Great Barrier Reef Tours & Cruises: A Complete Guide

From the happy customers

Loved by 35 million+

Tracy

United Kingdom

Nov 2024

Loved the whole experience. The cable car over the rainforest with a very helpful forest guide Hamish. Enjoyed the butterflies at the sanctuary and the koala at the koala garden, loved that they were awake. The train ride back was brilliant too.

Donna

Australia

Oct 2023

The train trip to Kuranda was brilliant! Scenery was spectacular, history commentary while on train was informative, interesting. Then to arrive at Kuranda township, was wonderful. Great day out worth the $

Rosemary

Australia

Jul 2023

The 2 hour heritage rail journey from Cairns to Kuranda and return was spectacular. The tropical scenery was amazing. As was the experience of traveling on the train on a rail track carved into the mountain. The view of the plains and of waterfalls was amazing.

Lucia

Jul 2021

Had a fun time. We were a bit worried that the trip might be a bit rough for our 6-year old, but she had a great time as well thanks to our guides. Beautiful scenery all around.

Ronald

Jun 2021

Great displays. It had an authentic village feel with lots of places to visit. The tea room was a bit more expensive than I would have liked.

Alex

Jun 2021

Great experience. The places were beautiful, especially the Millaa Millaa Falls. The bus was cool and clean, and our guide did a great job of keeping everyone entertained with games on the ride. Loved his way of narrating the Aboriginal stories, it made them seem even more spooky.

Why go for a Great Barrier Reef cruise?

Access to remote reefs

Cruises take you to outer and ribbon reefs, far from crowded tourist spots, ensuring pristine conditions and unparalleled biodiversity.

Variety of activities

From snorkeling and diving to glass-bottom boat tours and scenic helicopter flights, there’s something for everyone—swimmers and non-swimmers alike.

Eco-friendly exploration

Many operators are eco-certified, contributing to reef conservation while providing sustainable travel experiences.

Expert guidance

Onboard marine biologists offer fascinating insights into coral ecosystems and marine life through presentations and guided tours.

Comfort & convenience

Travel aboard spacious vessels with sundecks, buffet lunches, freshwater showers, and air-conditioned lounges.

Family-friendly options

Flotation devices, waterslides, and interactive marine biology talks make cruises ideal for families with kids.

Your guide to Great Barrier Reef sites

Inner Reef

Close to the mainland but has less biodiversity and visibility.

Outer Reef

Pristine coral formations and vibrant marine life.

Ribbon Reefs

Remote areas with unique species like giant clams and Napoleon wrasse.

Green Island

Rainforest meets reef—a blend of land and sea exploration.

Fitzroy Island

Tropical paradise with hiking trails, coral beaches, and turtle rehabilitation centers.

What can I expect on a Great Barrier Reef cruise?

1/5

Snorkeling & diving

Dive into crystal-clear waters or snorkel above vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish. Introductory dives are available for beginners.

Glass-bottom boat tours

Perfect for non-swimmers or families with young children to view marine life without getting wet.

Marine biology presentations

Learn about reef conservation efforts from onboard experts.

Helicopter flights

Get a bird’s-eye view of coral formations during scenic aerial tours.

Pontoon adventures

Enjoy waterslides, underwater observatories, touch tanks, and semi-submersible tours at activity platforms moored on the reef.

Things to know before booking your Great Barrier Reef tour

Flight tours vs boat cruises: Flight tours offer aerial views of the reef’s grandeur—ideal for those who prefer sightseeing without getting wet. Boat cruises allow closer interaction with marine life through snorkeling or diving.
Snorkeling-only vs diving-included cruises: Snorkeling-only tours are great for beginners or families. Diving-inclusive packages cater to certified divers or those seeking an adventurous first dive.
Glass-bottom boat tours and add-ons: Perfect for non-swimmers or those looking for dry reef experiences. Many operators offer add-ons like guided snorkel tours or helmet dives.
Island tours: Combine reef exploration with island adventures at Green Island or Fitzroy Island for rainforest walks and turtle rehabilitation visits.
Pontoon vs boat tours: Pontoons provide stationary platforms with waterslides, observatories, semi-submersibles, and more time at the reef. Boats offer mobility between multiple reef sites in one day.
Seasickness precautions: If you’re prone to motion sickness, choose tours on larger catamarans or pontoons that offer smoother rides.
May to November offers calm seas and cooler weather, while December to April brings warmer temperatures but occasional rain.

