boat tours in cairns

• Telephone 07 4042 7320
• Email [email protected]
• Address Wharf A, Marlin Marina, Cairns QLD Aust

CAIRNS RIVER CRUISES SIGHTSEEING + SUNSET TOURS

Cairns River Cruises tours the sublime calm waters of the Trinity Inlet in Cairns, on a spacious and modern boat designed for comfort and providing uninterrupted views. There’s daytime Inlet sightseeing tours and early evening sunset tours, where you can enjoy the beautiful Inlet and Cairns’ tropical foreshore set against a backdrop of rainforest mountains.

Sunset Cruise – Is there anything better than being on a boat watching the sunset? Yes, it’s doing it in Cairns – cruising the inlet and waterfront, watching the day slide into night while you enjoy a chilled beer, wine or softie. 90-minute cruise, million star views.

Sightseeing Cruise – Trinity Inlet is a beautiful aquatic landscape and the marine hub of Cairns. On our 75-minute sightseeing cruise we’ll take you deep into its heart, with mangrove forests and a diverse array of life. Watch for crocodiles, hear the clicking of crabs and listen to stories about its history and habitat.

Comfortable Cruising – Cairns River Cruises provides comfortable cruising, with lounge-style seating on the vessel and shade and weather protection provided. We think life is better on a boat.

Cairns River Cruises. Part of Cairns Adventure Group. Adventures for Everyone.

WHY CHOOSE CAIRNS RIVER CRUISES

Friendly captain.

SHARING STORIES

AWESOME TIMES

MAKING MEMORIES

ENJOY THE RIDE

COMFORTABLE CRUISING

CALM WATERS

TRINITY INLET

CAIRNS WATERFRONT

MANGROVE FORESTS

WINDING WATERWAYS

PASSIONATE PEOPLE

FAMILY BUSINESS

SIGHTSEEING

WATCHING FOR WILDLIFE

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THE 10 BEST Cairns Boat Tours

Boat tours in cairns.

• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Great Barrier Reef
• Green Island
• Djiru National Park
• Green Island Cruise - Day Tour (Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruise)
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns

2. Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran

3. Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Sailing Trip from Cairns

4. Seastar Luxury Outer Great Barrier Reef Island and Reef Tour

5. Ocean Free Green Island and Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise

6. Green Island Half-Day Trip from Cairns

7. Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight

8. Green Island Day Trip from Cairns

9. Silverswift Dive and Snorkel Great Barrier Reef Cruise

10. Full Day Tour to Sunlover Cruises Moore Reef and Fitzroy Island

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

12. Sunlover Reef Cruises Cairns Great Barrier Reef Experience

13. Gold Class VIP Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Cairns by Luxury Superyacht

14. Snorkelling and Glass Bottom Boat at Green Island from Cairns

15. Ocean Spirit Sail to Michaelmas Cay Snorkel or Dive, from Cairns

16. Coral Sea Dreaming: Overnight Dive, Snorkel & Sail from Cairns

17. 3-Day Best of Cairns Combo: The Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef, and Kuranda

18. Great Barrier Reef Adventure from Cairns including Snorkeling

19. Snorkelling or Glass Bottom Boat at Green Island from Cairns

20. Cairns Jet Boat Ride

21. Fitzroy Island Transfers and Tours from Cairns

22. Green Island Day Trip from Cairns with City Transfers

23. Green Island Day Trip from Cairns with Beaches Transfers

24. Seawalker Helmet Experience and Green Island Combo from Cairns

25. Small-Group Afternoon Cairns City Tour with Harbour Dinner Cruise

26. Trinity Inlet Self-Drive Pontoon Boat Hire in Cairns

27. 2-Day Great Barrier Reef Combo: Green Island Sailing and Outer Reef Snorkel Cruise

