reef encounter tour

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Reef Encounter – 3 Day / 2 Night Liveaboard

Starting from: $AU825.00

Tour Overview

• Tour: 3 Day / 2 Night Reef Encounter Liveaboard
• Departure location: Cairns
• Ideal for snorkelling & diving
• Suitable for couples & families
• Number of passengers: 42
• Number of room: 9 Double suites, 10 Twin share and 1 Multi share cabin
• Reef locations (permit areas): Hastings, Saxon, Norman, Breaking Patches, Jorgensen Patch Reef
• Number of reef sites visited: 2 sites a day
• Day of departure: Daily
• Tour duration: 8:00am – 4:30pm
• Vessel type and size: Motor catamaram / 35 meters with 3 levels
• Free glass bottom boat tour

Reef Encounter is considered a floating resort that offers overnight accommodation on the reef. Their 35 metre long liveaboard can accommodate 42 passengers in double, twin or multi-share ensuite cabins. All cabins have power outlets, ocean views, en-suite toilet and shower facilities.

Reef Encounter has a large dining saloon and lounge area with TV and games, all fully air-conditioned. Tea and coffee are available throughout the day.The liveaboard also offers lots of deck space with a huge sundeck and sun loungers including an open-air hot tub.

Reef Encounter has a permit to visit 15 reef sites and each day the Captain decides which reef locations Reef Encounter visits based on weather conditions and visibility of the water. Reef Encounter travels to two reef locations daily, moving to a different site in the afternoon.

Reef Encounter also departs daily from Cairns on their day trip vessel called Reef Experience. Reef Experience works as a daily transfer between Reef Encounter and Cairns, this way offering great flexibility to all visitors with their travel plans.

At Reef Encounter visitors can spend all day in the water snorkelling and also organise scuba dives. They are great diving packages available for certified divers and introductory divers.

Helicopter Transfer: Reef Encounter is the only vessel on the Great Barrier Reef with an onboard helipad. To avoid the 1 hour and 30 minutes cruise to the outer reef guests can get to the liveaboard by helicopter. One way or both ways are available. This is the ultimate experience and also the best way to see the reef, from the top. From the helicopter travellers get too see many different reef locations, islands, sand cays and also hopefully marine life such as see turtles, stingrays and whales.

Top Deck Option:

The Top Deck is perfect for people who wishes to experience the Great Barrier Reef in style. Guests have a dedicated personal valet during their whole stay including a personal snorkel and dive guide. This is a personalised and specialised services which provide great level of customer care.

» Please click here for further information on 3 Day / 2 Night Top Deck Liveaboard with Reef Encounter.

Tourism Cairns works with family and group discounts. Please email us for a quote.

What's included in the main price

• 3 day 2 night on luxuary 35 metre catamaran
• Luxury Stateroom accommodation with private bathroom
• Onboard chef preparing quality meals fresh daily
• Coffee, tea and fresh fruit
• Scuba diving equipment including BCD, regulator, dive computer, mask, fins & instruction
• Snorkeling equipment and instruction
• Glass bottom boat tour
• Reef video presentation
• Marine Biologist presentation on Reef Experience
• Large Air-conditioning dining area, bar and lounge
• Onboard heated spa
• Sun deck and sun lounges

Additional activities and services to purchase

• Introductory Dive (up to 7 day dives)
• & Certified dive (up to 7 day dives + 2 night dive)
• Professional underwater photographs
• Underwater digital camera hire ($49)
• Prescription masks if required ($10.00)
• Hotel coach transfers
• Helicopter transfer to and from Reef Encounter

Tour Itinerary

What to bring.

• Small bag only to be taken
• Beach clothes and accessoriessuch as swimmers, towel, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• Extra cash or a credit card for any onboard purchases
• Motion sickness tablet is recommended to take 30 minutes prior to boat departure
• Dive card & log book for certified divers

Please Note: All Divers: In accordance with the Australian diving law, ALL DIVERS must complete a medical questionnaire on board, before diving. Flying after diving: If only one dive is undertaken then a minimum of 12 hours is recommended before flying. If more than one dive is conducted in the day, an interval of 24 hours is recommended. This is not applicable for low helicopter flights over the reef. Introductory Divers - NOTE: Certain medical conditions may prevent you from diving (e.g. Asthma, Heart Disease), please contact our office. Min. age to dive is 12 years.

Tour Prices

Rates & tariffs.

Age: Adult age: 15 yrs + / Child age: 4-14 years inclusive. Reef Tax: $10.00 per day is levied for all adults and children entering the Great Barrier Reef. This charge and other levies are INCLUDED in the cruise fares.

Related Products

2 day / 1 outer reef liveaboard.

Reef Encounter is a floating resort vessel that stays 24 / 7 on the outer reef. They are an excellent alternative for travellers who look to spend a lot of time on the reef with VIP care and treatment.

• Great for families & couples
• Visit 2 outer reef sites daily
• Guests can do up to 5 dives including a night dive

2 Day / 1 Night Top Deck with Reef Encounter

• Dedicated personal valet
• Spacious en-suite cabins with ocean views
• Complimentary sunset cocktails

3 Day / 2 Night Top Deck with Reef Encounter

This is a personalised and specialised services which provide great level of customer care. Top Deck guests have the best rooms on the boat with spacious en-suite cabins with ocean views, crisp Australian bed linen, plush bath robes, towels and toiletries. Also guests have a dedicated personal valet during their whole stay.

• Up to 8 intro day dives
• Up to 8 day cert dives + 2 night dive

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booking fees: Tourism Cairns do not charge any booking fees.

Deposit and final payment: At Tourism Cairns clients are required to pay a deposit only at the time of booking. Final payment is to be completed 48 hours prior to departure or on the day of travel, depending on each tour operator's policy.

Cancellation by the traveller: If the tour is cancelled by the client up to 7 days prior to departure, a full refund is applicable. If the tour is cancelled by the client 7 days prior to departure, the deposit amount might be retained. If the tour is cancelled by the client 48 hours prior to departure, 100% cancellation fee may apply.

Booking amendments: If the date of a tour needs to be changed, Tourism Cairns must be notified in writing by the client up to 48 hours prior to the tour date.

» Please click here to read our full terms and conditions.

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Reef Encounter – Liveaboard Dive Trips

Overnight liveaboard dive boat departs from Cairns with private TWIN or DOUBLE Bed rooms. Offers fantastic service with wonderful chef prepared meals and beautiful diving on the Great Barrier Reef. Reef Encounter spend all their time diving on Norman, Saxon and Hastings Reef Systems.

Book Online Call : + 61 7 4041 1638 or Try our Tour Finder

All Prices in Australian Dollars.

Camera Special

*FREE UNDERWATER CAMERA HIRE

Book this trip with us, you must spend over $550.00 AUD to receive our 1 x Free Cairns Underwater Camera Hire. Only when you book online thru our website. You must come into our Cairns Esplanade Shop to pick up the camera the day before departure day before 5:30 pm . You also need to supply your own SD Card. Reserve your camera today!

