reef tour qld

THE 10 BEST Great Barrier Reef Tours & Excursions

Tours in great barrier reef.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Walking 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 (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• 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. Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout Snorkeling Cruise

2. Calypso Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Port Douglas

3. Silversonic Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Port Douglas

4. K'gari (Fraser Island) Day Tour

5. 1-Hour Whitsunday Islands and Heart Reef Scenic Flight

6. Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge Small-Group from Port Douglas

7. Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach Tour: Beaches, Lookouts and Snorkel

8. Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge and Daintree Rainforest Day Tour

9. ABC Snorkel Charters Port Douglas Snorkelling max 12 passengers

10. Ocean Rafting Tour to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout

11. Tropical Dunk Island Half Day Activity in Queensland

12. Fitzroy Island Day Tour from Cairns

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

14. Whitsundays Guided Jet Ski Tour

15. The Big Island Day Tour: Full day tour to Whitehaven Beach

16. Quicksilver Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise from Port Douglas

17. Daintree Rainforest and Mossman Gorge: Full or Half Day Tour

18. Ultimate Great Barrier Reef and Rainforest 45-minute Helicopter Tour

19. Whitehaven Beach and Hamilton Island Cruise from Airlie Beach

20. 2-Night Whitsundays Sailing Cruise incl. Whitehaven Beach & Great Barrier Reef

21. 2 Hour Airlie Beach Sunset Cruise

22. From Port Douglas Tour including Kuranda, Skyrail & Scenic Train

23. Remote Fraser Island Experience

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

25. Great Barrier Reef Day Cruise to Reefworld

26. Camira Sailing Adventure through Whitsunday Islands

27. Full-Day Whitsunday Sail and Snorkel Adventure with Lunch

28. Half Day Low Isles Snorkelling Tour from Port Douglas

29. Aquascene Magnetic Island Discovery Tour

30. Small Group Full Day Daintree Rainforest Tour from Port Douglas

What travellers are saying.

• William L 1 contribution 0 4.0 of 5 bubbles Beautiful day! Beautiful tour of amazing australian landscapes and nature, James is the best tour guide if had in years at discovery tours. Laughing the whole trip, walking encyclopaedia, energetic! Read more Review of: Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, and Daintree Rainforest Premium Day Tour Written 23 April 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet Lookout Full-Day Snorkeling Cruise
• 1-Hour Whitsunday Islands and Heart Reef Scenic Flight
• K'gari (Fraser Island) Day Tour
• Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach Day Tour - 2 Beaches 2 Lookouts 1 Snorkel Location
• Silversonic Outer Great Barrier Reef Dive and Snorkel Cruise from Port Douglas
• Kuranda Scenic Railway
• Abc Snorkel Charters
• Wavelength Reef Charters
• Aquascene Magnetic Island
• Blue Dive Port Douglas & Cairns
• Ocean Rafting
• Passions of Paradise Reef Tour
• Reef Sprinter
• Keppel Explorer
• Prosail Whitsundays
• Pilgrim Magnetic Island
• Daintree Discovery Tours
• Get Around Island Boat Tours & Hire
• Cairns Canyoning

• Telephone + 61 7 4099 5031
• Email [email protected]
• Address Shop 6, 43 Macrossan Street, Port Douglas, QLD 4877

• Online Bookings

Snorkel Only!

Small numbers and personal service

Three exclusive outer reef sites each day

Guided snorkel tours with marine biologists

The only reef tour owned and operated by local marine biologists

Operating since 1986

Passionate about conservation and reef research

Low impact reef tourism, at its best

Wavelength visits Great sites pristine coral gardens, abundant fish & clear water

For most of us, a visit to the Great Barrier Reef is a once in a lifetime experience, so make it count! Snorkelling is the best and easiest way to see the reef because 90% of its diversity occurs within 4 metres of the surface. That’s why we’ve specialised in snorkelling since starting our tours to the Outer Reef in 1986.

Snorkelling Only

Total freedom to swim at your own pace. Go where you want, when you want. All equipment included.

Marine Biology

Experienced marine biologists give guided snorkel tours and reef talks, each and every day we’re on the reef.

Our Point of Difference

We strive to do everything possible to provide the best outer reef experience available, in a low impact way. We have a maximum group size of 48 guests on a vessel built to carry 100, ensuring plenty of personal space, personalised service and the best possible wildlife viewing opportunities for every person. We pride ourselves on our great crew, exclusive reefs and vibrant marine life. Wavelength complies with Covid19 hygiene and distancing regulations and is certified as having met these standards by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council.

Exclusive Sites

During our 34 years of tours, we have obtained exclusive rights to some of the very best snorkelling sites on the outer Great Barrier Reef with great coral, fish life and visibility.