28. Dunk Island & Secret Cassowary Islands | Cairns Day Return

29. Dunk Island Day Tour | Cairns Day Return

30. Fly in and Fly out Great Barrier Reef Cairns Day Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns
• Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran
• Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Sailing Trip
• Green Island Half-Day Trip from Cairns
• Green Island Day Trip from Cairns
• Marine Discoveries
• Mike Ball Dive Expeditions
• Frankland Islands Reef Cruises
• Dunk Island Adventures
• Passions of Paradise Reef Tour
• Bad Fishy Jet Boating
• Cairns Canyoning
• Ocean Free and Ocean Freedom
• Falla Reef Trips

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• +61 2 9136 9447

Cairns & Port Douglas Boat Tours

Quality Experiences

Booking flexibility, locally owned & operated, friendly support humans.

The coastal region around Cairns is simply awe-inspiring, and you will be spoilt for choice with the many wondrous boating tours available. Daytime or night time, you must try one of many cruises out of Cairns or Port Douglas – there are harbour cruises, sunset cruises , whale watching, reef exploration, a number of combo deals to make the most of your time here and fishing charters - for those who love the thrill of a catch. In fact, there is a tour for everyone on these sparkling waters, where you can enjoy unspoilt estuaries and mangroves, the iridescent coral in the magical reef, or a sublime sunset, twinkling over the mountains and waterways. If you are in Cairns at the right time, you could be lucky to see the humpback whales as they migrate from the south to these warmer waters to raise their young - a truly humbling yet inspiring experience.  

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Ocean Safari

Snorkel the tropical & pristine waters of Cape Tribulation on the Great Barrier Reef on a fun half day tour aboard Ocean Safari's inflatable vessel.

Cairns Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a romantic evening on a Cairns dinner cruise aboard the luxurious Spirit of Cairns catamaran.

Cairns Roast Lunch Cruise

Enjoy a 1.5 hour cruise on board the Spirit of Cairns on the Cairns Trinity Inlet observing salt water crocodiles in their natural habitat along with

Fitzroy Island - Half Day - Fitzroy Island Adventures

Visit Fitzroy Island onboard a high speed catamaran with Fitzroy Island Adventures, with options for snorkelling and glass bottom boat tours.

Reef Boat Day Trip - Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel

Embark on a unique cruise to the outer Great Barrier Reef with Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel and discover indigenous heritage and incredible marine life.

Reef Boat Day Trip - Ocean Freedom

Take a reef boat day trip to naturally formed Upolu Cay with protected, shallow waters. Explore by Glass Bottom Boat, snorkeling & scuba diving.

Fitzroy Island - Full Day - Sunlover Reef Cruises

Discover Fitzroy Island with Sunlover Reef Cruises on a full day experience with return transfers, snorkelling & glass bottom boat tours.

Frankland Islands - Frankland Islands Reef Cruises

Experience the only Reef, Rainforest and River Tour from Cairns with Frankland Islands Reef Cruises.

Reef Boat Day Trip - Ocean Free

Sail away to Pinnacle Reef on eastern lee of Green Island for an unforgettable reef experience.

93% of new customers that used Everything Cairns to provide advice and securely book their Cairns activities have let us know they've had a good or excellent experience with us. Thank you .

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Cairns Tours

Where rainforest meets the reef.

Why Book With Cairns Tours?

Unbeatable prices when it comes to price, we won’t be beaten. if you have found a cheaper price or quote from another company, rest assured we will not just meet it… we will beat it secure payment for smooth transactions and peace of mind, we use commonwealth banking to ensure all of your payments are encrypted, safe and secure, every time. 19 years as a local business established in october of 2002, sailing whitsundays have been operating out of the heart of airlie beach for 19 years.lorem ipsum dolor sit amet --> friendly local support our friendly support team are standing by 7 days a week to make sure you have a seamless experience. reach us by phone, live chat or email, anytime. sailing whitsundays is a renowned airlie beach-based travel agency offering a wide selection of day, overnight and package-deal sailing adventures through the blissful whitsunday islands of northern queensland. from exploring the crystal clear waters with a snorkel to lazing about on pristine snow-white beaches, our local whitsundays are ready to help you make the most of your adventure. dive into your ultimate daydream and escape to paradise today --> --> our tours, great barrier reef day tours.