*Not valid for any tours visiting the islands. Fine white sand damages the seals on the cameras and makes them leak!

Please Remember there is no other way to collect our cameras! All passengers must come into our shop the day before departure day before 5:30 pm.

Do you need help choosing a trip?

Can't decide? We have personally been on every Cairns reef and diving trip. We can help you choose the best tour , to suit your experience and budget.

Tour Type:   Liveaboard | Operates:   Daily | Departs:   8:00am | Returns:   4:30pm | Transfers: No

Highlights:.

Reef Encounter offers 2-3-4-5 day trips from Cairns to the Great Barrier Reef. These trips are suitable for snorkelers and divers (for more information on these activities, please see below tabs) and there’s a range of options available to suit all budgets and itineraries. What’s the benefit of a liveaboard trip? You get to spend more time on the Great Barrier Reef, exploring different sites. You also get to enjoy sunrise and sunset and the opportunity for night and early morning diving.

There are daily departures available for all of the liveaboard options on Reef Encounter. This is thanks to their day boat, Reef Experience, which provides fast and comfortable transfers from Cairns to Reef Encounter, which is pretty much permanently located on the reef. This makes this liveaboard option very itinerary friendly.

Reef Encounter is a large, spacious boat with 21 cabins, a combination of double, twin-share and stateroom, accommodating up to 42 guests. All cabins are air-conditioned and have their own ensuite facilities: linen is provided. The boat makes its own supply of freshwater, which means you can enjoy long hot showers at the end of your day of play on the Great Barrier Reef. There’s an air-conditioned dining saloon, bar and lounge (including a fully licensed bar and a TV, DVD and games area) with spacious exterior sundeck, complete with loungers and an open-air hot tub! There’s even a helipad on the roof for those wanting to book a scenic reef flight and a glass bottom boat, providing tours on demand.

Reef Encounter spend all their time diving on Norman, Saxon and Hastings Reef Systems. The Reef Encounter trip includes cabin accommodation (all with ensuites), chef prepared meals, coffee, tea and fresh fruit throughout your stay, snorkelling equipment and instruction, free scuba lesson for snorkelers, glass bottom boat tours, reef video presentation and marine biologist presentation. Linen is provided. Reef Encounter is locally owned and operated company and they move around the reef, allowing you to see / explore several different reef sites during your liveaboard stay.

Please note: Reef Encounter charges an extra $100 peak season surcharge per booking per person for bookings placed from 23rd December thru 02nd JAN also 28th MARCH thru 02nd APRIL 2024 each year.

All prices in Australian Dollars. Can't see the prices on your mobile? Click the Green Circle with the + Sign.

As the Reef Encounter liveaboard trip can be booked as 2-3-4 day tour (price varies – see prices tab for detailed breakdown), we will prepare a sample itinerary based on a three (3) day tour. If you are booking a two (2) day liveaboard trip, just omit the middle day and if you are booking are four (4) day trip, just repeat the middle day. For ease of reading, highlights are provided at the start of each day, with more detailed information provided should you be interested. Please note itineraries may vary, pending weather and conditions: the information below is based on a standard trip. Please contact us for more information.

DAY 1. Highlights: Departing Cairns and arriving at the Great Barrier Reef. Settling into your comfortable cabin aboard Reef Encounter and having your first reef experience. Sunset and sleeping on the Coral Sea.

MORE DETAIL: Your Reef Encounter experience commences with a transfer from Cairns to the Great Barrier Reef, aboard their day tour boat Reef Experience. Reef Experience is moored at A-Finger on Cairns’ Marlin Marina and boarding is from 7.30am with a cooked breakfast served on board. (Bus transfers to and from your accommodation is available if needed: this is an additional cost to the tour, ask us for more information at the time of booking.) The boat departs Cairns at 8am to commence its 90-minute cruise to the Great Barrier Reef and Reef Encounter.

Reef Experience is a 24m catamaran that’s licensed to carry up to 140 guests. There’s plenty of seating and it’s a comfortable transfer. On arrival at Reef Encounter you are welcomed aboard by the friendly crew and given a briefing of the boat and allocated your cabin.

From here for the rest of the day there is a schedule of water sessions for divers and snorkelers. The first session is snorkel only at 10.30am. Lunch is served at noon and divers (certified and introductory) have a dive briefing at 1pm.? The first dive of the day is at 1.30pm. The second dive is at 3.30pm with the final dive of the day, a night dive, after dinner at 6.30pm.

Reef Encounter will visit several different sites during your stay, moving around the Great Barrier Reef. Once all in-water activities for the day are complete, you can relax in the air-conditioned saloon or star gaze on the exterior decks, grab a drink from the licensed bar or just retire to your cabin.

DAY 2. Highlights: Waking up on the Great Barrier Reef and watching the sun rise over the Coral Sea (spectacular!), chance for an early morning dive / swim and snorkelers can try a scuba dive today (included in tour cost). Sunset over the Coral Sea.

MORE DETAIL: Today you spend the whole day playing on the Great Barrier Reef. Breakfast, lunch and dinner will all be served aboard Reef Encounter in the dining room, at scheduled times throughout the day, which are advised by the crew. There’s plenty of time to swim, snorkel and dive while still relaxing on the spacious boat.

Reef Encounter will move around the Great Barrier Reef during the day, allowing you to experience different reef sites. Reef Encounter spend all their time diving on Norman, Saxon and Hastings Reef Systems. There is the option for a night dive tonight.

DAY 3. Highlights: Waking up on the Great Barrier Reef and enjoying an early morning swim/snorkel/dive. Make the most of your time at sea, before disembarking and returning to Cairns.

MORE DETAIL: Make the most of today with an early start, it really is magical watching the sun rise over the Coral Sea. Extremely peaceful and will set the tone for the rest of your day. There’s the option for an early morning water session (dive or snorkel) at 6.30 am with a hot and cold breakfast being served from 7.30 am. Then it’s time to pack up your room and place your luggage in the transfer station around 8:00 am (The lovely cleaning crew can now start cleaning the rooms and get them ready for the next arriving guests). Time for another two water sessions before lunch (8.30 am and 10.30 am) and your departure on Reef Experience. In the afternoon there is time for one more snorkel or glass-bottom boat tour (on Reef Experience) and you return to Cairns between 4-4.30 pm.

The number of certified dives you can do, depends on the length of your trip (see below).? All equipment and briefings is included in the dive tour price.

INTRODUCTORY DIVING: This is a great opportunity to try scuba diving for the first time. No experience is necessary and if you are over 12-years of age and can pass the on-board medical, then you are right to try introductory scuba diving. This can be bought directly on the boat if you pass the medical requirements. Scuba diving will change your life and there is no better place to try it than on the Great Barrier Reef. Please Note: Night Diving Not Included!

CERTIFIED DIVING: Certified divers of all experience and certification levels will enjoy their time aboard Reef Encounter.? The boat visits several different dive sites during your stay and you can choose between guided (extra costs incurred) and unguided diving.

