Ocean Quest
Location: Australia
Rating: 4.6/5 (55 reviews)
About Ocean Quest
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Australia's iconic Outer Great Barrier Reef aboard the Ocean Quest, a catamaran designed for unparalleled dive adventures and comfortable liveaboard living.
The Outer Great Barrier Reef, a natural wonder of the world, beckons divers and snorkelers alike with its vibrant coral gardens, an astonishing diversity of marine life, and crystal-clear waters. This legendary underwater realm, off the coast of Cairns, Australia, offers an immersive experience into an ecosystem teeming with colorful fish, majestic turtles, playful reef sharks, and intricate coral formations. The Ocean Quest serves as your floating gateway to these pristine waters, providing continuous access to some of the reef's most spectacular dive sites, day and night.
Diving from the Ocean Quest is an experience crafted for both seasoned divers and those new to the underwater world. While dives are primarily self-guided, the attentive crew readily assists solo travelers in finding dive buddies, ensuring safety and camaraderie. A dedicated supervisor is always on board, with a vigilant lookout during all in-water activities. For those desiring expert guidance, private guided dives are available for an additional fee, and mandatory for divers with specific certifications or medical conditions. The vessel offers up to four dives daily, including thrilling night dives, and unique Fluoro Night Diving experiences that reveal the reef in a breathtaking spectrum of fluorescent colors, using specialized torches and mask filters. The highlight for many is the nightly 'Shark In The Dark' dive, offering an exhilarating encounter with the reef's nocturnal predators.
Life aboard the Ocean Quest is designed for comfort and relaxation after exhilarating days of diving. The catamaran boasts 22 well-appointed cabins, each featuring an en-suite bathroom, air conditioning, and a TV, providing a private sanctuary. Guests can unwind in the spacious, air-conditioned lounge, socialize at the well-stocked bar, or enjoy meals in the expansive dining room. For sun-worshippers, the generous sundecks offer ample space to bask in the warm Australian sun between dives, ensuring a perfect balance of adventure and repose.
Culinary delights are a central part of the Ocean Quest experience, with three delicious meals served daily in a buffet style within the large dining area. The focus is on fresh, satisfying cuisine to fuel your underwater explorations. While specific dietary requests should be communicated in advance, the crew strives to accommodate guests' needs, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for everyone. Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and snacks are available as optional extras, allowing guests to tailor their refreshment choices.
Originally built as a dedicated dive liveaboard, the Ocean Quest is a 36-meter catamaran, providing a stable and spacious platform for its guests. Refurbished in 2017, the vessel maintains a high standard of comfort and functionality, accommodating guests across its three decks. Its permanent mooring at the Outer Reef maximizes dive time and minimizes travel, making it an ideal base for extended exploration of this world-renowned marine park.
Transfers to the Ocean Quest are seamlessly arranged, with guests embarking from Cairns via a fast boat directly to the permanently moored liveaboard. This convenient setup ensures that your adventure begins swiftly, immersing you in the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef without delay. The year-round operation of the Ocean Quest means that incredible diving experiences are always within reach, regardless of the season.
This liveaboard is an excellent choice for a wide range of travelers, from certified divers seeking extensive exploration of the Great Barrier Reef, including unique night and fluoro dives, to introductory divers and even snorkelers looking for an immersive marine experience. Its comfortable accommodations and comprehensive facilities also make it suitable for couples and small groups who appreciate a blend of adventure and onboard relaxation.
Vessel Specifications
- Length: 36m
- Guest capacity: 18
- Nitrox: Available
Cabins
- Twin Cabin with En-Suite (sleeps 2) — Twin — This Twin Cabin with En-Suite offers flexible sleeping arrangements, featuring either two single beds or two single bunk beds. Please note that the style of rooms may differ, and some interior cabins
- Double Cabin with En-Suite (sleeps 2) — Double — This comfortable Double Cabin with En-suite offers a private space for guests. Please note that the style of rooms may differ, and certain internal cabins might not feature windows. The images provide