Venture to flourishing islands and ecosystems with snorkel, dive & sailing trips through the world-famous Great Barrier Reef

Liveaboards, Dive Courses & Packages

Immerse yourself in the Great Barrier Reef with world-class snorkelling and scuba diving perfect for introductory or advanced divers!

Adrenaline Tours

Adrenaline charters.

See Cairns from all angles with our once-in-a-lifetime adrenaline experiences! Whether you’re skydiving, river rafting or feeding crocodiles, see rainforest & reef like never before!

Family Friendly Tours

Explore Cairns, the Daintree and Atherton Tablelands with the whole family! Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, chase waterfalls and relax on these kid-friendly experiences!

Rainforests, Waterfall & Wildlife Tours

Uncover the magic of the Daintree Rainforest, explore stunning waterfalls in the Atherton Tablelands & get up close with Australian wildlife

From the towering Daintree Rainforest to the depths of the Great Barrier Reef, wander through Tropical North QLD! Check our full range of reef, waterfall and rainforest tours!

• Overnight Tours

TOP CAIRNS TOURS

FULL DAY TOUR

• Exclusive Dive Sites
• High Speed Catamaran
• Air-Conditioned Vessel
• 5 Hrs Snorkeling & Diving

DEPARTS EVERYDAY

• Fly Over Reef & Rainforest
• Birds-Eye View Of Cairns
• Guaranteed Window Seat
• Air-Conditioned Plane

ASK TO SAVE

• Sail, Snorkel & Dive
• Eco-Friendly Tour
• Stylish, Fast Catamaran
• Moors At Paradise Reef
• 90-Minute Skyrail
• 4hrs At Kuranda Village
• Scenic Railway Included
• Return Bus Transfers

Popular Reef Day Tours from Cairns

• 6hrs Of Water Activities
• 2 Amazing Reef Locations
• For Snorkelers And Divers
• Free Scuba Dive Included
• For Snorkelers & Divers
• Explore Upolu Sand Cay
• Two Outer Reef Visits
• Glass Bottom Boat Tour
• Snorkel & Dive
• Modern, Luxury Vessel
• Hot Showers On Board
• Visit 2 Stunning Reef Sites
• 5hrs Snorkeling & Diving
• Glass Bottom Boat Tours
• Family Friendly Pontoon
• Eco-Certified Tour

POPULAR GREAT BARRIER REEF OVERNIGHT LIVEABOARD TOURS

2 Days, 1 Night

• Intro & Cert Divers
• Affordable Diving
• Day & Night Dives
• Hotel-Style Accomm

3 Days, 2 Nights

• Up To 11 Dives
• PADI Courses On Board
• Avoid The Crowds
• New, Purpose-Built Vessel
• Unique Reef Locations
• Up To 6 Dives
• For Intro & Cert Divers
• Large Ensuite Cabins
• Small Group Sailing
• Spacious Cabins
• Free Intro Dive 

Adrenaline Day Tours - For The Thrill Seekers

• Jump From 15,000ft
• Photo Packages Available
• Transfers Included
• Reef & Rainforest Views
• Thrilling Rapids
• Lunch & Transfers Inc
• Perfect For Beginners
• Bucket List Experience

OPEN EVERYDAY

• Jump From 50 Metres
• Only Bungy In Australia
• Bus Transfers Included
• 16 Unique Jump Styles

HALF DAY TOUR

• Abseiling & Cliff Jumping
• AM Or PM Departure
• Choice Of 2 Itineraries
• Pure Adrenaline 

SCENIC FLIGHTS - REEF AND RAINFOREST FROM ABOVE!