The dive price includes dive equipment (but not wet / lycra suits – these can be hired on board) and comprehensive dive site briefings. The maximum dive depth, due to ocean depth, is generally 20m and the number of dives you can complete depends on the length of your trip (for more details, please see below). Liveaboard trips allow for early morning and night dives. There is no solo diving on these trips. Those travelling on their own will be paired up with other divers or the Dive Crew.

Certified divers will be required to show evidence of their certification: through current dive licenses and your log book. All divers will be required to complete dive medical paperwork on board.

• 2 day / 1 night Trips = up to 5 dives (including a night dive)
• 3 day / 2 night Trips = up to 9 dives (including night dives)
• 4 day / 3 night Trips = up to 13 dives (including night dives)

You do not have to complete all of the dives: you can do as many, or few, as you like. Note:  All Certified dives are unguided, this gives you the freedom to dive in your own buddy pairs and explore the Great Barrier Reef. If you would like a dive guide they do charge $15.00 per person per dive. You can organize this on the boat.

Snorkeling:

You can fit a whole lot of snorkelling into a liveaboard trip! These trips visit several reef sites and allow you to see sunrise and sunset over the Coral Sea. Please note that liveaboard trips are completed in the open ocean (rather than being near an island or pontoon), as such, they are recommended to people who are confident swimmers that are comfortable in the open water.

The reef itself rises up to sit just metres beneath the surface, so you will have plenty of opportunity to get close to the corals and marine life. These sites are situated within the Great Barrier Reef marine park, so are relatively sheltered from strong tidal currents and waves.

All snorkelling equipment – mask, fins and snorkel – is included in the snorkel price. Wet / lycra suits can be hired on the boat. There is also the option to try introductory diving (no experience necessary) while onboard. Glass bottom boat tours are also included in the tour price.

Customer Reviews:

Customer tour reviews & feedback.

Customer reviews are written by our customers using our 1 x FREE Digital Underwater Camer Hire Service.

My 5 Day/4 Night Liveaboard trip on Reef Encounter was awesome! The staff and their professionalism often exceeded expectations. The Scuba Diving equipment was a first class quality and the Instructors and Diving Masters were only happy to help you with any questions or any problems you could have. This made my Scuba Diving experience on Reef Encounter very safe and enjoyable. Thank you very

I did a two day/one night lifeaboard trip and I enjoyed it very much. Clint was very helpful with my numerous questions and worries and answered to every email promptly and very friendly. He even arranged to keep the office open a little longer so I could come and pick up my underwater camera. The boat itself was very clean, the cabin cozy and the

A hardworking crew and always smiling! Thank you for everything! The cook was our superman, lots of eating and diving and eating and diving. We really had a fantastic time! Roxane Lalonde – Canada

My girlfriend and I were vacationing in Australia and we have always wanted to dive the Great Barrier Reef! When we started to research our options we were overwhelmed and undereducated – That is where Clint stepped in! We found CairnsDiveAdventures.com.au and I decided to call directly for advice. We were not certified and had never been SCUBA diving before and Clint was able to…

We had a wonderful time. The Reef sites we visited were astounding, our cabin was very comfortable, the food was really magnificent. Service was outstanding: we had clean cabins with fresh towels, punctual schedule, the crew was not only capable and professional but fun and friendly. The water events were well organized and very safe. We had excellent help when we needed it. It doesn’t…

Reef encounter was a great boat to dive from. Staff were really friendly and professional. Dive guides are optional so you can explore on your own if you like. Equipment was all modern and in good condition.

Full Reviews:

Cairns dive adventures trip reviews.

Reef Encounter 2-Day/1-Night Trip Review!

By clint | october 28, 2021.

Wow, just magnificent! We spent two days and one night on the magnificent liveaboard dive boat Reef Encounter. This really is a wonderful way to spend some time diving on the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns. It really gives you the time you need to explore this magical part of the World. Don't take our...

Staying Overnight at the Reef with Baby – Reef Encounter

By richard | january 3, 2014.

For families with babies, toddlers and younger children, this is the only liveaboard option for spending a night on Cairns’ Great Barrier Reef. As well as being your only option, it’s an excellent option! The rooms are spacious enough to comfortably accommodate the port-a-cots and there are high chairs available in the dining room (ask...

Reef Encounter Dive Review: 2 Days / 1 Night

Reef Encounter is a boutique floating hotel on Cairns’ Great Barrier Reef. Certified divers can take up to six (6) certified dives on an overnight trip, with plenty of time to snorkel and enjoy the amenities on Reef Encounter, which includes the spa and air-conditioned lounge with TV and library. This trip is suitable for...

WHAT CUSTOMERS SAY ABOUT US:

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All prices in Australian Dollars. We accept VISA & MC with no booking fees. Choose your options on the booking form. Press the red book now button.

Tour Notes:

Remember to try any form of scuba diving everyone needs to be medically fit with no asthma and not be taking any prescription medication. PADI recommends allowing up to 24 hours after diving before flying in an airplane. Some tour operators have a no refund policy for any dives not completed for whatever reason. Please note the art of freediving is not permitted on any of the day boats or liveaboard dive boats from Cairns & Port Douglas. With the high instances of (shallow water blackout) companies do not allow this for safety reasons. It is highly recommended that passengers take out full comprehensive travel insurance for all tours and travel arrangements.

Do you have Medical Issues:

Please note if you have any medical issues you will need to go see your local GP where you live and get them to write you a letter on the practice letterhead signed and dated by your doctor that you are “ Fit to dive ” If you have one of these letters then all dive companies in Cairns will take you diving. Please note these letters are only valid for three months from their date of issue.

Price Valid to 31st MARCH 2024

ROOM EXPLANATIONS:

STATEROOMS: One large double bed in the room good for a couple to sleep together or it can also be two single beds in the one room. Leave a note in the booking form if you would like the Double Bed or TWIN Beds.

NOTE: If you are a solo traveller book the TWIN room Stateroom or the Multishare Room you will share with someone else. NOTE: If you are a solo traveller and would like the Double Bed in the Stateroom they do charge for 2 x people.

TOP DECK SERVICE: are a Deluxe TWIN Bed or Deluxe DOUBLE Bed Stateroom with Champagne on arrival, Breakfast served in your room, Sunset Cocktails, Turndown Service, Romantic Dinners under the stars (weather permitting), Personal snorkel/dive guide available at all times. Top Deck includes the wetsuit hire as well. Leave a note in the booking form if you would like the DOUBLE Bed or TWIN Beds. Minimum of 2 x Adults travelling together.

Inclusions: Transfers to and from the reef aboard Reef Experience (Reef Experience takes you over to the mothership Reef Encounter), Accommodation on Reef Encounter, All meals and light refreshments, Freshwater showers, Snorkelling equipment and instruction, Glass Bottom Boat Tours, Reef Video Presentation, Marine Biologist Presentation. [Diving equipment and briefings is included when booking a Diving Package]. Also includes bed linen and towels.

Extras: An additional $15 per person, per day (maximum of 3 days – $45 per person) is charged and payable onboard the boat. This is comprised of $3.50 Environmental Management Costs, Administration Charges and Fuel Levy.