Choosing the right cruise for you

For families

Pontoon-based tours are ideal, with kid-friendly activities like waterslides, glass-bottom boats, marine biology presentations, and touch tanks.

Recommended experience:

Reef Magic Full-Day Cruise

Includes snorkeling, semi-submersible tours, and a spacious pontoon with plenty of family-friendly amenities.

For adventure seekers

Opt for cruises with introductory or certified scuba diving and snorkeling safaris at vibrant reef sites.

Recommended experience:

Full-Day Cruise from Port Douglas

Explore two reef locations with guided snorkeling tours and eco-presentations.

For non-swimmers

Glass-bottom boat tours and underwater observatories make reef exploration accessible without entering the water (e.g., Quicksilver Cruises).

Recommended experience:

Sunlover Pontoon Cruise

Includes semi-submersibles, observatories, and a waterslide for added fun.

Plan your visit to the Great Barrier Reef

Tours generally operate year-round, with departures from early morning (7:30–8:30am) until late afternoon (4:30–5:30pm). Seasonal schedules may apply, so check with your operator for exact timings.
Last boarding: Most tours require check-in 30–45 minutes before departure. For scenic flights or diving tours, earlier check-ins may be necessary.
Time to spend: Plan for 4–5 hours for day cruises and up to 8 hours for full-day tours with multiple reef stops or island visits.

Weekday mornings: Arrive early to enjoy quieter surroundings and optimal visibility during snorkeling or diving.
Dry season (May–November): Best for calm seas and cooler weather, ideal for reef exploration.
Wet season (December–April): Lush rainforest scenery and fewer tourists, though occasional rain may occur.

From Cairns: Most tours depart from the Reef Fleet Terminal in Cairns, easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transport. Parking is available nearby but can be limited during peak times.
From Port Douglas: Some tours depart from Crystalbrook Marina in Port Douglas, which offers free parking and optional transfers from local accommodations.
By air: Scenic flights over the reef depart from Cairns Airport, offering aerial views of Green Island, Vlasoff Cay, and Hastings Reef.

Large bags are discouraged onboard; pack essentials like swimwear, sunscreen, towels, and waterproof cameras in a small day bag.
Respect marine life by avoiding direct contact with corals or fish during water activities. Follow staff instructions during safety briefings and guided tours.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, swimwear, towels, motion sickness medication (if needed), and a waterproof camera.
Lightweight clothing is best; stinger suits or wetsuits are provided during jellyfish season (November–May).
Monitor forecasts before your trip—calm seas enhance snorkeling visibility, while windy conditions may affect boat rides.
Avoid touching corals or feeding fish; follow the eco-guidelines shared by marine biologists onboard.

Restrooms & changing rooms: Available on most vessels and pontoons; freshwater showers are provided on select tours like Reef Magic.
Accessibility: Many pontoons offer wheelchair access and flotation devices for non-swimmers; confirm specific needs with your operator beforehand.
Dining options: Buffet lunches are included in most full-day cruises, featuring fresh seafood, salads, vegetarian options, and tropical fruits. Complimentary tea and coffee are often provided throughout the day.

Fitzroy Island National Park: Combine reef snorkeling with rainforest hikes on this tropical island paradise.
Green Island: Explore lush rainforests before heading to coral gardens for snorkeling.
Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Perfect add-ons before or after your Great Barrier Reef tour.
Daintree Rainforest, Port Douglas): Extend your adventure into one of the world’s oldest rainforests after a reef tour.

