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Home > Australia & New Zealand > Preferred Properties & Tours > Australia - Cruises > Ocean Spirit
 

Ocean Spirit
   

Michaelmas Cay is a picturesque reef sand island surrounded by magical coral gardens teeming with an incredible diversity of marine life. The Cay is a protected seabird sanctuary playing host to over 20,000 migratory seabirds and is one of the most important nesting sights in the Southern Hemisphere. Cruise to Michaelmas Cay for snorkeling and diving on Australia's magnificent Great Barrier Reef. Set sail aboard a five star catamaran and enjoy a unique reef experience.

 
Ian’s Comments

I remember vividly the first time I boarded Ocean Spirit and spent an incredible day sailing to the reef. The ambience on board was casual, free spirited and a sense of adventure! Being able to leave the boat and walk on the Cay is such a bonus out there and see not only the coral, colorful fish but also lots of birds. The bright young crew told us all about the reef and what to expect, and really, it exceeded all our expectations. I am very proud to be able to say that Ocean Spirit our one of Preferred Partners in travel.

Ian Swain

 
   

Tour Inclusions  
   
  • Four full hours on the reef
  • Air conditioned coach transfers from your hotel (City and Cairns Beaches)
  • Morning refreshments
  • Hot and cold buffet (includes seafood)
  • Afternoon tea
  • Snorkeling demonstrations and tuition
  • Use of all snorkeling equipment
  • Use of flotation vests
  • Informative ecological presentations by qualified marine biologists
  • Informative tours on an air conditioned semi-submersible
  • Guided bird tours
  • Live musical entertainment on the homeward sail to Cairns
  • A complimentary glass of champagne
  • High crew to guest ratio (1:9)
Optional Extras
  • Snorkeling tours with  Marine Biologist
  • Certified and introductory diving
  • Drinks and snacks from the fully licensed bar
  • Sunscreen lotions and underwater cameras

What to Bring

  • Towel, bathing suit, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
  • Cash or credit card for on board purchases
   

Introductory and Certified Diving

Introductory Diving ~ Start in the shallow waters of the cay and practice the basic skills under close supervision from an instructor. After the first scuba dive, receive a PADI Certificate of Recognition to go along with memories to last a lifetime.

   

Certified Diving ~ Ocean Spirit accesses incredible dive sites and the dive instructor gives a full site briefing to ensure a first class dive on the Great Barrier Reef. All divers must complete a medical questionnaire on board before diving. Certain medical conditions may prohibit diving in accordance with the law.

 
   

The Vessels

All three of the Catamarans contain fully licensed bars and onboard amenities.

The vessels are unique in terms of maximum occupancies relevant to the size of the vessels. Ocean Spirit I has an operating occupancy of only 150 passengers, and Ocean Spirit II has an operating occupancy of only 100 passengers.  Ocean Spirit III, the latest addition to the fleet carries 80 passengers but is as large as Ocean Spirit IV giving lots of space to passengers.

Ocean Spirit IV is designed as a sailing catamaran for use as a harbor tour or dinner cruise vessel in the Cairns waters. The vessel seats 100 passengers comfortably and can accommodate 200 passengers for cocktail style functions.

   

Why Ocean Spirit?

Ocean Spirit Cruises prides itself on its commitment to environmentally sustainable tourism and the development of passionately satisfied guests all of the time. Through the employment of qualified marine biologists, they endeavor to provide their clientele education through enjoyment, while at the same time contributing actively to conserving the environment.

The company is a financial and active corporate member of the Ecotourism Association of Australia and ensures minimal environmental impact by abiding by the Ocean Spirit motto: "Leave only footprints, take only photographs".

   
 
 

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