• Our liveaboard dive boat has more reef mooring location permits than any other dive boat in Cairns. We have 29 reef moorings and 9 coral reefs we can dive and snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef. 
• Book your own private charter yacht from Cairns for an extended 2- 5 day charter (maximum 12 guests)
• Let us create a personalised dive and snorkel tour itinerary just for you to really explore Australia's outer Great Barrier Reef

It's your private boat charter and we offer a selection of world class locations and exclusive use of 30 moorings to explore the amazing marine life and coral reefs below the surface.

What to Expect

On our Cairns charter yacht tours, we can tailor an itinerary to suit all levels of experience and fulfil your majestic Great Barrier Reef tour dream.

You may like to spend the day sailing around the aqua waters of the Great Barrier Reef, mooring up at an idealic sandy island, throwing a line in to catch a mighty Mackeral, having a go at stand up paddle boarding, snorkelling over a kaleidoscope of colourful corals and reef fish, going diving to meet some of the underwater locals from turtles, nemo fish, maouri wrasse and friendly reef sharks. 

Discover the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns on a private yacht charter, designed exclusively for your group of up to 12 guests. Tailor your itinerary to suit your interests and skill level, exploring iconic coral reefs, encountering diverse marine life, and indulging in endless water activities. Choose from a one-day snorkel and dive tour or extend your stay on a multi-day liveaboard adventure for an immersive experience on Australia’s World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef.

With 30 exclusive moorings to select from, spend the day cruising through clear turquoise waters, stopping at idyllic sandy islands, trying your hand at fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkelling, or diving. Dive with local guides to encounter turtles, vibrant coral gardens, reef sharks, and schools of colourful fish. When you're not in the water, unwind on the charter yacht's spacious decks, relax in a hammock, or enjoy a sunset dinner under the stars.

Features and Highlights

Tailored Diving and Snorkelling Itineraries

• Exclusive Dive Sites: Access to over 29 exclusive dive sites, from shallow lagoons and coral gardens to deeper wall dives and dramatic underwater formations.
• Unlimited Diving Options: For certified divers, unlimited dives are available for a daily rate, including night diving to witness nocturnal marine life like sleeping turtles and vibrant coral bloom.
• Introductory Diving: Perfect for first-time divers, with introductory lessons tailored to individual pace and comfort.

Comfortable and Spacious Yacht

• Luxury Cabins: Choose from three private double cabins, one 4-berth shared cabin, and a 2-berth shared cabin, accommodating up to 12 overnight guests.
• Amenities: Air-conditioned throughout, with comfortable common areas, hot showers, fresh towels and linens.
• Spacious Decks and Lounges: Relax on the sun-drenched forward deck, enjoy the hammock, or cool off in the shaded saloon.

Onboard Activities

• Diving and Snorkelling: Professional dive crew available for certified and introductory diving. Night dives offer a unique perspective, with creatures like parrotfish, squid, and octopuses coming to life.
• Water Sports: Try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking or join the skipper for some fishing between dive sites.
• Relaxation: Enjoy quiet time with a book, soak in the sun on deck, or watch the sunset with a drink in hand.

Dining and Catering

• Onboard Chef: Enjoy freshly prepared meals, including homemade dishes, snacks, and cheese boards. Catering to dietary needs is available upon request.
• BYO Alcohol: Bring your own drinks (no glass) to enjoy on board.

Sample 2-Day, 1-Night Itinerary

Day 1

• 7:45 a.m. – Depart Cairns, with morning tea served as you settle in. Enjoy a briefing on dive and snorkel options for the day.
• 10:00 a.m. – Arrive at Flynn Reef for the first dive or snorkel session. Swim alongside reef sharks, turtles, and vibrant marine life.
• 12:00 p.m. – Lunch served on board. Afternoon exploration of Milne Reef, The Three Sisters, or The Whale.
• 3:00 p.m. – Snorkel or dive at The Three Sisters, renowned for its coral formations and sea life.
• 6:00 p.m. – Dinner onboard. Optional night dive to see nocturnal creatures like octopus and parrotfish.

Day 2

• 6:00 a.m. – Sunrise dive or snorkel to witness early morning marine life activity.
• 8:00 a.m. – Breakfast while cruising to a new reef location.
• 10:00 a.m. – Mid-morning dive or snorkel at another pristine reef site.
• 12:00 p.m. – Lunch and leisurely sail back to Cairns, arriving by late afternoon.