Frequently asked questions about Great Barrier Reef cruises

How long does it take to reach the reef?

Most cruises take 1–2 hours from Cairns or Port Douglas to reach the outer reefs.

Can I go on a cruise if I don’t swim?

Yes! Glass-bottom boat tours and underwater observatories are perfect for non-swimmers.

Are pontoon tours better than boat cruises?

Pontoon tours offer more time at the reef with additional amenities like waterslides and semi-submersibles. Boat cruises provide mobility between multiple reef sites.

Do I need prior diving experience?

No! Introductory dives are available for beginners under professional supervision.

What are my Great Barrier Reef cruise options?

Great Barrier Reef cruises are available as either half-day or full-day tours with at least 1 reef exploration activity included. You can add an additional underwater activity, an Australian lunch or some premium options like small group tours, helicopter tours or marine biologist for additional prices.

What Great Barrier Reef cruise can I take if I’m on a budget?

Half-day cruises usually begin from AU$95 while some full-day cruises with one reef activity are available for AU$105.

Can I eat before snorkeling or diving?

It is not recommended that you snorkel or scuba dive with an empty stomach as you may feel drained quite easily. However, opt for a light meal of fresh fruits, sandwiches or salads that can be easily digested. Avoid heavy greasy food to avoid feeling nauseous.

What is the age limit for snorkeling and scuba diving?

Typically, snorkeling is available for all ages, while diving may have a minimum age requirement, often 12 or older.

Are there weight restrictions for activities?

Helicopter rides usually have a maximum weight of 130kg. Anyone above this weight may need to pay additional surcharges to take the flight or may not be able to participate. Scuba diving has no weight restrictions as such but you may need to be physically fit to handle the activity’s demands.

Are there medical restrictions for diving?

Yes, medical restrictions apply. Guests with conditions such as asthma, epilepsy, or heart conditions may be restricted. A medical check may be needed for guests over a certain weight. We suggest that you get your physician’s approval to remain on the safe side.

How accessible are underwater activities?

Snorkeling can be accessible to all, and some cruises offer tailored support for guests with mobility needs. Scuba diving accessibility may vary and you may need to check with your provider.

How deep will I go while scuba diving?

Introductory dives usually reach around 12 meters (40 feet), while certified divers can explore deeper sites.

Sightseeing Cruises

NEW

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Lunch

Flexible reef tour offering a choice of snorkeling or diving with a full BBQ lunch.

Great for: Adventure enthusiasts who want a tailored reef experience—mixing gentle snorkeling with exciting dive options, all complemented by round-trip transfers.
Everything you get: Round-trip transfers from Cairns, guided tours at two reef sites, full snorkelling equipment, and tropical BBQ buffet lunch.
Why choose this: Customize your day on the reef with expert-led live commentary, underwater adventures, and seamless Cairns transfers.
Upgrades: Enhance your experience with advanced dive gear, extended reef time, or add-on marine photography sessions.

Flexible reef tour offering a choice of snorkeling or diving with a full BBQ lunch.

Great for: Adventure enthusiasts who want a tailored reef experience—mixing gentle snorkeling with exciting dive options, all complemented by round-trip transfers.
Everything you get: Round-trip transfers from Cairns, guided tours at two reef sites, full snorkelling equipment, and tropical BBQ buffet lunch.
Why choose this: Customize your day on the reef with expert-led live commentary, underwater adventures, and seamless Cairns transfers.
Upgrades: Enhance your experience with advanced dive gear, extended reef time, or add-on marine photography sessions.

