great barrier reef tours cairns snorkeling

🤿 The 5 Best Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tours From Cairns [2024 Reviews]

With a colorful array of coral teeming with marine life, and crystal-clear waters, the Great Barrier Reef stands as a natural wonder of unparalleled beauty.

Whether you’re a nature lover, adrenaline junkie, or simply want to see one of the most incredible places in the world, I have a hand-selection of tours perfect for you.

These 5 top Great Barrier Reef snorkel tours from Cairns are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the most impressive array of marine ecosystems. Let’s jump right in.

Best Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tours

Quick answer: the 5 best rated great barrier reef snorkeling tours from cairns for 2024.

• Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns
• Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise
• Snorkel & Dive the Reef: Sustainable, Scientific & Cultural Tour
• Great Barrier Reef Diving and Snorkeling Cruise from Cairns
• Silverswift Dive and Snorkel Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling from Cairns Tour Reviews

1. great barrier reef snorkeling and diving cruise from cairns.

• Duration: 8.5 hours
• Departure: Reef Fleet Terminal, Cairns City QLD 4870
• Departure Time: 8:00 AM
• Includes: BBQ lunch prepared onboard with fresh fish, prawns, steak, and salads, 5 hours reef time at 2 outer reef locations, use of scuba and snorkeling equipment, 1 pre-booked drive (if dive package selected), free lycra/stinger suit hire, glass of wine and snack

Snorkeling and diving can be a bit intimidating if you’ve never done it before – even more so if it’s in a foreign location. However, if you want to experience one of the most incredible world wonders up close, look no further than this first tour!

The Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns tour  offers full training and instruction to ensure everyone stays safe and having fun while exploring the underwater wonders.

Starting at 8:00 am, we met up at the fleet terminal with our professional, attentive guides who were there to take us out to two different reefs.

You also have the option of upgrading to a diving and helicopter ride as well, though it  is  extra (though very much worth it!). We chose to add the helicopter ride which was about 10 minutes of breathtaking scenery out over the expansive, clear waters.

Once we hopped onboard our vessel for the day, we were served a delicious barbecue spread complete with fresh fish, steak, pastas, prawns, salads, and much more!

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Our guides used their expertise to select 6 different reef locations based on our weather, time of day, and water conditions. It was amazing getting to don our snorkeling gear and head underwater to watch majestic manta rays and sweet sea turtles, along with tons of other amazing creatures!

We had the option of including the additional experience of a glass bottom boat ride, which I did not take but I do think it would be perfect for those uncomfortable with swimming while snorkeling.

As we returned back to the mainland, they provided us with tasty cheese and tropical fruit platters while our crew provided live music and entertainment! It was such a fun, memorable day, and that all paired with the natural wonders, was simply amazing.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. ocean freedom great barrier reef luxury snorkel and dive cruise.

• Duration:  9 hours
• Departure: 1 Spence St, Cairns City QLD 4870
• Departure Time: 7:15 AM
• Includes:  Luxury catamaran cruise to Great Barrier Reef, 6 hours at reef with 2 different stops, EMC and port fees, tea and coffee, large lunch with seafood, fruit, cheese, and crackers, snorkel instruction, in-water crew assistance, snorkeling gear, wetsuits or lycra suits, Marine Naturalist, glass bottom boat tour

Queensland, Australia is one of my favorite cities in the country, though you can’t visit without exploring the Great Barrier Reef!

There are countless tours as you could probably imagine, but if you want to see the natural wonder in style and comfort, I have just the tour for you.

The Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise  perfectly balances education, awareness, thrills, and good food in one full-day adventure that I absolutely will partake in again!

We had to wake up at the crack of dawn to meet up with our guide and rest of the crew early in the morning, boarding a luxurious catamaran equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, spacious sun decks, shaded lounges, and much more.

This is definitely a cruise experience that offers relaxation and indulgence with a full bar and all kinds of refreshing drinks during the entire trip!

The crew was so much fun, so entertaining, and helpful, though I particularly appreciated the guided commentary by the Marine Naturalist about the sealife we encountered both in and out of the water!

Onboard, they had plenty of top-of-the-line snorkeling and diving gear (additional cost for diving), and we were able to explore at 2 different locations in highly-protected zones.

The snorkeling tour with our Marine Naturalist was so insightful, and I learned so much about the marine life and their behavior in their natural habitat. Seeing the Wonder Wall, hard and soft corals, reef fish, and giant clams was so amazing, though I do wish I’d snapped some videos!

Back on board our catamaran, I relaxed in the sun and enjoyed some freshly-made coffee with a Danish pastry to accompany it before lunchtime. They even included fresh fruit, cheese, crackers, and cake on our ride back to the mainland.

Every step of the way, I was so enamored and inspired by the beautiful world and people around us – definitely don’t pass this opportunity up!

3. Snorkel & Dive the Reef: Sustainable, Scientific & Cultural Tour

• Duration:  8 hours
• Includes:  Marine biologist presentation, snorkeling equipment including mask & snorkel, fins and wetsuit, glass bottom boat tour & underwater reef viewing observatory, morning and afternoon tea, coffee, and water, hot and cold buffet lunch, all taxes and fees

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the natural wonders I feel everyone should be able to see at least once in their lives. The Snorkel & Dive the Reef: Sustainable, Scientiic & Cultural Tour is the best way to learn about this special place.

However, I’d say this is the perfect tour for the entire family, as you don’t even have to swim to have an amazing time you’re sure to never forget!

This unforgettable aquatic adventure starts by boarding a spacious vessel early in the morning, as we were welcomed by friendly crew members who let us know what to expect and answered all our questions.

With comfortable amenities, panoramic views, and plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy the scenery, it’s the ideal vantage point to really appreciate the surrounding turquoise waters.

The marine biologist presentation beforehand was incredibly insightful, and we learned how this complex barrier reef ecosystem is home to over 1,500 types of tropical fish and a whopping 400 types of coral!

After that, we stopped to take a snorkeling trip into the sheltered coral lagoon as well as a guided snorkel safari with the marine biologist!

However, you can choose to hang out on the deck and stay warm and dry while still enjoying the reef from the semi-submersible boat or an underwater observatory!

I thought that was super cool that they offered so many different ways to see the reef, even offering the additional glass bottom boat tour or Helmet Dive!

If you  do  choose to stay on the sundeck, I recommend buying a session with the onboard massage therapist and really let the stress melt away in the middle of the picture-perfect waters!

As I mentioned previously, I feel this tour is ideal for people of all ages and swimming skills, so please don’t hesitate to try this amazing tour! Oh, and not only that, but they even served us hot and cold buffet lunch, morning and afternoon tea, and much more!

4. Great Barrier Reef Diving and Snorkeling Cruise from Cairns

• Duration:  8 hours and 30 minutes
• Departure: B Finger Cairns Marina, Marlin Parade, Cairns City QLD 4870
• Includes:  Snorkel equipment including wetsuit or stinger suit, refreshments include water, tea, and coffee, prescription masks, lunch

If you’re in Cairns, it serves as the ultimate gateway to one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural: the Great Barrier Reef.

The Great Barrier Reef Diving and Snorkeling Cruise from Cairns Tour is a full day excursion balancing leisurely cruising with underwater adventure and exploration!

If you’ve always wanted to go snorkeling, this is also the perfect opportunity, as trained professional guides will be there to help every second of the way!

We made our way to the marina and felt the salty sea breeze blow through our hair, with excitement rising as we get ready to board the AquaQuest!

With a spacious dive deck and sunken platform, it’s specifically designed for diving and snorkeling, offering easier access and top-notch gear.

As we boarded, I immediately took advantage of the big sun decks to soak up the warm rays – however, there are plenty of indoor, shaded areas with AC and hot, freshwater showers to wash off afterward.

As we cruised along, our guides did a great job at sharing interesting facts about the complex ecosystems below, as well as specific information about the Great Barrier Reef.

Once we got to the perfect spot, we donned our snorkeling gear (with the help of the staff), heading underwater with assistants to ensure everyone was safe and comfortable. It was simply magical being able to see the enormous reef, colorful coral, sharks, turtles, rays, and so much more!

You also have the option of diving for an added price, where you get to take advantage of exclusive access to some of the reef’s most coveted dive sites along dive masters!

Back on board, we were treated to a tasty buffet lunch featuring an array of fresh seafood, local delicacies, and all kinds of refreshing drinks. With fantastic organization, I’m sure I’ll take this tour again in the near future!

5. Silverswift Dive and Snorkel Great Barrier Reef Cruise

• Duration:  10 hours
• Departure Time: 8:30 AM
• Includes:  Morning and afternoon tea, lunch, professional guide, use of snorkeling and dive equipment (if option selected), tour with reef guide, use of prescription masks, Environmental Management Charge (EMC)

Last but certainly not least, I have another luxury experience that will take you to various sites to swim among the breathtaking panorama of coral gardens.

The Silverswift Dive and Snorkel Great Barrier Reef Cruise  offers an up close and personal look into one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders while everything else is taken care of for you.

Whether you’re an absolute beginner or a seasoned pro, I know that you’re going to have just as much fun as I did! Our tour started out early in the morning so we could take advantage of the entire day on the water – and at 10 hours long, this tour is the lengthiest on this guide!

Something that I really loved about this tour in particular, was that we had the flexibility of customizing our tour to fit our preferences!

Depending on whether you’re a diver or a beginner diver/snorkeler, they’ll bring you to different dive spots based on your abilities and what you’d like to see.

We went to Flynn Reef, Thetford, and Milln, though this could change, depending on the weather, water visibility, and other factors that day.

If you’re a newbie, the staff will help fit you with a snorkeling mask and fins if you’d like to keep up near the surface, or head deeper into the depths with a dive.

If it’s your first time diving, you can take an introductory dive, while more experienced divers can take up to 3 over the course of the entire day.

My time underwater was absolutely incredible, with the vibrant coral reefs, thrilling encounters with colorful fish, turtles, rays, and so much more!

Once I got back on board, we reveled in a delicious buffet lunch, featuring all kinds of cuisines and small plates, so that everyone found something they liked. It’s a great way to balance adventure with tranquility, soaking in all that this special place and its natural beauty has to offer.

Boat Comfort

The Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise is our editors Choice for the best Great Barrier Reef snorkeling tour

Krysha Thayer

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• Telephone 4052 1111
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Family Owned

Ocean Freedom

Cairns premier great barrier reef & island tours operating two exclusive reef tours "ocean free" & "ocean freedom".

Perry has been in the dive industry in Cairns and managing dive operations on 4 vessels since 1988, including Ocean Free since 1992, when he met Taryn. Since 1992 they both worked the boats and purchased Ocean Free (a 16.5m schooner) in 1996. Having many years of experience in the industry, Ocean Free quickly became a well-established and respected company amongst local agents and the marine industry.

They then bought their second vessel Ocean Freedom in 2005 and after a year’s total refurbishment, the luxury 20m cruiser was launched in mid 2006. Ocean Freedom underwent another million-dollar refurbishment in February 2008, changing from the previous jet engines to props, re-spraying, extending the teak snorkel and dive deck by 3m, making it the most spacious snorkel back deck in Cairns. The new look, faster Ocean Freedom receives great reviews in the industry. Ocean Freedom now cruises at 23 knots and arrives at the reef in an hour, giving guests 6 hours on the reef.

With the operation of two vessels it was necessary to re-brand the products to encompass the two vessels under one trading name. This, plus the company’s commitment to running very personalised, low guest number tours with excellent customer service, lead to their new company name Cairns Premier Reef & Island Tours.

In 2014 both boats underwent major, million-dollar refurbishments, with new engines, decking, seating, bulkheads and on Ocean Free new mast rigging and sails. In mid 2023 Ocean Free was fitted with a new propeller and Ocean Freedom had another  major refurbishment with 2 new engines, new electrics, new ladder, cushions, and carpet.

Both boats undergo annual cosmetic refits to ensure they look their best at all times.

Today, Perry and Taryn continue to have a great love for the sea and reef and are passionate about ensuring all their guests have an unforgettable reef experience and all round “feel good” day! They look forward to welcoming you aboard one of their Cairns’ Premier Reef & Island Tours and becoming part of the ever-growing “Ocean Free” and  “Ocean Freedom”  Family !