Cool Critters

Be immersed in the most pristine coral gardens amongst abundant wildlife at Wavelength’s own unique locations. We only travel to the best sites on the reef.

Wavelength is locally family owned and operated. Our team are either marine biologists, or have spent much of their lives on the reef. This is our speciality, so you have our full attention.

© Wavelength Reef Cruises 2024

Website created by RJ New Designs

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)

Our Company

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.

Committed To Sustainability

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

Why Our Customers Love Us

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. ”

Share your day with @greenislandcairns

Greenislandcairns.

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Port Douglas Reef Cruises - Experience the Great Barrier Reef

Explore low isles in a virtual tour.

Click the button below to get started, and navigate through Low Isles and it’s surrounding reef, exploring 360° panoramic views at each stop along the tour. Experience the beauty of the reef before you travel!

Discover the magic just outside Port Douglas

Calypso’ Port Douglas Reef Cruises offer a variety of family cruises, reef tours, and dive trips to the Great Barrier Reef for snorkelling and scuba diving. Our reef trips are suitable for all ages and provide a unique reef experience for all guests.

Explore the wondrous spectacle that is the Great Barrier Reef with Calypso Reef Cruises. A diversity of marine life and corals inhabit the Great Barrier Reef and can be viewed from the surface or by plunging below.

Snorkelling and diving the World Heritage Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is an adventure. Exploring the coral gardens in search for weird and wonderful marine creatures at Opal Reef and Agincourt Reef will keep you busy for hours. Three sites are visited in one day, providing an insight into this large, unique and extraordinary living organism that is the Great Barrier Reef.

Departing from the Crystalbrook Marina, our experienced and knowledgeable crew will take you on a trip of a lifetime in new stable and comfortable vessels.

Calypso Tours

We have a variety of Port Douglas reef cruises available from half day island tours to full day outer Great Barrier Reef adventures. Whether you prefer to stay dry or get out into the depths of the reef, Calypso Reef Cruises will ensure your Great Barrier Reef experience is safe, memorable & fun!

• Snorkel Tour
• Dedicated snorkelling vessel
• Visit 3 amazing snorkelling sites
• Delicious lunch, morning and afternoon tea
• Snorkel gear + vests/lyrca suits

Adult From $299

Child 4 – 14 year From $189

Family 2 Adults + 2 Children From $787

The above rates are based on off peak season rates. Peak season rates attract an extra $10 per person / $30 per family.

Peak season: 1st April – 26th April | 22nd June – 11th October | 21st December – 17th January 2025

Off peak: 27th April – 21st June | 12th October – 20th December | 18th January – 31st March 2025

Infants 0-3 travel free on our Full Day Great Barrier Reef Tours but must be pre-booked. Total price includes $7 administration costs.

• Low Isles Half Day Tour
• Only 30mins from Port Douglas
• Small group half day tour
• Morning or afternoon tea
• Glass Bottom Boat & Snorkel equipment

Adult From $229

The above rates are based on off peak season rates. Peak season rates attract an extra $10 per person.

Dive & Snorkel Tour

• Optional diving experiences*
• Visit 3 breathtaking sites
• Delicious lunch, morning & afternoon tea
• Snorkel gear + vests/lycra suits included

Infants 0-3 travel free on our Full Day Great Barrier Reef Tours but must be pre-booked. Total price includes $7 administration costs. *Diving is an additional cost

“ Definitely a must do when visiting North Queensland. The staff were excellent - all very experienced and informative. We were taken to 3 areas of Opal Reef. The staff were extremely tentative...added BONUS of a professional photographer onboard, who photographed us underwater! Monique via Tripadvisor

“ This 1/2 day snorkelling trip from Port Douglas could not have been better! During the 4-hour tour we learnt about the Low Isles, their creation, evolution and history. We went for a 45 minute snorkel when the instructor was able to show us a turtle! Wet suits and snorkel gear were all provided, pre-sanitized. Fellow Traveller via Tripadvisor

“ Incredible! The staff were fantastic extremely lovely. We snorkelled and saw everything we wanted to. The reef was stunning and the staff gave great recommendations on where to go for the best spots. Would highly recommend! Celeste R via Tripadvisor

“ I can highly recommend them. I am a pretty experienced certified diver and have been on many dive trips in and outside Australia. Deb, Pamela & the rest of the dive team at Calypso got it just about spot on with me...Interesting marine discussions and nice food supplied. All the staff were very personable and friendly. Captain Getaway via Tripadvisor

Committed 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.

View Our Policy

Book your calypso reef adventure today, our cruises.

