for scenic helicopter tours over the Great Barrier Reef as your transfer to/from Reef Encounter (optional extra)
- Onboard air-conditioning and spacious entertainment areas
- All Reef Levy fees included
Sample Itinerary
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Reef Sites
With over 15 individual sites to choose from, Reef Encounter's experienced crew will ensure you enjoy the best conditions for the day. Each flourishing reef has something different to offer, from sprawling coral gardens to countless species of reef fish! Check out some of the most renowned sites on Reef Encounter's itinerary:
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Reef Sites
With over 15 individual sites to choose from, Reef Encounter's experienced crew will ensure you enjoy the best conditions for the day. Each flourishing reef has something different to offer, from sprawling coral gardens to countless species of reef fish! Check out some of the most renowned sites on Reef Encounter's itinerary:
Snorkelling
Put on a snorkel and make a splash in the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef! With more fish and coral species than anywhere on the planet, snorkelling is the perfect activity for all ages and experience levels. Reef Encounter's experienced crew carefully selects the reefs each morning to ensure the best visibility and conditions during your snorkel. All equipment and tuition is included and our purpose-built snorkel platform makes getting in and out of the water smooth and easy for everyone.
Resort / Introductory Diving Package
Reef Encounter grants the ideal opportunity to try your hand at diving, with no prior experience required! All diving tours are guided by a qualified instructor who will teach you everything that you need to know before diving below. With the Resort Diver Package, guests will have the opportunity to experience 7 day dives during their 3-day trip. The perfect way to see the Great Barrier Reef as you never have before!
Certified Diving Package
Certified divers can look forward to abundant time under the water during their unforgettable time on Reef Encounter. Offering day dives in addition to night dives, the opportunities to explore the Outer Reef are seemingly endless!
Night diving
Certified divers can enjoy the thrill of diving at night! Every night offers the opportunity for certified divers to dive and experience the Outer Reef after the sun sets. The Great Barrier Reef is extremely active at night as plenty of fish come out to feed, including sharks and giant trevallies - an unforgettable chance to immerse yourself in the action!
Accommodation
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Top Deck Club
Offering exclusive, tailored service the Top Deck Club is here to take care of all your needs whilst on board Reef Encounter! Much like 'first class' this indulgent option is perfect for those holidaymakers that want optimal luxury and personalised service during their trip. Perks i...
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Top Deck Club
Offering exclusive, tailored service the Top Deck Club is here to take care of all your needs whilst on board Reef Encounter! Much like 'first class' this indulgent option is perfect for those holidaymakers that want optimal luxury and personalised service during their trip. Perks include a dedicated personal valet, three-course evening meals, a private scuba or snorkel guide and late check-out times.
Staterooms
Sleep on the reef in the stylish Reef Encounter Staterooms. Enjoy serene ocean views from your very own comfortable air-conditioned cabin, equipped with an en suite toilet and shower, and included towels and toiletries (soap, shampoo). Rooms are Twin Share - 2 x Single Beds or Private Double - 1 x Double bed.
Cot hire is available for babies aged 0-2 years. Small rollaway beds are available for children 2-11 years and will go in the room with the parents/guardians. Children aged 12 years and above must have a standard bed. Prams and pushchairs are welcome onboard, however, they can be stored at the Reef Encounter Office in town if needed.
More Information
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What To Bring
- Overnight bag - If you wish to store any excess luggage we are happy to do so in our office at 100 Abbott Street, Cairns.
- For safety reasons Reef Encounter has a no-shoe policy. (There is no need to bring extra pairs of shoes)
- Cash or credit card for purchases of snacks from the bar / souvenirs for sale on-board or underwater camera hire.
- Sun hat, swimming clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, light casual clothing.
- As the ...
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What To Bring
- Overnight bag - If you wish to store any excess luggage we are happy to do so in our office at 100 Abbott Street, Cairns.
- For safety reasons Reef Encounter has a no-shoe policy. (There is no need to bring extra pairs of shoes)
- Cash or credit card for purchases of snacks from the bar / souvenirs for sale on-board or underwater camera hire.
- Sun hat, swimming clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, light casual clothing.
- As the air-conditioning is on a set temperature for the heat during the day it can become quite cool in the evenings, even just being on the Great Barrier Reef can be cooler at night-time, therefore a light long-sleeved pullover, cardigan should be taken.
- Dive medical if required
- Proof of certification if you are a certified scuba diver.
* Sleeping Bags are NOT permitted
* Reef Encounter has a fully licensed bar - NO BYO!
What's Included
Reef Encounter Stateroom Inclusions
- Twin or Double Stateroom with private bathroom
- Chef prepared meals
- Reef Levies, Management Fee and Fuel Surcharge
- Marine Biologist presentation when transfers are done by Reef Experience
- All dive and snorkeling equipment with the exception of wetsuits
- Free scuba lessons for snorkellers and dive equipment
- Coffee, Tea & Milo are available all day while vessel is not underway
- Fresh fruit is always available on board Reef Encounter
Reef Encounter Top Deck Club Additional Inclusions
- Dedicated personal Valet service for the entirety of the stay
- Private snorkel or dive guide available at all times
- Australian Sparkling wine & sunset cocktails
- Breakfast served to stateroom
- Turn down service
- Romantic dinners under the stars (weather permitting)
- Wetsuits
What's Extra
- Wetsuit Hire - $5pp per day
- Guided Certified Dives - Per Dive - $10pp pre-booked / $15pp booked onboard
- Scuba Refresher Course - $50pp
- Professional photos
- Underwater cameras for hire - from $89pp per day
- Prescription masks - $10pp per day
- Drinks, snacks, cameras, souvenirs, t-shirts etc.