Why Travel with Cairns Premier Reef & Island Tours Sail Ocean Free Cruise Ocean Freedom

Personalised tours.

We value our guests and are committed to providing very personalised, caring tours on both boats, where you’re a name not a number.

Exclusive Sailing Trip

Ocean Free has an exclusive mooring 1km off Green Island offering international visitors and locals a sail, reef and island experience.

More Reef Time

Ocean Freedom gives guests 6 unrushed hours to explore 2 stunning reef destinations, Upolu Cay Reef and Outer Edge Upolu Reef.

The Best Crew

Crew members are hand-picked to provide unsurpassed service, professionalism, reef knowledge and a high respect for safety.

Fantastic Snorkelling

Step straight off our boats to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, no deep, dark water!  The coral outcrops come up to just 1M under the surface for easy viewing. We provide guided tours, and our crew share their knowledge and passion  for the reef.

Scuba Diving

We have the highest ratio of dive instructors to divers (2:1) for our Non-Certified (intro) diving and small group Certified diving with complimentary guide to ensure you see the best parts of the reef. We take your safety very seriously.

Environment

Cairns Premier Reef & Island Tours are proud to announce that both their personal Great Barrier Reef Tours have been  Advanced Eco Certified tours for over 10 years, earning the Ecotourism  title of Green Travel Leader

Value for Money

Ocean Free and Ocean Freedom are both priced the same and offer great value for money, with lots of inclusions including all snorkel equipment and tuition, snorkel tours, food served throughout the day  and plenty of time at your reef destinations.

Testimonials

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Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel

A unique outer great barrier reef tour.

Eco Certified – committed to sustainability

Australian Owned and operated

Incorporating Indigenous Culture

Activities for all ages & experience levels

Experience two premium outer reef sites

Enjoy one of Cairns’ most unique & exclusive Great Barrier Reef tours. Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel invites you to explore some of the best diving and snorkelling sites on the Great Barrier Reef with our experienced Marine Biologists and Indigenous Cultural Guides. We choose our reef sites based on the best conditions for the day, so you’re truly getting the highest quality snorkelling and diving experience. Our sites include Milln, Flynn, Hastings, Saxon, Norman or Thetford Reef.

Once at the Reef, you will have the opportunity to explore the underwater world with included snorkelling experiences.

Come and jump on board, what are you waiting for?

guided with purpose

Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel pride our-self on our commitment to sustainability. The ECO Certification logo is a globally recognized brand which assists travellers to choose and experience a genuine and authentic tour, attraction, cruise or accommodation that is environmentally, socially and economically sustainable.

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the Land and Sea on which our business operates on throughout Australia. At Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel we acknowledge the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji , Mandingalbay Yidinji, Yirrganydji & Gunggandji people, Traditional Owners of the Sea Country on which our business operates. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; and to Elders past and present.

Customer Reviews

We had the best day on the reef with our 4 and 7 year old kids. The staff was fantastic. Highly recommend the whole experience.

We had a great time snorkeling the outer reef, nearly 1/2 price of other diving companies. Didgeridoo and Dance demonstrations were an added bonus thank you to the captain and crew.

A wonderful personal experience from beginning to end. The crew were lovely and worked hard all day for everyone on board.

I picked Dreamtime because I thought the indigenous touch would be a bit different and more interesting than other tours. There was nothing that I could complain about. I am so pleased I chose this trip, do yourself a favour and book it!

From the stories, history lessons, interactive staff to the stunning reef, i couldn’t have had a better day out on the reef.

This tour was the most relaxed and the most friendliest we have been on in the 10 days we stayed in Cairns. We absolutely loved it. The food was great and plenty of it.

Absolutely amazing! This brand new reef experience is the best one we’ve had in cairns – comfortable, modern, new boat and an energetic, happy, informative crew.

This was a wonderful experience. The staff were so friendly and knowledgable and the reef locations were excellent.

The whole operation was very professional and equally laid back. We felt like we had very personalised service and the crew was outstanding. This was the highlight of my trip to Australia.

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Passions of Paradise

Dive, sail and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns

ECO TOUR - Be a Marine Biologist For The Day

Full day Outer Reef Tour PLUS Be a Marine bio Experience – starting from $410

Great Barrier Reef Tours Cairns

Multi award winning tours – passions of paradise.

Experience the adventure of snorkelling, diving and sailing on the Great Barrier Reef with Passions of Paradise. The 25 metre high performance catamaran sails daily from Cairns to two unique outer reef locations, where you can dive and snorkel with turtles, colourful fish and see an amazing variety of corals.

Enjoy a personalised day on the Great Barrier Reef with a friendly crew dedicated to making your trip memorable and a local operator whose environmental credentials and attention to detail have earned many awards including the Australian Tourism Award for Adventure.

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Phone 07 4041 1600.

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Our Passion

We provide an unforgettable, highly customer focused tour of the Great Barrier Reef to small groups of like minded guests who are looking for a unique personal Cairns Reef tour experience

Our vessel is a modern, comfortable and efficient Sailing Catamaran which we actually Sail back from the Reef

We are passionate about Eco Tourism, and we practice what we preach. We are at the forefront of sustainable Reef Tourism

We are passionate about Reef education and we assist in real Scientific studies and surveys to help the Marine park authorities

Our Tour Includes

• Sailing on a stylish and fast catamaran to two unique outer reef destinations
• All Snorkelling equipment including a free guided Snorkel Tour
• Relax on our stylish upper deck or netted deck trampoline at the bow of the boat
• A chef prepared tropical buffet lunch of hot and cold dishes including fresh tropical fruit.
• Morning and afternoon tea provided
• Meet with our Eco accredited marine naturalist who provide presentations on coral fish and life

See Our Pricing

Check out our customer reviews.

Read our reviews on TripAdvisor & Facebook or leave us one yourself

“ We had such a great day on the reef with Passions of Paradise! The boat was comfortable and not too crowded. The crew was professional, knowledgable and approachable, and had high safety standards. They really took care of every passenger, from experienced divers to those who could not swim. You get plenty of time to snorkel at two reef locations, and scuba diving or glass-floor boat tours are optional extras. We had an experience of a lifetime, and would highly recommend it. Therese - TripAdvisor

“ We were unsure of which boat to choose for our tour of the reef, but knew we wanted to give the kids a sailing experience of some sort so ended up choosing Passions Of Paradise... We are so glad we did. From the friendly crew, who let the kids "drive the boat", to the water crew that made them feel comfortable having never snorkelled before, they were all amazing. The food onboard was delicious, organised and prepared by the well oiled machine that the crew really are. The best thing about it was how personal it felt... The crew were happy to sit and chat, answer both ours and the kids questions and generally make you feel part of their little family for the day... Great choice for all age groups, families, couples, young groups etc. The scenery was a bonus, exclusive reefs made it that bit more special. Thanks again POP! Can't wait to visit you all again! Love Hayley, Paul, Sam & Charli Hayley - Facebook

“ The whole team at Passions made our group feel so welcomed and relaxed. They were informative, and catered for a variety of people's needs; kids, through to grandparents. Locally owned as well. Would highly recommend these guys to anyone for an amazing reef experience. Elle - Tripadvisor

“ I went snorkelling back in February as part of a top deck group activity! I wasn't going to go because I can't swim and thought I would be in the way! I'm terrified of the water but I didn't want to leave Oz without seeing the Reef. All the crew on passions were so helpful, professional and encouraging. I wasn't made feel silly for being unable to swim, in fact quite the opposite! Kieran, a cool guy working onboard, looked after me. He took me out snorkelling and ensured me I was safe and nothing would happen to me! All I had to do was hold onto the life ring and he did the swimming! It was the best experience of my life! I felt so safe despite being terrified! I was so proud of myself. However I don't think I could have done it without Kierans help. Hopefully he reads this. Thank you Norma - Facebook

“ Excellent service from Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef experience operatin operating out of Cairns in Northern Queensland, Australia. I have just completed second day trip in a month with this company - taking groups of folks for SCUBA & snorkelling bon the reef. A local independent outfit, very professionally run with really positube and supportive atitudes from everyone on board and from the back office staff too. Many thanks to Mossy, Aelx, Nicky, Nichola, Sion & Kate - plus all of the others. I will definitely be recommending you to others! Best wishes from Michael Perrins in Cleveland, Ohio! Michael - Facebook

“ The Passions of Paradise tour exceeded all expectations. The crew is friendly, relaxed, extremely service-minded and passionate about the reef and its inhabitants. On top of all this, the lunch was of very good quality. I do recommend to bring something warm to wear after the snorkling though! Lina - Tripadvisor

“ Great day scuba diving and snorkeling. Knowledgeable crew with a sense of humor and a great passion for the reef. Not just involved in diving but devoted to the care of the reef and saving it. A pleasure to see and experience! Thank you to Mossy, Russel and Zoe. Debra - Facebook

Our Passion for Eco Tourism out shines the rest

Sustainability is not a buzzword here; it’s a way of life. Environmental sustainability is the life and soul of Passions of Paradise, and for many years positioning our business as a benchmark Eco-tourism operator has been at the forefront of our operation. As a single product operator, our fortunes are closely linked to exceeding the expectations of our clientele, and we are constantly endeavouring to become the name that everyone talks or hears about within the industry—a tourism operator that appreciates nature and gives back the environment. The Great Barrier Reef is not “What we do” but rather “Who we are.”

It is with that mindset that we invite our guests to experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. We value our staff, who are constantly telling our story. We value our passengers, with whom we hope spread our message of conservation and appreciation. And we value our business, which we run with that core principle in mind: We give Mother Nature a say in everything we do

The Latest Reef News 

Keep up to date with Passions of Paradise news and information on everything you need to know about the Great Barrier Reef and Eco Tourism Cairns

Exceptional Reef Tours

Cairns reef tours - great barrier reef.

Tusa Premium Reef Tour Experience is not your typical excursion to the Cairns reef. It represents a unique opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. What sets this experience apart is our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, enriched by our deep-rooted local knowledge and the utilization of innovative technology. We believe in not just visiting the reef but in preserving and enhancing its beauty for generations to come.

From the moment you step aboard our vessel, you’ll realize that every aspect of your day has been thoughtfully considered and expertly managed.  Our premium all-inclusive full day trip is designed to provide you with a service like no other, and our dedicated and well-informed staff is here to ensure that you receive nothing less than a 5-star treatment, making your journey truly memorable.

Our barrier reef trips from Cairns offer a different perspective of the reef, with unique coral formations and a diverse array of marine life. Experience the adventure of snorkelling, diving, and sailing on the Great Barrier Reef with Tusa. The ship captain will carefully select the unique outer reef locations to visit for the day, where you can dive and snorkel with turtles, colourful fish, and see an amazing variety of corals. Dive into the turquoise waters and let the wonders of the reef captivate you.

Scuba Diving (Certified)

The Great Barrier Reef is an extraordinary underwater marvel, renowned for its unmatched beauty, and ideal for scuba diving enthusiasts. Join Tusa Reef Tours for the ultimate day trip to the Great Barrier Reef. You will get to visit two different dive sites during the day, with the tour limited to a maximum of 40 people for a more intimate experience. 

The Great Barrier Reef is an extraordinary underwater marvel, renowned for its unmatched beauty, and ideal for scuba diving enthusiasts. Join Tusa Reef Tours for the ultimate full day trip to the Great Barrier Reef. You will get to visit two different dive sites during the day, with the tour limited to a maximum of 40 people for a more intimate experience. 

Introductory Scuba Diving

Take your first breaths underwater on this guided and exhilarating scuba diving experience. Our experienced PADI instructors will be with you every step of the way on this outer reef tour.

Snorkelling Experience

Join our Cairns reef tour and cruise to the vibrant and colourful Great Barrier Reef, where snorkellers can learn about the reef with our exclusive underwater headsets with comprehensive English commentary. Tusa offers a premium Snorkel Day Trip from Cairns. 

Reef Tours from Cairns

The premium great barrier reef cruise experience.

People come to Cairns to experience the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s coolest natural wonders. This incredible natural beauty is made up of more than 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands.  We’ll guide you to the top spots every day, ensuring you get the absolute best of the reef. Fun is guaranteed! Just picture warm Coral Sea waters and some seriously awesome diving sites that will amaze everyone.

