Independence takes 12 guests on intimate, private charters to the Great Barrier Reef.

Our vessel Independence is perfect for small group Great Barrier Reef charters. This agile reef boat is designed for diving and snorkelling adventures, reaching pristine outer reef sites with ease. Her shallow draft allows access to reef locations that larger vessels simply cannot reach. This means you’ll explore secluded, untouched areas during your day at the reef. We focus on providing outstanding customer service and have an industry leading 1:4 staff-to-guest ratio for a truly personal experience. Our team of reef professionals includes Master Reef Guides, Marine Biologists, Naturalist Guides, Divemasters and Dive Instructors, who will be with you in and out of the water sharing their knowledge to enrich your understanding of the Great Barrier Reef. Private charters on Independence are ideal for guests seeking a more flexible, exclusive reef experience with access to quieter locations and personalised support from the crew. Perfect for family getaways, corporate groups, private celebrations and those wanting the ultimate Great Barrier Reef experience.

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<b>Port Douglas’ Best Charter Boat </b>for small groups is<b> Independence. </b>

Port Douglas’ Best Charter Boat for small groups is Independence.

Independence was custom built for outer reef cruising. The layout was thoughtfully imagined to provide guests with a seamless transition from deck to water, to dining and downtime, without the need for changing. This is rare among Port Douglas reef boats.

Our permanent crew are all passionate and knowledgeable about the Great Barrier Reef. Their experience and skills allow us to tailor our private charters to meet your specific needs. Whether that’s snorkelling in coral gardens, diving along reef walls, or trying scuba diving for the first time on an introductory dive, we make it all happen.

Licensed for 25 guests, standard Independence private charters include up to 12 guests, with additional guests available on request up to a maximum of 16. This allows us to provide personal space and freedom of movement throughout the day. We will pick destinations to deliver mind blowing Great Barrier Reef moments. Secluded sand cays, remote reefs and coral lagoons. With our team there to support you and enrich your time on the reef.

<b>Independence</b> is adventure ready for<b> Great Barrier Reef Charters. </b>

Independence is adventure ready for Great Barrier Reef Charters.

Independence has been delivering world class Great Barrier Reef charters for divers and snorkellers since 2015. Built by the legendary and award-winning team at Stebercraft, Independence is a Steber 4800 Super Sedan, rated as being one of the best riding boats in its class. She has a comfortable cruising speed of 19-20 knots, which allows us to easily access stunning inner and outer reef sites. We will visit at least 2 sites on each private charter day.

Independence is 16m long with an impressive 5m beam amidships. She combines functionality with comfort, featuring freshwater showers, bathrooms and ample room to unwind. Independence has a shaded back deck designed for ease and flow, with dive tanks, equipment, tables and seating all in one relaxed wet zone. Water access is via a lowered back deck with ladders into the water. We also have a speedboat that enables us to access the shallow reef lagoons, coral cays and remote reefs.

Families see us as an ideal fit due to our flexibility and ability to tailor our day to suit your needs. Relax on our spacious bow and roof area, sunbathe and enjoy the pristine waters of the Great Barrier Reef with a select few loved ones. Enjoy morning and afternoon tea, plus a gourmet grazing style lunch, with the option to elevate to a luxury lunch with local prawns and assorted accompaniments, at additional cost.

<b>Snorkel and dive</b> the Great Barrier Reef on a <b>private charter.</b>

Snorkel and dive the Great Barrier Reef on a private charter.

Independence is equipped and staffed to provide the ultimate Great Barrier Reef charter, catering to guests of all experience levels. We can access exclusive low use reefs that other operators can’t visit due to group and boat size. These pristine locations showcase the reef at its most vibrant, far from the crowds. The reefs and coral gardens rise from the ocean floor to sit just beneath the surface. This makes exploring the reef easy and enjoyable for snorkelers and scuba divers alike.

Expect to discover an abundance of marine life. Reef sites filled with a wide variety of hard and soft corals of many different shapes and sizes. Schools of brightly coloured reef fish, darting amongst branching corals and dancing in and out of anemones. We regularly encounter the big highlights, being turtles, sharks, giant clams, stingrays, maori wrasse and clownfish (nemo).

Guided by accredited Marine Biologists and dive professionals, every guest on our Port Douglas private charters is enriched with expert knowledge and care, creating an experience beyond exploration. Snorkellers explore with a Marine Biologist or Naturalist Guide in groups of no more than 6. Introductory divers are guided by a qualified Dive Instructor with a maximum of 4 divers per instructor, while certified divers explore with a Divemaster in groups of no more than 5. Professional snorkel and dive equipment is provided and included with the charter price.

Independence Private Charter 1-12 Guests example itinerary …

Please Note: Standard Independence private charters include up to 12 guests, with additional guests available on request up to a maximum of 16. This itinerary is a guide only. Reef locations, travel times, meal service and the order of activities may vary according to weather, conditions, vessel operations and the reef sites selected by your Captain on the day.