Extras: Wetsuits you hire on board for $5.00 per day. You can also hire prescription masks on board the boat for $10.00 per day.

Medical: You must be medically fit with no asthma and not taking any prescription medication to try any form of scuba diving. Please note Reef Encounter has a strict no refund policy on any dives not completed.

Cancellations and Changes: Reef Encounter have a strict 30-Day Cancelation policy. You can loose 100% of the booking price if you cancel your trip within 30-Days of Travel . If you need to change your trip or cancel you need to give more than 30 days notice!

Note: All Certified dives are unguided, this gives you the freedom to dive in your own buddy pairs and explore the Great Barrier Reef. If you would like a dive guide they do charge $15.00 per person per dive. You can organize this on the boat.

X-Mass Surcharge: Reef Encounter charge an extra $100 per booking per person for bookings placed 23rd December thru 02nd January Each Year.

Reef Encounter Overnight Dive Video:

FREE UNDERWATER CAMERA HIRE*

Spend over $550.00 AUD on your Great Barrier Reef tour with us and receive the latest Digital Underwater Camera Hire. Take amazing High-Resolution images and 1080 HD Video. Only when you book online thru our website. 

Not available for any tours to the Islands as fine white sand damages the seals on the cameras and makes them leak!

You need to come into our shop located on the Cairns Esplanade the day before departure to pick up the camera before 5:30 pm. You also need to supply your own SD Camera Card and drop the camera off back at our shop before 5:30pm.

Reef Encounter | 2 Day 1 Night Liveaboard Tour

Departure Times

Departure Point: Cairns Marlin Marina, Cairns

Pricing Options

Make a splash and explore the best of the Great Barrier Reef aboard Reef Encounter!

• Enjoy ample snorkelling and diving over 2 adventure-filled days
• Stylish accommodation, air-conditioning, and onboard entertainment features
• Avid snorkellers, intro divers, and certified divers of all ages welcome
• Join the Top Deck Club for tailored, exclusive service
• Flexibility to stay and play for as little or as long as you like

Searching for a longer trip? Ask us about extended Reef Encounter stays!

Combining world-renowned Outer Reef destinations with ample snorkelling and diving opportunities, the Reef Encounter 2 Day 1 Night Liveaboard Tour is the ultimate Great Barrier Reef experience! Explore coral reefs, spot local marine species, relax aboard spacious decks, and enjoy knowledgeable marine life commentary. The 35-metre purpose-built catamaran boasts air-conditioned comfort, a spacious spa, and vast deck, dining and recreation areas. Perfect for all ages, Reef Encounter additionally offers the flexibility to stay and play for up to 4 days!

  Highlights

• 35-metre catamaran hotel, designed for optimal comfort and stability
• Overnight twin/double share cabins with private en suites
• Option to join the Top Deck Club for tailored luxury and service
• Ample daily snorkelling and diving options, including night diving for certified divers
• Scuba diving demonstration and instruction
• Onboard Chef preparing fresh, delicious meals
• Licensed onboard bar
• Hydraulic lowered dive/snorkel platform for seamless reef access
• Helipad for scenic helicopter tours over the Great Barrier Reef as your transfer to/from Reef Encounter (optional extra)
• Sun deck with the perfect vantage point
• Onboard air-conditioning and spacious entertainment areas
• All Reef Levy fees included

Holiday Surcharges

• PLEASE NOTE: A Peak Season holiday surcharge of $100pp for travel between 28/03/2024 to 02/04/2024 AND from the 23/12/2024 to 01/01/2025 - payable on board the day of travel.

Sample Itinerary

With over 15 individual sites to choose from, Reef Encounter's experienced crew will ensure you enjoy the best conditions for the day. From sprawling coral gardens to countless species of reef fish, a unique and spectacular experience is guaranteed each and every time! Check out some of the most renowned sites on Reef Encounter's itinerary:

• Norman Reef
• Hastings Reef
• Breaking Patches

Snorkelling

Enjoy ample time snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, one of the natural wonders of the world! All equipment and tuition is included and our purpose-built snorkel platform makes getting in and out of the water smooth and easy. A perfect activity for guests of all ages and experiences to explore the reef below - it's time to make a splash!

Resort / Introductory Diving Package

Reef Encounter grants the ideal opportunity to try your hand at diving, with no prior experience required! All diving tours are guided by a qualified instructor who will teach you everything that you need to know before diving below. When booking a Resort Diver Package you will have the opportunity to experience 4 day dives. Immerse yourself in a world of quirky reef fish and unique coral formations - the perfect way to see the Great Barrier Reef as you never have before!

Certified Diving Package

Certified divers can look forward to abundant time under the water during their unforgettable time on Reef Encounter. Offering day dives in addition to night dives, the opportunities to explore the Outer Reef are seemingly endless! During your 1 night tour, dive in a buddy system or partner up with a guided dive instructor to experience the reef alongside an expert. For those solo travellers, our dive supervisor will team you up with a suitable buddy. You have the option of choosing to do your four dives during the day or you could do three day dives and one night dive. 

Night Diving

There is nothing more thrilling than diving at night! During your one-night stay, Reef Encounter offers the opportunity for certified divers to experience the Outer Reef after the sun sets. The Great Barrier Reef is extremely active at night as plenty of fish come out to feed, including sharks and giant trevallies - an unforgettable chance to explore the reef in a whole new 'light'!

Our Delicious Sample Menu

Reef Encounter loves the flavours of the tropics; mango and coconut tempered with the exotics like mangosteen, dragon fruit and lychee. Herbs are our Chef's favourite compliment; the exquisite flavours of mint, basil, dill, and more earthy notes of thyme and sage.

Continental and cooked...

Continental and cooked breakfast, to suit everyone guest's needs. Crowd favourites include fresh raw honeycomb, lime and blueberries, smoked salmon, capers and fluffy scrambled eggs with homemade Mexican beans.

A fresh luxe buffet consisting of a variety of salads and mains, all made fresh and changing daily. Menu items include:

Mains - Croissants & pastries, pita pockets, burritos and quiche.

Salads - Rocket & poached pear, pumpkin & pine nuts, quinoa & cranberry, papaya & lime.

Afternoon Tea

Light refreshments including delicious fruit platters, home-baked treats and tapas platters.

Indulge in a plated meal for the evening, with restaurant-quality food and excellent service. Reef Encounter uses high-quality cuts of proteins and takes pride in the flavours and colours of the evening. We aim to cater for all dietary’s with care and respect and value each individual’s requests.

Mouth-watering desserts including pastries, cheesecake, mousses, sponges and more.

Accommodation

Top Deck Club

Offering exclusive, tailored service the Top Deck Club is here to take care of all your needs whilst on board Reef Encounter! Much like 'first class' this indulgent option is perfect for those holidaymakers who want optimal luxury and personalised service during their trip. Perks in...