Entering the dramatic beauty of the Great Barrier Reef is an extraordinary experience. It’s a place that awakens all your senses, lifts your mood, and takes you to another world of unique corals and marine life. Enjoy sumptuous cuisine, state-of-the-art diving gear, and expert guidance for a truly breathtaking reef adventure on this Cairns reef tour.  You can dive into the deep, snorkel above vibrant corals, or stay dry and still get a peek at the underwater wonders from our onboard iPad’s interactive guides. It’s your personal reef discovery.

Come and experience the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef with Australia’s best. Our enthusiasm for our work is matched by our love for the stunning locations we explore – from Cairns to the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef. No matter how you choose to explore, you’ll create lasting memories from this living natural wonder. Tusa and the Great Barrier Reef are ready to give you an unforgettable experience.

Chef Prepared Meals

Savour fresh local cuisine prepared by our in-house chefs, with delicious vegan options available.

Waterproof Headsets

Learn about the reef while you snorkel with our exclusive waterproof headsets with engaging reef commentary.

Reef Discovery

Enhance your learning experience with digital reference guides and Citizen Science projects.

GET IN TOUCH WITH US

Got a question or need some advice before you book? Our friendly and local team is ready to help.

When you book direct with us you will always pay the best price. 

Reach out for  any Inquiries on our  All-Inclusive Cairns Reef Tour

+61 (0) 7 4047 9100.

7am – 5pm: Monday to Saturday     |    7am – 2pm: Sunday

Email :   [email protected]

Post :  PO Box 1276 Cairns, QLD 4870 Australia

Great Barrier Reef Snorkel & Dive Tours

• Day trips and overnight trips
• All gear and training provided
• Learn to dive with the experts
• Professional dive instructors
• Easy cancellations

Let's go diving!

Check out our monthly specials

Great Barrier Reef Day Trip from Cairns

Whether you’re a snorkeller, first-time diver or certified diver, you'll spend a magical day exploring the reef with us

OceanQuest Overnight Liveaboard Experience

Spend the night on the Great Barrier Reef! Snorkel, intro dive and cert dive options available

PADI Eco Open Water Courses

Learn to dive on the Great Barrier Reef with our range of course options

Scuba Kids (8 Years +)

Try scuba diving for the first time in our pool and enjoy fun underwater games!

PADI Rescue Diver Course

Gain confidence in your dive skills and become a better buddy with this fun and extremely handy course

Instructor Training Program

Kick-start your career in the dive industry with on-the-job training and real life experience

5 STAR DIVE CENTRE

Learn to scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef! Our conveniently located Cairns Dive Centre has PADI 5 Star Instructor Development and PADI 5 Star Career Development status. Whether you’re a complete beginner or you’re thinking of making diving your career, we have a dive course to suit you. Our friendly, expert instructors will ensure you have a safe and fun experience.

Dive Courses

• PADI Open Water Diver courses
• PADI Advanced Open Water course
• Scuba Kids children’s program
• PADI Nitrox Specialty course
• PADI Rescue Diver course
• PADI Divemaster course & Divemaster Training Program
• PADI Instructor Training Program
• PADI Instructor Development Course & I.E.
• PADI Staff Instructor Course

Special Deals

Take advantage of our latest special deals and save!

Great Barrier Reef Premium Snorkelling Tour $239

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Great Barrier Reef Premium Snorkelling Tour Itinerary

This day-long adventure gives you the chance to try your hand at snorkelling, diving, or simply swimming with the colourful array of fish, ancient turtles , and mesmerising coral reefs. You’ll get to discover two of the Great Barrier Reef ’s lesser-known outer reef locations, giving you a unique insight into the natural history of the area.

We kick things off from Cairns, where you’ll board our luxury catamaran and get yourself comfortable for the sail to our first outer reef spot. On the way, you can tuck into a morning cup of tea and take pictures of the surrounding scenery until your heart is content.

Once we reach our first location, we’ll brief you on how best to explore the underwater world. You’ll then be given the option to snorkel with the marine life , dive, swim, or simply relax onboard the boat if you’d rather admire the scenery from above.

For lunch, we’ll provide you with a delicious tropical buffet packed full of cold and hot dishes and locally sourced fruit before we head on to our second outer reef location.

Again, you’ll have the chance to dip below the water’s surface, whether that’s by snorkelling, diving, or swimming. Alternatively, you can kick back and relax on board the boat with a refreshing drink in your hand.

You can enjoy afternoon tea as we make our way back to Cairns at the end of the day.

Why Not Check Out Our Other Great Barrier Reef Tours

3 Day Great Barrier Reef Liveaboard Tour $825

Great Barrier Reef Cruise Deluxe $245

Small Group Great Barrier Reef Tour $209

2 Day Great Barrier Reef Liveaboard Tour $585

1 Day Great Barrier Reef Pontoon Adventure $255

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Reef Daytripper

Great barrier reef day trips from cairns, snorkel & scuba dive catamaran charters.

Sail away to the picturesque Upolu Reef on our charming catamaran, Reef Daytripper, for a relaxing and fun-filled Great Barrier Reef adventure!

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Reef Daytripper Full-Day Snorkel

Explore Upolu Reef, a beautiful location on the edge of the Outer Barrier Reef! Experience a perfect day of snorkeling or scuba diving in warm, clear, protected waters teeming with marine life and corals.

Reef Daytripper Private Charter

Avoid the crowds and experience the Great Barrier Reef the way nature intended! Snorkel, scuba dive, or just relax on the boat and soak up the sun. Equipment and guide included!

Snorkel, Scuba, Sail & Relax with a Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tour

Avoid the crowds and experience The Great Barrier Reef the way nature intended. No other operator in this category can offer you this superb personalized service. Join us and our fun-loving crew for one of our Great Barrier Reef day trips from Cairns!

Our destination, Upolu Reef, is a very beautiful location situated on the edge of the Outer Barrier Reef. Our reef tours near Cairns are teeming with a large variety of interesting marine life and a beautiful array of corals. This sheltered lagoon offers perfect snorkeling or diving experiences in warm clear protected waters. A complimentary snorkel guide is available, which offers a fun and informative addition to the day’s exploration.

Being owner-operated means we take an active interest in the safety and well being of our customers, and our crew are considered a part of our family. We take great pride in delivering enthusiastic and friendly hospitality to our guests. We aim to visit two sites (weather permitting), allowing plenty of time to snorkel, scuba dive or just simply relax in the bow nets on the boat. Ready for an amazing underwater adventure? Book your Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tour online now!

Top-Rated Cairns Reef Tours!

The crew is excellent. Our skipper, Paul, was friendly and knowledgeable. Jan the scuba man was extremely thorough and professional. Kaitlin, our snorkel guide, was positive and full of environmental science knowledge. A simple but nourishing lunch was provided, as well as a nice glass of chilled white wine on the return trip, as well as an afternoon snack of crackers, cheese and fruit. What a delightful and unforgettable day this was!

Fantastic day on the reef! The group was small (only 15 or so people on the day we went) and that made for such a better experience. The locations on the reef that we visited were great and had a fantastic variety of reef life. The crew were fabulous to deal with, the staff explained all safety matters clearly, ran tours to show us around the reef hut also allowed us to self explore. 10/10 day would highly recommend!

The crew did a great job of trying to pep us up and gave us very helpful and informative briefings on our way out to the reef. On arrival, I was very grateful to have the option to swim with a pool noodle and stay with a guide/hang onto the life ring until I was comfortable enough to venture off on my own with some confidence. We were lucky to have very clear conditions in the water and many amazing creatures to see. Thank you to the crew for a wonderful day on the reef!

Reef Daytripper is a fantastic day out on a catamaran, with very friendly and professional staff. They look after all of their guests in the water while you snorkel or scuba dive. Very relaxing cruise to and from the reef. Lying on the nets while cruising is an experience. They only take a small group out, so it's much more enjoyable than the bigger boats that go out to the reefs. This is definitely a 5 star experience. A must do when in Cairns!

The reef day tripper is a very well priced trip and extremely professional crew. The day was amazing from the first step on the gorgeous boat till the step off. Happy with how nice and friendly the knowledgeable staff were. They were very experienced and had a great love for the reef. Food and snacks supplied and was great after a big day snorkeling. Complimentary wine and quality gear with the option to dive. Best spots on the reef and great crew. We loved it!

Staff were incredibly friendly and professional. All wet suits and pool noodles provided. Their knowledge was great and the boat itself beautiful. We saw some amazing sea life including turtles, stingrays, clown fish and lots of coral. The food was delicious! Loads of snorkeling time, food at different portions of the day and a glass of wine to finish the tour. Having less than 20 passengers was great, plenty of room to snorkel and lots of time to ask the crew questions.

Why Choose Reef Daytripper?

Small group sizes.

With small passenger numbers (up to 20 people aboard the boat maximum) and up to 4 crew per 20 passengers, you won’t feel like just a number. A smaller group size makes for a more intimate, personalised experience, with ample room to snorkel, dive, and relax aboard our catamaran.

Knowledgable & Experienced Crew

You’ll receive casual and informative reef education while aboard our catamaran. We’re happy to answer your questions about the fish and the reef ecosystem! Complimentary guided snorkel tours and scuba diving guide provided at no extra charge!

A Company That Cares

Our eco-friendly tours have the lowest carbon footprint of any Cairns tour operator! We are locally owned and operated, which means we care greatly about the reef and take great pride in delivering enthusiastic and friendly hospitality to all our guests.

PADI Certified

PADI Dive Instructors undergo rigorous training to ensure your scuba certification class is fun, exciting and safe at the same time!

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Cairns Reef Tours

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About Cairns Reef Tours

Cairns is the gateway to the great barrier reef.

Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. There are many ways to experience the Reef from Cairns, whether you're a swimmer or non-swimmer, diver or beginner snorkeller, travelling with family or looking for that perfect romantic escape, there's an experience to suit all budgets and requirements.

Most outer reef trips from Cairns are a full day experience including all snorkel/dive equipment and lunch plus morning/afternoon tea.

Reef Tour Family Pricing We offer unique rates for families on all Cairns Great Barrier Reef tour experiences. Family rates are generally based on the following:

• Infants (3 Years & Under) travel free
• Children (4 - 14 years) Half Price
• Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) 1 Child travels free

Family pricing may change slightly depending on the tour options you choose. On Evolution 16 year olds are still considered children. Some dive operators do not have family rates. ​Please check the booking form for up to date family pricing for your group.

The Reef Fleet Terminal is the main check-in point for all reef trips. Most Reef Operators will have a desk inside the terminal where you will check in and collect your boarding pass. The Terminal is located at 1 Spence Street Cairns, which is next to the Shangri-La Hotel at The Pier Shopping Centre.

Some reef trips board directly onto the vessel, you will be advised details on booking, along with your boarding/check in time.

Coach transfers from your accommodation can be arranged or if you're travelling with 3 or more people we recommend taking a taxi or uber as hotel transfers organised by the operators are charged per person.

Hotel Transfers & Parking

Hotel Transfers Accommodation Transfers are available for all Reef Tours. When booking you will be given the option to selct Self Drive or Select your property from a list. The prices for the transfers will vary depending on the location of your accommodation. If you are staying at an Airbnb or private house find the closest holiday apartments or hotel and select it as your pickup point.

Parking for the Day For self-drivers, Council parking is available at The Pier for about $10 for the day. There is also all day parking at the outdoor carparks located near the Cruise Liner Terminal on Wharf Street, about two blocks away. The price for the day is $4 and it is just a 2 minute walk along the Esplanade to the Reef Fleet Terminal & Marina.

Cairns Reef Tour Times

If you would like a later start, the latest departure from Cairns to the Outer Reef is the Great Adventures Pontoon experience departing at 10.30am with check-in at 9.45am. If you have a flight departing on the evening of your reef trip the earliest return into Cairns after an Outer Reef tour is 4.30pm with Evolution.

There is no half day outer Reef Tour option from Cairns as the closest Outer Reef is 90 minutes cruise.

