7 Night Minke Whale Swim Liveaboard ~ Cairns (Australia) | June–July

from $4,682.00

This 7-night expedition is designed to give you the best possible chance of in-water encounters with dwarf minke whales at the Ribbon Reefs—one of the top locations in the world for these incredible interactions. You’ll explore vibrant marine ecosystems, take advantage of exceptional winter visibility, and have multiple chances each day to swim alongside these curious and gentle giants. It’s a rare opportunity to experience unforgettable, close-up moments with minkes beneath the surface.

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Your Inclusions:

7 Nights
Twin/Double cabins
Daily cabin service
Delicious meals & snacks, wine and soft drink are included with the evening meal
Up to 22 dives
Tanks, air fills and weight belt
Scenic flight Cairns to Lizard Island
Reef ecology program
Dive computer workshop
Digital photo editing workshop
Transfer to the airport or Cairns hotel after your expedition

Your Experience

Spend a full week immersed in the best the Great Barrier Reef has to offer with this 7-night expedition—an extended journey that combines two back-to-back Minke Whale trips. With more time on the water, you’ll enjoy even greater chances for unforgettable encounters with dwarf minke whales, plus explore a wide variety of world-class dive sites stretching across the Ribbon Reefs and beyond.

Dwarf Minke Whale Encounters

This itinerary is all about maximising your in-water time with the minkes. With dedicated sessions set aside to find and swim with these gentle, curious whales, you’ll have multiple opportunities to connect with them in a respectful and awe-inspiring way. Onboard researchers will be on hand to share fascinating insights into their biology and behaviour, and you're welcome to participate in real-time research activities such as behaviour monitoring—adding another layer of meaning to your experience.

Double the Dive Time

By combining both the 4-night and 3-night expeditions, you get access to a broader range of dive sites and the chance to return to your favourites. With up to 22 dives possible across the trip, every day brings new discoveries.

Dive the Continental Shelf

Travel over 100 miles north of Cairns to the edge of the Continental Shelf. These exposed, current-swept sites are a magnet for marine life, offering a thrilling diving experience for those who love the challenge of deeper, nutrient-rich waters.

The Ribbon Reefs

Dive into one of the most prized regions of the Great Barrier Reef. This stretch between Lizard Island and Cooktown is home to dazzling coral gardens, bustling fish life, and the annual minke whale migration. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, the sheer beauty and biodiversity here never gets old.

Iconic Dive Sites

Cod Hole – Swim with the legendary potato cod—diver-sized, friendly, and full of character.
Lighthouse Bommie – A key minke hotspot and a vibrant pinnacle dive rich with rays, turtles, reef sharks and sea snakes.
Pixie Pinnacle – A vertical garden of soft coral and fish life. Look out for the shimmering ‘disco clams’ lighting up the reef.
Dynamite Pass, Coral Kingdom & Flare Point – Each site brings its own unique terrain, marine life, and surprises.
Lizard Island Visit - Mid-expedition, you’ll stop at the beautiful Lizard Island. Spend an hour or two exploring the white sandy beaches, having a swim, or taking a short guided hike up to Chinaman’s Ridge for panoramic views of the reef. It’s a stunning interlude between dive days, with a chance to reset and take it all in.

No Scenic Flight Required

As this trip starts and ends in Cairns aboard Spoilsport, it doesn’t require the flight over the reef that features on the shorter itineraries. However, this gives you more time out on the water—ideal for those who want to maximise their time diving and snorkelling.

Exceptional Success Rate

With a 98% success rate for minke whale encounters since 1996, your chances of swimming alongside these magnificent creatures are extremely high. If whales aren’t found in the usual areas, your experienced crew will continue searching further afield, ensuring you make the most of every day. And if the whales are feeling shy, the sheer variety of dive sites on offer still guarantees an unforgettable week beneath the surface.

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Location

This whale swim adventure departs from Cairns, Australia.

Accommodation

Experience unparalleled comfort and luxury on one of Australia’s most awarded liveaboard dive vessels, MV Spoilsport. This custom-built, 30-meter twin-hull boat is designed for maximum stability and guest comfort, offering a smooth and relaxing journey across the Coral Sea.

The vessel features a range of well-appointed, air-conditioned cabins, all located on the same deck level and serviced daily. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with a friend, there’s a cabin to suit your preferences and budget:

Premium Cabins (#3, #4, #9, #10): Enjoy ocean views and private ensuite bathrooms. Cabins #9 and #10 feature queen beds, while #3 and #4 offer double beds—perfect for couples or close companions.
Standard Cabins (#5–#8): Ocean-view cabins with twin single bunk beds and private ensuites, ideal for solo travellers or friends happy to share.
Club Cabins (#11–#14): Interior cabins with twin bunk beds and private ensuites. A great value option for those who don’t need a view.
Budget Cabins (#1 & #2): The most economical option with twin bunk beds and shared bathroom facilities.

After an exciting day of diving, unwind in the spacious lounge and bar area, or enjoy panoramic views from the sun deck. Indulge in delicious meals, freshly prepared by an expert onboard chef, with menus that cater to all dietary needs—including a dedicated vegetarian option.

Whether you're exploring the depths of the ocean or simply soaking in the serenity, Spoilsport promises a truly unforgettable liveaboard experience.

Download vessel layout & cabin information (pdf)

Upcoming Dates

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