Reef Encounter's Top Deck Club Liveaboard packages are truly the best way to see Australia's Great Barrier Reef our luxury liveaboard tours depart daily from Cairns ...one day is never enough
Stay aboard Cairns premier Great Barrier Reef Liveaboard – Reef Encounter. Enjoy the luxury VIP package with their ‘Top Deck Club’.
Starting your trip in Cairns, First, meet your Top Deck Club valet who is there to make sure that everything you need is at your fingertips.
Getting to Reef Encounter
Whether you decide to travel on our transfer vessel Reef Experience or via a spectacular scenic helicopter flight, you will soon be on the Great Barrier Reef.
Onboard Reef Encounter
Once onboard Reef Encounter your valet will show you to your room and make sure that we know about any dietary requirements you may have.
Surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef’s crystal clear waters, this is one of Australia’s most celebrated holidays escape. See the reef at its very best – day and night!
Next underwater is where all the colour is on the Great Barrier Reef, so let’s start the adventures with a snorkel, mask and fins.
We know that everyone has different Reef Encounter requirements; there are several packages to suit all our aquatic guests. Starting with snorkelling and scuba diving from beginner to advanced.
Top Deck Club Great Barrier Reef Accommodation
Stay in the best Top Deck Club cabins on the boat and relax with the added extras such as late check-out times and spacious en-suite cabins with ocean views.
All staterooms have Australian power outlets.
Reef Encounter our boutique floating hotel Staterooms also have their own en-suite toilet & shower.
Top Deck Club guests enjoy an evening turn-down service for your stateroom.
Double bed or twin-single bed staterooms available.
Why choose a Top Deck Club liveaboard experience
Top Deck Club tour is tailored to your needs. Everybody’s Top Deck experience will be personalised.
Amongst other things, Top Deck Club includes a crew member just for you! A private in-water Guide for personal scuba dive tours or snorkelling tours. Late check-out times, deluxe 3-course evening meals under the stars and breakfast in bed.
…And so much more!
Top Deck Club Dining
A deluxe three-course evening meal, freshly prepared by the onboard Chef for each night of your stay. You may choose to dine privately under the stars or join the rest of the guests in the spacious dining saloon.
Breakfast served to your stateroom.
Enjoy an Australian continental, or cooked breakfast served to you just the way you like it, or join the rest of the guests for a buffet-style breakfast served in the dining saloon.
Complimentary sparkling wine and fruit platter upon arrival* (If you’re getting in the water, your complimentary sparkling wine will be served with your evening meal instead)
Complimentary sunset cocktail
Top Deck Club guests can also enjoy a selection of local press coffee, tea and juices.
All meals prepared fresh daily, by an onboard Chef. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert. Fruit available throughout the day. All dietary requirements will be catered for – please advise us of these when booking.
A barbeque buffet breakfast is served on the outbound voyage.
On your return voyage back to Cairns, enjoy a complimentary glass of wine and a cheese and fruit platter.
Free luggage storage available at their offices in Cairns City.
Great Barrier Reef Liveaboard Facilities
A fully air-conditioned 35-metre catamaran hotel, designed for the utmost stability and comfort at sea
Large dining saloon
TV and lounge area
Outdoor, freshwater hot-tub
Spacious sundeck with sun loungers
Fully licenced bar
Large, easy access dive and snorkel platforms
Helicopter pad on the roof for low-flying scenic helicopter tours over the coral reef as your transfer to/from Reef Encounter (optional extra)
Reef Encounter is one of few Great Barrier Reef liveaboards with ensuite facilities. All cabins have their own en-suite toilet & shower.
Sleep on the Great Barrier Reef with Reef Encounter, Cairns best Great Barrier Reef liveaboard
A personal crew member for the duration of your liveaboard tour. This guarantees a personalised reef holiday, styled your way!
Late check-out times. Top Deck Club guests keep their private cabin until departing Reef Encounter
Private guided in-water tours – Tailored specifically to your ability and comfort level to ensure you get the most out of your Great Barrier Reef liveaboard!
Superior Comfort – See “Top Deck Club Great Barrier Reef Accommodation” below
VIP Meals – See “Top Deck Club Dining” below
A variety of spectacular outer Great Barrier Reef locations during your stay
Glass bottom boat tour
On the voyage to Reef Encounter, you will have the option to listen to an informative Marine Biology presentation about the coral reef and marine animals
Free luggage storage facility available at their offices in the Cairns City
Daily transfers to the liveaboard vessel via a fast catamaran boat mean you can depart for your Top Deck Club liveaboard tour on a date that suits you – and stay as long as you desire. (Scenic Great Barrier Reef helicopter transfers to or from your liveaboard tour are an optional extra).