Offering exclusive, tailored service the Top Deck Club is here to take care of all your needs whilst on board Reef Encounter! Much like 'first class' this indulgent option is perfect for those holidaymakers who want optimal luxury and personalised service during their trip. Perks include a dedicated personal valet, three-course evening meals, a private scuba or snorkel guide and late check-out times. 

Sleep on the reef in the stylish Reef Encounter Staterooms. Enjoy serene ocean views from your very own comfortable air-conditioned cabin, equipped with an en suite toilet and shower, and included towels and toiletries (soap, shampoo). Rooms are Twin Share - 2 x Single Beds or Private Double - 1 x Double bed.

Cot hire is available for babies aged 0-2 years. Small rollaway beds are available for children 2-11 years and will go in the room with the parents/guardians. Children aged 12 years and above must have a standard bed. Prams and pushchairs are welcome onboard, however, they can be stored at the Reef Encounter Office in town if needed.

More Information

What to bring.

• Overnight bag - If you wish to store any excess luggage we are happy to do so in our office at 100 Abbott Street, Cairns.
• For safety reasons, Reef Encounter has a no-shoe policy. (There is no need to bring extra pairs of shoes)
• Cash or credit card for purchases of snacks from the bar/souvenirs for sale on-board or underwater camera hire.
• Sun hat, swimming clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, light casual clothing.
• As the air...
• As the air-conditioning is on a set temperature for the heat during the day it can become quite cool in the evenings, even just being on the Great Barrier Reef can be cooler at night-time, therefore a light long-sleeved pullover, cardigan should be taken.
• Dive medical if required
• Proof of certification if you are a certified scuba diver.

* Sleeping Bags are  NOT  permitted  * Reef Encounter has a fully licensed bar -  NO BYO! 

What's Included

Reef Encounter Stateroom Inclusions

• Twin or Double Stateroom with private bathroom
• Chef prepared meals
• Reef Levies, Management Fee and Fuel Surcharge
• Marine Biologist presentation when transfers are done by Reef   Experience
• All dive and snorkelling equipment, except wetsuits
• Free scuba lessons for snorkellers and dive equipment
• Coffee, Tea & Milo are available all day whi le vessel is not   underway
• Fresh fruit   is always available   on board Reef Encounter

Reef Encounter Top Deck Club Additional Inclusions

• Dedicated personal Valet service for the   entirety of the stay
• P rivate   snorkel or dive guide   available at all times
• Australian Sparkling wine & sunset cocktails
• Breakfast serve d   to stateroom
• Turn down servi ce
• Romantic dinners under the stars (weather permitting)

What's Extra

• Wetsuit Hire - $5pp per day
• Scuba Refresher Course - $50pp
• Professional photos
• Underwater cameras for hire - from $89pp per day
• Prescription masks - $10pp per day
• Drinks, snacks, cameras, souvenirs, t-shirts etc. 
• Please Note: Travel over Public Holiday and Peak Season periods may incur additional charges on check-in.

Please note divers may be subject to a medical questionnaire before they are able to dive. Please click  here  for more diving information and to read the medical questionnaire.

Cot Hire and Rollaway Beds

Cot hire and children’s beds are available add-ons that may be selected during your online booking. Cot hire is available for babies aged 0-2 years. Small rollaway beds are available for children aged 2-11 years and will go in the room with the parents/guardians.  Rollaway beds are available upon request only and priced from $450 pp. Children aged 12 years and above must have a standard bed.

Holiday Surcharge

There is a  $100 holiday surcharge  for travel between 28/03/2024 to 02/04/2024 AND from the 23/12/2024 to 01/01/2025 - payable on board the day of travel.

*Prices subject to changes without notice. 

Terms and Conditions

Important Information:

• Please note divers may be subject to a medical questionnaire before they are able to dive. For more diving information please read the  scuba diving medical questionnaire
• Resort/ Introductory divers must be at least 12 years old
• Travel over Public Holiday periods may incur additional charges on check-in
• Outdoor, freshwater hot-tub - Currently not operational 

All information provided at any time by Cairns Tours and our affiliates is subject to these Terms & Conditions. This includes but is not limited to tour information, pricing, blog posts, travel advice, itinerary information and availability.

Your Responsibilities:

Please advise us before booking if any passengers are under 18 years old to ensure this is the appropriate trip. 

You must reconfirm all booked tours prior to travel as specified on your voucher. If applicable, notes such as dietary requirements, pick-up locations and additional fees should also be confirmed at this time. Reconfirmations cannot be actioned through Cairns Tours / Mr Travel, and must be done so directly through the Service Operator as specified on each ticket.

It is your responsibility to notify us of ticket discrepancies. Please read through the details on your voucher thoroughly to ensure all details such as passenger names, ages and dates of travel on vouchers are correct.

It is the responsibility of all passengers travelling to advise both your travel agent at the time of booking and vessel check-in agent before boarding of any medical conditions including food allergies you may suffer from.

You need to allow adequate time to check-in prior to the specified departure time. 

Prices/Extra Costs:

All prices are stated in Australian dollars and include GST. Surcharges over peak holiday seasons may apply. 

The Service Operator reserves the right to alter prices and extra costs. Extra costs may include EMC fees, Stingersuit/Wetsuit Hire, Luggage Storage, Insurance, Linen Hire, National Park Fees, Fuel Levies, Dietary Fees, etc. Bonds may also apply.

We will also endeavour to communicate these extra costs with you at the time of booking, and on your ticket. However, it is your responsibility to confirm which (if any) additional costs apply with each Service Operator upon reconfirming your trip.

Travel Risk/Insurance:

It should be noted that adventure travel involves risk. Whilst we make every effort to safeguard clients, we cannot be responsible for personal injury or loss due to the actions of our clients which are beyond our control. All departures and itineraries are subject to weather. Tours may be changed or cancelled for any reason at the discretion of the Tour Operator. We highly recommend that all clients have travel insurance covering illness, injury, loss or damage to personal belongings and not being able to travel on the confirmed date of departure. You should also ensure your travel insurance will cover special circumstances including weather events preventing guests from travelling to their tour departure destination and cancelled flights due to unforeseen circumstances. 

It should be noted that any transport you have booked (buses, flights and ferries) through Cairns Tours is non-refundable and non-transferable. It might be possible to change flights however do note this must be done directly with the flight operator and we are unable to offer any support with this. This may incur change fees or cancellation fees, it depends on the T+Cs of the flight operators themselves. As we acted as a booking agent for you, it is possible to liaise with the airline directly should there be any unexpected events and the airline is forced to cancel your flights. If there are any changes to your flight times or days, we will get notified and send this email directly to you in a reasonable time.

Merchant Fees:

Please be aware operators pass on credit card merchant fees so there is a non-refundable 1% surcharge for VISA and MASTERCARD card purchases.

Other: 

Terms and Conditions (including the Cancellation Policy) are subject to change. The most recent versions can be found online on the relevant product pages. 

All ticket/voucher reissues attract a $20 administration fee.