Departure Point: Marano’s Fuel Wharf, Port Street, Port Douglas QLD 4877. Check in 7.45am. Depart 8am. Return 3pm. Departure Point Contact +61 7 4099 6243.

7:45 am

Check in at our Vessel Independence and meet your captain and crew.

8:00 am

Depart to the Great Barrier Reef. Marine talks, snorkel and dive safety briefings and will be provided on our way to the reef.

10:30 am

Dive/snorkel time! Your exploration of the Great Barrier Reef commences with our warm and friendly Marine Biologist guides. Learn about these pristine environments in a sustainable and eco-friendly manner.

11:30 am

Enjoy fresh fruit and delicious pastries paired with a selection of premium teas and freshly ground local coffee while we move to our second reef location.

12:00 pm

Step back into the Coral Sea for more Great Barrier Reef adventures. Our Marine Biologists will ensure you connect and engage with this fascinating underwater landscape in an enriching way.

1:30 pm

Independence commences the return journey to Port Douglas. Lunch is a grazing-style banquet. It’s a sumptuous feast of elegant proportions that showcase fresh local produce, which can be paired with beer, wine or soft drinks at additional cost. Complimentary tea, coffee and cold water available all day.

3:00 pm

Arrive at Port Douglas.

Prices

Private charterPrice per charterIncluded guests
Independence Standard Snorkel Only$6,900.00 AUDUp to 12 guests (additional guests $490.00 AUD per person, on request, up to 16 guests)
Independence Luxury Snorkel Only$7,500.00 AUDUp to 12 guests (additional guests $490.00 AUD per person, on request, up to 16 guests)
Independence Standard Dive & Snorkel$7,900.00 AUDUp to 12 guests (additional guests $490.00 AUD per person, on request, up to 16 guests)
Independence Luxury Dive & Snorkel$8,500.00 AUDUp to 12 guests (additional guests $490.00 AUD per person, on request, up to 16 guests)
Enquire about your charter

Transfers

TransferPrice (AUD)Details
Port Douglas - Private$200.00Up to 7 guests. Return transfers.
Port Douglas - Private$350.00Up to 11 guests. Return transfers.
Port Douglas - Private$1,200.00Up to 24 guests. Return transfers.
Thala Beach Port Douglas - Private$240.00Up to 7 guests. Return transfers.
Thala Beach Port Douglas - Private$375.00Up to 11 guests. Return transfers.
Thala Beach Port Douglas - Private$1,200.00Up to 24 guests. Return transfers.
Silky Oaks Port Douglas - Private$340.00Up to 7 guests. Return transfers.
Silky Oaks Port Douglas - Private$440.00Up to 11 guests. Return transfers.
Silky Oaks Port Douglas - Private$1,300.00Up to 24 guests. Return transfers.
Palm Cove Port Douglas - Private$540.00Up to 7 guests. Return transfers.
Palm Cove Port Douglas - Private$900.00Up to 11 guests. Return transfers.
Palm Cove Port Douglas - Private$1,200.00Up to 24 guests. Return transfers.
Cairns Port Douglas - Private$640.00Up to 7 guests. Return transfers.
Cairns Port Douglas - Private$1,000.00Up to 11 guests. Return transfers.
Cairns Port Douglas - Private$1,400.00Up to 24 guests. Return transfers.

Extras

Extras
Additional crew member / private guide$590Ideal to have your own private guide if you are a weak or nervous swimmer and need help to get the most from your outer reef adventure.
Reef Safe Sunscreen 70g$1970g reef-safe roll-on sunscreen for your day on the reef.
Water Proof Phone Bag$49Great for mobile phones: Fits all iPhones and Android phones, waterproof up to 10m depth. NOTE: Not suitable for folding phones.
Drinks onboardSee onboard price listCharged per item; payable directly to the crew.

