Great Barriers Reef
4.6(3.2K Ratings)

Top Great Barrier Reef Trips & Cruises

Panoramic, Open-top views
Panoramic, Open-top views
Frequent Departures
Frequent Departures
Audio guide & Commentary available
Audio guide & Commentary available
Cruise ship near Great Barrier Reef with snorkelers exploring coral formations.

Explore the world’s largest living structure on a Great Barrier Reef cruise

The Great Barrier Reef is the only living thing on Earth visible from space and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Home to over 1,600 species of fish, six of the world’s seven marine turtles, and vibrant coral gardens, every cruise offers a front-row seat to unmatched biodiversity and breathtaking beauty. Whether you’re snorkeling, diving, or soaring above the reef on a scenic flight, visiting the Great Barrier Reef is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and a true bucket-list experience for anyone traveling to Australia.

Want help planning your day? Jump to the navigation guide for things to do, FAQs, and more.

Choose the right Great Barrier Reef cruise for you

Find your perfect reef adventure based on your preferences.

On your phone? Swipe left for more tour types, scroll down to see all tickets in each one.

Great Barrier Reef snorkeling tour in Cairns, Australia with vibrant coral and marine life.

From Cairns

  • Price: From AU$ 105
  • Why choose this: A great pick for first-time visitors and families—Cairns offers the most tour options, dive experiences, and departure times on the Great Barrier Reef.

Recommended experiences:

Cairns to Green Island Half Day Cruise

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise

Reef Magic Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise
Port Douglas marina with boats docked, surrounded by lush greenery, Queensland, Australia.

From Port Douglas

  • Price: From AU$229
  • Why choose this: Ideal for couples and luxury travelers—fewer crowds, quicker reef access, and some of the region’s best dining spots.

Recommended experiences:

Port Douglas to Low Isles Island Cruise

Port Douglas to Great Barrier Reef Luxury Cruise
Tourists preparing snorkeling gear on Fitzroy Island beach, Great Barrier Reef.

Budget-friendly (Under $150)

  • Price: From AU$89
  • Why choose this: Perfect for backpackers, students, and budget-conscious families—enjoy island adventures and reef experiences without stretching your budget.

Recommended experiences:

Cairns: Fitzroy Island Round Trip Ferry

Cairns to Green Island Half Day Cruise

Cairns to Fitzroy Island Half Day Cruise
Snorkelers exploring vibrant coral reefs and marine life on Great Barrier Reef Adventure Cruise, Cairns.

Mid-range ($200-$300)

  • Price: From AU$ 245
  • Why choose this: Perfect for a full day out—enjoy meals, guided experiences, and plenty of activities without stretching your budget.

Recommended experiences:

Cairns to Green Island and Outer Reef Sailing

Reef Magic Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise
Tourists enjoying buffet lunch on Fitzroy Island with Great Barrier Reef view.

Premium ($300-$400)

  • Price: From AU$ 299
  • Why choose this: Perfect for special occasions and travelers who appreciate quality—luxury vessels, gourmet dining, and personalized service for those wanting comfort with their adventure.

Recommended experiences:

Port Douglas to Great Barrier Reef Luxury Cruise

Sunlover Great Barrier Reef with Pontoon Activities

Sunlover Fitzroy Island and Moore Reef
Woman seated in airplane, viewing the Outer Edges of The Great Barrier Reef.

Ultimate luxury ($400+)

  • Price: From AU$449
  • Why choose this: Perfect for special occasions—think helicopter rides, superyachts, and exclusive experiences that are worth the splurge.

Recommended experiences:

Great Barrier Reef Cruise with Scenic Heli-FlightOuter Great Barrier Reef 40-Minute Scenic Flight
Snorkeling in clear waters near Fitzroy Island, Australia, with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Inner Reef

  • Price: From $105
  • Key features:
    • Quick access: 30-60 minute journeys from Cairns or Port Douglas, perfect for time-pressed travelers
    • Calm, protected waters: Ideal for families, new swimmers, and young children
    • Diverse destinations: Choose from Green Island's rainforest walks, Fitzroy Island's hiking, or Low Isles' heritage sites
    • All-weather options: Glass-bottom boats and island activities when conditions are rough
  • Why choose this: Great for first-time reef visitors and families. Easy to get to, calm water, and fun for all ages and skill levels.

Recommended experiences:

Cairns to Green Island Full Day Cruise

Cairns to Green Island Half Day Cruise

Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full Day Cruise
Green Island cruise boat docked at Great Barrier Reef, Australia, with tourists exploring the coral waters.