The Service Operator reserves the right to limit courtesy transfers to select local accommodations. Private residences or Airbnb properties may be asked to meet at the closest confirmed location. Failure to meet at the specified pick-up location may be treated as “No Show”, for which the Client Cancellation Policy applies. Not all tours offer transfers, please refer to the individual product to see if this is applicable to your tour.

Open Date Vouchers / Gift Certificate:

Shipping Costs are in addition to the ticket price and will be added at check-out. Shipping costs are non-refundable and do not makeup part of the ticket value. 

E-Vouchers incur no shipping fees. You have 5 years to use the value of the voucher. Seasonal Price Rises will apply if travelling out the current seasons pricing. Vouchers can be exchanged for free up to the full value of the voucher excluding credit card fees and charges.

Cancellations

Client Cancellations:

All cancellations forfeit 25% of the recommended retail price (RRP) - not the discounted/sale price. No shows or client cancellations made 30 days or more of departure forfeit 25% of the total ticket price. No shows or client cancellations made within 30 days of departure forfeit 50% of the total ticket price. No shows or client cancellations made within 14 days of departure forfeit 100% of the total ticket price. 

A minimum of 48 hours notice is required to re-schedule or alter a reservation. 

Cairns Tours is required to notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to make sure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during standard business hours (9am-5pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider.

Transfers between tours can be made at the suppliers discretion, however, it should be noted that supplier fees may apply. Tour transfers also incur a $20 administration fee. 

It is compulsory that all cancellation requests are in writing and sent via email to [email protected]. Cancellations attempted via online chat or phone will not be actioned.

Supplier Cancellations:

The Service Operator reserves the right to alter prices, alter itineraries, apply a fuel surcharge, cancel departures, arrange alternative transport and vary itineraries and services if necessary.

All departures and itineraries are subject to weather. Tours may be changed or cancelled for any reason at the discretion of the Service Operator. If the Service Operator has to cancel the trip or activity (prior to departure) and we cannot offer a suitable alternative, then a refund will be given minus a 20% administration fee and any associated card fees. We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance, especially during the wet season.

All add-on activities (including but not limited to scuba diving, stand-up paddleboarding, helmet diving, guided snorkel tours, banana boat rides and waterslides) are subject to availability and price changing, and may not be available during your tour without notice. Guests are not eligible for refunds on the grounds of non-operating extra activities.

In the unlikely event of your trip being cancelled or stood down, all guest communication is required to go through our Online Store via telephone or email. While there is a Travel Shop retail outlet located in Cairns, please be aware that they operate as a separate entity and are unable to access reservations made by the Cairns Tours/Mr Travel online department.

All refunds are in Australian Dollars and must be made to the card of payment. Cairns Tours / Mr Travel is not liable for exchange rate fluctuations or fees, or any other merchant/bank fees associated with domestic and/or international transactions.

Where a full refund is applicable, there is the option to transfer the whole cost of the tour to another tour or “Credit” to avoid the administration fee. A transfer fee of $20 will apply.

You will be emailed confirmation once the refund has been processed. Once the refund has been processed, it may still take time for the banks to clear the amount. Please allow 7-10 business days for the funds to clear into Australian accounts and up to 21 business days for international accounts.

Accountability/Misconduct:

All Service Operators have the right to provide client feedback and to cancel bookings based off of feedback from other Service Operators. 

Please enjoy your travel experience in a kind and responsible manner.

Cairns Tours/Mr Travel will treat this as any normal client cancellation and therefore the cancellation fees stated in the Client Cancellation Policy will apply.

Information & Advice:

All information, advice or pricing provided by Cairns Tours and our affiliates, or through any of our team, is subject to change. Cairns Tours articles and products are provided online for general information purposes only and are intended as guides. Any advice interpreted from information on the website (including but not limited to financial, immigration, employment and tax information) is not specialist advice and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional instruction. Cairns Tours does not guarantee that any information provided is up-to-date or accurate. Please obtain professional advice before actioning any advice, including but not limited to tax, immigration, employment, travel restrictions and finances.

Thank you for booking with our East-Coast travel experts here at Mr Travel / Cairns-Tours.com .  If you would like any further advice, assistance in arranging accommodation, transfers or additional tours please get in touch.

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Frequently asked questions.

You can do up to four dives in total during this 2-day, 1-night tour with Reef Encounter! You can choose either four day dives or three day dives and one night dive. 

No, this is a fully licensed vessel so you can purchase drinks on board!

Bus transfers to and from your accommodation to Cairns Marlin Marina are available at an additional cost. Please contact +61 740 372 700 to arrange.

Yes, a Peak Season holiday surcharge of $100pp for travel between 28/03/2024 to 02/04/2024 AND from the 23/12/2024 to 01/01/2025 - payable on board the day of travel.

The reef sites will be chosen on the day by the captain based on the conditions. This ensures everyone gets the best possible experience! Possible reef sites include:

Overall Rating

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Chinese 'monster ship' involved in latest provocation with NATO ally in South China Sea

T he Royal Canadian Navy's HMCS Montreal encountered a formidable Chinese coast guard vessel , widely recognized as the largest of its kind in the world, in a recent patrol through the contested waters of the South China Sea .

According to USNI News, the encounter took place as the 4,770-ton Canadian frigate equipped with advanced missile systems , deliberately navigated past several Chinese-controlled reefs, including Subi Reef, Fiery Cross Reef, and Mischief Reef.

These reefs, part of the Spratly Islands, have been transformed by China into military outposts, featuring runways, hangars for combat aircraft, and sophisticated defense and communications facilities.

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The Chinese coast guard vessel involved in the encounter, with the hull number 5901, has earned the name "monster ship" from international observers.

Displacing 12,000 tons and stretching 541 feet in length, the ship - named Nansha after the Chinese name for the Spratly Islands - is armed with rapid-fire guns, auxiliary weapons, and anti-aircraft machine guns.

It's known for its endurance, collision resistance, and speed, making it a formidable presence in the disputed waters.

The encounter near Mischief Reef was described by the commanding officer of HMCS Montreal as "safe and professional," reflecting the careful navigation of both vessels in these tense waters.

The Canadian warship's mission, part of Operation Horizon, is to demonstrate Canada's commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, in line with the country's broader strategy to promote peace, stability, and the rules-based international order in the region.

The Chinese "monster ship" plays a critical role in Beijing's efforts to assert its maritime claims in the South China Sea, where it has longstanding disputes with several neighboring countries, including Japan and the Philippines.

Despite a 2016 ruling by an international arbitral tribunal in The Hague that dismissed China's sweeping claims, Beijing continues to assert its dominance in the area, supported by assets like the Nansha.

The HMCS Montreal's recent activities in the region have been extensive . In June, the frigate took part in maritime cooperative exercises with naval forces from the United States, Japan, and the Philippines in the South China Sea.

It later participated in bilateral operations with the US Navy in the East China Sea, before returning to the South China Sea following a transit through the Taiwan Strait.

Moscow Free Tour

• Page active

Description

Highlights:.