Reef Encounter is positioned on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.
How to get to Reef Encounter?
The first option if via our transfer vessel Reef Experience that departs Cairns daily at 8 am.
The second option is via a spectacular scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier and landing directly onboard Reef Encounter’s exclusive helipad.
This information is for all guests participating in scuba diving activities during your Great Barrier Reef Liveaboard Tour.
Australia has some of the strictest scuba diving rules globally and the safest scuba diving record. Please make sure you understand the scuba diving laws in Queensland, Australia.
Great Barrier Reef liveaboard boats are regulated by the Queensland Government Code of Practice and comply with all rules including the requirements for a dive medical, where applicable, as required by law.
To avoid disappointment on your liveaboard tour – we strongly recommend that all passengers complete our dive medical questionnaire before booking as some medical conditions, age and/or medications may prevent you from scuba diving. It is always our mission to provide our passengers with the very best Great Barrier Reef tour.
We are delighted to help you with any questions you may have. Please contact our office on +61 7 4037 2700 or email our helpful team today.
Alternatively, you may like to consult your own Doctor for a Queensland Dive Medical using the Australian QLD Standard Form AS.4005.1Â
Flying after Scuba Diving
You should not fly or go to altitude for at least 18 hours after a scuba dive for a single no decompression scuba dive. For multiple dives, you should not fly for 24 hours after your last dive. If Skydiving or Hot Air Ballooning you must wait 24 hours after your dive. We recommend waiting a minimum of 24 hours whenever possible.
We accept Visa Card or Mastercard, E-Way and PayPal.
Cancellation Policy
A minimum of 48 hours’ notice is required to re-schedule or alter a reservation
Cancellation fees are as follows:
20% cancellation fee 30 days or more prior to departure
50% cancellation fee if within 30 days prior to departure
100% cancellation fee within 14 days prior to departure
There will be no refund of any part of your tour costs should you fail to arrive at a scheduled tour departure time. Tour departures may not be delayed due to passenger circumstances – including events beyond your control, medical problems, airline delays, weather etc.
A minimum of 48 hours’ notice is required to make amendments to prepaid tour components; including equipment hire, guided tours or course fees. No reimbursement will be offered if persons choose not to complete the tour as booked in its entirety, once the tour has commenced
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities
Please refer to Trade Practices Act 1974
Terms And Conditions
This website acts as a booking agent only for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavour to provide accurate information we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning services.
• No alcohol may be consumed prior to in water activities
• Please remember you need to allow 24 hours from your last dive before flying.
• Passengers intending to dive but restricted due to the aforementioned will not be offered a refund.
• Please call to confirm your trip 48 hours in advance on +61 7 4037 2700
• We are not liable for changes to tours, pricing or itineraries; all of which are subject to change without notice.
• Neither this site, nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, loss of personal belongings, property damage, delay or personal injury.
• All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. In a medical emergency, any evacuation, vessel relocation, medical or other expenses are the financial responsibility of that passenger. Please be aware that scuba diving and other in-water activities are not covered by all travel insurance companies.
• Please inform us of any special requirements prior to your date of travel; such as dietary requirements, allergies, mobility and disability issues. This can be done in the 'Booking Message' section of your online reservation or by contacting our friendly reservations team
SCUBA DIVING - IMPORTANT INFORMATION
It is not our company’s decision regarding these laws - we are regulated by the Queensland Government
• You will be required to complete a Medical Questionnaire before participating in any Scuba activities.
• Some medical conditions OR medications may prevent you from scuba diving unless a current Queensland Diving Medical Certificate can be shown to the Dive Instructor on
board.
For example: Asthma / Wheezing or use of an inhaler, Brain, spinal cord or nervous/anxiety disorder, Chronic bronchitis or persistent chest complaint. Chronic sinus condition, Collapsed Lung (pneumothorax), Diabetes, Chest Surgery, Heart Disease of any kind high, blood pressure, Crones Disease, however medical conditions are not limited to the aforementioned there are many other conditions.
• If you are unsure of a particular medical condition or medication, please check with our Office before booking your dive.
• It is the Passenger's Responsibility to be proactive in relation to their medical conditions and taking of medications to ensure they are ok to scuba dive if they wish to do so
on the day.