- Please Note: Travel over Public Holiday and Peak Season periods may incur additional charges on check-in.
Please note divers may be subject to a medical questionnaire before they are able to dive. Please click here for more diving information and to read the medical questionnaire.
Cot Hire and Rollaway Beds
Cot hire and children’s beds are available add-ons that may be selected during your online booking. Cot hire is available for babies aged 0-2 years. Small rollaway beds are available for children aged 2-11 years and will go in the room with the parents/guardians. Rollaway beds are available upon request only and priced from $670pp. Children aged 12 years and above must have a standard bed.
Holiday Surcharge
There is a $100 holiday surcharge for travel between 28/03/2024 to 02/04/2024 AND from the 23/12/2024 to 01/01/2025 - payable on board the day of travel.
*Prices subject to changes without notice.
Terms and Conditions
Important Information:
- Please note divers may be subject to a medical questionnaire before they are able to dive. For more diving information please read the scuba diving medical questionnaire
- Resort intro divers must be at least 12 years old
- Please Note: Travel over Public Holiday periods may incur additional charges on check-in
- Outdoor, freshwater hot-tub - Currently not operational
All information provided at any time by Cairns Tours and our affiliates is subject to these Terms & Conditions. This includes but is not limited to tour information, pricing, blog posts, travel advice, itinerary information and availability.
Your Responsibilities:
Please advise us before booking if any passengers are under 18 years old to ensure this is the appropriate trip.
You must reconfirm all booked tours prior to travel as specified on your voucher. If applicable, notes such as dietary requirements, pick-up locations and additional fees should also be confirmed at this time. Reconfirmations cannot be actioned through Cairns Tours / Mr Travel, and must be done so directly through the Service Operator as specified on each ticket.
It is your responsibility to notify us of ticket discrepancies. Please read through the details on your voucher thoroughly to ensure all details such as passenger names, ages and dates of travel on vouchers are correct.
It is the responsibility of all passengers travelling to advise both your travel agent at the time of booking and vessel check-in agent before boarding of any medical conditions including food allergies you may suffer from.
You need to allow adequate time to check-in prior to the specified departure time.
Prices/Extra Costs:
All prices are stated in Australian dollars and include GST. Surcharges over peak holiday seasons may apply.
The Service Operator reserves the right to alter prices and extra costs. Extra costs may include EMC fees, Stingersuit/Wetsuit Hire, Luggage Storage, Insurance, Linen Hire, National Park Fees, Fuel Levies, Dietary Fees, etc. Bonds may also apply.
We will also endeavour to communicate these extra costs with you at the time of booking, and on your ticket. However, it is your responsibility to confirm which (if any) additional costs apply with each Service Operator upon reconfirming your trip.
Travel Risk/Insurance:
It should be noted that adventure travel involves risk. Whilst we make every effort to safeguard clients, we cannot be responsible for personal injury or loss due to the actions of our clients which are beyond our control. All departures and itineraries are subject to weather. Tours may be changed or cancelled for any reason at the discretion of the Tour Operator. We highly recommend that all clients have travel insurance covering illness, injury, loss or damage to personal belongings and not being able to travel on the confirmed date of departure. You should also ensure your travel insurance will cover special circumstances including weather events preventing guests from travelling to their tour departure destination and cancelled flights due to unforeseen circumstances.
Transport:
It should be noted that any transport you have booked (buses, flights and ferries) through Cairns Tours is non-refundable and non-transferable. It might be possible to change flights however do note this must be done directly with the flight operator and we are unable to offer any support with this. This may incur change fees or cancellation fees, it depends on the T+Cs of the flight operators themselves. As we acted as a booking agent for you, it is possible to liaise with the airline directly should there be any unexpected events and the airline is forced to cancel your flights. If there are any changes to your flight times or days, we will get notified and send this email directly to you in a reasonable time.
Merchant Fees:
Please be aware operators pass on credit card merchant fees so there is a non-refundable 1% surcharge for VISA and MASTERCARD card purchases.
Other:
Terms and Conditions (including the Cancellation Policy) are subject to change. The most recent versions can be found online on the relevant product pages.
All ticket/voucher reissues attract a $20 administration fee.
Transfers:
The Service Operator reserves the right to limit courtesy transfers to select local accommodations. Private residences or Airbnb properties may be asked to meet at the closest confirmed location. Failure to meet at the specified pick-up location may be treated as “No Show”, for which the Client Cancellation Policy applies. Not all tours offer transfers, please refer to the individual product to see if this is applicable to your tour.