• Hit the Red Square;
• Explore the nooks and crannies of Alexander Garden;
• Get a taste of the ancient Kitay Gorod;
• Learn about the tragic destiny of the Christ the Savior Cathedral;
• Roam through the heart of Moscow.

Walking Tour Itinerary:

Here are our TOP 7 things to help you start your Russian adventure or tick off before you say goodbye to Moscow.

Wander around the vast cobblestone square with rich past, gorgeous architecture, incredible GUM , bright colors of the Kremlin and swirling Saint Basil’s Cathedral .

Kitay Gorod

Walk across the Red Square to see the embankment of old Moscow river and plunge into the atmosphere of ancient Russian village where nobles preferred to settle in XV century.

Varvarka street

Walk up Varvarka street to find the landmark of Kitay Gorod - Palace of the Romanov Boyars, which was built in the XVI century and where lived the first Tsar from the Romanov dynasty.

Old English Court

Look at the Old English Court , which used to be the English Embassy in Moscow and where Ivan the Terrible confined the envoy from England, because Queen Elizabeth I refused to marry him.

Alexander Garden

Watch the solemn ceremony of the Changing of the guards , pay respect to the eternal flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier , and the stone Grotto , The huge fountain in the centre adds a sophisticated feel to the almost 200 year old garden.

Christ the Savior Cathedral

Walk to the cathedral which is of a great cultural value to Russians. Its marvelous exterior, enormous golden domes, colossal bronze doors and pristine white walls will touch your feelings.

Patriarch’s Bridge

Pause on the bridge and marvel at the Kremlin, river cruises, monument after Peter the Great and Red October Chocolate Factory , which is now a nightlife hub for youngsters.

About Moscow:

We picked up a list of article that might be useful and helpful to you during your stay in Moscow. These are things to do in Moscow, tips about Moscow, best cafes in Moscow and simply fun facts about Moscow. Enjoy reading!

Before coming to Moscow:

• Our fun guides sharing their observations about their tours and best practices:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/moscow-private-guides-on-tours-in-moscow
• What you should know about Moscow:  
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/5-things-to-know-before-you-go-to-moscow

Off the beaten path of Moscow:

• Kitay Gorod:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/moscow-must-see-fun-facts-about-kitay-gorod
• Zamoskvorechye:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/moscow-must-see-fun-facts-about-zamoskvorechye
• White City:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/moscow-off-the-beaten-path-white-city  

The best parks in Moscow:

• Muzeon Statues Park:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/moscow-off-the-beaten-path-muzeon-park
• Gorky Park: 
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/moscow-gorky-park
• Tsaritsino Park: 
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/moscow-must-see-37-reasons-to-visit-tsaritsyno
• Kolomenskoe Park:
•   https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/things-to-do-in-moscow-kolomenskoe-museum-reserve

The most historical and beautiful streets of Moscow:

• Arbat  srreet: 
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/things-to-do-in-moscow-arbat-street
• Tverskaya street: 
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/moscow-things-to-do-tverskaya-street
• Downtown of Moscow: 
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/things-to-do-moscow-streets

What to do in Moscow:

• How to have a Real Russian Experience:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/real-russian-experience
• Things to do in Moscow:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/21-things-to-do-in-moscow
• Architectural masterpieces, hidden gems of Moscow:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/things-to-do-in-moscow-off-the-beaten-path
• Top Moscow attractions:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/top-10-moscow-attractions

Budget travel:

• How to have fun in Moscow for less than $4:
• How to save money in Moscow:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/7-ways-to-save-money-while-travelling-to-moscow

Cafes & restaurants in Moscow:

• Moscow cafes with Russian breakfast:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/moscow-cafes-with-russian-breakfast
• Best Moscow restaurants:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/best-moscow-restaurants
• Best coffee shops in Moscow:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/moscow-best-coffee-shops

Moscow Metro:

• Facts about Moscow Metro:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/fun-facts-about-moscow-metro
• Myths about Moscow Metro:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/7-myths-about-moscow-metro
• Facts about Moscow:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/fun-facts-50-facts-about-moscow
• Fun Facts about Kremlin:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/33-fun-facts-from-our-kremlin-tours
• The best flea markets in Moscow:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/moscow-best-flea-markets
• Top 5 Russian souvenirs:
• https://friendlylocalguides.com/blog/top-5-russian-souvenirs

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow tour.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the walking tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

Write your review

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best of Moscow by high speed train

By shuguley , February 15, 2014 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.

Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?

My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

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If you are considering this on the 2015 June Baltic cruise on Voyager; my suggestion is don't. There is so much to do in St. Petersburg and although a train is one of my favorite ways to travel the time would be far better spent in St. P.

Thanks for the advice. Yes, this would be on the Voyager during the 2015 season but not yet sure exactly which cruise.

We did the Moscow excursion "on a different luxury line", but from your brief description it sounds very much like the same trip, so I will operate on that assumption. It is a VERY long day! We left the ship at 5:30 AM and returned at 12:30 AM. The highspeed train trip is comfortable, and while they call it "Business Class" it does not compare well to the equivalent class on say Rail Europe. When we did it in 2011, we did have highspeed both ways, and the trip back seemed much longer as the adrenaline and excitement had worn off!:D

Moscow itself is not that terribly different from any other big city in the world, but this Cold War kid never thought he would ever stand in Red Square, never mind walk the grounds of The Kremlin, or tour The Kremlin Palace, or see (but not visit) Lenin's Tomb, or visit The Armoury. But he did, and he loved every minute of it! Yes, it is a long day, and you barely scratch a scratch on the surface, but it is worth it. There is a tremendous amount to see in St. Petersburg, but every Baltic cruise goes to St. Petersburg, so you can go back if you choose to. Not every cruiseline offers you the chance to see Moscow.

I have not personally done this tour, but our last time in St Petersburg, the private guide that we hired for a day was leading the regent tour to Moscow on the high speed train the next day. He said it was way better than the previous alternative, which was flying to Moscow and back. He said that you actually got to Moscow faster because you didn't have to deal with airline checkin etc. it did seem like a very long day to me, and there is so much to see and do in st. Petersburg that I didn't consider doing it.

countflorida

We toured to Moscow from St. Petersburg via the hi-speed SAPSAN train last September, from a Baltic cruise on the Oceania Marina. You need to have a two-night, three day port call in St. Petersburg to take this tour because the tour typically leaves the ship around 5:00 - 5:30 AM and doesn't return until after midnight the next day. We didn't take the ship's tour; we made private arrangements with TravelAllRussia for three days of touring, the first and third days in St. Petersburg and the second day the tour to Moscow by train. Our cost for the private tour for three days was about the same as what the ship charged for the excursion to Moscow alone. There are a number of private tour agencies that operate in St. Petersburg and offer the Moscow train tours; we would strongly recommend them over the ship's tours.

All three days had private guides with car and driver. The second day, the driver picked us up at the ship and took us to the train, but we were alone on the train, and met in Moscow by the guide on the station platform. After our tour and dinner, we were brought back to the train and after the return train trip met by the driver and taken back to the ship. Because you are alone on the train you must have your own Russian visas.

