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Reef Encounter Overnight Private Charter

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Have the ultimate Great Barrier Reef experience with an overnight private charter on Reef Encounter!

  • Stable, spacious 34-metre catamaran perfect for ocean adventures
  • Choose an overnight charter of 2 days, 3, days, 4, days, or more
  • Snorkel and dive in the Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef
  • Expert instructors and high-quality snorkel and dive gear provided
  • Suitable for snorkellers, intro divers, or certified divers

Take your Great Barrier Reef tour to the next level! A private charter on Reef Encounter means you can hire the entire vessel for your group, offering an intimate and immersive experience at sea. Reef Encounter also offers a range of different charter lengths, from 2 days to 5 days or more. Charters are flexible and designed to give your party the most memorable adventure out on the stunning Great Barrier Reef near Cairns!

snorkellers smiling on a great barrier reef charter

Highlights:

  • Private charter on Reef Encounter
  • 34-metre catamaran with upscale amenities
  • Onboard air-conditioning and spacious entertainment areas
  • Overnight twin/double share cabins with private bathrooms
  • Snorkellers, intro divers, and certified divers welcome
  • Night diving for certified divers
  • Scuba diving demonstration and instruction
  • Professional chef onboard to prepare fresh, delicious meals
  • Licensed onboard bar
  • Glass bottom boat tours with expert commentary
  • Marine biologist presentation on the Great Barrier Reef
  • Option to add on scenic helicopter flights
  • Option to upgrade your charter for the Top Deck luxury experience

Reef Encounter boat on the water at sunset


Age Range On Board

Reef Encounter caters to guests of all ages and generally has a wide variety of age groups on any given trip. From glass-bottom boat tours, sightseeing and photography from the outer decks, and snorkelling and advanced scuba activities – there’s something for everyone to enjoy! 

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.

Important Information

  • 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
  • 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 

Holiday Surcharges

  • PLEASE NOTE: A Peak Season surcharge of $100 per person is applicable for all charters during peak season, please enquire about your charter dates!

Sample Itinerary

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Flexible charter lengths

Reef Encounter offers several types of reef trips so you have lots of options for your charter length. You can view these tours to review the specific itineraries and inclusions which may give you an idea of the charter you would like to book!

Read More

Flexible charter lengths

Reef Encounter offers several types of reef trips so you have lots of options for your charter length. You can view these tours to review the specific itineraries and inclusions which may give you an idea of the charter you would like to book!


Snorkelling and scuba diving

Whatever charter length you choose, you're sure to have a memorable Great Barrier Reef experience! Reef Encounter prioritises underwater adventures, and the vessel suits snorkellers, intro divers, and certified divers. The longer your charter, the more chances you'll get to dive or snorkel at different reef sites! All gear and instruction is provided, and this makes a great opportunity to learn how to scuba dive if you're never tried before. Take this chance to admire the magnificent marine life up close and explore the world's largest coral reef system.

coral reefs underwater on the great barrier reef cairns


Additional activities

When you're not snorkelling or diving in the Great Barrier Reef, you can make the most of your time on Reef Encounter with additional activities! Join a marine guide on a glass bottom boat tour where you can observe the corals and marife life from the surface. There is also a marine biologist on board to give informational presentations about the reef. You can also oragnise scenic flights over the reef, as there is a helipad on the roof of the vessel! Stargaze out on the ocean, enjoy delicious meals prepared by the onboard chef, and relax on the spacious decks. Chat with our travel agents about planning the private charter of your dreams!

woman looking out at the glass bottom boat on reef encounter

Vessel Specifications

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Reef Encounter is one of the more upscale dive boats to hire from Cairns. With excellent accommodations, facilities, and diving opportunities, you're in for the charter of a lifetime on Reef Encounter! You also have the option to upgrade your experience to the Top Deck Club, which is similar to first class on an airlines. Here is more info about the amenities onboard:

Vessel specifics:

  • 35 mete...