Inclusions

Full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef
Round-trip superyacht transfers from Cairns to 2 reef sites (North Hastings & Saxon or Norman)
8-hour cruise with 5 hours on the reef
Snorkeling equipment, masks, and lycra suits
Guides/captains
Chef-prepared BBQ lunch with fish, prawns, steak, salads, breads (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free options available)
Tea/coffee/mini-muffins
1 glass of wine and a light snack on the return journey
Choice of snorkeling tour or introductory dive (based on option selected)

Tip: Try to take some time out to visit the rusty market between Sheridan and Grafton Street, which comes to life from Friday to Sunday and offers visitors a wide variety of exotic fruits and vegetables.
This activity is dependent on the weather.
All divers are required to complete an onboard medical questionnaire.
Divers over 65 must have medical clearance from a physician confirming they are fit to dive. Please be aware that certain medical conditions (e.g. asthma, heart disease, diabetes) and any prescription medications will require a letter or email from a doctor clearing you to dive. This clearance must state your full name, the doctor's name, and practice, and the clearance to dive for the specific medications/condition.
The experience is restricted for guests aged 12 and under.
Diving within 24 hours before your flight is not permitted.
For the certified dives, you will need to produce your certification card. For intro dives, no experience is necessary.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Mobile ticket

8 hr. - 8 hr. 30 min.

Transfers included

Meals included

Sightseeing Cruises

NEW

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Full Day Cruise with Scenic Heli-Flight and Lunch

Luxury reef tour on a 35‑metre superyacht with a heli-flight and gourmet BBQ lunch.

Great for: Luxury travelers seeking an exclusive reef adventure with premium onboard comfort, breathtaking aerial views, and high‑end water activities.
Everything you get: Full-day premium cruise aboard a superyacht, guided snorkelling/diving at two reef stops, 10‑minute heli-flight, gourmet BBQ lunch with wine, and upscale onboard amenities.
Why choose this: A lavish blend of luxury, sky-high reef views, and an all‑inclusive experience that sets a new standard for reef adventures.
Upgrades: Choose between a guided snorkeling tour or an introductory dive with expert instructions.

Luxury reef tour on a 35‑metre superyacht with a heli-flight and gourmet BBQ lunch.

Great for: Luxury travelers seeking an exclusive reef adventure with premium onboard comfort, breathtaking aerial views, and high‑end water activities.
Everything you get: Full-day premium cruise aboard a superyacht, guided snorkelling/diving at two reef stops, 10‑minute heli-flight, gourmet BBQ lunch with wine, and upscale onboard amenities.
Why choose this: A lavish blend of luxury, sky-high reef views, and an all‑inclusive experience that sets a new standard for reef adventures.
Upgrades: Choose between a guided snorkeling tour or an introductory dive with expert instructions.

Inclusions

Full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef
Round-trip superyacht transfers from Cairns to 2 reef sites (North Hastings & Saxon or Norman)
8-hour cruise with 5 hours on the reef
10-minute scenic flight from Hastings Reef
Snorkeling equipment, masks, and lycra suits
Guides/captains
Chef-prepared BBQ lunch with fish, prawns, steak, salads, breads (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free options available)
Tea/coffee/mini-muffins
1 glass of wine and light snack on return journey
Choice of snorkeling tour or introductory dive (based on option selected)

7:15am to 7.45am: Check-in at the Reef Fleet Terminal - 1
8.00am: Evolution departs Cairns for the first reef location
11:30am: Enjoy a BBQ buffet lunch onboard
1:00pm: Evolution arrives at the second reef location where you will take to the sky for your scenic helicopter flight
3:00pm: Evolution departs for Cairns
4:30pm: Evolution arrives back in Cairns

Tip: Be on the lookout for whales during your helicopter flight if you're visiting in winter.
The experience is restricted for guests aged 12 and under for the introductory course and 10 and under for the certification course.
The helicopter experience is restricted for guests weighing more than 130 kg.
Note that the following is not allowed during this experience: large bags.
Diving within 24 hours before your flight is not permitted.
Divers over 65 must have medical clearance from a physician confirming they are fit to dive. Please be aware that certain medical conditions (e.g. asthma, heart disease, diabetes) and any prescription medications will require a letter or email from a doctor clearing you to dive. This clearance must state your full name, the doctor's name, and practice, and the clearance to dive for the specific medications/condition.
Special dietary requirements should be confirmed directly with the activity provider.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

8 hr. 30 min.