If this is your first visit to St. Petersburg, I would agree there is much more to see there. We found Moscow somewhat a disappointment, particularly Red Square. The Kremlin and the cathedral in Red Square were also worth seeing. But the best thing we saw was the Moscow subway! I worked for the Washington Metro system back in the 1980s as it grew from 40 to 80 miles and although I was in the computer area, I learned a lot about the challenges of running a subway system. We used the Moscow system to get across the city from where we had dinner to the train station, and I was amazed at the cleanliness', speed of operation, the short headways maintained, and the courtesy of everyone involved. A very impressive experience!

We had been to St. Petersburg before, and so had the time to take a day and go to Moscow. Also, I really like trains, and the SAPSAN is a German train set running on Russian rails. Seats are like first class domestic air, spacious but not too plush or comfortable, but with enough room. Not too much recline, and almost 8 hours on the train in two shots is a lot for an old man. They come through and sell drinks, candy, etc. but the sellers don't speak English and no one around us helped, so we had just poor coffee once coming, and brought stuff with us for the trip back. Not too much to see from the train either, particularly on the return when it is night the whole way.

If you decide to go, take a private tour and avoid the overly expensive ship's tour. I'm glad we did it, but wouldn't bother to repeat the tour; we've seen Moscow.

Thanks so much to all of you for the thorough and thought insight. Yhe information you have provided is most helpful.

countflorida: Your detailed post is very helpful. We are not quite ready for a Baltic cruise but should do so within a year. Time enough to do our pre travel research, bookings and visa gathering.:) Thank you!

Emperor Norton

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.   Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?   My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

I did this on Seabourn. IMO DONT. Take Aeroflop (er Aeroflot). The train has non folding seats where you are literally knee to knee with your fellow passenger (facing each other). Further they don't believe in air conditioning. It's also the worlds slowed bullet train. I think I would have found more enjoyment wandering around the St. Petersburg and Moscow airports.

Countflorida,

This is a little off topic,, however we had planned a river cruise in Russia but decided we would rather stay on land and have booked about two weeks with Travel-All-Russia using the private guide and driver. I'm curious as to how you found them as a tour company.

The guides they provided were fine. We had a different guide each of the days in St. Petersburg, but both were flexible, pleasant, knowledgeable and spoke English very well, as did the guide in Moscow, incidentally. She was a bit aloof, distant, not too friendly, but otherwise fine. In fact, she was the one who suggested taking the Metro, which unexpectedly became one of the highlights of the Moscow excursion. If I have a complaint with AllTravelRussia, it is with their plan and its execution (more later).

I had requested emphasis on World War II (in Russia, the Great Patriotic War) sites and info. In scheduling us, they weren't careful about dates and a couple of the sites we wanted to see were scheduled on the third day, after we'd been to Moscow. But both sites were closed that day of the week, and that info was readily available, right on web sites describing them. Also, the included meals (lunches in St. Pete, dinner in Moscow) were not what we asked for: light meals with some choices, so we could avoid things we didn't like and choose things we did like. My request was ignored; we were given full Russian meals with a fixed menu, no choice. On the first day, a fish dish was the entre, but I am allergic to fish. Fortunately, I had the e-mail I'd sent with me and showed it to the guide, and she was able to change my entre to chicken, which was very good actually. But we didn't want a 3-4 course lunches or dinner (in Moscow). We had the guide drop the lunch the third day, although we never got any credit or refund. But, particularly in contrast to the ship's tours, the prices were so reasonable we didn't worry too much about it.

The people who were on the ship's tour to Moscow saw us boarding the same train for which they were forced to queue up and wait on the way back, and asked us what we had done. I was candid and open so they were not happy when I explained what we had arranged and particularly what it had cost. Also, when we returned to the ship, we found they had laid on a late supper for those who had gone to Moscow, so up we went and had something. Well, it turns out the late supper was supposed to be just for those on the ship's tour, but we and others on 'independent' tours, there were a dozen or more of us, crashed the party, actually got there first, and they didn't realize it until the larger group arrived and there weren't enough tables/places set. By that time, the 'independents' had all gotten served and were eating; what could they do?

A couple from the larger group sat down with us and asked us about our tour, and they were the ones I told about our arrangement and its cost. They turned to others who’d been with them and announced the details, loudly enough so the whole room heard, which started a lot of bitching and complaining. I gathered they weren't very happy with the ship's tour to begin with, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. We finished up and beat it out of there, but overheard later that one of the excursion staff came to check on something and ran into a real mess. I caught a cold on the trip, which forced me to bed the second day following in Tallinn, so by the time we reappeared we heard about the contretemps' but apparently no one recalled who started it, thankfully.

Because of what happened to us, I would probably not use AllTravelRussia if I were to go again, or if I did, I would be sure to get confirmation of every detail of the tour. They do have good reviews generally, and we were certainly helped by their visa department and liked the guides and drivers. Their weakness, I say now with full 20:20 hindsight, is that once the sales person who plans the tour, sells it to you and collects your money, he (or she) transfers the plan to their Russia office for implementation; there is no follow-up to make sure it gets done right. And that is where our problems arose; we paid for a custom tour but got a standard package with a few destinations switched, and no one checked them out, even to see when they were open the day we were scheduled to go. If you check every detail that’s important to you, it should be OK, but that’s a hell of a way to have to do business, in my opinion.

Thank you for the 20/20 hindsight observation on your Russian tour operator, and better priced than the ship's excursion cost.

Thanks very much for the feedback.

We had the same experience as you so far as price. We originally booked a Viking Cruise but, hearing some things about the river cruises that made us unhappy, looked into other options. T-A-R cost the same or less than a cruise and had us in hotels for 11 days. We opted for the private tour. They have three tour levels, based on hotels. We originally opted for the four star as it did not cost much more than the three star hotels. Finally we decided to throw it all in and upgraded to five star. In Moscow we will be at the newly opened Kempinsky which is two blocks from Red Square. In St. Petersburg it is the Grand Hotel Europe, one of the most vaunted luxury hotels in Russia. Location is important for us as the tours use up only part of the day so being in the center of everything for our independent touring is important. As with many other cities, the less you pay, the farther out of the center of town you are.

We have been working with our salesman in D.C. and he seems to get back to us with the changes we want. He recently returned from Russia so is up on everything. When I asked they said they paid the full TA commission if I wanted so I got my usual TA on board so he is watching our back and giving us that extra level of comfort. He also set up our air, which I know pays him little or nothing, and got us business class for much less than T-A-R wanted for economy, though it took working for a while with a consolidator. He's happy to get his 10 percent on this trip without having booked it. He also took care of the trip insurance. We've been doing a lot of research on the CC sister site Trip Advisor and will write a report there. We will, I guess, become a source of info for CC members after having spent 5 days in Moscow and 6 in SP.

• 4 months later...

scubacruiserx2

Anybody considering a day trip to Moscow from St. Petersburg on the Sapsan may want to look at our travelogue filled with pictures.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1927687

Very informative. Thanks dor sharing. Jeff

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