Read More

Reef Encounter is one of the more upscale dive boats to hire from Cairns. With excellent accommodations, facilities, and diving opportunities, you're in for the charter of a lifetime on Reef Encounter! You also have the option to upgrade your experience to the Top Deck Club, which is similar to first class on an airlines. Here is more info about the amenities onboard:

Vessel specifics:

  • 35 meter catamaran hotel
  • Fully air conditioned
  • Large dining saloon
  • Fully licensed bar
  • Lounge area with TV and games
  • Tea and coffee are available all day
  • Premium catering for all meals

Outdoor facilities:

  • Ample deck space
  • Purpose-built dive and snorkel platforms for easy water access
  • Spacious sundeck with sun loungers
  • Open-air hot tub
  • Helipad on the roof for helicopter tours
  • Glass bottom boat tours offered

glass bottom boat tour from reef encounter near cairns

Accommodation:

  • 21 cabins with either one double bed or two single beds
  • Uninterrupted ocean views
  • Ensuite toilets and unlimited hot showers
  • Australian power outlets

Top Deck Upgrades:

  • Personal crew member for private scuba/snorkel guided tours
  • Champagne upon arrival
  • Evening turndown cabin service
  • Luxury 3 course evening meal served under the stars

premium meal on the top deck of reef encounter cairns

Accommodation

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During your overnight charter on Reef Encounter, you can stay in upscale cabins and staterooms onboard the spacious vessel. Whether you're opting for the more upscale Top Deck Club options or you're happy with the standard staterooms, you'll have a lovely place to rest and relax in between your o...

Read More

During your overnight charter on Reef Encounter, you can stay in upscale cabins and staterooms onboard the spacious vessel. Whether you're opting for the more upscale Top Deck Club options or you're happy with the standard staterooms, you'll have a lovely place to rest and relax in between your outdoor adventures.

Top Deck Club

Reef Encounter offers an exclusive Top Deck Club service, customised to take care of all your needs! Much like 'first class' this tailored option is ideal for those who wish to indulge in additional luxuries and personalised attention during their getaway. Perks include a dedicated personal valet, three-course evening meals, a private scuba or snorkel guide, and late check-out times. 

Staterooms

Sleep and play on the Outer Reef and experience it at its best - day and night! Relax onboard Reef Encounter in a spacious, air-conditioned cabin and enjoy picture-perfect ocean views. All cabins have their own en-suite toilet and shower with included towels and toiletries provided. Staterooms are Twin Share - 2 x Single Beds, or Private Double - 1 x Double Bed.

luxury cabin on an overnight reef encounter private charter

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, and light casual clothing.
  • As the...

Read More

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, and 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 packed.
  • 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
  • Marine Biologist presentation when transfers are done by Reef Experience
  • All dive and snorkeling equipment with the exception of wetsuits
  • Glass bottom boat tours (weather permitting)
  • Reef video presentation
  • 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

MANDATORY $15pp per day (capped at 3 days) Marine Park Levy, paid on arrival (Included in Advertised Price)

  • Wetsuit Hire - $5 pp per day
  • Guided Certified Dives - $15 pp per dive
  • Scuba Refresher Course - $50 pp
  • Professional photos
  • Underwater cameras for hire - $89 pp per day
  • Prescription masks - $10 pp per day
  • Drinks, snacks, cameras, souvenirs, t-shirts etc. from the bar (minimum $10 purchase for Eftpos)
  • Please Note: Travel over Public Holiday 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 $405 pp. Children aged 12 years and above must have a standard bed.

Holiday Surcharge

There is a $100 holiday surcharge for travel between 6th - 11th April 2023 / 23rd December 2023 - 1st January 2024 / 28th March - 2nd April 2024 - payable on board the day of travel.

Terms and Conditions

Important Information:

  • 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.
  • 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
  • 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 
  • PLEASE NOTE: A Peak Season surcharge of $100 per person is applicable for all charters during peak season, please enquire about your charter dates!
  • 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.

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.


Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any extra surcharges?

A Peak Season surcharge of $100 per person is applicable for all charters during peak season, please enquire about your charter dates!

Are children allowed onboard and what are the age restrictions?

Yes, children of all ages are allowed on Reef Encounter but there are some age restrictions. 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. Divers must be at least 12 years old.

What is included in the Top Deck Club?

The Top Deck Club is an optional upgrade that makes your experience more luxurious. Inclusions are a 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), and included wetsuits.

Where does Reef Encounter depart from?

The vessel departs from the Cairns Marlin Marina at A Finger at 7.30am.

Can we wear shoes on board?

For safety reasons, Reef Encounter has a no-shoe policy.

Can we BYO?

No, it is a fully licensed vessel so you cannot bring your own alcohol.

Is all the snorkel and dive gear included?

Yes, with the exception of wetsuits which you can hire during stinger season if you wish.

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