DURATION: 30 MIN

• See Multiple Reefs
• Guided Commentary
• Unparalleled Views

RETAIL $399

FULL DAY PACKAGE

• Snorkel, Dive & Fly
• 5hrs Spent At The Reef
• 25 Min Helicopter Ride
• Best Of Both Worlds
• Exclusive Helicopter Ride
• For Couples/Families
• 2hrs Spent On Vlasoff Cay
• Gourmet Nibbles & Wine

Short on Time? Cairns Half Day Tours

• For Thrill Seekers
• Grades 2 & 3 Rapids
• Beautiful Scenery
• Scenic Helocopter Ride
• Land At The Reef
• 1.5hrs Snorkel Time
• Cruise Back To Cairns
• Iconic Nudey Beach
• 2 Hours Island Time
• Perfect For Families
• Native Aussie Wildlife
• Take A Crocodile Cruise
• Return Transfers
• Animal Holding Photos

POPULAR GREAT BARRIER REEF EXPERIENCES FROM CAIRNS

Full Day Tour

• Visit Upolu Reef & More
• Comfortable Catamaran 

Waterfall Tours From Cairns

• Milla Milla Falls
• Josephine Falls
• Lake Eacham
• Spot Native Wildlife
• Visit 3 Waterfalls
• Flexible Itinerary
• Rainforest Visit
• Carbon Neutral Tour
• Northern Experience
• Visit Paronella Park
• Marvel At 3 Waterfalls
• Delicious Lunch Included

FULL DAY TOUR 

• Social, Fun Tour
• 3 Waterfalls
• Platypus Spotting
• Family Owned Business

OVERNIGHT DIVE & SNORKEL TRIPS TO THE GREAT BARRIER REEF

• Dive, Sail, Snorkel
• Budget Friendly
• Only 16 Guests Max
• PADI Courses Available
• Intro/Cert Diving
• Ensuite Bedrooms

3 Days, 3 Nights

• Extended Itinerary
• Luxurious Accomm
• Scenic Flight Included

4 Days, 4 Nights

• Coral Sea & Ribbon Reef
• Ideal For Advanced Divers

Port Douglas To The Great Barrier Reef

• Visit Agincourt Reef
• Spacious Catamaran
• 5 Hours Reef Time
• Departs Port Douglas
• 3 Snorkel Locations
• Exclusive Reef Moorings
• Low Number Tour
• Onboard Marine Expert
• Sail & Snorkel Tour
• Glass Bottom Boat
• 4 Hours On Low Isles
• Activities For All Ages 
• 4.5hrs Reef Time
• Wheelchair Accessible

Day Trips from Cairns to the Great Barrier Reef

• The Pro Divers Choice
• 3 Outer Reef Sites
• Departs Cairns Marina
• Reef Pontoon Visit
• Scuba, Snorkel & More
• Underwater Observatory
• Indigenous Education
• Snorkel & Scuba
• Ideal For Families

Cape Tribulation & Daintree Rainforest Tours

• Action-Packed Day
• 4WD Vehicle
• 1hr Croc Spotting Tour
• Lunch In The Rainforest
• Fun, Sociable Tour
• Lots Of Wildlife Spotting
• Beaches & Lookouts
• 1hr Croc Cruise
• Luxury Eco Tour
• Small Group Size
• Daintree & Mossman
• Croc Tour Included
• Cultural Activities
• Visit Mossman Gorge
• Wildlife River Cruise
• Cape Trib Beach Time

Visit Kuranda

• Scenic Railway & Skyrail
• Rainforestation Tour
• Aboriginal Experience
• Wildlife Park & More
• Aboriginal Experiences
• Wildlife Tour Included
• Explore Kuranda
• Aboriginal Art Workshop
• Kuranda Scenic Railway
• WWII Army Duck Tour
• Aboriginal Performances
• Tropical Fruit Orchard