• If you have not been proactive in checking with our office regarding any medical issues prior to your Reef Trip, you must be aware that details of your medication will be sent
to the Queensland Dive Doctors on the Day of Travel. This can be difficult for the Dive Doctors as they do not know your medical history. We can only give them information
submitted to us on your medical form so please understand that the dive Doctor may require a full dive medical to clear you to dive.
• Prior and existing Medical conditions where medication is not being taken cannot be sent to the Dive Doctors therefor important to contact our office.
• Please be advised that if you are not allowed to Scuba Dive due to your medical condition/medication that this is the decision from the Queensland Dive Doctors and their
decision is final.
• DO NOT presume that by taking medication is controlling your medical conditions and you should be fine to scuba dive as it is the medication that can be the problem when
scuba diving.
• No refunds on uncompleted dives.
• Passengers intending to dive but restricted due to the aforementioned will not be offered a refund.
• Please remember you need to allow 24 hours from your last dive before flying.
• If you do have any pre-existing/existing medical conditions or are taking any medication whatsoever and are not sure whether you will be deemed medically fit to Scuba
Dive, Please Contact Our Office on 07 4037 2700 or email us at [email protected], we will be only too happy to help you and can contact the Dive Doctors before your
trip to see whether you will need a dive medical or not. Alternatively, consult your own Doctor for a Dive Medical using the Australian Standard Forms 'AS.4005.1.'
FLYING AND SCUBA DIVING
You should not travel to high altitude (fly or drive above 8000 feet) within 18 hours of completing a single scuba dive or 24 hours after multiple dives OR after any 'deep' dive. (A deep dive is any dive over 18 meters/60 feet). We recommended leaving a minimum of 24 hours after your last scuba dive before flying. You can fly and then dive the same day, but not dive and then fly. On the last day of your tour your final dive will be finished by around 12 noon. Please consider this when arranging ongoing travel plans which include flying or driving to altitude. Flying any time after 12 noon the following day is recommended.
Return helicopter transfer: Our helicopter tours are low flying scenic excursions over the coral reef that are designed to be a safe activity after scuba diving. You may book a helicopter transfer back to Cairns on the final day of your stay with us, even if you have scuba dived that day.
Top Deck Club Liveaboard Accommodations
Double Bed
1 x Double bed, en-suite cabin. Requires 2 guests or sole occupancy.
Including luxurious touches such as crisp Australian bed linen, silk doona, cotton sheets, feather down pillow adorns our oversized double beds, soft fluffy robes and plush bath sheets.
2 x Single beds, en-suite cabin. Share with another guest.
Including luxurious touches such as crisp Australian bed linen, silk doona, cotton sheets, feather down pillow adorns our oversized double beds, soft fluffy robes and plush bath sheets.
***I researched many Great Barrier Reef Liveaboards before deciding on Reef Encounter. If you want a liveaboard that is roomy, serves delicious food, and moves the ship each day so you can see more of the reef, THIS is the one for you. I urge you not to wait to book your trip as the reef is dying due to coral bleaching. If this is a dream, make it happen now!***
We spent the first part of our honeymoon diving with Reef Encounters. We went all out and paid extra for the Top Deck VIP Package. It was so well-worth it! The package included several perks such as incredibly roomy accommodations and a guide on all dives. Kiri was a great guide, who took us to the best parts of the reef while pointing out multiple camouflaged creatures. The ship moved twice a day so we were able to dive different parts of the reef. There was a professional photographer on board who took some wonderful shots of us diving with sea turtles!
The food was incredible! I cannot say enough about it! It was like dining in a 5-star restaurant with beautifully presented deliciousness! This is not just for those who pay for the VIP package...everyone, including the crew, eats steak and lamb chops for dinner!
This was our first liveaboard experience and, from what I've heard from friends and researched online, nothing will ever top it!
For those thinking about going solo, DO IT! There were several solo divers on board who decided to dive together. You also have the option of hiring a guide.
Happy diving!
Room Tip: Top Deck VIP rooms are the best!
As good as it gets!! Everyone was so friendly and helpful as you ever hope. Our personal divemaster mike was off the charts 10 . He made the trip and especially the dives fantastic. The room was way nicer than expected. It was lovely. Food was a big surprise -- fabulous. Like 5 star dining. One of the best adventures we have ever experienced. Will always be remembered. Fantastic!
We heard about Reef Encounter through Lonely Planet and booked because they have a Top Deck offering, and one night option vs a minimum of more than 1 night. Amazing! Everyone was so friendly and helpful. Shiniee, our valet guide, was incredible and took such great care of us. She even got us to do a night dive despite our nerves - and it was so great! Wonderful room - loved the comfy bed and bathrobes. Good meals - thanks for the vegetarian options! I was so impressed by how well organized everything was. This was my first liveaboard trip and I really loved it. Thank you :) The hot tub was also a good touch!