Transfers included

Meals included

Sightseeing Cruises

NEW

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Scuba Diving

Explore two exclusive reef sites with scuba diving and snorkeling aboard a luxury superyacht.

Great for adventure seekers, certified divers, first-time scuba divers, and anyone wanting a full-day reef experience.
Everything you get: Round-trip superyacht transfers, scuba diving (introductory or certified), snorkeling gear, BBQ lunch, tea/coffee, wine, and expert guides.
Why choose this: Perfect for exploring the Great Barrier Reef with diving and snorkeling options, gourmet dining, and premium amenities aboard a luxury vessel.

Explore two exclusive reef sites with scuba diving and snorkeling aboard a luxury superyacht.

Great for adventure seekers, certified divers, first-time scuba divers, and anyone wanting a full-day reef experience.
Everything you get: Round-trip superyacht transfers, scuba diving (introductory or certified), snorkeling gear, BBQ lunch, tea/coffee, wine, and expert guides.
Why choose this: Perfect for exploring the Great Barrier Reef with diving and snorkeling options, gourmet dining, and premium amenities aboard a luxury vessel.

Inclusions

Full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef
Round-trip superyacht transfers from Cairns to 2 reef sites
Introductory or certified diving course with licensed diving instructor
8-hour cruise with 5 hours on the reef
Snorkeling equipment, masks, and lycra suits
Guides/captains
Chef-prepared BBQ lunch
Tea and coffee
1 glass of wine and light snack on return journey

Tip: Start your day early with complimentary muffins onboard before diving into vibrant coral reefs—keep an eye out for turtles at Hastings Reef!
This activity is dependent on the weather.
All divers are required to complete an onboard medical questionnaire.
Divers over 65 must have medical clearance from a physician confirming they are fit to dive. Please be aware that certain medical conditions (e.g. asthma, heart disease, diabetes) and any prescription medications will require a letter or email from a doctor clearing you to dive. This clearance must state your full name, the doctor's name, and practice, and the clearance to dive for the specific medications/condition.
The experience is restricted for guests aged 12 and under.
Diving within 24 hours before your flight is not permitted.
For the certified dives, you will need to produce your certification card. For intro dives, no experience is necessary.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

8 hr. 30 min.

Transfers included

Meals included

Sightseeing Cruises

4.5(0)

Reef Magic: Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Pontoon Activities and Lunch

Reef adventure: snorkeling, activities & lunch on a private luxury pontoon.

Great for: Families with young kids and adventurers seeking ample water time, premium equipment, and a relaxed, locally owned experience with personalized service.
Everything you get: Full-day tour on the newest pontoon at the reef, glass‑bottom boat tour, buffet lunch, and marine biologist presentation.
Why choose this: Fewer passengers mean extra space and personalized attention for an authentic reef tour with a knowledgeable Cairns‑based crew.
Upgrades: You can add a 35-minute guided snorkeling tour or an introductory scuba diving session with expert instructors.

Reef adventure: snorkeling, activities & lunch on a private luxury pontoon.

Great for: Families with young kids and adventurers seeking ample water time, premium equipment, and a relaxed, locally owned experience with personalized service.
Everything you get: Full-day tour on the newest pontoon at the reef, glass‑bottom boat tour, buffet lunch, and marine biologist presentation.
Why choose this: Fewer passengers mean extra space and personalized attention for an authentic reef tour with a knowledgeable Cairns‑based crew.
Upgrades: You can add a 35-minute guided snorkeling tour or an introductory scuba diving session with expert instructors.