Additional Information

• Unlimited Diving: Add unlimited diving to your charter package from $100+ per person, per day.
• Night Diving: Included in the unlimited diving package, providing a thrilling experience with reef life active after dark.
• BYO Alcohol: Alcohol is permitted; please avoid bringing glass containers.
• Dive Certification: Certified divers must present a dive certificate and complete a medical questionnaire.

Important note

• Diving is bookable & payable onboard only

• Available for Purchase / Hire

• Scuba Diving bookable on board only
• Certified diving package: $350 includes, (4-5 day dives and a night dive)
• Intro-diving package: $80 includes 1 dive, additional dives can be added onboard
• ***Diving is bookable & payable onboard only, not included in the ticket price***
• ***Prices are subject to change without notice**

Why Choose This Private Charter?

• Exclusive Access: Visit Cairns’ most secluded and remarkable dive sites, including newly added moorings at Michaelmas Cay and Upolu Reef.
• Flexible Activities: From diving and snorkelling to paddleboarding and fishing, this tour offers options for everyone.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about marine life from knowledgeable guides, making each dive more engaging and educational.

For a memorable adventure on the Great Barrier Reef, this Cairns charter yacht provides unparalleled access, comfort, and the flexibility to explore this incredible ecosystem at your own pace. Reach out to book your experience and discuss additional options to personalise your trip.

Expert Answers to Common Questions

How do reef locations work on a private overnight reef charter from Cairns?

• Private overnight reef charters operate with flexible routing rather than fixed reef stops. Reef systems are selected based on weather forecasts, sea conditions and the experience level of your group, allowing access to mid and outer Great Barrier Reef locations that offer the best conditions at the time of travel.

Are reef sites confirmed before booking a private charter?

• Specific reef sites are not guaranteed in advance. This flexibility is essential for private charter operations and allows the itinerary to adapt to changing conditions. Rather than committing to named reefs, the focus is on delivering the best possible water quality, comfort and diving conditions during your charter period.

Is a private charter suitable for both snorkellers and divers?

• Yes. Private charters are well suited to mixed groups. Many reef systems include shallow coral areas ideal for snorkelling, along with deeper walls and bommies for certified divers. Site selection can be adjusted to ensure everyone in the group has suitable water time.

Can beginners or first-time divers join a private charter?

• Yes. Introductory diving can be included at locations with calm conditions and appropriate depth profiles. Private charters allow dive planning to be adjusted to the confidence and experience of your group, rather than following a rigid schedule.

How does visibility compare to standard reef tours?

• Private charters generally visit mid and outer reef systems where water clarity is often better than reefs closer to the mainland. Visibility varies with seasons and conditions, but these locations are known for clearer water and healthier coral structures.

What marine life can we expect to see on a private charter?

• Marine life varies by reef system and time of year, but guests commonly encounter coral gardens, reef fish, turtles and reef sharks. Outer reef locations may attract larger pelagic species, while sheltered lagoons are ideal for observing smaller reef life and coral detail.

Are shark encounters common on private reef charters?

• Reef sharks are a natural part of the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem and are frequently seen on outer reef sites. Sightings depend on location and conditions, and behaviour is typically calm and non-threatening.

What makes a private overnight charter different from a shared reef trip?

• A private overnight charter offers greater control over timing, site selection and time spent in the water. With no shared itinerary, guests can avoid peak hours, enjoy night dives, experience early morning snorkelling and spend longer at preferred reef locations.

Is a private charter suitable for travellers prone to seasickness?

• Private overnight charters involve extended time at sea, including overnight anchoring. While sheltered reef systems are chosen where possible, travellers sensitive to motion should consider preparation and discuss suitability before booking.

How many people can join a private overnight charter?

• Guest numbers depend on the vessel, but private charters are designed for small groups to ensure comfort and personalised service. They are popular with families, small groups of friends, photographers and divers seeking an unhurried experience.

Is a private charter right for travellers wanting guaranteed reef sites?

• Private charters are best suited to travellers who value flexibility, personalised planning and reef quality over fixed itineraries. If guaranteed reef names are essential, a scheduled day tour may be more suitable.

See all Cairns and Port Douglas charter boats.

For luxury yacht charters speak to the crew at YOTSPACE.

Read The Tour Specialists Blog for all the things yo need to know before you go. 

Sample 2 Day 1 Night Cairns Charter Boat Itinerary

Day 1

Your private charter boat itinerary from Cairns allows for certified scuba divers to enjoy unlimited dives on the $149 pp per day dive offer including night dives.

Please note for the non-divers you may snorkel at all times during the day 

If the winds are a little strong the boat will head north to some protected reefs and in lighter winds we will head south.