When to Book Book as early as you can. Pre-booking is essential. Cairns Reef Tours are frequently booked out. Please do not turn up without a booking on the day. Book early for school holidays and through winter as during peak times reef trips can be completely full for the next five days.

Date changes are fine as long as you give us at least 24 hours notice

Checking Availability & Booking We offer a live connection to all the local Cairns Reef Operators. Your seat is instantly guaranteed when you book here.

Check-in & Mobile Tickets On the day of the reef tour you will either check in at the Reef Fleet Terminal or make your way directly to the vessel at the Marlin Marina. In most cases you will not need a ticket as your name will be on the days manifest when you check in. If you need to show a ticket you can simply present the e-mail confirmation you received on your mobile device.

Departure and Arrival Times

Evolution 08:00am | Departs Cairns 04:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Sunlover 08:45am | Departs Cairns 05:00pm | Arrives Cairns

Reef Day Tripper 07:30am | Departs Cairns 04:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Great Adventures Island & Reef 08:30am | Departs Cairns 05:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Ocean Freedom 08:00am | Departs Cairns 04:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Reef Magic 09:00am | Departs Cairns 05:00pm | Arrives Cairns

Reef Quest 08:30am | Departs Cairns 04:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Reef Experience 08:00am | Departs Cairns 04:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel 09:00am | Departs Cairns 05:00pm | Arrives Cairns

Silverswift 08:30am | Departs Cairns 04:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Great Adventures 10:30am | Departs Cairns 05:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Passions of Paradise 08:00am | Departs Cairns 05:00pm | Arrives Cairns

Ocean Free 08:00am | Departs Cairns 05:00pm | Arrives Cairns

Quicksilver 08:00am | Cairns Pick-up 10:00am | Departs Port Douglas 04:30pm | Arrives Port Douglas 05:30am | Cairns Drop-off

Snorkelling On The Great Barrier Reef

Snorkelling gear is included with all of our Reef Tours. Snorkeling is the best and easiest way to see the reef because 90% of its diversity occurs within 4 metres of the surface.

It doesn't take long to get the hang of it and for beginners a crew member is usually on hand to offer tuition on gear use and snorkel techniques.

Snorkelling offers all swimmers, regardless of their skill level, the opportunity to see this diverse eco-system of the Great Barrier Reef up close.

A selection of buoyancy aids (foam noodles, life jackets and wetsuits) allows you to float effortlessly over rich, colourful coral gardens, and snorkel guides are usually available to guide you through the natural maze of beautiful coral and fish and point out all the 'cool stuff'.

Intro Dives Introductory diving, also resort diving are dives where people without diver training or certification can experience scuba diving under the guidance of a diving instructor. Intro dives are offered on most reef tour from cairns and available anyone over 12 years. The dive usually has a duration of 20 minutes.

Participants are briefed on the way out to the reef site to ensure both an exciting and safe first dive.

Certified Dives Divers will love the dramatic drop offs, swim throughs and bommies. Buddy up with a dive partner, or tag along with a dive guide for a grand tour of all the best spots on the reef.

Great Barrier Reef Pontoons

There are 5 Reef Pontoons accessible from Cairns. Pontoons give you space and are suitable for all ages and especially ideal for families.

A pontoon is a spacious floating reef platform located at the outer barrier reef.

Pontoons Generally Feature, sundecks and undercover areas for relaxing and lunch, change rooms and snorkel access platforms. Glass Bottom Boat & Semi-Sub Tour departure points.

Some pontoons have built in under water observatories and special children's enclosed swimming areas. The Sunlover Moore Reef pontoon has a waterslide.

Pontoon Reef Tours offer a range of activities for swimmers and non-swimmers it means that everyone can experience the very best of the Great Barrier Reef.

Glass Bottom Boat Tours

Explore the wonders of the reef from the comfort of a glass bottom boat tour.

Hovering over beautiful coral gardens, giant clams and schools of colourful reef fish, a glass bottom boat is ideal for kids, non-swimmers and for those who are wanting to learn more about the reef.

Tours usually last around 30 minutes with a running commentary by a marine biologist. Most pontoon and island experiences include the option of taking a glass bottom boat tour.

Semi-submarine Tours

A semi-submersible coral viewing tour treats passengers to a divers view of the coral reef and marine life.

Sitting 1m below the water level, passengers can enjoy gliding through coral gardens and along the edge of coral drop bommies spotting a huge array of colourful reef fish.

With large viewing windows and air conditioning, these semi-submersible tours provide a divers perspective of the reef in comfort and without getting wet!

Tours are usually take around 30 minutes and are fully guided by an on-board marine biologist.

Wheely Friendly Reef Tours

The Great Barrier Reef is wheely friendly from Cairns. Here are a few experiences that offer wheelchair access.

Reef Magic There is ramp access from the wharf to the vessel and vessel to the Marine World platform. However, passengers are required to negotiate at least one set of stairs on the vessel depending on tides and loading position so assistance may be required. The Reef Magic II catamaran has wide isles and a wheelchair accessible toilet & shower. Access to the water, coral viewing vessels, underwater observatory and sundeck all require stairs to be negotiated and would require a carer to be present if unable to walk unassisted.

Great Adventures Outer Reef Great Adventures vessel "Reef King" does have a motorised chair lift to enable transfer between the upper and lower decks, however it is recommended that passengers have some mobility or assistance to transfer from their wheelchair. Toilets on the vessel and outer reef are not wheelchair accessible. There are ramp facilities from the vessel to the floating platform. There are no disabled facilities on the platform and the platform does have decking where wheelchair wheels may get stuck. Access to the underwater observatory, swim platforms and semi-submersible is by stairs only.

Quicksilver Cruises Quicksilver VIII is the most suitable vessel for wheelchair passengers, however there are occasions when this vessel may not operate which is often not known till 24 hours prior to departure, so it is recommended to reconfirm your booking prior to travel. On Quicksilver VIII there is an oversized toilet cubicle suitable for most wheelchair passengers. Quicksilver V also has a wheelchair accessible toilet. At the platform a chair lift enables disabled passengers to be lowered into the water to enjoy snorkelling. There are ramp facilities from the vessel to the floating platform, however access to the underwater observatory, swim platforms and semi-submersible coral viewing vessel is by stairs only.

Sunlover Cruises Sunlover Cruises is very well set-up to accommodate wheelchairs. They have multiple entrance points onto the vessel, as well as a dedicated wheelchair table on the main deck, wheel chair ramps to get over door jams and very experienced and willing crew. In some circumstances, they may be able to offer glass bottom boat rides and even SCUBA Diving! but cannot guarantee this every time.

Choosing A Good Day To Visit The Reef

Visiting the Great Barrier Reef is an unforgettable experience, and the weather plays a significant role visibility and comfort on your tour. Here are some things to factor in when choosing a day for your tour to the Reef.

Wind Speed: This is the main factor which will influence visibility. Low wind speeds are preferable, ideally less than 15 knots / 27km. Lower wind speeds result in calmer sea conditions, which means better visibility underwater and a more pleasant boat ride to and from the reef. Calm, sunny days following a period without heavy rain being ideal.

Sunshine: Sunny days enhance the colors of the coral and marine life, making your experience more vibrant. However, it's important to protect yourself against sunburn and dehydration, so be sure to apply waterproof sunscreen and drink plenty of water.

Season: The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is during the Australian winter and spring, from June to October. This period avoids the wet season (December to March), which can bring heavy rains and lower visibility due to run-off from the land.

Tides: Low tide can be the best time for snorkeling in shallow reef areas, as the coral and marine life are closer to the surface. However, some areas are best at high tide to avoid strong currents and to ensure there's enough water depth for comfortable snorkeling or diving.

Read Cairns Reef Tours Reviews

Very good experience. The crew are very knowledgable and helpful and knew what they were doing. They also cooked the food which was delicious! I had a lot of fun. I did the snorkelling and saw a lot of fish, turtles and more. I felt very safe snorkelling as they kept an eye on us. It was a small group, which I really liked. I would definitely recommend this trip!

We just returned from an overnight trip and would turnaround and do it again! We loved everything!!! We are a group of four beginner divers (two adults and two teenagers) and we could not have had a better experience - the captain and dive instructor were knowledgeable, helpful and great company! Thanks Roman and Teddy!! The equipment is really well looked after and the boat is comfortable. We saw truly amazing things, learned something that we hadn?t tried before and even managed a night dive. Indescribably good. Do yourself a favour - explore the reef with these guys. It was amazing.

Samantha Anderson

Friendly, professional staff. Highly recommend a cocktail on the upper deck at the end of the trip. Delicious!

Craig Findlay

We scored a great day with only 7 on board, a whole day with the island pretty much to ourselves to explore and the ride over was great, the crew were very informative and welcoming, a well stocked bar if needed and an all round great experience. Will definitely go again

Thanks Jodi you made our trip easy and we had an amazing time

johannes kole

nice day out, friendly staff. Island has nice walks and beaches, even hot showers. Only minus; fly season.

It was great for my family. My children (7 and 10) had a great time. The staff were all friendly and taught them how to snorkel. They can swim but are a bit scared. Eventually they were snorkelling and swimming freely. Also the meals were all delicious! Thank you so much!(Arigatou!)

Garry Sanders

Totally enjoyed the whole experience. The crew were excellent (plus). Lunch was good. Trip across and back was good.

Jonathan Chapman

The whole experience provided on board the Evolution was second to none. We have waited a long time for this experience and it didn't disappoint us. The crew did you proud and the service they provided was excellent and the food was so tasty and plenty of it.

Laura Heiskell

An incredible day-book it!

David Muller

Best time, best value for money. Will be back. Dave

Linda Stewart

Took my kids and grandchildren ages 6mths through to 32. They catered for everyone and we had a fantastic day

Mark Ludlow

Very enjoyable day

The whole family had a fantastic trip to Dunk Island, would definitely recommend for families with young children not old enough to enjoy a day on the reef. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable. Overall a good experience and value for money. Definitely want to go back again as not enough time to explore in one day.

Andrew Arnett

Had a grate day out captain and crew are amazing. We will see you all again

Janie Beckhouse

We were well looked after on the ferry to Dunk Island and it is well worth spending the money to go to spend time on the island and enjoy the beautiful rain forrest and beaches. There is a great pop-up Mexican cafe on the island, too (Fri, Sat & Sun). The staff on the ferry were informative and friendly.

Friendly staff, well-equipped vessel.

Great way to see Cairns. Highly reccomended Thanks Chris.

The view from mt.kootaloo is amazing

JoAnn Yoshimoto

I loved the fact that this is a father/son business. It was very personalized, friendly, and totally professional.

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Cairns Reef Tours News

2 Temporary Pause for AquaQuest | May 9 to May 17

AquaQuest will be taking a short break from May 9 to May 17, 2024. 

Departing from Cairns, AquaQuest offers a swift 90-minute journey to the outer reef, where the real adventure begins. Spend five hours exploring two of the most pristine snorke

AquaQuest will be taking a short break from May 9 to May 17, 2024. 

Departing from Cairns, AquaQuest offers a swift 90-minute journey to the outer reef, where the real adventure begins. Spend five hours exploring two of the most pristine snorkeling sites on the Norman, Saxon, and Hastings Reefs, selected daily based on the best conditions.

7 Reef Tours Update

Special Snorkel Offer with SeaQuest: Save $50!  In exciting news, a special snorkeling offer with SeaQuest is now available. At just $189 per person, this limited-time offer is valid until March 31, 2024. 

OceanQuest is Back The OceanQuest live

Special Snorkel Offer with SeaQuest: Save $50!  In exciting news, a special snorkeling offer with SeaQuest is now available. At just $189 per person, this limited-time offer is valid until March 31, 2024. 

OceanQuest is Back The OceanQuest liveaboard has successfully undergone maintenance and is now ready to welcome guests aboard for memorable Great Barrier Reef adventures.

Frankland Islands Tour The one and only Frankland Islands tour is making a comeback on March 13, 2024. After receiving its share of care and maintenance, the tour is poised to offer guests it's unique island experience.