Inclusions

Full-day tour to Reef Magic Pontoon from Cairns
5 hours at reef activity pontoon
Snorkelling equipment with safety instructions
Lycra suit and wetsuit
Buffet lunch (menu here)
Morning and afternoon tea
Tea, coffee, and drinking water
Guided snorkeling tour (if option selected)
Introductory dive (if option selected)
Glass-bottom boat and semi-submersible tour with commentary
Fish feeding and Great Barrier Reef marine biology presentation
Sundeck, fresh water showers, and changing rooms
Underwater reef viewing observatory
Infants’ safety swimming enclosure

Tip: Keep an eye out for the world's largest coral reef, which can be best observed from the spacious sundeck.
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
Certain medical conditions like asthma, epilepsy, high blood pressure, or specific medications may exclude individuals from diving.
Safety is a priority, so the diving experience is restricted for children under 12 years.
A medical questionnaire must be completed and signed by a parent/guardian for divers under 18 years.
After diving, intervals of 12-24 hours are recommended prior to flying depending on the depths of dives and accrued dive time.
Helicopters for scenic flights have maximum weight limits to ensure safety. Here’s a quick guide: 3-seat: 240 kg (529 lbs), 4-seat: 320 kg (705 lbs), and 6-seat: 490 kg (1,080 lbs).

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

‌

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Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

8 hr. - 9 hr.

Meals included

Day Trips

NEW

Sunlover: Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Pontoon Activities and Lunch

Family-friendly reef adventure with waterslide and diverse pontoon activities.

Great for: families, solo travelers, and couples seeking an action-packed day at the reef with fun water attractions and interactive marine experiences.
Everything you get: Fast catamaran to Moore Reef pontoon, guided snorkeling, glass-bottom boat and semi-submersible tours, an underwater observatory, 30m spiral waterslide, buffet lunch, and marine life touch-tank displays.
Why choose this: The unbeatable combination of waterslide action, a variety of pontoon activities, and affordability, making it perfect for a fun‑filled family day out.
Upgrades: Enhance your adventure with activities such as introductory scuba diving, the Seawalker helmet dive.

Family-friendly reef adventure with waterslide and diverse pontoon activities.

Great for: families, solo travelers, and couples seeking an action-packed day at the reef with fun water attractions and interactive marine experiences.
Everything you get: Fast catamaran to Moore Reef pontoon, guided snorkeling, glass-bottom boat and semi-submersible tours, an underwater observatory, 30m spiral waterslide, buffet lunch, and marine life touch-tank displays.
Why choose this: The unbeatable combination of waterslide action, a variety of pontoon activities, and affordability, making it perfect for a fun‑filled family day out.
Upgrades: Enhance your adventure with activities such as introductory scuba diving, the Seawalker helmet dive.

Inclusions

Full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns
Access to Sunlover Moore Reef pontoon with 4.5 hours to spend
Snorkeling equipment and expert guidance
Premium buffet lunch (menu here)
1-hour Snorkel Safari (if option selected)
Seawalker helmet dive (if option selected)
Access to Sunlover waterslide & sun deck
Semi-submersible tour
Glass bottom boat tour
Marine naturalist & fish feeding presentation
Underwater observatory

Tip: Enjoy fish spotting? Head to the bottom of the boat to find a myriad of batfish. They love hanging around there for some reason.
Facilities: restroom, changing rooms, freshwater showers, and full bar.
While this experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible, certain activities are not suitable for wheelchair users.
The semi-submersible tour is subject to weather conditions.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

8 hr. - 9 hr.

Meals included

Guided Tours

NEW

Port Douglas to Great Barrier Reef Cruise with Guided Snorkel and Lunch

Guided snorkel reef tour with lunch on a purpose‑built vessel.

Great for: Families and snorkellers of all skill levels seeking a safe, accessible reef experience with personalized service and vibrant outer reef views.
Everything you get: A cruise to three outer reef sites (Opal & Tongue Reefs), guided snorkeling sessions, safety gear, morning tea, tropical buffet lunch, afternoon tea, and onboard showers.
Why choose this: Experience the World Heritage Great Barrier Reef up close on a dedicated, premium vessel with expert guidance.
Upgrades: Enjoy hassle-free pickup directly from your Port Douglas hotel with transfers to the marina and back.

