While international borders have been closed, more Australians have been exploring Australian waters than ever before. This rekindled love for our own beautiful reefs has inspired a few dive centres to launch new liveaboard experiences. Here are three amazing new Australian dive experiences.
Kiana: Whitsundays Outer Reef
Launching in early October 2021, dive the best of the remote outer reefs in the Whitsundays area, on brand new 5-day trips aboard Kiana, a 16.5m cutter purpose-fit for divers. Trips will be limited to 8 divers. On these weekly scheduled trips, you’ll be able to dive newly discovered reefs including Bait Reef, Kennedy Reef, Wansfell Reef, Seagull Reef and Elizabeth Reef, on the outer continental shelf in very clear water.
The 5-day trips start at $2,425 pp twin share and include 14 dives and all meals – including a Kiana special, the ‘Mariner’s Hungi’, a roast lamb dinner slow-cooked for 3.5 hours while you dive.
Dive Ningaloo: Ningaloo Reef
Launching early March 2022, Dive Ningaloo’s new liveaboard will offer trips to the more remote parts of Ningaloo Reef. The luxury liveaboard comes with a cocktail bar, gourmet meals and a hot tub and will sleep a maximum 18 divers, in air conditioned ensuite cabins.
The liveaboard will visit both the West Side and Muiron Islands sections of Ningaloo Reef choosing the best conditions each day. The West Side is where whale sharks, humpback whales, manta rays, dugongs, spinner dolphins and orcas and usually sighted. The Exmouth Gulf and the Muiron islands are known for the soft coral gardens.
Dive Ningaloo is now taking bookings for 7-night trips, with the 7-night trips costing $5,900 pp twin share including all meals, 25 dives, all dive gear and Nitrox.
Pro Dive Cairns: Ribbon Reefs
After a successful minke whale season, Pro Dive Cairns has decided to continue weekly trips to the Ribbon Reefs, commencing early October, until at least the end of December. On these trips you’ll visit some of the best dive sites on the Ribbon Reefs, including Steve’s Bommie, Coral Kingdom, Pixie Pinnacle and the world-famous Cod Hole. The 3-day/3-night trips cost $1500 pp twin share.