Sailing Tours to the Reef

• Visit Michaelmas Cay
• Sail, Snorkel, Dive
• Intro Diving On Board
• Up To 4hrs Reef Time
• Explore Green Island

Extended Reef Journeys - Great For Experienced Divers

• Fly & Dive Cod Hole
• Up To 12 Dives
• Unique Dive Sites
• Up To 14 Dives
• 2 Night Dives Included

Pontoon Activity Platforms On The Great Barrier Reef

• Giant Waterslide
• Later Departure
• 3 Hours Snorkel Time
• Semi-Submersible Tour

Visit Green Island - Fun for all ages

• 7hrs Green Island Time
• Hike, Snorkel & Dive
• Eco-Adventure
• 2-In-1 Package
• 2hrs On Green Island
• 3hrs At Reef Pontoon
• Fun For All The Family
• Fringe Reef Snorkel
• Beachside Relaxing

Mission Beach Tours

• Snorkel, Hike Or Relax
• Small Group Numbers
• Visit Pirate Caves
• Scenic Boat Journey

DEPARTS EVERDAY

• Up To 15,000ft Jump
• Spectacular Views
• Land on Mission Beach
• Babinda Boulders Swim
• Afternoon Tea & Dinner
• Spot Wild Cassowaries

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

• 2 Hours Snorkelling
• Pristine, Untouched Reefs
• AM or PM Departure
• Eco-Tour 

MULTIPLE SESSION TIMES

• 45 Minutes Swim Time
• Inches Away From Crocs
• Wildlife Habitat Day Entry
• One Of A Kind Experience

Best of Cairns - Combine & Save

3 DAY TOURS Swim, snorkel, relax & explore Fitzroy Island, Green Island & Frankland Islands!

3 DAY TOURS Explore Fitzroy Island, Kuranda Village, Rainforestation & Hartley's Crocodile Park with the family!

2 DAY TOURS See the GBR from above & below, experience a tandem skydive & 2 certified scuba dives! 

3 DAY TOURS Snorkel & dive the GBR, wander the world's oldest rainforest & visit Kuranda Village & Rainforestation

ON SALE $585

Package & Save! Popular East Coast Bundles

15 Days, 14 Nights

Visit Noosa, Fraser Island Whitsundays and Cairns

ON SALE NOW

ASK US TO SAVE

Choose Your Duration

Customise Your Itinerary,

Your Adventure Awaits!

BEST PRICE GUARANTEE

Epic East Coast Itinerary 

At An Unbeatable Price

BEST PRICE GUARANTEED

ENQUIRE FOR QUOTE

1.5 Days, 0 Nights

Half Day GBR Tour &

Full Day Whitsundays Tour

RETAIL $368

OUR CAIRNS EXPERTS ARE READY TO HELP YOU

• Can answer all your Cairns questions
• We will build you exclusive packages to save you money
• Available by email or chat 24/7

Quick Enquiry

Cairns information.

LATEST REVIEWS

Cairns news.

THE 10 BEST Cairns Boat Tours

Boat tours in cairns.

• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Great Barrier Reef
• Green Island
• Djiru National Park
• Green Island Cruise - Day Tour (Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruise)
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns

2. Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran

3. Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Sailing Trip from Cairns

4. Seastar Luxury Outer Great Barrier Reef Island and Reef Tour

5. Ocean Free Green Island and Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise

6. Green Island Half-Day Trip from Cairns

7. Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight

8. Full Day Tour to Sunlover Cruises Moore Reef and Fitzroy Island

9. Green Island Day Trip from Cairns

10. Silverswift Dive and Snorkel Great Barrier Reef Cruise

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

12. Sunlover Reef Cruises Cairns Great Barrier Reef Experience

13. Gold Class VIP Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Cairns by Luxury Superyacht

14. Snorkelling and Glass Bottom Boat at Green Island from Cairns

15. Ocean Spirit Sail to Michaelmas Cay Snorkel or Dive, from Cairns

16. Coral Sea Dreaming: Overnight Dive, Snorkel & Sail from Cairns

17. 3-Day Best of Cairns Combo: The Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef, and Kuranda