We have the choice of 9 reef systems with 29 different mooring locations

Leaving Cairns early at 07.45am you will be greeted by the boats crew with a nice morning tea to get everyone comfortable and acquainted before motoring off for your private live aboard snorkelling and scuba diving adventure.

Whilst motoring along to our first reef destination the crew will discuss the introductory and certified scuba diving procedures and the activities and events over the next few days and get you comfortably accommodated.

If your first outer Great Barrier Reef destination is Flynn Reef you can expect depths of 5 to 28 metres where you can either snorkel or scuba dive to see pelagic fish, turtles, black or white tip reef sharks and lots of other exciting things under the water.

Spend the whole morning in the water before lunch and afternoon tea before we head off to our second location for the day and our overnight mooring at either Milne Reef, The Three Sisters or at The Whale.

The diving depths at one of Cairns most famous dive sites The Three Sisters ranges from 6 to 36 metres offering some of the most amazing underwater sites for day and night diving that you may ever see.

Spend the afternoon doing whatever you feel like be it snorkelling or scuba diving before settling down to dinner and experiencing the excitement of your first night dive adventure.

On a night dive you will see marine creatures that you never see during the day as they go about the business of finding food and other marine creatures like themselves.

Day 2

If your an early morning riser make sure you have your camera as you will be greeted with a spectacular sun rising from the east across the aqua blue waters of the Great Barrier Reef and you may even be lucky enough to be greeted with pods of dolphins as they begin their day of foraging for foods and playing in the ocean before you.

Jump in the water for your early morning dive and see all the activity going on down below before you tuck into breakfast as the boat makes its way to another diving location.

Mid-morning we will be on the move again to another spectacular reef system for you to enjoy for a few hours before we set up lunch and then begin our sailing journey (subject to weather conditions) back to Cairns Marlin Marina 

On this private charter boat cruise you will have seen a lot and experienced a lot of the best snorkelling and scuba locations on the reef over the last 2 days and you will go home with memories and images that will last a lifetime.

Please Note:

BYO Alcoholic drinks (please note no in water activities after consuming alcohol)  

You may pre-book your unlimited scuba diving package at the time of booking your private boat charter

You must bring your scuba diving certificate and be able to pass a Medical Questionnaire prior to diving. We recommend you visit a diving medical professional prior to scuba diving at all times

What To Bring

• Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen & underwater camera
• Swimwear & beach towel (bath towel supplied)
• Long pants & jumper during cool months
• Small soft overnight bag (additional luggage can be stored)
• BYO alcohol (no glass)
• Scuba Diving Certification card / logbook for certified divers

Private Overnight Great Barrier Reef Charter from Cairns

Reef locations, conditions and underwater experiences explained

How reef locations are chosen on a private charter

Private overnight reef charters operate with a flexible route rather than fixed reef stops. Reef systems are selected based on weather forecasts, sea conditions and the experience level of your group, allowing access to mid and outer Great Barrier Reef locations that are best suited at the time of travel.

Instead of committing to specific reef names in advance, the emphasis is on choosing locations that provide calmer crossings, clearer water and suitable dive and snorkel conditions for your charter group.

Are reef sites confirmed before departure?

No. Reef locations are not locked in before departure. This flexibility is intentional and is one of the key advantages of booking a private charter. It allows the itinerary to adapt to changing conditions and avoids compromising comfort or underwater visibility due to unsuitable weather.

Northern reef systems are often favoured in stronger winds, while calmer conditions may allow travel to more exposed southern outer reefs with deeper walls and expansive coral structures.

Is a private charter suitable for mixed groups of snorkellers and divers?

Yes. Private overnight charters are ideal for groups with different experience levels. Many reef systems include shallow coral gardens and lagoons suitable for snorkelling, alongside deeper bommies and walls for certified divers.

Because the vessel is privately chartered, time in the water and site selection can be adjusted to suit your group rather than following a shared schedule.

What visibility can be expected on a private reef charter?

Private charters generally focus on mid and outer reef systems, where water clarity is often better than reefs closer to the mainland. Visibility varies with seasons and conditions, but these areas are known for consistently clear water and healthy coral environments.

What marine life is commonly seen on private charters?

Marine life varies by reef system and time of year. Guests commonly encounter colourful coral gardens, reef fish, turtles and reef sharks. Outer reef locations may attract larger pelagic species, while sheltered lagoon areas provide excellent opportunities to observe smaller reef life and coral detail.

During open-water transits, dolphins are frequently seen, and humpback whales may be spotted during the migration season.

