OceanQuest Liveaboard Overview

Many divers will have heard of Cairns in North Queensland, the key entry point to the Great Barrier Reef (GBR). Here you’ll find most of the boats that depart for trips on the GBR.

With a tropical climate, Cairns offers year-round diving and 66- to 98-foot (20 to 30 m) visibility. This, combined with the warm water (86 F/30 C), and the affordability of dive training and GBR cruises, makes Cairns a magnet for divers of all levels, but particularly novices or those seeking certification.

OceanQuest liveaboard, associated with longstanding Divers Den dive shop, offers liveaboard trips of between one and five nights, with departures every day of the week. A maximum capacity of 44 guests means the boat can get crowded, but at 118 feet (36 m) long, there’s still room to spread out.

Keep reading as we dive into our review of the OceanQuest liveaboard.

Where to book

Ocean Quest liveaboard catamaran cruising with its red tender dinghy stowed on deck

PADI TravelSecure online booking Liveaboard.comNo booking fees

Diving on the OceanQuest liveaboard

Whitetip reef sharks resting under a rock ledge lit by a diver's torch at night

Dwarf minke whale gliding just beneath the surface

Aerial view of the OceanQuest catamaran anchored beside a turquoise reef with snorkelers in the water

Divers being briefed by a crew member while suited up on the OceanQuest dive deck

School of glassy sweepers and an anemonefish sheltering in an anemone on the reef

Diving in Cairns is characterized by vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and warm waters, offering an exciting and accessible experience for divers of all skill levels.

Trips depart each day, with options ranging from one to five nights onboard. There are 14 permanent moorings on Saxon and Norman Reefs, along with several sites at Hastings Reef. Flexible itineraries and snorkeling opportunities are available for all guests.

Witness the vibrant colors of the reef at night with fluoro night diving or embark on Sharks in the Dark dives for a unique nighttime encounter with reef sharks.

OceanQuest caters to certified divers, introductory divers, and snorkelers. Divers can expect up to four daily dives, including night dives. Solo travelers have the option to be paired with a dive buddy by the crew.

Private dive guides are available for an extra charge, and port fees of 20 AUD per day are required extras for all participants.

For a thrilling adventure, guests can join four-day/four-night minke whale expeditions in June and July when the whales migrate. Though the experience is snorkel-only, it’s still well worthwhile.

Highlights:

Daily 1-5 night expeditions suit a variety of schedules
Guided snorkeling, fluoro diving, and “Shark In The Dark” experiences
Minke whale expeditions
Beginner-friendly

Onboard the OceanQuest

Lounge area on OceanQuest with striped armchairs, a TV and a shelf of dive books

Twin cabin bedroom on OceanQuest with reef artwork above the bed

Woman in a straw hat watching the sunset from the back of the boat

Twin bunk cabin with blue striped bedding aboard OceanQuest

A 118-foot (36 m) catamaran refurbished in 2017, the OceanQuest provides ample space for relaxation. Permanently moored at the Outer Great Barrier Reef, the boat offers between one and five nights on board, with fast boat transfers available from Cairns seven days a week.

The accommodation comprises 18 twin cabins and four double cabins, totaling 22 cabins with ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning, and TV. All cabins on the three decks include storage areas and power sockets, with sea-facing options for enjoying the view. The energetic crew organizes daily activities, including land excursions, beach barbecues, and indoor activities.

Facilities include a large air-conditioned lounge, well-stocked bar, entertainment system, dining room, and lounge/TV area stocked with fish ID and diving books. Shaded and open sundecks feature deck chairs and mattresses for relaxation.

The dive deck includes tanks with DIN valves, DIN/INT adapters, nitrox (additional cost), free dive and snorkel rental equipment, a battery-charging station, warm-water showers, a camera rinse tank, and a spacious diving platform. The setup includes two speedy dinghies with dive guides to accompany you.

Highlights:

Cabins with ensuite bathrooms and air conditioning
Large, air-conditioned lounge, well-stocked bar, and a spacious sundeck
Well-trained dive guides

Dining on the OceanQuest

Dining room aboard OceanQuest set with round wooden tables and chairs

Crew members serving guests from a buffet spread in the OceanQuest dining area

The full-board dining package includes all meals, chilled drinking water, tea, and coffee. Western food and vegetarian options are available at the buffet-style meals.

Beer is also available, and dessert follows the night dive. Optional extras include alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and snacks.