Shore Thing Liveaboard Overview

Stretching 683 miles (1,100 km) from two hours north of Perth to the World-Heritage listed Ningaloo Reef, the unforgettable Coral Coast in Western Australia offers spectacular underwater experiences.

Whether it’s exploring shark-cleaning stations, encountering rays in their natural habitat, swimming alongside giant whale sharks, or marveling at intricate coral formations, Shore Thing provides a specialized diving adventure for enthusiasts seeking a deeper connection with Australia’s marine wonders.

The Shore Thing, a 51-foot (16 m) purpose-built catamaran designed for exploring the inner lagoons of Ningaloo Reef, is a small, owner-operated vessel, catering to just 10 guests. Itineraries go beyond typical yacht charters and tours, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

The catamaran’s shallow draft allows exclusive access to diverse dive sites, offering an intimate and unforgettable diving experience. Emphasizing stability, comfort, and safety, Shore Thing is suitable for all weather conditions, ensuring a remarkable journey.

Keep reading as we dive into our review of Shore Thing.

Where to book

Shore Thing sailing catamaran with white sails cruising turquoise water carrying passengers

PADI TravelSecure online booking Liveaboard.comNo booking fees

Diving on the Shore Thing liveaboard

An octopus swimming over the reef at dusk with sunbeams filtering through the water

A stingray resting on the sandy seabed as snorkelers swim above in sunlit water

A whale shark trailed by a school of yellow fish near the surface

Split-level shot of a rusted shipwreck above the surface and coral reef below

A green sea turtle resting near coral as snorkelers swim overhead

Operating year-round, Shore Thing offers tours of three, five, and eight nights, each with a different focus. Tours are flexible, with equal opportunities for land excursions. Dive schedules are designed to accommodate trips to land, meaning you won’t have to choose one over the other.

Tours depart from March through December from Coral Bay, which is known for reliable manta ray encounters, creating an exciting intro to Western Australia diving. Snorkelers are equally catered to, so if you’ve got a mixed group or a partner who doesn’t dive, most Shore Thing tours will still suit. Aside from diving, you’ll have the opportunity to kayak, SUP, and whale watch in season.

Emphasizing responsible tourism, Shore Thing conducts remote explorations of Ningaloo Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while prioritizing ocean and reef protection. Five-night Ningaloo Reef Tours travel 44 miles between Coral Bay and Norwegian Bay, which no other tours access. Divers and snorkelers can expect plentiful sea life, dense coral formations, manta rays, and potentially whale sharks in the peak season from mid-March to July.

Highlights:

Flexible dive schedules
Plentiful marine life encounters
Access to Ningaloo Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Whale shark encounters

Onboard the Shore Thing

A cabin bedroom aboard the Shore Thing with a queen bed and ensuite bathroom

The bow deck and helm seating area of the Shore Thing catamaran

A compact bathroom aboard the Shore Thing with a shower stall and vanity sink

The aft cockpit and galley area of the Shore Thing catamaran

This beautifully designed catamaran stretches 51 feet (15 m) and boasts a stable and comfortable ride both at sea and anchor. The vessel is perfect for intimate gatherings or special occasions with close friends and family, as it’s available for private charter.

An elevated flybridge provides a 360-degree view of the stunning Ningaloo Reef National Park, offering a unique perspective on this marine wonder. The vessel has also received acclaim as an award-winning eco-tourism vessel.

With a focus on comfort, Shore Thing features two deluxe king bed cabins and two standard cabins, accommodating up to 10 guests. The cabins are designed for both privacy and comfort, with the flexibility to configure for double or triple occupancy. Air-conditioning and fans keep it cool onboard.

When not diving or snorkeling, explore by kayak or relax in the barbecue area. Inside, a snug salon offers in-house entertainment and a cozy seating area. Outside, catch some sun on the forward deck or trampoline area, then dine alfresco on the shady back deck.

The dive deck features dedicated spaces for tanks, camera stations, DIN adaptors and a freshwater shower. It is well-equipped with a rinse tank for dive gear as well. A tender offers easy access to dive sites.

Highlights:

Ideal for private charters of up to 10 guests
Award-winning eco-tourism vessel
King bed cabins with air-conditioning
Dedicated camera station and convenient rinsing facilities

Dining on the Shore Thing

A crew member preparing coffee at the galley counter aboard the Shore Thing

A charcuterie board with cheese, olives, and crackers served on deck

The blue upholstered salon lounge aboard the Shore Thing catamaran

Freshly prepared meals are skillfully crafted by the onboard chef and feature a fusion of Western and local cuisines. The day begins with a buffet-style breakfast, followed by a delicious lunch, and culminates in a tempting dinner paired with complimentary wine.

Culinary options cater to diverse preferences, including vegetarian and vegan, while also accommodating special dietary requests. Tea, coffee, fruit juice, and soft drinks are included.