Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Islands Destination Planner 2017 | Page 59

Queensland / THE GREAT BARRIER REEF

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3 Day 2 Night Liveaboard Diving
Operated by Pro Dive Cairns
One of the best ways to appreciate the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef is to stay out there for a few days . With Pro Dive Cairns , a premier PADI dive school and a leading outer-reef , live-aboard dive trip operator , you can do just that !
For certified divers , this three-day / two-night live-aboard dive trip offers the opportunity to do up to 11 dives including two exciting night dives , ensuring a whole new cast of nocturnal marine life is encountered , as well as snorkelling on a variety of 16 exclusive outer reef sites . Diving morning , day and night , you ’ ll experience different conditions and so much more of this iconic reef system . Nitrox gas is also available for suitably qualified divers .
You will stay aboard one of three premium live-aboard dive boats in air-conditioned comfort with a maximum of only 32 passengers , in either double or twin share accommodation . This very special dive trip will be a highlight of your time in Cairns .
price guide : $$$$$
5 Day PADI Learn To Dive Course
Operated by Pro Dive Cairns
If you ' re thinking about taking the plunge and learning to scuba dive , this five-day PADI Open Water Dive Course is a very popular option for visitors to Cairns . With relatively shallow warm water , minimal currents and great visibility year-round , the Great Barrier Reef is the best place to learn to dive and Pro Dive Cairn ’ s 5-star PADI Training Centre means the highest standards of dive education .
The course consists of two days ' theory and pool training , followed by a three-day / two-night dive adventure aboard a premium live-aboard boat . The first four dives complete your dive certification and then as a certified diver , you can experience up to five more pleasure dives , including an exciting guided night dive which is sure to be a highlight of your trip .
Accommodation on board the vessel is twin share , includes all meals and free Wi-Fi .
price guide : $$$$$
Ocean Spirit Michaelmas Cay Cruise
Operated by Ocean Spirit
Departing from Cairns , Ocean Spirit , a 32-metre luxury sailing catamaran , will take you for a memorable day to experience Michaelmas Cay on the Great Barrier Reef where visitor numbers are limited . A vegetated sand cay encircled by a spectacular fringing reef teeming with colourful marine life , it is also a bird lover ’ s delight as an important protected sanctuary for migratory birds . Snorkel directly from the beach in the cay ’ s protected shallow waters , cruise in the semi-submersible for a diver ’ s view of the reef , watch the fish feeding presentation and discover the fascinating birdlife on the island .
For the more adventurous , experience the underwater delights of the reef with an exciting introductory scuba dive or join the marine biologist for a guided snorkel tour . Or if you prefer , just relax on the beach or on board . An informative marine biologist reef presentation , delicious buffet lunch and morning and afternoon teas are included . price guide : $$
Cod Hole & Coral Sea Dive Expeditions
Operated by Spirit of Freedom
Join Spirit of Freedom to dive some of Australia ’ s most remote and spectacular dive locations . Three- to seven-day Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea expeditions offer amazing diversity , from the picturesque coral gardens and colourful marine life of the Ribbon Reefs , to the incredible shark dive and 1,000-metre walls of the Coral Sea .
Equipped with all the modern comforts , the 37-metre vessel provides three decks of living space , spacious cabins , professional dive service and gourmet meals . A scenic flight between Lizard Island and Cairns is included on the three- and four-day tours .
TUSA 6 Dive & Snorkel Day Trip Adventure
Operated by Tusa Dive
Experience the abundant tropical marine life to be found at the coral gardens on the very edge of the Great Barrier Reef . With a selection of 16 reef locations , Tusa Dive hand-picks the best two sites for each day ’ s conditions . Snorkellers and divers together cruise in comfort on board the modern 24-metre catamaran TUSA 6 . Tusa ' s friendly crew will make sure your day is fun , safe , and memorable , while you enjoy the day ’ s activities which include an informative reef talk , guided snorkel tours , ‘ first-time ’ introductory diving and certified diving .
price guide : $$$$$ price guide : $$$
From prices for accommodation are ‘ per room ’ and sightseeing are ‘ per person ’. www . andersonvacations . ca