Guided snorkel reef tour with lunch on a purpose‑built vessel.

Great for: Families and snorkellers of all skill levels seeking a safe, accessible reef experience with personalized service and vibrant outer reef views.
Everything you get: A cruise to three outer reef sites (Opal & Tongue Reefs), guided snorkeling sessions, safety gear, morning tea, tropical buffet lunch, afternoon tea, and onboard showers.
Why choose this: Experience the World Heritage Great Barrier Reef up close on a dedicated, premium vessel with expert guidance.
Upgrades: Enjoy hassle-free pickup directly from your Port Douglas hotel with transfers to the marina and back.

Inclusions

Full-day Great Barrier Reef cruise from Cairns
Professional local guide
Luxury large catamaran
Morning and afternoon tea
Buffet lunch
Guided snorkel tour
Snorkeling equipment including lycra suits
Interpretive reef talk
Environmental management charge
Hotel transfers from Port Douglas (based on option selected)

7am-8:20am: Check-in
8:20am-8:45am: Boarding commences
8:45am-10:10am: Cruising to the first site
10:20am-11:15am: Reach the first snorkeling/diving site, safety briefing, & morning tea
11:50am-1:30pm: Reach the second snorkeling/diving site, lunch buffet, & reef interpretative talk
1:45pm-2:45pm: Reach the third snorkeling/diving site & afternoon tea
2:45pm-4:15pm: Cruising back to the port

Tip: Challenge yourself to spot the 'Great Eight'- the clownfish, turtles, manta rays, Maori wrasse, potato cod, sharks, giant clams, & whales of the reef.
Safety is a priority so scuba diving is restricted for guests under the age of 12 years.
This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
Your safety comes first so visitors with back issues, asthma, epilepsy, high blood pressure, and certain medications are restricted from participating in scuba diving.
Guests under the age of 18 years require parental or guardian permission, and those over 70 must provide a doctor's clearance to dive.
Scuba diving requires completing an onboard medical questionnaire. It can be downloaded here.
Children must be accompanied by an adult.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

4 hr.

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

Day Trips

NEW

Sunlover: Fitzroy Island and Moore Reef Full-Day Cruise with Buffet Lunch

Full‑day reef cruise with pontoon activities, island exploration, and lunch.

Great for families and nature lovers seeking an immersive day combining thrilling pontoon water activities and a scenic Fitzroy Island escape.
Everything you get: Air‑conditioned catamaran ride to Moore Reef Pontoon with guided snorkelling, a 30m spiral waterslide, a glass‑bottom boat tour, and a premium buffet lunch.
Why choose this: See two reef locations in one day—with spacious, family‑friendly pontoon access and engaging marine presentations.
Upgrades: Add a guided snorkel safari, Turtle Rehabilitation Centre tour, or Seawalker helmet dive for a customized experience.

Full‑day reef cruise with pontoon activities, island exploration, and lunch.

Great for families and nature lovers seeking an immersive day combining thrilling pontoon water activities and a scenic Fitzroy Island escape.
Everything you get: Air‑conditioned catamaran ride to Moore Reef Pontoon with guided snorkelling, a 30m spiral waterslide, a glass‑bottom boat tour, and a premium buffet lunch.
Why choose this: See two reef locations in one day—with spacious, family‑friendly pontoon access and engaging marine presentations.
Upgrades: Add a guided snorkel safari, Turtle Rehabilitation Centre tour, or Seawalker helmet dive for a customized experience.

