Choosing a Liveaboard for the Great Barrier Reef

[bravokiloromeo]

I haven't done any boat diving yet, and while the concept of a liveaboard makes sense to me, is there anything that I should be considering when weighing my options for dive operators (other than the obvious schedule/cost/amenities)?

I am heading to Australia for the month of April, and as of right now I'm planning to do something like a 3 day/2 night out of Cairns. The most affordable options with decent dive sites seem to be ProDive and Divers Den (open to suggestions). Packing light so I'm planning to bring mask/snorkel, boots, and I'm considering buying fins on site and mailing back to the US (small premium but saves space since I'll be moving about within the country).

Edit to add: also wondering if it is worth ~2x the money to go on the Spirit of Freedom's 3 day trip up to Cod Hole and the Ribbon Reefs.

 

[Damselfish]

Edit to add: also wondering if it is worth ~2x the money to go on the Spirit of Freedom's 3 day trip up to Cod Hole and the Ribbon Reefs.

IMO yes. (As long as level of experience is not an issue.) There's a fair number of threads where people discuss this, here is one you might read if you haven't found it - Liveaboard - change itinerary for ribbon reef?

 

[bravokiloromeo]

Thanks for linking that thread. My gut tells me yes, my wallet is screaming no

I think I may stick with one of the less expensive operators simply because that would eat a chunk of my travel budget; going to be in Aus the entire month and it's not the cheapest destination in the world...