4 Whale Watching Season in Cairns from June and September

The Great Barrier Reef, a jewel off the coast of Cairns, Australia, is not only famous for its vibrant coral and teeming marine life but also as a stage for one of nature's most magnificent performances: the annual whale migration. This spectacl

The Great Barrier Reef, a jewel off the coast of Cairns, Australia, is not only famous for its vibrant coral and teeming marine life but also as a stage for one of nature's most magnificent performances: the annual whale migration. This spectacle draws nature enthusiasts and wildlife watchers from around the globe, eager to witness these gentle giants. 

The whale watching season along the Great Barrier Reef is primarily between June and September. This period marks the migration of several whale species, including the awe-inspiring humpback and the elusive minke whales, as they travel to the warmer waters off the coast of Queensland to breed and give birth before heading back to the Antarctic.

Humpback Whales Humpback whales, known for their impressive acrobatics and haunting songs, are the main attraction. They start to make their appearance in the waters off Cairns around June, with sightings peaking through July and August. These months are ideal for witnessing these majestic creatures as they breach, tail slap, and nurse their young, offering a spectacular show to those fortunate enough to be in their presence.

Dwarf Minke Whales The Great Barrier Reef is also one of the few places in the world where you can swim with dwarf minke whales, an experience offered during a limited window from June to July. These curious and playful creatures often approach swimmers, providing an unforgettable and intimate wildlife interaction.

Whale Watching Experiences from Cairns For the best whale watching experience, consider booking a tour that specifically targets whale sightings. Many operators from Cairns offer day trips to the Outer Reef, where the chances of encountering whales are higher. These tours not only provide the opportunity to see whales but also to explore the stunning underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef.

Fitzroy Island Adventures provides a unique opportunity for whale watching tours from Cairns and Fitzroy Island during the season. Additionally, other reef service providers may also offer special whale watching tours, typically announcing these exclusive experiences before the season starts each year.

Witnessing the migration of whales on the Great Barrier Reef is a once-in-a-lifetime experience thatis available in Cairns between June and September.

3 Great Weather for a Trip to the Reef

If you've been waiting for the perfect moment to explore the majestic Great Barrier Reef, the stars have aligned just for you. From Monday, 5th to Wednesday, 7th of February, we're blessed with absolutely stellar weather conditions.

Wind Foreca

If you've been waiting for the perfect moment to explore the majestic Great Barrier Reef, the stars have aligned just for you. From Monday, 5th to Wednesday, 7th of February, we're blessed with absolutely stellar weather conditions.

Wind Forecast Gentle breezes at just 10 knots for the entire period, creating ideal conditions for sailing, snorkeling, and diving. These mild winds mean smoother waters, clearer visibility underwater, and an all-around pleasant experience whether you're on or in the water.

This is a great opportunity to witness the reef's vibrant marine life & stunning coral gardens.

10 Environmental Management Charge (EMC) Explained

When you book a day tour to the Great Barrier Reef, you may notice an additional fee called the environmental management charge (EMC). This fee is a part of most commercial activities, including tours, that operate within the Great Barrier Reef

When you book a day tour to the Great Barrier Reef, you may notice an additional fee called the environmental management charge (EMC). This fee is a part of most commercial activities, including tours, that operate within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park under a permit issued by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

When you participate in a tourist activity on the Great Barrier Reef, you are usually responsible for paying this charge to the tour operator. The tour operator then forwards the fee to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

Why do you have to pay the fee?

The environmental management charge plays a crucial role in the day-to-day management and long-term resilience of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The funds collected through this charge are directly used for the management and conservation efforts of the marine park.

Additionally, when you provide visitation information along with the environmental management charge, it greatly helps the Reef Authority and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) in developing sustainable management plans for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

By paying the environmental management charge, you are contributing to the protection and preservation of this magnificent natural wonder, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy its beauty.

5 Starlink on the Reef

Reef Magic has introduced Starlink wifi access onboard their pontoon so guests can enjoy uninterrupted digital access to share their day on the Great Barrier Reef. It will also enable the GBR Biology team to conduct live feeds from the pontoon s

Reef Magic has introduced Starlink wifi access onboard their pontoon so guests can enjoy uninterrupted digital access to share their day on the Great Barrier Reef. It will also enable the GBR Biology team to conduct live feeds from the pontoon showcasing their work with reef education and sustainability.

2 OceanQuest is back in the water Saturday, the 18th of March, 2023

Our Divers Den liveaboard vessel ‘OceanQuest’ is back in the water this Saturday, the 18th of March!

OceanQuest has had a whooping $700K spent on her in the latest refit. She has been freshly painted,  fabulously rebranded and has some addition

Our Divers Den liveaboard vessel ‘OceanQuest’ is back in the water this Saturday, the 18th of March!

OceanQuest has had a whooping $700K spent on her in the latest refit. She has been freshly painted,  fabulously rebranded and has some additional new soft furnishings - we are ready take our guests on a unique and memorable reef experience with our flexible daily departures and PADI course options.

OceanQuest is a 36 metre catamaran over 3 decks with the capacity to sleep 48 customers overnight.

There are 18 Twin Cabins with two single beds and 4 Double Cabins that have a double bed, all cabins are equipped with air conditioning, and en-suite bathroom facilities. OceanQuest provides a spacious and comfortable ‘home away from home’ on The Great Barrier Reef, offering a truly unique experience for all divers and snorkelers wanting to explore this pristine underwater playground. 

6 Reef Quest Day Trip March Special | $199

ReefQuest Cairns is offering a discount for March 2023 on  snorkelling and diving options. The special is valid until 31st of March. Please see the prices below:

• $199 for day trip + snorkelling
• $269 for day trip + one intro dive
• $269 for da

ReefQuest Cairns is offering a discount for March 2023 on  snorkelling and diving options. The special is valid until 31st of March. Please see the prices below:

• $269 for day trip + one intro dive
• $269 for day trip + two certified dives

ReefQuest is an 8 hour Great Barrie Reef experience from Cairns. The modern vessel 3 large sun decks, 2 air-conditioned indoor saloons, a spacious dive deck, and a sunken platform for easy access in and out of the water. 

ReefQuest Departs Cairns at 8:30 and returns at 4:30.

4 Whale shark encounter at Moore Reef

Passengers with Great Adventures had a rare encounter while they were seated in the semi-submarine at Moore Reef.

The whale shark, estimated to be 4 - 5 metres in length swam up close and alongside the semi-sub window as excited passengers look

The whale shark, estimated to be 4 - 5 metres in length swam up close and alongside the semi-sub window as excited passengers looked on in awe. 

More often associated with the northern waters of Western Australia, whale shark encounters on the Great Barrier Reef are quite rare.

“We wouldn’t normally expect to see them here at this time of year. As plankton feeders you would expect likelier sightings around seasonal plankton blooms and coral spawning.”

As the largest fish in the sea reaching lengths of over 12 metres, whale sharks are docile fish feeding mostly on plankton, crab larvae and jellyfish, which they scoop up with their colossal gaping mouths while swimming close to the water’s surface. They are listed as a vulnerable species and prior to the mid 1980s there were less than 350 confirmed reports of whale sharks world-wide. 

2 Ocean Spirit returning in September 2022

After nearly two and a half years, we're excited to announce Ocean Spirit's Michaelmas Cay cruise is recommencing from 17 September. The beautiful 32 metre (105ft) sailing catamaran is undergoing refit to be ship shape and in top condition to we

After nearly two and a half years, we're excited to announce Ocean Spirit's Michaelmas Cay cruise is recommencing from 17 September. The beautiful 32 metre (105ft) sailing catamaran is undergoing refit to be ship shape and in top condition to welcome guests aboard.

Sail, snorkel, dive, relax. A day with Ocean Spirit can be as leisurely or active as you choose. Snorkel from the cay’s protected shallow waters, view the corals from a glass bottom boat or take some time to observe the island’s fascinating birds. Michaelmas Cay is a National Park and very important protected sanctuary for migratory seabirds, perfect for keen bird watchers. The reef surrounding the cay is renowned for an abundance of giant clams and sea turtles amongst a myriad of colourful marine life.

Throughout the day, the “beach buggy” transfers guests between Ocean Spirit and the beach. To protect this special bird sanctuary, access on the cay is limited to the roped beach area. Optional activites include introductory scuba diving and marine biologist guided snorkel tours to learn much more about the reef and the creatures that inhabit it.

Or if you prefer, just relax on the beach or onboard Ocean Spirit’s spacious decks. A perfect finishing touch to the day is a glass of complimentary sparkling wine on the way home. A Five Star day on the Reef!

6 Sunlover Special extended to 31st March 2022

Sunlover Reef Cruises will continue the special rates for their Great Barrier Reef day trip from Cairns until the 31st March 2022.

• $199 adults (17+ years)
• $99 children (4 - 16 years)
• $497 families (2 Adults + 2 Children)

The Sunlover Grea

Sunlover Reef Cruises will continue the special rates for their Great Barrier Reef day trip from Cairns until the 31st March 2022.

The Sunlover Great Barrier Reef experience departs daily at 9.30am from Cairns. Our state-of-the art Moore Reef Marine Base is perfectly positioned and fully equipped so that any age or ability can fully experience the magic of the reef with its abundance of colourful coral, fascinating fish, turtles & more.

5 Evolution Semi-Sub is back on the 20th Dec 2021

We are delighted to announce that from the 20th of December, the Semi-Submersible is back and operational again! The semi-submersible coral viewing reef tour is the perfect activity for non-swimmers on the Great Barrier Reef. Learn all about th

We are delighted to announce that from the 20th of December, the Semi-Submersible is back and operational again! The semi-submersible coral viewing reef tour is the perfect activity for non-swimmers on the Great Barrier Reef. Learn all about the Great Barrier Reef with live commentary by our Marine Biologist and enjoy spectacular coral formations and spot marine life without getting in the water.

The semi-submersible tour operates at our second reef site, Hastings Reef, and runs for approximately 20 minutes.

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Green Island Experience

Full & half day tours operating daily to Green Island

Book With Cairns' Best Reef Island Tour

Award winning Great Barrier Reef Tour Operating Daily

Full Day Tour

• Up to 5.5 hours on the island
• Choice of free glass bottom boat tour or snorkelling gear with Full or Half Day standard tour (not included with transfer only)
• Activities for all ages
• From $105 (Transfer Only)

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Operating in the Great Barrier Reef for over 30 years

Great Barrier Reef Tours are one of the most popular things to do whilst in Cairns. Only 45 minutes from Cairns, this tropical Island is a beautiful coral cay on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef with unique island rainforests, surrounded by white sandy beaches & magnificent coral reefs and abundant marine life.

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Highly environmentally-conscious

Big Cat pride ourselves on our commitment to sustainability. The ECO Certification logo is a globally recognized brand which assists travellers to choose and experience a genuine and authentic tour, attraction, cruise or accommodation that is environmentally, socially and economically sustainable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question? We're here to help.

Our crew get asked dozens of questions every day, some quirky some quite intelligent, some just plain entertaining. But as they say, there is no such thing as a dumb question so don’t be too scared to ask.

Do I need to check in on the day?

Do you have hotel transfers.

We have a fleet of modern air-conditioned coaches that offer a coach service from Cairns city hotels for just $27 per adult and $17 per child, for the return transfer. If you are staying at one of the Northern Beaches (from north of the Airport to Ellis Beach) we also can pick you up from there too. Beach transfers are $38 per adult and $25 per child return. Please contact us if wanting to add a coach transfer to your booking.

Can I take a pram on board?

All our vessels are pram friendly. The beach areas are not practical for prams however there are boardwalks and pathways throughout the island that are suitable. Prams can be stored on ‘Big Cat’ if needed.

Is this tour wheelchair friendly?

Passengers must have some mobility and/or the presence of a carer who can assist them. Depending on tides it may be necessary to embark/disembark from different levels on the boat. Coral viewing and glass bottom boat activities are subject to the weather and the extent of the passenger’s mobility and/or the presence of a carer who can assist. Please note that the toilets on the vessel are not wheelchair accessible but there are disabled toilets available on the island. Please advise at time of booking if you have wheelchair bound passengers travelling. These guidelines apply to standard wheelchairs only. We are not able to accommodate electric wheelchairs on any of the vessels or coaches.

What do I need to bring with me?

