Economy liveaboards to the Great Barrier Reef?

[av8er23]

I have been researching several operators that depart out of Cairns for a 3-day 2-night trip to the outer reef (we are going in March 09). My wife and I are looking for an economical trip and are not necessarly looking for 1st class just a fun trip. I have narrowed it down to three operators and was hoping to get some input and opinions from fellow divers. Please share your experiences if you have dove with any of the four operators below.

The Ocean Quest
Great Barrier Reef Liveaboard Dive Trip Ocean Quest

Pro Dive Cairns
Cairns Dive Liveaboard - 3 Day Diving Trip - Pro Dive Cairns Scuba Diving - Australia

Reef Encounter
Reef Encounter Stay the night on the Great Barrier Reef

Cairns Dive Center
Reef Encounter Stay the night on the Great Barrier Reef

Thanks

 

[CODiver78]

I've been told that Feb/Mar in Cairns is the slowest period of the year for tourists, so if you book 7-10 days out, you may be able to get some pretty significant (~30%)discounts on the rates you see advertised on most operator websites. If you wait even longer, the last minute discounts may be even better... if you want to risk it.

That being said, I would recommend shooting a PM to 'Andrew Jones'. He specialises in GBR travel and he was able to get me an excellent deal on a top liveaboard. He has connections with all of the major groups out here.

It is also a great time to come here with USD being strong against the AUD. With the foreign exchange rate alone you are getting a 35% discount.

Good luck!

 

[simonmittag]

This is in the middle of the rainy/stormy season, hence the price drops.

The one night stops are probably going to drop you off on the Quicksilver Pontoon, a fixed installation for daytrippers. The diving there is ok, not spectacular but fishy.

Prodive will do a 2/3 trip out a little further. As with anything, what you pay for is what you get.

Personally I think the ribbon reefs up north are worth a visit, but they're not cheap and not a good time of year either. If you can, do it in July/August.

Hope this helps.