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Great Barrier Reef Tours

Welcome to Sunlover Reef Cruises, your premier destination for extraordinary Great Barrier Reef tours. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, family traveller, experienced diver or on your first trip to the Great Barrier Reef, our expert team will deliver a unique reef tour experience for you.

Great Barrier Reef

Join us for a unique outer reef tour where the Sunlover catamaran docks alongside a floating pontoon stationed in a natural lagoon fringed with beautiful coral. 

Fitzroy Island

For a completely different island experience, book a trip with Sunlover to the tropical paradise of Fitzroy Island. Just a short trip in our air-conditioned catamaran.

•  ECO-CERTIFIED OPERATOR
•  DAILY DEPARTURES FROM CAIRNS
•  FLEXIBLE BOOKING OPTIONS

Reef tours from Cairns

Based in the vibrant tropical city of Cairns, Sunlover is perfectly positioned to offer exceptional Great Barrier Reef tours and Fitzroy Island day trips. We love what we do and we’re passionate about where we get to do it – Cairns and out to the magnificent Great Barrier Reef. Get ready to embark on an adventure that will leave you in awe.

Travel in Air-Conditioned Comfort

Activities for the whole family, dive with a certified padi instructor, explore the reef by snorkelling.

What our Guests Say

This was such an amazing trip on the great barrier reef for us as a family. Both my 4 and 10 year old boys absolutely loved it 😍We will never forget this experience and hope other families out there will get to one day be as lucky as we were and get to snorkel in the great barrier reef for the day.

Mia Hoff – Google Business Review

The whole experience was great. We were lucky with the weather, which helped. The facilities all dealt with the number of customers well so there was plenty of room on the catamaran there and back as well as virtually no waiting for the glass bottom boat and mini sub. The reef views were quite spectacular. Overall the trip was excellent and good value.

Frank R – Tripadvisor

My husband and I had an awesome time on the Sunlover Reef Cruise. Staff were super helpful and the activities and equipment that we were provided with exceeded our expectations. We got to spend such a decent amount of time out snorkeling on the reef and had lots of freedom and choice to enjoy our day how we wanted too. Was great fun!

Madeleine Stephen – Google Business Review

The best Great Barrier Reef tours in Far North Queensland

Imogen Eveson

16 February 2023

Whether you’re up for snorkelling, diving or perhaps witnessing a mass coral spawning event, these Far North Queensland tours of the Great Barrier Reef will put you at the heart of the action in sustainable style.

Tours from port douglas, quicksilver.

Spend a day onboard Quicksilver ’s wave-piercing catamaran to dive or snorkel the underwater wonderland of the Agincourt ribbon reef. Prefer to stay dry? With Quicksilver’s underwater observatory and semi-submersible coral reef viewing tour – during which you’ll experience a diver’s view of the reef in air-conditioned comfort – you can do just that without missing a beat. For an extra-exhilarating day out, climb aboard Quicksilver’s Silversonic for five hours on the reef across three different environments; if you’re in Cairns, you can hop on the super-speedy Silverswift .

Quicksilver’s wave-piercing catamaran.

Snorkelling specialist Wavelength offers a leisurely day on the outer reef with small groups (maximum 34 people) and a high level of interpretation: its experienced marine biologists provide guided snorkel tours and reef talks for a genuine debrief on the Great Barrier Reef and the environmental threat it faces.

Experienced marine biologists tour through engangered coral.

Leading eco-tourism operator Sailaway also offers snorkelling tours with marine biologists on hand as well as relaxing sailing tours, which – running mostly on wind power – offer the most sustainable way to experience the Great Barrier Reef. Plus $20 from every ticket sold goes towards local sustainable reforestation and carbon-offsetting. Enjoy exclusive access to dreamy Mackay and Undine cays, with their vast areas of coral gardens perfect for snorkelling and witnessing giant clams, turtles and fish life up close.

Sailaway is a leading eco-tourism operator.

Calypso Reef Cruises

A great pick for families, Calypso Reef Cruises offers a range of trips to the Great Barrier Reef suitable for all ages. Choose to snorkel, scuba dive (children over 12 only) or spend a half-day cruising to the picturesque Low Isles – just 15 kilometres off the coast from of Port Douglas, and made up of two small coral cay islands surrounded by 22 hectares of reef – where you can snorkel or view the reef from a glass-bottom boat.

Calypso Reef Cruises are suitable for all ages.

Tours from Cairns

Divers Den offers a range of Great Barrier Reef tours to snorkellers, first-time divers and certified divers, but for something truly different mark your calendar for just after the full moon in spring or early summer. Divers Den offers the unique chance to witness the Great Barrier Reef’s annual mass coral spawning (which, by the way, has been described as the biggest sexual event on the planet).

