AIRLIE BEACH is making a bold comeback on the global diving stage with the launch of SV Summer Jo’s new, five-night liveaboard dive expedition.
It is the only trip of its kind to depart from the Port of Airlie and will include the world-famous SS Yongala wreck.
The pioneering itinerary is the vision of Dan and Jo Lippiatt, sole owners of SV Summer Jo and proud parents of four.
The husband-and-wife duo are deeply embedded in the local community and bring a hands-on, family-run approach to every voyage aboard their 100-foot sailing mega yacht.
“We’re raising our kids here, building our life here,” Jo Lippiatt said.
“This region means everything to us. Creating a product like this is about sharing the very best of our backyard with the world, while giving back to the place we love.”
A World-Class Expedition Only from Airlie Beach
The legendary SS Yongala, consistently ranked among the world’s top 10 dive sites, is normally accessed via Townsville.
SV Summer Jo now changes that.
This new six-day five-night itinerary is the only liveaboard dive expedition departing from Airlie Beach to offer direct access to the Yongala wreck, combined with outer reef exploration and night diving.
“It’s an absolute bucket list dive,” Daniel Lippiatt said.
Daniel is a qualified PADI and SSI Dive Instructor, Master 45, and co-owner of SV Summer Jo.
“And now, divers can experience it as part of a seamless, high-quality expedition from the Whitsundays, something no one else offers.”
Expedition Highlights
- Dive the SS Yongala Wreck – A world-renowned wreck site packed with marine life and history
- Remote Outer Reef Access – Visit pristine sites far beyond reach of standard day boats
- Night Diving – Multiple night dives for certified divers looking to explore the reef after dark
- Incredible Biodiversity – Reef sharks, turtles, rays, macro critters, schooling fish, and healthy coral systems
- Ideal Dive Conditions – Sheltered waters and island protection create calm, clear environments for all experience levels.
Dive Offerings at a Glance
Alongside the flagship five-Night Dive Expedition, SV Summer Jo offers a range of curated marine adventures:
Day Charters – Snorkelling and sailing day trips with optional intro dives
Two-Night Escape – Perfect for couples or travellers short on time
Three-Night Outer Reef Voyage – Small-group trips to untouched reef locations
Five-Night Dive Expedition – Featuring the SS Yongala wreck, remote reef diving, and a true ocean immersion available only on SV Summer Jo.
To enquire or make your booking contact info@whitsundayexpeditions.com.au.
About SV Summer Jo
SV Summer Jo is a 100-foot sailing mega yacht based in Airlie Beach, owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Dan and Jo Lippiatt—alongside their four young children and an extraordinary crew. With a focus on sustainability, reef stewardship, and premium marine experiences, Summer Jo offers day trips, overnight escapes, and the region’s only liveaboard dive expedition to the SS Yongala wreck. Proudly local, family-run, and community-supported, SV Summer Jo is redefining dive travel in the Whitsundays.