Pricing Notes

Notes

  • Guest numbers. Independence accommodates 1–12 guests, with additional guests available on request up to a maximum of 16. Voyager private charters cater for up to 24 guests. Additional guests and services may attract charges, which will be confirmed when booking.
  • Guided activities. Snorkelling, certified scuba diving and introductory diving can be accommodated on either vessel. Guide ratios are approximately one guide to six snorkellers, one Divemaster to five certified divers, and one Dive Instructor to four introductory divers. A maximum of eight scuba divers can be accommodated per charter.
  • Equipment. Snorkelling and diving equipment is provided, including masks, snorkels and fins, together with seasonal exposure protection: Lycra suits in summer and 5mm wetsuits in winter. Equipment sizes cater for children aged seven and above and adults. Flotation devices and life jackets are available. Please request prescription masks in advance so availability can be confirmed.
  • Food and refreshments. Standard charters include refreshments and a gourmet grazing-style lunch. The luxury lunch upgrade includes a generous buffet-style lunch with local prawns and assorted accompaniments. Tea, coffee and drinking water are included. Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are available at additional cost.
  • Dietary requirements. Vegetarian, vegan and other dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Please provide details, including allergies and the number of guests affected, when booking.
  • Snorkelling. Some swimming ability and a reasonable level of fitness are required to snorkel the Outer Great Barrier Reef. Age and certain medical conditions can increase the risks. Please discuss any concerns or additional support needs with our team before booking.
  • Introductory diving. No previous scuba diving experience is necessary. Participants must be at least 12 years old, with parental consent for minors, and must complete the required medical questionnaire. Our instructors provide safety and equipment briefings and assess suitability before entering the water.
  • Certified diving. Divers must hold a minimum of Junior Open Water or Open Water certification and provide a copy of their certification. Certified Junior Open Water divers may participate from age 10. Guests must complete the required waiver and any applicable medical questionnaire. A refresher session, introductory first dive or private guide may be required for divers who have not dived for several years; additional charges may apply.
  • Medical clearance. Medical conditions, medication or recent surgery may affect eligibility to dive. Complete the required questionnaire accurately and contact our team about any flagged answers. Where medical clearance is required, it must be obtained before diving. Participation remains subject to the applicable diving requirements and the crew’s assessment.
  • Children. There is no minimum age for joining a private charter, but children must be supervised at all times. The equipment and diving age limits above still apply.
  • Additional crew. Extra supervision or a combination of certified and introductory diving activities may require an additional crew member. Any additional charge will be confirmed when booking.
  • Independence departure. Marano’s Fuel Wharf, Port Street, Port Douglas. Check-in is at 7.45am, departure at 8am and scheduled return at 3pm.
  • Voyager departure. C Finger, Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, Port Douglas. Check-in is at 7.45am, departure at 8am and scheduled return at 4pm.
  • What to bring. Bring a hat, water bottle, towel and a change of clothes. Please request prescription masks and advise dietary requirements in advance.

Cancellations

Cancellation Policy

  • Operator. ABC Queensland Adventures Pty Ltd trading as ABC Reef Safaris, ABN 91 091 376 706.
  • Cancellations. Cancellations made within five days before the booked tour date, or failure to attend, incur a 100% cancellation charge with no refund.
  • Weather and itinerary changes. Management reserves the right to cancel or reschedule a charter due to weather conditions. Reef locations and itineraries may change according to conditions. If the operator cancels the charter, a full refund will be provided through the booking agent.
  • Vessel changes. Low passenger numbers or unsuitable weather conditions may require guests to be moved between Voyager and Independence. The operator will select the vessel considered best suited to providing the outer reef experience. Advance notice may not always be possible.
  • Further terms. Please also review ABC Reef Safaris’ detailed terms and conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many guests can charter Independence?

Independence is ideal for small private groups. Standard private charters cater for 1 to 12 guests, with additional passengers available on request up to a maximum of 16. This keeps the experience personal while still providing plenty of room to relax onboard.

Is Independence suitable for families?

Yes. Independence is particularly well suited to families and small groups looking for a flexible Great Barrier Reef day. The crew can tailor reef sites and activities around your group, whether you want to snorkel, scuba dive, try an introductory dive or simply spend more time relaxing onboard.

Can we snorkel and scuba dive on the same Independence charter?

Yes. Independence can cater for both snorkellers and scuba divers on the same private charter. Snorkelling, certified diving and introductory diving can all be included, allowing guests with different interests and experience levels to enjoy the reef together. A maximum of 8 divers, per charter.

How many scuba divers can Independence take?

A maximum of 8 divers can be accommodated on each private charter. Certified divers are guided in groups of no more than 5 per Divemaster, while introductory divers are limited to 4 guests per Dive Instructor.

Can beginners try scuba diving from Independence?

Yes. Introductory scuba diving is available for first-time divers aged 12 years and over. No previous diving experience is required, although participants must complete the required medical questionnaire before diving.

What makes Independence different from larger Great Barrier Reef boats?

Independence is a fast, agile 16-metre vessel with a shallow draft, allowing access to reef locations that larger vessels may not be able to reach. Private charters also keep guest numbers low, giving the crew greater flexibility when selecting reef sites and planning the day.

What equipment is included on an Independence charter?

Snorkelling and scuba equipment is provided, along with seasonal exposure protection, flotation devices and life jackets. Prescription masks can also be requested in advance.

What food is included onboard Independence?

Charters include morning refreshments and a gourmet grazing-style lunch. A luxury charter option is also available, adding local prawns and assorted accompaniments. Special dietary requirements can be catered for with advance notice.

Where does Independence depart from and how long is the charter?

Independence departs from Marano’s Fuel Wharf, Port Street, Port Douglas. Check-in is at 7.45am, departure is at 8am and the scheduled return is 3pm, providing approximately 7 hours for the charter.

Are transfers available for Independence private charters?

Yes. Complimentary shared transfers are available for guests staying in Port Douglas and Thala Beach. Private or shared transfer options are also available from locations including Silky Oaks Lodge, Palm Cove and Cairns at additional cost.