3 Day Whitsundays Sailing and Diving Adventure: Kiana

About this tour

Sail 64km offshore aboard Kiana, a 16.4-metre ketch, to dive and snorkel the outer Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands over three days. This eco-accredited vessel carries a maximum of small passenger numbers and operates the only live-aboard service reaching Bait Reef. Your first scuba dive is complimentary. The trip combines reef exploration with visits to Whitehaven Beach, freshly cooked meals, and a relaxed rhythm of water-based activities suited to both certified divers and newcomers.

Highlights

• Dive or snorkel Bait Reef on the outer Great Barrier Reef
• First scuba dive free for eligible passengers
• Whitehaven Beach and surrounding island exploration
• Dive instructor and compressor permanently on board
• Small-group sailing with intimate access to remote reefs
• Three home-cooked meals daily plus morning and afternoon tea
• Air-conditioned cabins and covered aft deck

What to expect

You'll board Kiana on Monday or Friday mornings and settle into your air-conditioned cabin. Days alternate between sailing to dive and snorkel sites, with your crew—all qualified instructors—guiding you through briefings and entry procedures. Expect a working knowledge of the reef's layout, marine life behaviour, and hazards before entering the water. Non-divers snorkel from the platform; certified divers descend with crew support; first-timers receive an introductory qualification dive at no extra cost. Between water sessions, the boat moves between sites or anchors at Whitehaven Beach. Evenings involve shared meals in the saloon, informal conversation, and early nights given the ocean rhythm.

Good to know

You must be a confident swimmer capable of treading water for one minute unaided and able to climb a 1.5-metre ladder unassisted. Introductory divers aged 45+ require a medical certificate; likewise for those with certain health conditions or medications. All safety instructions are given in English—you must understand them fluently. Reconfirm your booking 48 hours before departure. Soft drinks cost extra; alcohol is available for purchase but no BYO permitted.