18. Great Barrier Reef Adventure from Cairns including Snorkeling

19. Snorkelling or Glass Bottom Boat at Green Island from Cairns

20. Cairns Jet Boat Ride

21. Fitzroy Island Transfers and Tours from Cairns

22. Green Island Day Trip from Cairns with City Transfers

23. Green Island Day Trip from Cairns with Beaches Transfers

24. Seawalker Helmet Experience and Green Island Combo from Cairns

25. Small-Group Afternoon Cairns City Tour with Harbour Dinner Cruise

26. Trinity Inlet Self-Drive Pontoon Boat Hire in Cairns

27. 2-Day Great Barrier Reef Combo: Green Island Sailing and Outer Reef Snorkel Cruise

28. Dunk Island & Secret Cassowary Islands | Cairns Day Return

29. Dunk Island Day Tour | Cairns Day Return

30. Fly in and Fly out Great Barrier Reef Cairns Day Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns
• Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran
• Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Sailing Trip
• Green Island Half-Day Trip from Cairns
• Green Island Day Trip from Cairns
• Marine Discoveries
• Mike Ball Dive Expeditions
• Frankland Islands Reef Cruises
• Dunk Island Adventures
• Passions of Paradise Reef Tour
• Bad Fishy Jet Boating
• Cairns Canyoning
• Ocean Free and Ocean Freedom
• Falla Reef Trips

Cairns Reef Tours

• The Reef Fleet Terminal

13 CUSTOMER REVIEWS  

61 CUSTOMER REVIEWS  

19 CUSTOMER REVIEWS  

42 CUSTOMER REVIEWS  

9 CUSTOMER REVIEWS  

21 CUSTOMER REVIEWS  

Watch Cairns Reef Tours Videos

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.

View Cairns Reef Tours Photos

Cairns Reef Tours News

8 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.

6 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.

9 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.

5 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.

9 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. 

3 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.

9 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. 

7 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!

2 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.

10 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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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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Cairns glass bottom boat information.

Glass bottom boat tours were invented on Cairns' Great Barrier Reef! First launched back in the early 1900s on Green Island, glass bottom boat tours revolutionised visiting the Great Barrier Reef. Prior to glass bottom boat tours, visitors would take a square glass box and float it on top of the water, looking down at the corals beneath.

GLASS BOTTOM BOAT TOURS FROM CAIRNS:

Sunlover Cruises

Reef Magic Cruises

Quicksilver Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruises

Great Adventures: Outer Reef Pontoon

Do you need help choosing?

Can't decide? CALL US: 07 4041 1638 Or try the form below, we have personally been on every Cairns reef and diving trip. We can help you choose the best tour , to suit your experience and budget.

With the advent of glass bottom boat tours, visitors could explore the Great Barrier Reef, gliding over the reef and looking down on the corals and marine life. Cairns glass bottom boat tours are available with most reef, pontoon and island experiences. It is always included in the ticket price and accompanied by an informative reef presentation.

Glass Bottom Boat Action

Cairns Glass Bottom Boat

Empty Glass Bottom Boat

Glass bottom boat tours are suitable for people of all ages and nationalities. Kids and non-swimmers will enjoy this unique, completely safe way of seeing the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkellers and divers will benefit from the educational talks, learning more about what they have or will see on their own, unguided reef exploration.

Cairns glass bottom boat tours generally last between 20 and 30 minutes and are available on trips to Green Island, Fitzroy Island, the Frankland Islands Group, all outer reef pontoons and most outer reef boat trips, including Reef Experience and Ocean Freedom, to name just a few.