We recommend you bring a towel, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and swimwear. Also, cash for drinks, snacks or souvenirs you may want to buy. Credit cards are accepted at most shops at the Island however surcharges may apply.

Can I change my date of travel or cancel once booked?

Yes, you can cancel or amend your tour to a different date (subject to availability) if you notify us 24 hours or more prior to travel. If you need to cancel or change dates within 24 hours of travel a 100% cancellation fee applies Please note a ‘no show’ (where passengers do not turn up to the specified pick-up point or departure point without notification) automatically incurs a 100% cancellation fee.

Is the Green Island tour recommended for children?

Our cruises are suitable for people of all ages, including families with young children. Our half day option is ideal for small children, infants and babies. Additionally snorkelling directly from the beach is perfect for children and first time snorkelers.

Is lunch included?

No. However you can purchase our delicious buffet lunch option in the cart when booking.

Adult: $30 pp, Child (under 14yr): $16 pp.

Please contact us if you have any special dietary requirements

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Rated 4.5/5 stars, our team continues to ensure your experience at the reef is all we have promised and more.

“ Michelle Sparrow Queensland “ Hubby and I booked a day trip on this vessel the Great Barrier Reef with Big Cat. Cannot say enough good things about the vessel or the crew. ”

“ Steve H Lytham St Annes “ What a great experience, with Snuba you have a guide who is Scuba diving with you which leaves you free to observe the marine life and no heavy tanks to deal with! ”

“ Shanii Brisbane “ Loved the service of these guys. The boat was great to travel on. Very helpful with answering any questions and not pushy with up sales either. ”

“ Becc Pitt Town “ All the staff were very friendly and helpful. The hotel transfers were on time. Everything was easy. The buffet lunch was fresh and offered a good variety of hot and cold food. ”

“ Michael C Melbourne “ The boat Captain was very knowledgeable to explain all things we encountered in both cases. It was an amazing trip to see the Great Barrier Reef in the nature life. ”

“ Vanessa Palm Cove “ I had an amazing day with Big Cat with my mother in law and 3 year old son exploring the island. There was so many options for families and was amazing to see the turtles. ”

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Snorkeling Cairns: The Best Great Barrier Reef Tours

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On my first trip to Australia I only had one must-do activity on my list: Go Snorkeling on a Great Barrier Reef Cruise. I had snorkeled in the Caribbean Sea while visiting St. Maarten, at Captain Cook in Kona, Hawaii and in the lagoons surrounding Moorea, French Polynesia – and I wasn’t leaving Australia without taking a Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tour!

Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tours

There are numerous Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tours that transport passengers to the outer reefs to snorkel. Most full-day Great Barrier Reef trips follow the same schedule: early departure, multiple snorkeling spots, lunch, water and coffee throughout the day.

However, not all cruises from Cairns offer the same reef experience. Some barrier reef tours offer indulgent lunches on sleek boats, while other Cairns cruises only offer the basics. Additionally, there are full-day and half-day snorkeling Cairns tours.

Booking Cairns Snorkeling Tours

As budget-conscious travelers, we were most interested in an economical Cairns Great Barrier Reef snorkel tour that visited multiple sites. We were not overly concerned with the type of boat, the kind of food served or other on-board amenities.

The ‘extras’ can enhance the experience of barrier reef cruises, but at a cost. With a little more room in our Cairns, Australia Budget , we would have factored those points into our decision. However, we were simply looking for cheap Great Barrier Reef tours that allowed us time to swim with the fish in multiple spots.

We waited to book our Cairns tour until we arrived in the city – which probably would have been a mistake in the high season. Our visit, however, was in August, which is the middle of Australia’s winter when Great Barrier Reef holidays are not in great demand.

The day before we wanted to go, we went to the Cairns pier where the Great Barrier Reef snorkeling tours depart and asked around for itineraries and prices. In hindsight, we did not need to waste time going to the docks; we would have been better off reading reviews and booking one of the Great Barrier Reef tours from Cairns online. 

Snorkeling Cairns, Great Barrier Reef, Australia

On the day of our Cairns to Great Barrier Reef trip, the ocean was flat and clouds hung in the sky. It was a perfect day. The conditions were optimal for the best snorkeling Great Barrier Reef experience. The crew claimed it was the best day they had for reef trips from Cairns in four months.

Once we were checked in, we filled out the necessary paperwork and were given a safety briefing. The crew gave us a rundown on the Great Barrier Reef itinerary: Boat from Cairns to barrier reef, snorkel, lunch, snorkel, return to Cairns. Simple enough!

While fellow passengers sat at tables inside the cabin, we grabbed a cup of complimentary coffee and claimed the bow of the ship. Along with the other Cairns outer reef tours, we departed the docks and sailed east. It was a two-hour journey to our first snorkel stop, Breaking Patches Reef, an outer Great Barrier Reef just off Michaelmas Cay.

Stop #1 Breaking Patches, Outer Great Barrier Reef

Although we had left with all of the other boats on Great Barrier Reef day trips from Cairns, ours was the only boat at Breaking Patches. With my fins secured to my feet and the proper amount of anti-fog spit rubbed in my mask, I pushed off from the side platform into the cold, clear waters of the outer Great Barrier Reef.

The shallow sea backlit by the shining sun made it easy to spot the bright tropical fish and a sting ray swimming below. I had only been in the water for a few minutes and I was already claiming this Great Barrier Reef snorkeling tour a success. The colors were vibrant, the clarity incredible, the experience phenomenal!

The fish we saw were similar to species we had seen while snorkeling in Moorea, but the Cairns, Australia Great Barrier Reef took snorkeling to another level. Although the fish were alike, the reef experience in Cairns was gigantic in comparison. The fish were enormous and strikingly rich in color. The entire Cairns barrier reef was humming with lively activity.

As we floated over the colossal reefs, we could hear the clicking of Parrot Fish feasting on the coral. The coral seemed endless and more than once I had to force myself to stay within the required distance allowed from the boat rather than venturing further out.

Barrier Reef Cruises Cairns On-Board Lunch

The crew called us back to the boat when it was time for lunch. The on-board meal was a scrumptious and hearty helping of curry chicken, sausages and salads. Although other more luxurious Cairns barrier reef tours offer fresh seafood lunches, we were content with the meal we had. We also were eating on the move as we motored to our next snorkeling destination, Hastings Reef.

Stop #2 Hastings Reef, Outer Great Barrier

Revved up about our Cairns Reef excursion, we were the first ones in the water when we arrived at Hastings Reef. We never imagined that on one of the Great Barrier Reef Cairns tours we would have the water all to ourselves – even if it was for just a few minutes. It was amazing!

Entire schools of fish would sway with the current. We watched some fish that seemed to be on a mission. Other fish stayed close to the branched coral, a perfect hiding spot when intruders came by.

I could almost reach out and touch the intensely colorful fish as they swam by me, giving me a hard, one-eyed stare. The smallest fish I saw was a transparent fish the size of the end of my pinky finger. On the other end of the spectrum, two-foot long fish that glowed bright neon were impossible to miss.

Great Barrier Reef Attractions: Maori Wrasse and Reef Sharks

In much deeper water at Hastings Reef, the coral heads protruded from the ocean floor. They were absolutely teeming with marine life. As we swam, we encountered fascinating underwater scenes not witnessed in the shallow water on our first Cairns reef snorkeling stop.

In addition to the colorful tropical fish, we caught sight of two of the most sought-after underwater creatures on Cairns snorkeling trips: a Maori Wrasse and reef sharks.

It was on the far side of the coral that I encountered the biggest fish I’ve ever seen while under water, a Maori Wrasse. The enormous, grayish-purple fish is commonly featured on brochures for Cairns boat trips, but I had no real hopes of actually catching a glimpse of one on our Great Barrier Reef boat tour. When I swam around the coral, the puffy-lipped fish looked at me with its suspect, bubbly eyes. Measuring about four feet long and two feet from top to bottom, the Maori Wrasse was agile enough to evade a close-up inspection from us. Spotting the iconic fish was a highlight of our Cairns Great Barrier Reef day tour!

However, there were more surprises in store at Hastings Reef. In between mammoth coral heads, we clearly saw two reef sharks on the sandy bottom of the sea. The harmless sharks playfully chased each other in circles as we hovered above watching in awe. The calm water made it easy to explore and there seemed to be a never ending amount of reef to discover. We didn’t want our Australia Great Barrier Reef tour to end!

One More Great Barrier Reef Experience: Boomnetting

Although outer Great Barrier Reef tours are focused on the best snorkeling Cairns has to offer, some companies offer additional water activities. On our journey back to shore, we learned there was one more activity in the water: Boomnetting. Not a term I was familiar with, a rope net is lowered from the stern of the boat with participants clinging to the netting. As the boat speeds up, the goal is to hang on for as long as you can.

To be honest, the game is probably more suited to an episode of Stupid Human Tricks than a Great Barrier Reef cruises from Cairns. Still, the challenge was too enticing to pass up. Besides, it allowed us one more chance to swim in the sea. We were the first in line and took our places on the net with other adventurous passengers. My friend bailed on Speed One. I hung on until Speed Two, letting go with face full of saltwater. No one lasted past Speed Three. Time for a beer…

Return To Cairns Port

After boarding the boat for the fourth – and final – time, the captain navigated the waters back to land. On the return trip, the crew offered complimentary wine and cheese and opened the bar. On the remainder of our Cairns snorkeling day trip, we again lounged on the bow of the boat, tipping a few beers and mingling with other passengers.

Reflecting on this barrier reef tour from Cairns, we felt our Great Barrier Reef boat trip offered incredible value for money. For us, it was the best Great Barrier Reef snorkeling tour on a budget. We snorkeled one of the most epic reefs in the world, witnessed underwater creatures we never imagined we would see and had an enjoyable time on board. For the price we paid, we could not have had a better reef day trip from Cairns!

Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Prices

Great Barrier Reef trips from Cairns vary in price depending on several factors. Our snorkeling Cairns day tour cost about $100 USD, but prices have risen slightly since our trip. Highly-rated tours cost about $150 USD, which is still a fairly cheap snorkeling Cairns tour. Great Barrier Reef deals can be found online, which is a good place to start when booking day tours from Cairns.

Snorkeling Cairns Sightseeing Tours

We have spent ample time scouring the internet for the best Great Barrier Reef tours. From our research, we identified the top-rated snorkeling Cairns tours. 

Full Day Great Barrier Reef Tours

Top-Rated Speed Boat Tour – Limited to just 36 passengers, the boat motors from Cairns to two snorkeling spots and includes lunch. Book it now!  

Highly-Rated Speed Boat Tour – Similar to the tour we took, the boat accommodates 140 passengers. It visits two snorkeling spots, includes a BBQ lunch onboard and a complimentary glass of wine – and entertains with live music in the afternoon. Check it out!

Top-Rated Catamaran Tour – Set sail on a luxury catamaran to two outer Great Barrier Reef snorkeling spots and on-board lunch. Get the details!  

Half Day Reef Tours Cairns

Short on time? Join a half-day cruise around Green Island where you can snorkel from the beach. Learn More!

Great Barrier Reef Cairns Glass Bottom Boat

Ideal for cruise ship visitors, this tour departs near the cruise terminal. Hop aboard an air-conditioned glass bottom boat for a 6-hour tour around Green Island with the opportunity to snorkel. Get the details!

Scuba Diving Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Although we were not interested in scuba diving Cairns, there are many companies that offer the experience. Find out more about the options for diving Cairns on Viator .

More Cairns Day Trips

Snorkeling tours are not the only day trips from Cairns! In fact, we took multiple Cairns day tours during our visit. Other Cairns trips we took were to the Kuranda Rainforest and Trinity Beach. You can search for top-rated tours from Cairns on Viator .

Essentials for Snorkeling Cairns, Australia

• Don’t forget your water activity essentials, even in the winter! You will need high-SPF sunscreen , a wide-brimmed hat , a swimsuit and towel. 
• We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your trip to Cairns and highly recommend investing in a real camera . We travel with a Canon Rebel (which takes amazing photos) and a Canon PowerShot ELPH (which takes beautiful pictures and is a slim and lightweight budget camera ).
• An underwater camera is also a MUST – and we really regret not taking one with us on our trip! If you don’t already have one, invest in a GoPro or a much less-expensive waterproof action camera .
• You’ll want a great day pack to organize all your everyday travel essentials plus a dry change of clothes.
• Get (and stay) organized for your Australia trip with our Printable Travel Planner .
• If you haven’t already obtained insurance for your trip, consider traveling protected with World Nomads .