Inclusions

Full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef & Fitzroy Island from Cairns
Snorkeling equipment and expert guidance
Premium buffet lunch (menu here)
Self-guided Fitzroy National Park walk
1-hour Snorkel Safari (if option selected)
Seawalker helmet dive (if option selected)
Turtle Rehabilitation Centre talk (if option selected)
Access to Sunlover waterslide & sun deck
Semi-submersible tour
Glass bottom boat tour
Marine naturalist & fish feeding presentation
Underwater observatory

Tip: At Moore Reef, try the semi-submersible tour—it’s like snorkeling without getting wet, offering close-up views of vibrant coral gardens.
This experience is pram/stroller accessible but not accessible by wheelchair.
The semi-submersible tour is subject to weather conditions.
The snorkel safari is not suitable for non-swimmers.
The seawalker helmet dive is a suitable activity for non-swimmers.
The kayak tour requires guests to be able to swim and have moderate fitness capabilities.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Mobile ticket

9 hr. 30 min.

Meals included

Sightseeing Cruises

NEW

Cairns to Green Island and Outer Reef Sailing Cruise with Guided Snorkel and Lunch

Arrive early for exclusive reef access, expert-led snorkeling, and small group comfort.

Great for adventurous couples, families, and explorers seeking intimate reef experiences with personalized service.
Everything you get: A 6-hour cruise aboard a schooner or catamaran with shaded decks, air-conditioned cabins, buffet lunch, morning tea, guided drift snorkel with a marine naturalist, optional diving, glass-bottom boat tour, fish feeding, and all gear provided.
Why choose this: Enjoy an intimate group experience with a high crew-to-guest ratio that ensures safety, 2:1 intro dive sessions, expert insights, and a smorgasbord spread to top it off.

Arrive early for exclusive reef access, expert-led snorkeling, and small group comfort.

Great for adventurous couples, families, and explorers seeking intimate reef experiences with personalized service.
Everything you get: A 6-hour cruise aboard a schooner or catamaran with shaded decks, air-conditioned cabins, buffet lunch, morning tea, guided drift snorkel with a marine naturalist, optional diving, glass-bottom boat tour, fish feeding, and all gear provided.
Why choose this: Enjoy an intimate group experience with a high crew-to-guest ratio that ensures safety, 2:1 intro dive sessions, expert insights, and a smorgasbord spread to top it off.

Inclusions

Full-day cruise to Great Barrier Reef and Green Island cruise
Small group cruise
Round-trip transfers from Green Island
6 hours of reef time (Upolu Cay & Outer Edge Upolu Reef)
Adventure drift snorkel tour with marine naturalist
Glass-bottom boat tour
Coffee/tea, Danish pastries, and fresh fruit on boarding
Buffet lunch with salmon, prawns, meats, salads, breads
Tropical afternoon tea – cheese platter / fresh fruit platter/cake platter
Reef talk by a marine interpreter, fish feeding session
Scuba diving demonstration, 2 guests per instructor
Snorkeling fee and equipment
All reef levies and fees

Exclusions

Recreational area and environmental management charges

Certified and non-certified diving experiences
Round-trip bus transfers

Tip: Keep an eye out for blue-spotted stingrays and turtles in the shallow waters of Green Island when you take a stroll around the remote beaches.
This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
Guests with asthma, diabetes, heart conditions, and epilepsy are restricted from participating in the scuba diving experience.
Children must be supervised by their parents at all times.
Guests can convey their dietary preferences or allergy concerns to the operator 24 hours prior to the trip.
Guests must be at least 12 years old to do an introductory dive.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Mobile ticket

9 hr.

Transfers included

Meals included

Great Barrier Reef Cruises

From the happy customers

Top things to do in Cairns

Explore the Great Barrier Reef: Your guide to the world’s largest living organism

Why go for a Great Barrier Reef cruise?

Access to remote reefs

Variety of activities

Eco-friendly exploration

Expert guidance

Comfort & convenience

Family-friendly options

Great Barrier Reef map

Your guide to Great Barrier Reef sites

What can I expect on a Great Barrier Reef cruise?

Snorkeling & diving

Glass-bottom boat tours

Marine biology presentations

Helicopter flights

Pontoon adventures

Things to know before booking your Great Barrier Reef tour

Choosing the right cruise for you

For families

For adventure seekers

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For nature lovers

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What you will see on your Great Barrier Reef tour

Coral species

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