Cairns Diving News: Big Changes, Big Adventures & One Last Chance with the Minkes!

There’s never a dull moment on the Great Barrier Reef—and 2025 is shaping up to be a year of new horizons, fond farewells, and epic underwater encounters. Here’s what’s bubbling beneath the surface in the Cairns diving scene:

One Last Swim with the Minkes – Final Season with Divers Den

Get ready for one last magical dive with the gentle giants of the deep! Divers Den has announced that 2025 will mark the final year of their iconic Minke Whale Expeditions aboard OceanQuest. After years of unforgettable underwater encounters, these tours will be retiring—making this your final chance to get eye-to-eye with a dwarf minke on one of the most intimate and awe-inspiring experiences the reef has to offer.

Spots are still available for 2025, so don’t miss this rare window. The Minkes don’t stick around forever—and soon, neither will these expeditions.

Note: You won’t see Minke Whale trips with Ocean Quest after this year! This really is the last call!

Minke Whale Alternatives – All Eyes on Spirit of Freedom

Still craving that Minke magic? You’re in luck! Spirit of Freedom is still running its phenomenal Minke expeditions from Cairns to the pristine Ribbon Reefs throughout June and July.

Expect:

• Up to 11 dives over 3 unforgettable days
• Incredible encounters (all on the Minkes’ terms, of course)
• An overnight stop at the stunning Lizard Island
• A scenic flight back to Cairns to top it all off

Availability is tight for 2025, but 2026 still has open space—so get in early.

New Vessel Alert! Frankland Islands Cruises Just Got an Upgrade

Say goodbye to the loyal Turtle Islander and hello to the future of island transfers! Frankland Islands Reef Cruises is launching a brand new, 14-metre high-performance Naiad vessel this April. Designed for stability, speed, and sustainability, this new boat slashes fuel use by 60% and delivers panoramic views all the way to Normanby Island.

Sleek. Smooth. Reef-ready. What’s not to love?

Tusa Reef Tours Update – Shifting Gears

Heads up! Tusa Reef Tours is transitioning away from regular day operations. Moving forward, the vessel will be available exclusively for private charters and will only pop back into regular service if needed as a backup or support vessel.

If you’ve got groups or custom charters in mind, this could be your golden ticket. Call us for a quote – PH: +61 7 40411638 or Email: reservations@cairnsdiveadventures.com

OceanQuest Refit Complete – She’s Back and Better Than Ever

Our beloved OceanQuest is back on the reef and looking sharper than ever after her annual March–April refit. From upgraded systems to a spruced-up dive deck, everything’s been refreshed to keep your adventure smooth, safe, and unforgettable.

Here’s what your guests can expect on board:

• 1 to 5 night flexible stays
• Dive sites across Saxon, Norman & Hastings Reefs
• 22 comfy, en suite cabins (18 twins & 4 doubles)
• Unique night diving like Sharks in the Dark & Fluoro Diving
• Sun decks, lounges, an onboard chef, and full bar for post-dive chill

Vessel Refit Schedule – Plan Ahead for 2025 & 2026

A quick look at upcoming refits to help you plan your trip:

• Spirit of Cairns
  • Last Day: 11 May 2025
  • Back in Action: 24 May 2025
• AquaQuest
  • Last Day: 8 June 2025
  • Returns: 21 June 2025
  • Tusa available during this time as a substitute
• Spirit of Freedom
  • 2025: 31 July – 11 Sept
  • 2026: 30 July – 10 Sept

Be sure to update your calendars and itineraries. Need help with alternate options? We’re just a message away, get in touch with dive travel team!

It’s All Happening at Cairns Dive Adventures

From majestic whales to new boats and fresh adventures, the Great Barrier Reef is brimming with excitement. Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime Minke dive or coming back for another taste of the reef, we’re here to help you make it unforgettable.

Stay salty, stay curious—and keep diving.