Outer Reef

  • Price: From $249
  • Key features:
    • 90-120 minute journey: Longer travel to pristine, untouched reef locations
    • Crystal-clear visibility: Superior water clarity and more vibrant coral formations
    • Multiple reef sites: Visit 2-3 different locations for diverse marine encounters
    • Advanced activities: Optional scuba diving and deeper snorkeling experiences
  • Why choose this: Best for serious snorkelers, visit remote reef sites with lively coral, plenty of marine life, and expert guides.

Recommended experiences:

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise

Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Scuba Diving

Reef Magic Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise
Boat in the ocean at the Great Barrier Reef

Half-day adventures

  • Price: From AU$ 105
  • Why choose this: Great for cruise passengers and busy travelers. Quick, easy reef trips that fit your schedule.

Recommended experiences:

Cairns to Green Island Half Day Cruise

Cairns to Fitzroy Island Half Day Cruise
Aerial view of a pontoon surrounded by vibrant coral formations in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.

Full-day experiences

  • Price: From AU$ 285
  • Why choose this: Best for serious snorkelers and underwater photographers, with more time in the water and trips to remote reef sites.

Recommended experiences:

Sunlover Fitzroy Island and Moore Reef

Cairns to Green Island and Outer Reef Sailing

Cairns to Green Island Full Day Cruise
Snorkelers exploring vibrant coral reefs and marine life on Great Barrier Reef Adventure Cruise, Cairns.

Snorkeling & scuba diving

  • Price: From AU$ 199
  • Why choose this: Ideal for new snorkelers and divers—explore the reef with expert instructors and all gear included to help build your confidence in the water.

Recommended experiences:

Reef Magic Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise

Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Scuba Diving

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise
Woman enjoying helicopter ride over Great Barrier Reef, showcasing vibrant coral formations.

Scenic flight tours

  • Price: From AU$229
  • Why choose this: Ideal for photographers and those with mobility limitations—breathtaking aerial perspectives and marine life spotting without requiring swimming or water activities.

Recommended experiences:

Outer Great Barrier Reef 40-Minute Scenic Flight

Great Barrier Reef Cruise with Scenic Heli-Flight
Tourists snorkeling at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef, Australia, with vibrant coral and marine life visible.

Pontoon experiences

  • Price: From AU$ 285
  • Why choose this: Great for families with kids—waterslides, touch tanks, and reef activities keep everyone entertained, while adults enjoy coral viewing.

Recommended experiences:

Sunlover Great Barrier Reef with Pontoon Activities

Reef Magic Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise
Boat docked at Fitzroy Island

Island & reef combinations

  • Price: From AU$ 245
  • Why choose this: Perfect for marine life enthusiasts and small group travelers, enjoy guided snorkeling at reef sites and relaxed island time, all in a small-group or family-friendly setting with expert crew.

Recommended experiences:

Cairns to Green Island and Outer Reef Sailing Cruise

Sunlover Fitzroy Island and Moore Reef
Snorkelers exploring vibrant coral and marine life on the Great Barrier Reef Adventure Cruise near Cairns, Australia.

Families & beginners

  • Price: From AU$ 169
  • Why choose this: Great for families with kids and seniors. Safe, educational programs with professional supervision make it an easy day out for everyone.

Recommended experiences:

Family Package Green Island Full Day Cruise

Sunlover Great Barrier Reef with Pontoon Activities

Cairns to Green Island Full Day Cruise
Woman snorkeling among coral reefs in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.

Adventure seekers

  • Price: From AU$449
  • Why choose this: Great for adventure and experience seekers—enjoy diving, scenic flights, and visits to multiple reef sites, all with great photo opportunities.

Recommended experiences:

Great Barrier Reef Cruise with Heli-Flight

Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Scuba Diving
Catamaran sailing towards Low Isles, Port Douglas, with tourists preparing for guided snorkeling.

Small groups & luxury

  • Price: From AU$229
  • Why choose this: Ideal for honeymooners and anniversary celebrations—intimate small-group vessels with chef-prepared meals create unforgettable romantic moments.

Recommended experiences:

Port Douglas to Low Isles Island Cruise

Port Douglas to Great Barrier Reef Luxury Cruise

Cairns to Green Island and Outer Reef Sailing
Green Island cruise boat docked at Great Barrier Reef, Australia, with tourists exploring the coral waters.

Non-swimmers

  • Price: From AU$ 120
  • Why choose this: Perfect for those who want reef magic without getting wet—glass-bottom boats, semi-submarines, and island walks let you experience coral gardens and marine life while staying completely dry.