Contact details are required for tracing purposes upon entry.*
Practice physical distancing.
Wash your hands regularly.
Follow the rules and keep us all safe.
Note: A printed an signed statement of compliance is displayed on premises.
COVID safe Tour Protocols & Procedures
Pre-screening
Wherever possible, Reef Trips will seek to pre-screen crew and passengers prior to attendance, in line with identified public health processes.
Maintenance of effective records, survey/questionnaire responses and other customer information may be vital in the community response to COVID-19. Records including pre-screening and contact details will be kept for a minimum two-month period.
Pre-screening also helps to increase staff and customer confidence that they are safe.
Social distancing
Due to the nature of COVID-19 and the manner in which the virus spreads (through close contact with an infected person or touching a contaminated surface), the most effective way to slow transmission of the virus is through physical distancing and hygiene practices.
In all contexts, our staff will facilitate practices which support appropriate social distancing aligned to most recent advice from the Chief Health Officer.
Our management and crew will remain up to date with health advice and to ensure compliance, above and beyond the details outlined in this document.
Indoor and outdoor areas have been calculated for maintaining a density of no more than 1 person per 4-meter square of floor space.
Cleaning & Hygiene
Management will:
Promote frequent and effective hand washing by all staff, customers, and visitors.
Have cleaning and disinfect products readily available with instructions on safe & effective cleaning & disinfecting procedures.
Ensure adequate time and resources are provided for enhanced cleaning procedures to be undertaken.
Ensure appropriate training for staff to implement enhanced cleaning procedures in line with contemporary practice.
Have alcohol-based hand sanitiser and or hand washing facilities with soap readily available to staff and customers for regular use.
Marine Tourism COVID Safe Requirements
A capacity of one person per two square metres based on accessible indoor and outdoor space provided the outdoor space offers protection when inclement weather is expected (e.g. from the sun and rain).
OR
Up to 100% of indoor seated capacity provided passengers are in ticketed and allocated seating to allow for inclement weather, except the kiosk (e.g. food and beverage kiosk) where passengers must maintain 1.5m physical distancing from these areas. Operators must also manage the outdoor space to maintain one person per two square metres in these areas.
JenJF5678
5***I researched many Great Barrier Reef Liveaboards before deciding on Reef Encounter. If you want a liveaboard that is roomy, serves delicious food, and moves the ship each day so you can see more of the reef, THIS is the one for you. I urge you not to wait to book your trip as the reef is dying due to coral bleaching. If this is a dream, make it happen now!*** We spent the first part of our honeymoon diving with Reef Encounters. We went all out and paid extra for the Top Deck VIP Package. It was so well-worth it! The package included several perks such as incredibly roomy accommodations and a guide on all dives. Kiri was a great guide, who took us to the best parts of the reef while pointing out multiple camouflaged creatures. The ship moved twice a day so we were able to dive different parts of the reef. There was a professional photographer on board who took some wonderful shots of us diving with sea turtles! The food was incredible! I cannot say enough about it! It was like dining in a 5-star restaurant with beautifully presented deliciousness! This is not just for those who pay for the VIP package...everyone, including the crew, eats steak and lamb chops for dinner! This was our first liveaboard experience and, from what I've heard from friends and researched online, nothing will ever top it! For those thinking about going solo, DO IT! There were several solo divers on board who decided to dive together. You also have the option of hiring a guide. Happy diving! Room Tip: Top Deck VIP rooms are the best!
Joe F
5As good as it gets!! Everyone was so friendly and helpful as you ever hope. Our personal divemaster mike was off the charts 10 . He made the trip and especially the dives fantastic. The room was way nicer than expected. It was lovely. Food was a big surprise -- fabulous. Like 5 star dining. One of the best adventures we have ever experienced. Will always be remembered. Fantastic!
Erin
5We heard about Reef Encounter through Lonely Planet and booked because they have a Top Deck offering, and one night option vs a minimum of more than 1 night. Amazing! Everyone was so friendly and helpful. Shiniee, our valet guide, was incredible and took such great care of us. She even got us to do a night dive despite our nerves - and it was so great! Wonderful room - loved the comfy bed and bathrobes. Good meals - thanks for the vegetarian options! I was so impressed by how well organized everything was. This was my first liveaboard trip and I really loved it. Thank you :) The hot tub was also a good touch!