More Travel Guides for Australia

Over the years we have visited Australia numerous times. From coast to coast, we’ve covered the Land Down Under and our free and honest travel articles can help you plan your vacation to Australia!

• Best Itinerary for Sydney
• Sydney Walking Tour
• Blue Mountain Day Trip from Sydney
• Top Things To Do in Melbourne
• Great Ocean Road Day Trip
• Brisbane Things To Do
• What To See in Perth
• Coolangatta and the Gold Coast
• Hobart, Tasmania Itinerary

Start planning your trip to Australia ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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Great Barrier Reef Diving, Snorkeling & Sailing Tours with Small, Fun Groups

The Outer Great Barrier Reef - Cairns, Australia. Since 1995. The Reef is Yours!

Wally Says - Now is the time to have some fun and experience one of the most unique Natural Wonders of the World: The Great Barrier Reef - Join the Fun - Book Now!

Coral Sea Dreaming - 2 Days Sailing ketch with beautiful wooden interior. Our experienced and friendly crew will help to make your trip an adventure of a lifetime

Small Fun Groups of 12 Travelling to the reef with only twelve guests lets you experience the best reefs and fish in more personally.

Fun Times with Friends It's your break from work so it's time to relax. No rigid schedules so you can enjoy your time on the reef

Personal Reef Experiences Our reef sites are carefully chosen to make sure you get to see the best the Great Barrier Reef has to offer.

Relax with Friends Travel should be enjoying, so throw out the schedules, relax and enjoy the reef, fish and friends around you

Reef & Fish Education Learn about the reef ecosystem and our monitoring efforts to assist in its' sustainability and preservation.

 A ustralia Diving, Snorkeling & Sailing Tours

Do something different for your tropical vacation and make your Great Barrier Reef adventure truly unique. Experience scuba diving and snorkeling on the beautiful outer edge of Australia's Great Barrier Reef in small intimate groups.

Locally owned and operated, New Horizon Sail & Dive Adventures has been operating adventure tours to the Cairns reefs , Australia since 1995 and are consistently rated one of the best trips on the Great Barrier Reef. Our charter yachts take a maximum of only 12 guests, so you’ll receive the personal attention not possible on the larger tour vessels.  No hectic schedules allows you to have a stress free vacation.  You just snorkel, dive, & relax on the Great Barrier Reef.

Relax and enjoy Great Barrier Reef Diving, Snorkeling and Sailing Charters from Cairns, Australia. The smallest number of divers and snorkelers are taken on our Great Barrier Reef Tours , 12, yes that's right only twelve people for that more personal experience. The scuba diving and snorkeling sites we sail to are not frequented by the large boats, so you get to experience something different. These outer reefs are chosen for their unique coral formations & abundant marine life. We want you to have the holiday you have been looking forward to. So it’s up to you how you want to spend your reef liveaboard adventure. You can explore the Cairns reefs and enjoy activities including snorkelling, introductory & certified scuba diving. If you’re looking for a little more relaxing trip , simply come aboard with a great book and enjoy the serenity and the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef . If you wish you can join in and help sail the boat or just ‘supervise’ from the deck. Our objective is to allow you to experience the reef at your own pace. Our knowledgeable, environmentally aware and friendly crew will pay every attention to your comfort and well being.  Our company is focused and actively participates in assisting researchers and environmental protection and awareness projects for coral reefs and marine life globally.

All done to ensure that you return from your Australian scuba dive and sail adventure with fantastic memories to last a lifetime. Private yacht charters around the Cairns reefs and islands are available on all our sailing yachts for every occasion. This includes scuba diving clubs, managerial off-sites, team building events, or intimate affairs such as family vacations, small groups, engagements, weddings, reunions, team building exercises and friends just travelling together on their Australia vacation. Come and join us the the tropical vacation you deserve!

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15 Best Great Barrier Reef Tours from Cairns

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Approximately two million people make the journey to Far North Queensland every year, teeming with excitement. With so many different tours departing from Cairns offering sailing, snorkeling, diving, and more, choosing the most appropriate option can be overwhelming.

Thankfully, we’ve done the research so that you don’t have to! If you’re looking for the best Great Barrier Reef tours from Cairns, look no further!

Composed of nearly 3,000 individual reefs and 900 picturesque islands, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef boasts breathtaking beauty in every direction. Colorful fish, vibrant coral, and sizzling rays of year-round sunshine make this iconic Australian destination one of the world’s most revered natural attractions.

Don’t feel like reading ahead? Click below to compare ALL of the tours available and save 30% or more.

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1 – Great Barrier Reef: Premium Catamaran Cruise from Cairns

There’s no better feeling than lounging on the netted deck with the wind in your hair. That’s exactly what you’ll be experiencing en route to two glorious reef sites aboard a state-of-the-art catamaran. Depending on the day’s conditions, some snorkeling locations boast greater underwater visibility than others, with the crew always aiming to find the most serene spots.

The full-day tour lasts 9 hours, sets sail at 8am, and offers full cancellation and refunds up to 24 hours before departure. $175 AUD will include morning and afternoon tea, high-quality snorkeling equipment, complimentary snorkel tours, and the option to either snorkel, swim, or dive (optional add-on) amongst the marine life.

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2 – Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns

Suitable for beginner-level swimmers as well as water sports enthusiasts, this cruise takes you out to a pair of vibrant reef locations on a luxurious superyacht – work on the tan on th open-air deck or relax and take a break from the sun in the air-conditioned modern lounges.

While moorings change depending on the conditions, tours usually visit one of the Outer Great Barrier Reef spots (Saxon Reef or Norman Reef) in the morning before continuing to North Hastings Reef in the afternoon, with a freshly-cooked lunch in the middle.

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes and departs from Cairns at 7am. $165 AUD includes a glass of wine, use of all equipment, a buffet BBQ lunch, and 5 hours of reef time. Optional extras, such as a helicopter flight, are available at an extra cost.

3 – Premium Reef and Coral Cay Cruise at High Speed from Cairns

With a maximum of 36 participants on any one day, this tour is far more intimate and personal than most of its competitors. Onboard the Seastar 1, you’ll reach your first diving or snorkeling spot – Michaelmas Cay – just 1 hour and 15 minutes after departure.

Once there, explore the waters to your heart’s content or simply kick back on the untouched, postcard-worthy beach. Next stop: the equally impressive Hastings Reef, sitting on the very outer edge on the Great Barrier Reef.

The full-day tour departs from Cairns at 7:30am. $200 AUD includes morning and afternoon tea, a scrumptious buffet lunch, guided snorkel tours at both locations, and most impressively, a glass-bottom boat throughout.

4 – Cairns: Green Island & Reef Full-Day Sailing Cruise

The smallest boat so far – a classic 16-meter sailing vessel – welcomes a maximum of 25 exclusive guests, meaning that you’ll have more one-on-one time with the informative marine biologist and won’t have to fight your way through hoards of tourists to cash in on the smorgasbord lunch. In addition to the ample diving and snorkeling opportunities, visitors have plenty of time to chill on the beautiful Green Island.

The tour lasts about 9 hours and typically leaves the Cairns dock at 8am. $215 per person includes top-quality snorkeling gear, wetsuits, a glass of wine, a tropical afternoon tea,  and snorkeling tours – with the optional add-on for scuba diving.

Cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund (trust us though, this unforgettable experience is not one that you want to pass up).

5 – Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise from Cairns

If you’re all about high-class luxury and prefer having more room to move, then the 65-foot (20-meter) catamaran presents as an excellent option. A maximum of 75 people will set sail from Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal to Upolu Cay. From there, visitors climb aboard a glass-bottom boat – have your camera at the ready, because the marine life swimming underneath is guaranteed to amaze.

Swimming zone number two is a marine hotspot known as the Wonder Wall, which descends a whopping 14 meters below the surface and is teeming with coral and wildlife.

The tour lasts 9 hours, departing from Cairns at 7:15am. Upwards of $213.50 includes a tantalizing buffet lunch with seafood, professional snorkeling equipment, ongoing crew assistance, refreshments throughout the day, and showers on board.

6 – Great Barrier Reef Scenic Helicopter Tour and Cruise from Cairns

Seeing the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef from on or below the surface is incredible. Seeing it from a birds-eye view as you whip through the skies in a helicopter provides a whole new jealousy-inducing perspective. You’ll still be blessed with the opportunity to swim, snorkel, and/or scuba – the helicopter is simply the means of transport.

Three options are available to choose from:

• Fly to the reef, snorkel and explore, and then fly back to Cairns.
• Boat to the reef, snorkel and explore, and then fly back to Cairns.
• Fly to the reef, snorkel and explore, and then boat back to Cairns.

Option 1 and option 2 commence at 12:40pm while option 3 departs at 7:30am.

Starting at $405, these packages include at least one overhead helicopter flight; a freshly-made BBQ lunch featuring fresh fish, sausages, steak, salads, and pasta; snorkeling equipment; and free refunds up until 24 hours before departure.

Note that scuba diving within 48 hours of flying is not recommended and hotel pickup is not included (although Cairns is a small city with plenty of parking, so making your own way to the departure point shouldn’t be a hassle).

7 – 2-Day Best of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

Cairns is renowned for being home to the largest coral reef system on Earth. But the Tropical North Queensland city has another trick up its sleeve: it’s the gateway to some of the oldest and most beautiful tropical rainforests on the planet. This tour combines the best of both worlds, tackling the rainforest-based Kuranda Village on day one and the reef on day two.

Kuranda village sits in the tropical mountains northwest of Cairns – you’ll see the village and its surroundings first-hand with rides on both the Kuranda Scenic Railway and the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. This portion of the two-day tour provides an insight into Aboriginal culture and gets you up close and personal with land-based Aussie wildlife (did someone say koalas?).

$614 includes hotel pickup and drop-off (from Cairns only), a 25-minute one-way helicopter tour from the Great Barrier Reef to Cairns, professional guides, lunch, and the Great Barrier Reef Cruise.

8 – Green Island Reef Catamaran Cruise from Cairns

For those who want to experience all the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef but don’t want to splurge on unnecessary bells and whistles, this tour aught to do the trick.

Starting at just $99, this option entices the budget-savvy traveler while still offering ample time to snorkel through the colorful coral gardens off the coast of Green Island and surround yourself with spectacular fish.

Full-day tours offer time to laze on a sandy beach, while half-day tours suit those pressed for time. Depending on which you choose, you’ll set sail in either the modern catamaran, ‘Reef Rocket’; or a larger, air-conditioned 35-meter catamaran.

9 – Cairns: Outer Great Barrier Reef Full-Day Tour & Live Music

Five hours of snorkeling at two exclusive mooring locations is the perfect way to check out this globally-adored slice of Mother Nature. What sets this tour apart from the others is the live music, performed by an Aussie artist on the return leg of the journey.

The vessel departs at 8:15am and typically returns at around 4:30pm. $165 per person includes a gourmet BBQ lunch, snorkeling equipment with an optional guided lesson from one of the staff members, afternoon tea, a glass of wine, and a fruit and cheese platter.

Plenty of optional extras are available for purchase too, such as photos, helicopter tours, and diving.

10 – Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise Including Scenic Heli Flight

On ‘Evolution’, one of the fastest and largest commercial catamarans that services the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll venture across the pristine waters to two spectacular swimming destinations in the Outer Reef.

Sunbathe on the deck or relax in the air-conditioned lounges – either way, you’re in for a treat. With room for 150 passengers on the boat, this option is perfect for the socialites.

$368 grants you access to a 10-minute Scenic Helicopter Flight to and from the exclusive Heli-Pontoon on the Outer Reef, in addition to all of the features and amenities listed in the aforementioned number 9 on this list.

11 – Barrier Reef Snorkeling with Helicopter, Cruise or Both

If you’re itching to take in the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef from all possible angles, then look no further. This tour kicks off with a scenic flight from Cairns over the Reef and the sand cays. Thereafter, you’ll be given 1.5 hours to spend swimming or snorkeling in the wildlife haven that is Hastings Reef.