Recommended experiences:

Cairns to Green Island Full Day Cruise

Cairns to Green Island Half Day Cruise

Family Package Green Island Full Day Cruise
Snorkeling in clear waters near Fitzroy Island, Australia, with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Beginner snorkeling

  • Price: From AU$ 279
  • Why choose this: Great for new swimmers and snorkelers—get easy lessons, help with gear, and close supervision so you can explore the water comfortably.

Recommended experiences:

Reef Magic Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise

Sunlover Great Barrier Reef with Pontoon Activities
Tourists enjoying Seawalker helmet dive at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef, surrounded by vibrant marine life.

Certified divers

  • Price: From AU$ 329
  • Why choose this: Perfect for advanced divers and serious underwater exploration—certified dive options at multiple reef sites with professional instructors and premium equipment.

Recommended experiences:

Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Scuba Diving

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise
Tourists enjoying a Full Day Green Island Reef Catamaran Cruise in the clear blue waters of Cairns, Australia

Green Island

  • Price: From AU$ 105
  • Why choose this: Perfect for families and first-time reef visitors—easily accessible coral cay combining snorkeling, glass-bottom boats, and rainforest walks in one convenient location.

Recommended experiences:

Cairns to Green Island Full Day Cruise

Cairns to Green Island Half Day Cruise

Family Package Green Island Full Day Cruise
Fitzroy Island beach with tourists snorkeling and a glass-bottom boat near Cairns, Australia.

Fitzroy Island

  • Price: From AU$105
  • Why choose this: Ideal for active travelers and hikers—mountainous island with challenging trails, secluded beaches, and excellent snorkeling for those seeking adventure beyond the typical reef tour.

Recommended experiences:

Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full Day Cruise

Cairns to Fitzroy Island Half Day Cruise

Sunlover Fitzroy Island and Moore Reef
Green Island cruise boat docked at Great Barrier Reef, Australia, with tourists exploring the coral waters.

Helicopter add-on

  • Price: From AU$449
  • Why choose this: Take a helicopter ride and luxury yacht cruise for amazing reef views, great food, and special extras, perfect for big celebrations and a premium touch.

Recommended experiences:

Great Barrier Reef Cruise with Scenic Heli-Flight
Snorkelers exploring vibrant coral reefs at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef, during Sunlover Moore full-day tour.

Giant waterslide

  • Price: From AU$ 285
  • Why choose this: Perfect for families, kids stay entertained with waterslides, touch pools, and marine talks while adults enjoy relaxing reef views.

Recommended experiences:

Sunlover Great Barrier Reef with Pontoon Activities

Reef Magic Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise
Tourists at Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, Fitzroy Island, learning from expert, Great Barrier Reef.

Marine naturalist guide

  • Price: From AU$ 245
  • Why choose this: Ideal for curious minds—expert-led educational experiences with drift snorkel tours, fish feeding sessions, and reef presentations.

Recommended experiences:

Cairns to Green Island and Outer Reef Sailing
Aerial view of Great Barrier Reef with pontoon and surrounding coral formations.

Scenic flights only

  • Price: From AU$229
  • Why choose this: Great for photographers and easy access—enjoy reef views on a small-group flight with window seats, without a long day on the water.

Recommended experiences:

Outer Great Barrier Reef 40-Minute Scenic Flight

Navigate your Great Barrier Reef guide

Things to do on your Great Barrier Reef tour

Plan your Great Barrier Reef visit

All your Great Barrier Reef ticket options

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Things to do on your Great Barrier Reef tour

Green Island cruise boat docked at Great Barrier Reef, Australia, with tourists exploring the coral waters.
Tourists on a glass bottom boat viewing coral and marine life at Great Barrier Reef near Cairns, Australia.
Marine biologists and children exploring marine life on a Cairns to Great Barrier Reef cruise.
Helicopter flying over the Great Barrier Reef, showcasing coral formations, Australia.
Tourist on Sunlover waterslide at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef day cruise from Cairns.
Tourists in semi-submersible boat viewing marine life on Cairns to Great Barrier Reef full-day cruise.
Green Island beach with palm trees and clear waters, Great Barrier Reef near Cairns, Queensland.
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Snorkeling & diving

Get up close to pristine reef sites underwater. Introductory and certified dives available at select sites.

Glass-bottom boat and semi-sub tours

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

Guided marine biologist presentations

Learn about reef conservation efforts from onboard experts.

Scenic flights

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

Waterslides & kids' pools on pontoons

Enjoy waterslides, touch tanks, and kid-friendly activities on pontoons moored on the reef.

