Spirit of Freedom

Blake HarrisGoogle Reviewer

We had an incredible four-night experience on the Spirit of Freedom. This is a true dive-focused liveaboard—four dives a day on the Great Barrier Reef, with a crew that makes the entire operation feel seamless. What stood out most was the crew. We were up to 10 hours offshore for part of the trip, and safety was clearly their top priority at all times. At the same time, they were constantly working behind the scenes—setting up gear, keeping the boat spotless, coordinating dives—while still making time to engage with guests and even dive alongside us. It’s honestly impressive how they keep everything running so smoothly. The dive operation itself is extremely well run. James gave clear, detailed briefings before every dive, often using presentations on the main cabin TV, which made it easy to understand conditions and plans. Captain Tony brought great energy and clearly put in serious work navigating the long overnight crossings (10+ hours) out to Osprey Reef, even in rough conditions. The rest of the crew really rounds out the experience—Fernanda brought constant energy and kept the whole group engaged throughout the trip, Lily was a fantastic dive master underwater and one of the hardest workers on board, and the whole team created a fun but professional environment. Food is also a highlight—you’re basically eating all the time. Huge credit to Joost, the chef, who somehow delivers excellent meals out of a very small galley. My wife is vegetarian and the only one on board with that diet, but he still put real thought into every meal she had. That level of attention didn’t go unnoticed. If your goal is serious diving with a professional, hardworking, and genuinely welcoming crew, this is an easy five stars.

Scott AsselinGoogle Reviewer

This was my first liveaboard diving excursion and it was great. The animals you see are incredible (I saw a group of 8 devil rays, a giant, chill potato cod, many sharks, several eels, large schools of fish, and a few sea turtles), and the coral is beautiful. The night dive was particularly amazing- just imagine being surrounded by many sharks and large fish, and floating through the dark sea seeing various flashlights swirling around you. The crew is very professional and will usually offer you the option of a guided dive if you're less experienced. A shout out to Leo for his thorough dive briefings. I was less experienced than average (I have maybe 25 dives total), but thankfully had just done 4 dives around Poor Knight's Island (NZ) a month ago so I wasn't too far behind. You will never starve....there is plenty of food and it is delicious (shout out to Joost). Sleeping can be a little rough the first night, but thankfully most people usually adjust to the rocking of the boat by night two. I don't have an underwater camera, but you can see the pictures that this company posted for an example of what you're likely to see. Overall, I'd highly recommend diving with this team, and last thing....at the end of your trip, tip your dive guides!!! The crew really works hard for you; show your appreciation.

Jaclyn RunningGoogle Reviewer

What an absolutely fabulous experience! Stunning flight to lizard island! Phenomenal crew, incredible diving, delicious meals (never go hungry and might need a bigger wetsuit by the end of the trip), comfortable spaces to hang out/sleep. My only complaint was that they kept the inside of the cabin, VERY cold! Can’t wait to come back!!

Erwin PortilloGoogle Reviewer

Spirit of Freedom was awesome! The entire crew was amazing! They were all so friendly and they were so nice! David was my course instructor for my advanced open water certification and he was a great teacher! Food was so good and all the dives were wonderful! Would definitely recommend this to everyone!

Chantal DiederixGoogle Reviewer

We just completed a 4 day trip with Spirit of Freedom, and wow!! Amazing experience. Leo and his team made sure the whole trip was super enjoyable, each dive diverse and briefed so it could be enjoyed safely. The FOOD was out of this world, so much variety and every meal was outstanding, thanks to Joost, the chef. Never seen a crew on a liveaboard work as hard as this crew. 10/10 recommend The Spirit of Freedom for diving the Great Barrier Reef!