Open Date Vouchers / Gift Certificate:
Shipping Costs are in addition to the ticket price and will be added at check-out. Shipping costs are non-refundable and do not makeup part of the ticket value.
E-Vouchers incur no shipping fees.
You have 5 years to use the value of the voucher. Seasonal Price Rises will apply if travelling out the current seasons pricing. Vouchers can be exchanged for free up to the full value of the voucher excluding credit card fees and charges.
Cancellations
Client Cancellations:
All cancellations forfeit 25% of the recommended retail price (RRP) - not the discounted/sale price. No shows or client cancellations made 30 days or more of departure forfeit 25% of the total ticket price. No shows or client cancellations made within 30 days of departure forfeit 50% of the total ticket price. No shows or client cancellations made within 14 days of departure forfeit 100% of the total ticket price.
A minimum of 48 hours notice is required to re-schedule or alter a reservation.
Cairns Tours is required to notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to make sure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during standard business hours (9am-5pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider.
Transfers between tours can be made at the suppliers discretion, however, it should be noted that supplier fees may apply. Tour transfers also incur a $20 administration fee.
It is compulsory that all cancellation requests are in writing and sent via email to admin@mr-travel.com. Cancellations attempted via online chat or phone will not be actioned.
Supplier Cancellations:
The Service Operator reserves the right to alter prices, alter itineraries, apply a fuel surcharge, cancel departures, arrange alternative transport and vary itineraries and services if necessary.
All departures and itineraries are subject to weather. Tours may be changed or cancelled for any reason at the discretion of the Service Operator. If the Service Operator has to cancel the trip or activity (prior to departure) and we cannot offer a suitable alternative, then a refund will be given minus a 20% administration fee and any associated card fees. We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance, especially during the wet season.
All add-on activities (including but not limited to scuba diving, stand-up paddleboarding, helmet diving, guided snorkel tours, banana boat rides and waterslides) are subject to availability and price changing, and may not be available during your tour without notice. Guests are not eligible for refunds on the grounds of non-operating extra activities.
In the unlikely event of your trip being cancelled or stood down, all guest communication is required to go through our Online Store via telephone or email. While there is a Travel Shop retail outlet located in Cairns, please be aware that they operate as a separate entity and are unable to access reservations made by the Cairns Tours/Mr Travel online department.
Refunds:
All refunds are in Australian Dollars and must be made to the card of payment. Cairns Tours / Mr Travel is not liable for exchange rate fluctuations or fees, or any other merchant/bank fees associated with domestic and/or international transactions.
Where a full refund is applicable, there is the option to transfer the whole cost of the tour to another tour or “Credit” to avoid the administration fee. A transfer fee of $20 will apply.
You will be emailed confirmation once the refund has been processed. Once the refund has been processed, it may still take time for the banks to clear the amount. Please allow 7-10 business days for the funds to clear into Australian accounts and up to 21 business days for international accounts.
Accountability/Misconduct:
All Service Operators have the right to provide client feedback and to cancel bookings based off of feedback from other Service Operators.
Please enjoy your travel experience in a kind and responsible manner.
Cairns Tours / Mr Travel will treat this as any normal client cancellation and therefore the cancellation fees stated in the Client Cancellation Policy will apply.
Information & Advice:
All information, advice or pricing provided by Cairns Tours and our affiliates, or through any of our team, is subject to change. Cairns Tours articles and products are provided online for general information purposes only and are intended as guides. Any advice interpreted from information on the website (including but not limited to financial, immigration, employment and tax information) is not specialist advice and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional instruction. Cairns Tours does not guarantee that any information provided is up-to-date or accurate. Please obtain professional advice before actioning any advice, including but not limited to tax, immigration, employment, travel restrictions and finances.
Thank you for booking with our East-Coast travel experts here at Mr Travel / Cairns-Tours.com . If you would like any further advice, assistance in arranging accommodation, transfers or additional tours please get in touch.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an age range on board?
Cot hire is available for babies aged 0-2 years. Small rollaway beds are available for children 2-11 years and will go in the room with the parents/guardians. Children aged 12 years and above must have a standard bed. Prams and pushchairs are welcome onboard, however, they can be stored at the Reef Encounter Office in town if needed.
Is there a public holiday surcharge?
Yes, a Peak Season holiday surcharge of $100pp for travel between 28/03/2024 to 02/04/2024 AND from the 23/12/2024 to 01/01/2025 - payable on board the day of travel.
What reef sites do we visit?
The exact reef sites will vary depending on the day to ensure you get the best conditions! Popular reef sites visited include:
What dive certifications do I need?
You only need to show a dive certification if you are booking the certified divers package. Please note divers may be subject to a medical questionnaire before they are able to dive. For more diving information please read the scuba diving medical questionnaire.
What is the minimum age for scuba diving?
Resort divers must be at least 12 years old.
Do I have to know how to scuba dive?
No, you can join the Reef Encounter liveaboard for just snorkelling if you wish! Flotation devices and expert guides are onboard to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable.
Are hotel pickups available?
Bus transfers to and from your accommodation to Cairns Marlin Marina are available at an additional cost. Please contact +61 740 372 700 to arrange.