Underwater observatory

Watch marine life without getting wet.

Rainforest walks

On Green and Fitzroy Islands, combine reef and rainforest in one day.

Plan your visit to the Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef Cruises

The reef is accessible year-round, but optimal conditions occur from May to October during the dry season. Water temperatures range from 22 °C to 29 °C, providing comfortable snorkeling conditions. Stinger season (November-April) requires protective suits, which all operators provide.

  • Peak season: June-August (cooler, less humidity)
  • Shoulder season: May & September-October (great weather, fewer crowds)
  • Wet season: November-April (warmer, afternoon showers possible)

Wildlife seasonal guide:

  • Whale migration: June to October is the best time for whale watching. 
  • Turtle nesting/hatching: November-April is ideal to see turtles.  
  • Coral spawning: In November and December, you get the rare chance to see fish and other reef animals in lively feeding frenzies and behaviors not seen during the rest of the year.
great barrier reef cruise locations map
  • Cairns serves as the primary gateway, offering the widest variety of tours and daily departures. Most tours depart from the Reef Fleet Terminal at Marlin Wharf, with nearby parking available at Pier Shopping Complex for approximately $1.60 per hour. 
  • Port Douglas provides a more premium experience with less crowded vessels and closer access to outer reef sites.
  • Travel times vary significantly: Inner Reef destinations like Green Island require 45 minutes by catamaran, while Outer Reef pontoons need 90-120 minutes to reach.
Download Great Barrier reef map
Woman applying sunscreen on a beach in Bali, Indonesia.

All snorkeling equipment is provided, but personal items enhance your experience:

  • Essential: Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+), hat, sunglasses
  • Comfort: Swimwear, towel, light jacket for boat travel
  • Photography: Underwater camera or GoPro with accessories
  • Extras: Cash for optional activities, seasickness tablets if prone, waterproof bag for valuables, comfortable walking shoes, a change of dry clothes
  • Gear: Most tours provide snorkel/dive gear, but check your tour’s inclusions
  • Note: Prescription masks are available on request
Tourists in diving gear exploring the Great Barrier Reef during a full-day cruise from Cairns.
  • Pontoon tours: Stable floating platforms moored at reef sites, with underwater observatories, semi-sub rides, and glass-bottom boats—great for families and non-swimmers.
  • Island tours: Combine reef and rainforest at spots like Green Island and Fitzroy Island, with beach time, snorkeling, and hiking.
  • Sailing tours: Smaller groups (up to 75), offering personalized service and exclusive reef access.
  • Snorkelling tours: Visit several reef sites with all gear, guided support, and options for all skill levels.
  • Scenic flights: See the reef from above with guaranteed window seats, no swimming needed.
Tourists on sundeck of pontoon at Great Barrier Reef, enjoying views and activities.
  • Departure terminals: Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal and Port Douglas Marina have check-in desks, cafes, restrooms, and nearby paid parking.
  • Onboard & pontoon facilities: Most vessels and pontoons offer air-conditioned lounges, sun decks, freshwater showers, change rooms, toilets, and licensed bars. Pontoons feature snorkel platforms, underwater observatories, semi-subs, glass-bottom boats, and shaded areas.
  • Family & accessibility: Many tours have lifeguards, shallow pools, kids’ play zones, and provide flotation devices. Some pontoons and vessels are wheelchair accessible—check ahead for details.
Tourists snorkelling in clear blue waters of Great Barrier Reef during full day cruise from Cairns.
  • Reef protection: Do not touch or stand on coral. Don’t collect shells or marine life. Use only reef-safe sunscreen (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide).
  • Safety: Always follow crew instructions. Declare any medical conditions before diving or snorkeling.
  • Waste: Dispose of all rubbish in bins on board—never in the sea.
  • Wildlife: Observe marine life respectfully; never chase, touch, or feed animals.
Kuranda Scenic Railway train passing through lush rainforest in Queensland, Australia.

In Cairns:

  • Cairns Aquarium: See reef and rainforest marine life, including touch tanks and daily talks.
  • Cairns Esplanade Lagoon: Free public swimming and picnic area, perfect for families.

From Cairns:

From Port Douglas:

  • Daintree, ​Cape Tribulation & Mossman Gorge: Explore the world’s oldest rainforest, river cruises, and Indigenous culture.

From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
Donna Mcleod
AU

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 Hansen
AU

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 Brooks

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 Reagan

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 Bennet

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.
Tracy Patrick
GB

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.

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.

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