About this expedition
The world's largest reef in winter — and the only place to swim with dwarf minke whales.
Why this expedition
Dwarf minke whale encounters (seasonal, July peak)
Ribbon Reefs & the famous Cod Hole
Vast hard-coral gardens and reef fish
Accessible diving for Open Water+ divers
Liveaboard to the outer Coral Sea reefs
Day by day
- Day 1
Board in CairnsEmbark, check dive and briefing as the boat steams to the reef.
- Day 2
Outer reefsCoral gardens, reef sharks and a first night dive.
- Day 3
Ribbon ReefsThe Cod Hole — giant potato cod up close.
- Day 4
Minke whale daySwim line encounters with curious dwarf minke whales (seasonal).
- Day 5
Coral SeaClear-water walls and pelagic action further offshore.
- Day 6
Reef finaleFinal reef dives and macro; de-gas before flying.
- Day 7
Disembark CairnsBreakfast and transfer ashore.
Who this trip is for
CertificationOpen Water to Advanced
ExperienceMinimum 15 logged dives
Come preparedAround 15 logged dives · Valid Australian tourist visa (ETA/eVisitor) · Winter water — a 5 mm wetsuit is recommended
We verify every diver’s certification before confirming a slot — it keeps the group safe and the diving relaxed. Not quite there yet?
Level up with a course and join a future expedition.
What's included
Included
- ✓ 7 nights full-board cabin
- ✓ Up to 3–4 guided dives/day
- ✓ Minke whale swims (in season)
- ✓ Tanks, weights & guide
- ✓ Cairns transfers
- ✓ iDive trip host
Payable / not included
- + International flights
- + Australian visa
- + Reef tax & environmental fees
- + Wetsuit/equipment rental
- + Gratuities
- + Travel & dive insurance
Good to know
Can a newer diver join?
Yes — much of the reef is gentle and shallow, so Open Water divers with around 15 dives are welcome. More advanced divers get the deeper Coral Sea sites too.
Will we definitely see minke whales?
July is the heart of the dwarf minke season on the Ribbon Reefs and encounters are common, but as with all wildlife they're never guaranteed.
Do I need an Australian visa?
Yes — most Indian passport holders need a visa (ETA/eVisitor or a visitor visa). We'll remind you to arrange it in good time.