• Cruise to the reef, snorkel and explore, and then fly back to Cairns.
• Fly to the reef, snorkel and explore, and then cruise by boat back to Cairns.

You’ll receive all this, plus a classic Aussie BBQ lunch, snorkeling gear, and a complimentary glass of wine for $399 per person. Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund.

12 – 2-Day Reef and Rainforest Package Combo: Green Island Cruise and Kuranda Day Trip

Want to see everything that Cairns has to offer on land and sea, and still be able to sleep in your own bed? Look no further. With hotel pickup and drop-off on both days, this hassle-free tour takes you on an adventure through the reef (with a cruise to Green Island) and through the rainforest (with a visit to the rainforest village of Kuranda).

The activity is advertised to have a maximum of 9 travelers, so you won’t feel forced to socialize. Have the camera at the ready because you’ll be gawking at the views from the Kuranda Scenic Rail, hanging out with koalas, and snapping selfies with turtles.

Trips start at $394 AUD and include a coral viewing tour in a semi-submarine at no extra charge. Note: unlike some alternatives, this option is final-sale and incurs a 100% cancellation penalty.

13 – Ultimate Great Barrier Reef Cruise with Marine World Pontoon

A high-speed catamaran guarantees a smooth ride out to the Outer Reef, where the magic of the Great Barrier Reef truly shines through. Once anchored, you’ll have access to a wide range of free onboard activities including a semi-submersible tour, viewings from a glass-bottom boat, and the ‘underwater reef viewing observatory’. Or, join a marine biologist from the multilingual crew on a guided snorkel safari!

Prices start at $239 per person, tours last for approximately 8 hours, and you’ll depart from the Cairns dock at 8:30am. Refreshments are available all day, highlighted by a delicious chef-prepared buffet lunch.

14 – Cairns: Snorkel & Dive a Secluded Great Barrier Reef Island

Can’t stand crowds? Does the thought of a selfie stick make you want to hurl? Then this tour is perfect – it’s secluded, small, and far away from the hoards of potentially-obnoxious tourists.

The tour starts with a relaxing 30-minute cruise down the colorful Mulgrave River – keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles! You’ll arrive at the untouched paradise that is Frankland Islands National Park, an area less popular but also less affected by coral bleaching than most Great Barrier Reef destinations.

A maximum of 30 visitors are permitted on the island daily, so make sure to book in advance. Tours start at $99 per person and included a prepackaged lunch, snorkeling equipment, and morning and afternoon tea

15 – Reef and Rainforest Tandem Sky Dive in Cairns

Adrenaline junkies, this one’s for you! Jump out of a plane from up to 15,000 feet over, arguably, the most picturesque natural vista on the planet. No previous experience required – with a professional tandem diver strapped to your back, all that you have to worry about is soaking in the unbeatable views of UNESCO rainforests and reefs from above.

Prices start at $274 AUD and come with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.

We hope that you have enjoyed our selection of the best Great Barrier Reef tours from Cairns. If you are looking for more activities to do in Cairns, take a look at our list of the most fun things to do in Cairns !

Don’t hesitate to comment below if you have any questions. Have fun 🙂

Best Great Barrier Reef Trips For Non-Swimmers

Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to swim to see the Great Barrier Reef . Cairns offers numerous activities for non-swimmers to enjoy the stunning coral gardens and marine life that many people dream of ticking off their bucket list. Options range from glass-bottom boats and semi-submersible tours, to helmet dives, scenic flights and guided snorkel tours.

Regardless of your swimming ability or aversion to swimming in the ocean, this guide lists the best tours for experiencing the reef from Cairns or Port Douglas .

Can you still see the Great Barrier Reef if you can't swim?

Yes, you can see the Great Barrier Reef even if you can't swim! Thousands of people visit Cairns from all over the world every month, including from culture's where it's not a priority or never had the opportunity to learn how to swim. It's actually more common than you might think and almost every reef tour caters to those visitors.

Flotation devices can be provided on request and the friendly crew will conduct a snorkel gear briefing demonstration prior to arrival at the first reef site. If you're worried about safety while snorkelling, don't be. Qualified lifeguards stand watch from the deck, keeping an eye out for anyone in need of help. 

Is it safe to snorkel if you can't swim?

Snorkelling isn't just reserved for those who know how to swim, with the right precautions and support it can be safe for non-swimmers as well. Below is some helpful suggestions for how to remain safe while snorkelling.

• Buoyancy vests or flotation devices like belts and noodles will keep you afloat and help you feel more secure in the water. 
• Guided snorkeling tours where a professional can assist and ensure your safety often provide a briefing and in-water support for non-swimmers.
• Start in shallow waters off the beach where you can stand, if necessary. This can help build your confidence in the water. Green , Fitzroy , Frankland Islands and Michaelmas Cay are great places to start.
• Swim close to the boat if you are doing an outer reef trip where entrance is off the back deck into deep water so you can call out to staff if you need help. 

Best Great Barrier Reef Trips For Non-Swimmers From Cairns

Best Great Barrier Reef Trips For Non-Swimmers From Port Douglas

So as you can see, no matter if you're not a swimmer as there's no shortage of things to do when it comes to seeing the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns or Port Douglas. 

Find the best deals on any of these Cairns tours by contacting our local travel experts !

You can also pop into our travel shop in cairns located at shop 7 cairns square, 42-58 abbott street or call (07) 4082 7470 to chat with our online agents. , related articles....

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How to have an eco-friendly holiday on the Great Barrier Reef

We all want to do our part to future-proof the planet but we don’t always know where to start. Here, travel writer Jessica Wynne Lockhart hops on board Coral Expeditions’ annual Citizen Science Cruise to do her bit.

As the sun set over Queensland’s coastline, I stood on the sun deck of the 72-passenger Coral Discoverer and waved goodbye.

In the distance, the Sunshine Coast’s Glass House Mountains drifted past, their silhouettes dark against the orange-pink simmer—a perfect colour match for the aperol spritz I sipped.

With the bon voyage cocktail cool in my hand, it was easy to forget that the trip I was embarking on from Brisbane to Cairns wasn’t just another pleasure cruise. As a passenger on Coral Expeditions’ annual Citizen Science Cruise, I’d be spending the next 10 days learning about coral science, observing reef restoration, and helping to monitor the health of the reef at snorkel and dive sites along the way.

READ MORE: How to preserve the Great Barrier Reef for future generations

Citizen science — which refers to when the general public makes observations or helps collect data for use by scientists, often submitted through apps — is far from a new concept.

However, it’s only been in the last decade that it’s been more widely embraced by tour operators, who are increasingly recognising the potential of travellers to help conduct research at scale. This is particularly true for expedition cruise companies like Coral Expeditions, which frequent waters that may be inaccessible to researchers due to funding constraints or resource limitations.

These citizen science programmes also give travellers greater insight and understanding into the natural world around them.

At our first stop outside Bundaberg, for example, we’re given an insider tour of Monsoon Aquatics. The aquaculture facility is currently conducting research to determine how corals spawn — and what species might be most heat tolerant as global water temperatures rise.

“We still don’t know so much about coral; we don’t know how old they have to be before they spawn or even how long certain coral live for,” explains our guide, Megan Combe.

Combe leads us between the rows of water tanks, each containing neon-coloured coral fragments. Their vivid colours are the result of the blue lights above and zooxanthellae algae within their polyps, which help them to photosynthesize.

These are the same algae that coral expel when they’re stressed, resulting in bleaching. But bleached coral is not dead coral. As Combe begins to feed coral from a dropper—their tentacles emerging and their mouths opening—she points out one fragment that’s less colourful than the rest.

“It was bleached, but you can see it’s already recovering,” she says.

At each stop over the next week, we, too, are drip-fed, our minds opening and hungry for knowledge. At Lady Elliot Island, we meet a manta ray researcher. At Daydream Island, where we get a chance to hand-feed stingrays and learn from on-staff marine biologists about how they’re perfecting their coral planting programme through trial-and-error — research that has implications for restoration elsewhere on the reef. And at each snorkel site we visit, we’re invited to submit our observations to apps, such as the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s Eye on the Reef.

However, critics are increasingly concerned that the proliferation of these programmes is nothing more than “public relations citizen science”, as researchers from York University and the University of Hawaii phrased it in Social Studies of Science in 2021.

Part of the problem? Even though assessment tools — like the waterproof rapid monitoring surveys that we’re handed on our first day — are designed for laypeople, the average person is prone to biases and deviations from standard procedures. Research shows that citizen scientists are more likely to record significant sightings (like sharks) while ignoring the seemingly mundane (yet another parrotfish). The result is gaps, redundancies, and a vast ocean of data, much of it potentially unusable.

I have my own doubts. But I’m reminded of my purpose when I speak to one of my fellow passengers, a woman in her late 80s, about climate change.

“We look at our great grandchildren and wonder: What kind of a future is there for them?” she says.

There’s no future without more research. Even if the data we’re collecting as tourists isn’t usable, our presence is helping to make the work of the ship’s master reef guides — who are trained to collect data — possible.

The simple fact is that scientists would never be able to complete the amount of surveying necessary to properly assess the 2300km-long reef’s health without help, due to its sheer scale. That’s where tourism comes in.

In an April 2024 statement, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority credited tourism operators for doing the “heavy lifting” with monitoring in the latest mass bleaching event. They conducted over 15,000 reef health surveys, including submitting 65,000 images, which helped create an accurate snapshot of the reef’s health.

Citizen science may have its faults, but when we disembark in Cairns, I feel more knowledgeable and empowered. When it comes to the Great Barrier Reef, the only chance for its future is to foster this culture of hope — not one of helplessness.

How to get involved

Coral Expeditions’ next 10-day Citizen Science Cruise will be setting sail from Brisbane in March 2025. It’s just one of the many expedition cruise lines — including the newly B Corp-certified Aurora Expeditions — to offer a participatory science component on board, with passengers doing everything from counting penguins to taking water samples.

However, you don’t need to be aboard a cruise to get involved in citizen science efforts on the Great Barrier Reef. Here are three ways that any traveller can give back on their next visit to tropical north Queensland:

Report your sightings to Eye on the Reef

Before you head out on your next snorkel sesh, download the Eye on the Reef app. Developed by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, the free program allows anyone out on the water to report sightings in real-time, including of coral-hungry Crown of Thorns starfish. The data is then used by the authority to inform its management decisions and actions, contributing to the long-term protection of the reef.

Become a marine biologist for a day

Apps like Eye on the Reef and iNaturalist are designed for the average person to use, without any training required. However, if you’re looking for further insight into how to interpret what’s happening under the water’s surface, then sign up for a guided snorkel or dive. Daily tours departing from Cairns and Port Douglas from the reef typically have trained marine biologists on board, and many tour operators are now offering citizen science excursions. In April, Passions of Paradise launched its Eco Reef Tour, with departures daily starting from A$410. On the full-day small group tour, you’ll assist master reef guides as they survey reef health and monitor the more than 9000 pieces of coral that have been planted by the tour operator at the Hastings Reef.

Learn about a living coral reef biobank

If you’re not a confident swimmer or snorkeller, you can witness the majesty and diversity of the Great Barrier Reef at the Cairns Aquarium. However, down a back hallway and behind the tanks is where you’ll find something truly extraordinary: the Forever Reef Project. This is where researchers analyse and house 179 of 400 species of coral from the Great Barrier Reef — some collected by Coral Expeditions on a previous Citizen Science Cruise — to help ensure coral biodiversity for future generations. Backstage access is available daily at 11.30am on the 30-minute Coral Conservation Tour.

coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/great-barrier-reef/citizen-science-on-the-great-barrier-reef-brisbane-to-cairns-10-nights

Saving the Great Barrier Reef - through tourism

Divers survey a part of the Barrier Reef (AAP) Source: AAP / C. Jones/AP

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Other ways to listen, marine scientists are encouraging us to recognise the major role the oceans play in our lives - even if we don't live by the sea. but australia's most famous maritime asset, the great barrier reef, is under threat like never before. but one strategy to help save the reef is an education project which aims to turn tourists into reef advocates., recommended for you.

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