The newest Cairns Glass Bottom Boat belongs to Reef Magic Cruises, who purchased a $150,000 Manta glass-bottom boat in mid 2010. Seating up to 40 guests, the Manta glass bottom boat has 16 panoramic viewing windows and is permanently located at the Reef Magic Cruises Marine World pontoon. A 30-minute tour with a marine biologist is included in their day tour price.

Please see the table below, we have collated and displayed every glass-bottom boat tour that visits the Great Barrier Reef from both Cairns and Port Douglas. (Note: We also mention the small township of Port Douglas as it is only a 45-minute drive north of the city of Cairns). In the table below you can read the name of the company that operates a glass-bottom boat tour and also the current price, they charge in Australian dollars.

Cairns Glass Bottom Boat Tour Table:

Please note: We are not affiliated with any of the boats. We are Cairns locals, trying to help visitors have the best time they can, on the amazing Great Barrier Reef. This website is funded and built by us: we make commission from your tour bookings. We hope the information is of some assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us for more advice.

VIEW SELECTED TOURS BELOW

View our range of hand-selected Cairns reef tours below:

Great Adventures: Green Island & Great Barrier Reef

Search for tours:, cairns reef information.

Click the links below to find out more.

Do you need help choosing a trip?

Can't decide? We have personally been on every Cairns reef and diving trip. We can help you choose the best tour , to suit your experience and budget.

FREE UNDERWATER CAMERA HIRE*

Spend over $550.00 AUD on your Great Barrier Reef tour with us and receive the latest Digital Underwater Camera Hire. Take amazing High-Resolution images and 1080 HD Video. Only when you book online thru our website. 

Not available for any tours to the Islands as fine white sand damages the seals on the cameras and makes them leak!

You need to come into our shop located on the Cairns Esplanade the day before departure to pick up the camera before 5:30 pm. You also need to supply your own SD Camera Card and drop the camera off back at our shop before 5:30pm.

Please Remember there is no other way to collect our cameras! All passengers must come into our shop the day before departure day before 5:30 pm.

THE 10 BEST Cairns Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in cairns.

• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Water Sports
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Great Barrier Reef
• Green Island
• Discovery Tours Australia
• Mossman Gorge
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns

2. Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, and Daintree Rainforest Day Trip

3. Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran

4. Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise

5. Grand Kuranda including Skyrail and Kuranda Scenic Railway

6. Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Sailing Trip from Cairns

7. Seastar Luxury Outer Great Barrier Reef Island and Reef Tour

8. Ocean Free Green Island and Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise

9. Full Day Tour to Sunlover Cruises Moore Reef and Fitzroy Island

10. Green Island Half-Day Trip from Cairns

11. Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight

12. Green Island Day Trip from Cairns

13. Silverswift Dive and Snorkel Great Barrier Reef Cruise

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

15. Sunlover Reef Cruises Cairns Great Barrier Reef Experience

16. Gold Class VIP Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Cairns by Luxury Superyacht

17. Snorkelling and Glass Bottom Boat at Green Island from Cairns

18. 2-Day Snorkeling Experience in Great Barrier Reef (Twin Share Cabin)

19. Ocean Spirit Sail to Michaelmas Cay Snorkel or Dive, from Cairns

20. Coral Sea Dreaming: Overnight Dive, Snorkel & Sail from Cairns

21. Cairns Luxury Catamaran Harbor and Dinner Cruise

22. 3-Day Best of Cairns Combo: The Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef, and Kuranda

23. 3 Day Reef, Rainforest and Outback Tour

24. Great Barrier Reef Adventure from Cairns including Snorkeling

25. Snorkelling or Glass Bottom Boat at Green Island from Cairns

26. Fitzroy Island Transfers and Tours from Cairns

27. Green Island Day Trip from Cairns with City Transfers

28. Cairns Sunset Cruise

29. Kuranda Highlights including Rainforestation Aboriginal Culture and Wildlife R1B

30. Authentic Indigenous Cultural Tour Including Scenic River Cruise

What travellers are saying.

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