Milln Reef

Depths up to 36 metres

Milln Reef is often included on private charters when conditions allow. It is known for its coral bommies, drop-offs and high fish activity. Larger schools of reef fish are common, and night dives may reveal reef sharks and nocturnal species emerging from the reef.

Flynn Reef

Depths up to 28 metres

Flynn Reef sits on the outer edge of the reef system and offers wall dives, coral slopes and sandy patches. Large coral plates shelter schooling fish, while deeper areas attract reef sharks, rays and passing pelagic species. It is well suited to experienced divers.

Hastings Reef

Depths up to 20 metres

Hastings Reef is often selected when additional shelter is required. Shallow coral areas make it suitable for snorkelling, while deeper sections offer relaxed wall dives. Reef fish, pelagic schools and reef sharks are commonly encountered here.

Michaelmas Reef and Michaelmas Cay

Depths up to 14 metres

Michaelmas Cay is a protected sand cay and an important seabird nesting site. On overnight charters, guests may observe seabirds returning to roost at sunset and departing again at sunrise. Surrounding shallow reefs provide calm snorkelling and diving with turtles, giant clams and reef fish.

Upolu Reef

Depths up to 8 metres

Upolu Reef is a mid-reef system characterised by shallow lagoons and coral bommies. It is well suited to snorkelling and introductory diving, while nearby walls provide interest for certified divers searching for smaller marine species.

Moore Reef

Depths up to 20 metres

Moore Reef is a broad mid-reef system offering protection in a range of conditions. It supports diverse coral types and includes sites with swim-throughs and channels, creating varied and visually interesting dive profiles.

Thetford Reef

Depths up to 18 metres

Thetford Reef features scattered coral bommies across a protected lagoon. It is a popular overnight anchorage on private charters and is well suited to shallow diving, snorkelling and first-time night dives due to its calm conditions.

Breaking Patches

Depths up to 25 metres

Breaking Patches consists of tall coral structures separated by channels and swim-throughs. Divers may encounter reef sharks, schooling fish and distinctive coral formations. The reef layout allows flexible dive planning on private charters.

Norman Reef

Depths up to 28 metres

Norman Reef lies further offshore and is typically visited on overnight charters. Surrounded by deeper water, it attracts pelagic species and offers dramatic wall dives. These conditions are best suited to confident, experienced divers.

Why choose a private overnight reef charter from Cairns?

A private overnight charter offers greater control over timing, reef selection and time spent in the water. Guests can avoid peak day-tour hours, enjoy night dives and experience early morning snorkelling in quieter conditions. This style of charter is ideal for travellers seeking a more personalised and unhurried Great Barrier Reef experience.

Departs From

Cairns

Departure Time

8:00am

Departure Instructions

• Boarding on boat from 7:45am with departure at 8:00am
• Berth 2, A Finger Marlin Marina, Spence Street, Cairns
• Return to Cairns is around 4:00pm
• As it is a private charter tour times are flexible to suit your schedule

Destinations

• Great Barrier Reef
• Outer Great Barrier Reef - Cairns - Queensland - Australia

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Daily

Duration

1 Day up to 5 Days

Available for Purchase / Hire

• Unlimited certified and introductory diving packages (includes night diving) - please enquire
• Advanced dive course
• Guided dives
• For other water activities such as stand up paddle boarding - please enquire
• Merchandise: T-shirt, hats and more
• We cater for special dietary requirements - please advise at time of booking

Fitness Level Required

Low, Medium

IN-WATER RESTRICTIONS

Scuba Diving Restrictions

• Certain medical conditions and medications may preclude some people from scuba diving.
• Participation is subject to a medical questionnaire completed on board with the tour operator
• Minimum age for scuba diving is 12 years.
• Flying after scuba diving: a wait of 12 hours is recommended after one dive, 18 hour after 2 dives and at least 24 hours after multiple dives, before ascending to an altitude of 300 metres or greater.

Read more about Diving Safety on the Great Barrier Reef.

Additional Information

Please ensure you plan logistics for flying and diving as a minimum of 24 hours is required from the end of your last dive (multiple dives) before flying or 12 hours for single dives. The last dive is completed by 8:30pm on the first day and 12pm on the second day

• Sunglasses, hat, sunscreeen & camera 
• Swimwear & beach towel (bath towel supplied) 
• Long pants & jumper during cool months 
• Small soft overnight bags, (additional luggage can be stored)
•  BYO alcohol (no glass)
• Logbook for certified divers

Not suitable for children under 4