Cairns: Pro Dive Great Barrier Reef 3 Day/2 Night Dive Trip

Thinking about exploring one of the world’s most iconic underwater landscapes? The Pro Dive Great Barrier Reef 3 Day/2 Night Dive Trip offers a comprehensive way to see Australia’s famous reef beyond the usual day trips. With this package, you’re not just dipping your toes in — you’re spending enough time to truly appreciate the vibrant marine life and breathtaking scenery that make the reef so special.

What caught our eye? First, the chance to visit 19 exclusive Outer Reef sites over three days, which means multiple perspectives and fewer crowds. Second, the intimate setting with a maximum of 32 passengers on a comfortable, air-conditioned liveaboard makes for a relaxed and personal experience. The one thing to consider? It’s a bit of an investment, but the value of multiple dives, quality accommodation, and the chance to get away from busy day-trippers makes it worthwhile for serious underwater enthusiasts or those looking to maximize their reef time.

This tour is best suited for certified divers eager to explore more than just a quick visit. If you love marine life, enjoy a small-group vibe, and want the convenience of all-inclusive comfort, you’ll find this trip fitting perfectly into your Cairns adventure plans.

Key Points:

• Multiple Dives: Up to 11 dives over three days, including night dives, offer ample underwater exploration.
• Exclusive Sites: Access to 19 specially selected outer reef locations for diverse marine encounters.
• Comfort & Convenience: Stay on a premium liveaboard with air-conditioned cabins and a maximum of 32 guests.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Delicious meals, snacks, and equipment included, reducing the hassle.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable staff provide guidance, making the experience accessible and safe.
• Ideal for Certified Divers: You need proof of certification, making this not suitable for non-swimmers or pregnant women.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: More Than Just a Day Trip

Most day visitors only get a fleeting glimpse of the reef, but this three-day trip allows for a deeper, more leisurely exploration. The journey begins with a hotel pickup from Cairns, which is included, ensuring a smooth start. Once aboard the liveaboard vessel, you’ll immediately sense you’re in for something special—smaller group size, a clean and air-conditioned setting, and a crew focused on your comfort and safety.

Each day is packed with multiple diving opportunities at four different Outer Reef locations. These sites are handpicked for their beauty and marine diversity, giving you a chance to see vibrant coral gardens, schools of fish, clownfish, reef sharks, turtles, and maybe even a manta or two. The 19 exclusive sites mean less crowded waters and a variety of underwater landscapes.

Part of what makes this trip stand out is the balance of activity and relaxation. Between dives, you can lounge on the deck, take photos, or simply soak in the expansive views. The nights on board are peaceful, and you’ll likely get to experience one or two night dives, which reveal a different world of nocturnal marine creatures.

Dives and Snorkelling: Something for Everyone

While certified divers are encouraged to take advantage of the up to 11 dives, snorkelers aren’t left out. The trip’s flexible format allows you to choose your level of activity. Some reviews highlight the quality of guidance — one diver noted that the dive guides provided great direction, building confidence even for those venturing unguided with a buddy.

If you’re into the technical side, you’ll appreciate the self-guided dives with support from experienced staff. For those new to diving, the trip recommends a refresher if you’re feeling a bit rusty, but overall, the focus is on giving qualified divers maximum underwater time.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The trip covers meals, which are consistently praised for being delicious and plentiful. Breakfast, packed lunches, and snacks keep energy levels high during long days of underwater activity. The accommodation is in double or twin share rooms, all air-conditioned, making it easier to recharge after each day’s adventures.

What to pack? Think hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, camera, water, toiletries, and a dive log if you’re diving. Since the boat is a no-smoking zone, plan accordingly. You’ll also want to bring your dive certification proof and any necessary medical clearance.

The reef’s marine biodiversity is exhilarating. Reviewers mention seeing a variety of marine life, including reef sharks, turtles, and colorful fish. One traveler said, “the dives were amazing,” highlighting how the coral structures and visibility create perfect conditions for photography and observation.

The night dives add an extra layer of excitement. Under the moonlight, you might encounter creatures usually hidden during the day, and the calm of the night creates a unique atmosphere that many find unforgettable.

The Quality of the Guides and Crew

Multiple reviews express appreciation for the knowledgeable staff, such as Daniel and Matthias, who provide both safety support and education. One guest noted, “the guides gave great direction and confidence,” which is important considering the physical and technical aspects of multiple dives. Their professionalism adds a layer of reassurance that makes the experience enjoyable rather than stressful.

This trip isn’t cheap, but when broken down, it offers good value for the amount of diving, comfort, and access to exclusive sites. The all-inclusive nature—meals, accommodation, transfers, and equipment—means fewer surprises and more focus on what matters: the underwater world.

Travelers who have taken this trip report feeling that the experience was worth the investment, especially when considering the quality of food, the comfort of the boat, and the chance to enjoy multiple dives over several days.

This trip is ideal for certified divers who want to explore more than just a quick day visit. It suits those who enjoy small-group settings, value comfort, and aim to spend significant time underwater. If you’re eager to see a broad range of reef sites, photograph stunning marine life, and have a relaxed, well-organized experience, this tour ticks all the boxes.

It’s less suitable for non-divers, pregnant women, or anyone without certification, as diving safety and certification proof are mandatory.

This 3-day, 2-night liveaboard trip from Cairns offers a comprehensive, immersive experience of the Great Barrier Reef. With multiple dives at exclusive sites, superb food, and comfortable accommodation, it delivers value for dedicated underwater explorers willing to invest a bit more for a memorable adventure. The small group size enhances the personal touch, and the knowledgeable guides ensure you get the most out of your reef visits.

If your goal is to see the reef’s diversity in a relaxed, well-organized setting, this trip is hard to beat. It’s perfect for passionate divers, those craving more than a day trip, or anyone wanting to truly connect with one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders.

Do I need to be a certified diver to join this trip?
Yes, you need to show proof of a PADI Open Water certification or equivalent from another dive organization.

Can snorkelers participate?
Yes, snorkelers can join and enjoy the reef, but the main focus is on certified diving. Non-divers without certification are not permitted.

What’s the maximum group size?
The boat carries up to 32 passengers, which keeps things intimate and manageable.

Are meals included?
Yes, the trip includes breakfast, lunch, snacks, and drinks, all praised for being tasty and plentiful.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, water, toiletries, dive log, and your certification proof.

Is transportation included?
Yes, there’s a free hotel transfer from Cairns City Accommodation, making logistics easy.

Are night dives available?
Yes, the itinerary includes 2 night dives, offering a different view of the reef’s nocturnal life.

Is the accommodation comfortable?
Yes, you’ll stay on a premium liveaboard in air-conditioned cabins with options for double or twin sharing.

How many dives can I expect?
Up to 11 dives over three days, giving extensive underwater exposure.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 2 days in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

In the end, this trip is more than just a reef tour; it’s an opportunity to experience Australia’s natural treasure deeply and comfortably. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or eager to maximize your reef experience, it’s a memorable way to spend three days in paradise.