These special night trips departing from Cairns get divers and snorkellers up close as all the corals on the reef reproduce at once. It’s a dazzling and otherworldly display that looks like millions of champagne bubbles forming a massive pink slick on the ocean’s surface, and unlike anything you’ll experience anywhere else.

Divers Den grants witness to the Great Barrier Reef’s annual mass coral spawning.

Passions of Paradise

With its small-group tours aboard a 25-metre sailing catamaran and a passion for reef education and protection at its core, Passions of Paradise is at the forefront of sustainable reef tourism. Journey from Cairns to unique outer reef locations to dive and snorkel with turtles, colourful fish and see a variety of corals. Opt for a full-day tour, with its chance to meet with an eco-accredited marine naturalist onboard, a family tour or an eco tour, designed for environmentally minded certified divers who want to take part in citizen science and contribute to ongoing reef conservation projects.

All aboard the 25-metre sailing catamaran.

Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel

You’ll see three flags flying above the Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel vessel: Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait, which reflect the heritage mix of its Indigenous ranger staff. This is the first Great Barrier Reef snorkel and dive experience to combine Indigenous cultural interpretation, delivering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the largest living structure on Earth.

You’ll visit Milln, Flynn and Thetford reefs in Gunggandji Sea Country and throughout the day receive an Indigenous welcome and acknowledgment, learn about the Great Barrier Reef creation story, taste bush foods and tuck into a native-ingredient laced lunch spread.

Join local Indigenous sea rangers on a Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel day tour.

Tours to the islands

Board the Wavedancer , Quicksilver Cruises’ 30-metre luxury sailing catamaran, and sail for an hour from Port Douglas to an unspoiled tropical paradise called the Low Isles. Spend the day alternating between the shade of a palm-thatched umbrella on silky white sand and swimming and snorkelling around coral gardens, home to clownfish and turtles and more, in this clear and calm Great Barrier Reef lagoon.

Michaelmas Cay

Combine boat and beach time on a chilled day out from Cairns with Ocean Spirit Cruises . A two-hour motorised sail onboard a 32-metre sailing catamaran will land you at Michaelmas Cay, a small sand cay encircled by a spectacular fringing reef.

It’s also a protected sanctuary for migratory seabirds. Once here, opt for a snorkel in the cay’s shallow waters, try an introductory scuba dive, cruise the semi-submarine for a diver’s perspective on the reef, watch a fish-feeding presentation, observe the bird life or simply relax in your own little slice of paradise. This is both an eco- and family-friendly option.

Land at Michaelmas Cay.

Green Island

For a day out on a rainforest-clad coral cay, head for Green Island National Park. Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises whisks you there from Cairns to snorkel, dive and swim in its bath-like warm waters; to see the reef from a semi-submarine or a glass-bottom boat; or to spend time exploring the island, which holds traditional and contemporary cultural significance for the Guru-Gulu Gungandji people. While here, you can also take the opportunity to visit the unique Marineland, a crocodile sanctuary, aquarium and Melanesian museum combined.

Head for Green Island National Park.

Frankland Islands

Start the day with a rainforest river cruise before a quick skip – the shortest open water crossing of any day tour from Cairns – to Normanby Island in Frankland Islands National Park , which places you right on the Great Barrier Reef with its vibrant fringing reefs teeming with all manner of marine life including turtles, octopuses and anemone clownfish, aka Nemos. Explore this natural paradise above and below water over four hours, with only 50 people permitted to visit these pristine, uninhabited islands per day.

Frankland Islands Reef Cruises is an exclusive Cairns Great Barrier Reef day tour.

Fitzroy Island

Ideally located between Cairns and the outer Great Barrier Reef, a stay at Fitzroy Island Resort rewards with serious reef proximity. While here, you can enjoy a day out on Moore Reef Pontoon with Sunlover Reef Cruises . Spend four hours reef-side with inclusions such as snorkelling, glass-bottom boat rides, an underwater observatory and a marine life touch tank, topped off by a tropical buffet lunch.

Fitzroy Island showing off.

Lizard Island

With its vibrant marine life and reef just steps off the beach, exclusive hideaway Lizard Island provides some of the best snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef. Join a reef tour onboard a luxury yacht – if you can manage to peel yourself away from the sybaritic temptations of the world-class resort – to explore world-famous dive sites such as the Cod Hole, only 45 minutes from shore.

Or join a guided snorkel tour around the island, which take you through the Clam Gardens – complete with countless species of clams – and have you snorkelling with the island’s resident green turtles.  Or, for the ultimate Great Barrier Reef excursion, Lizard Island can tee you up with your own private charter.

Life on Lizard is pretty minimal.

For more travel tips and itineraries read our Ultimate guide to visiting the Great Barrier Reef.

Imogen Eveson is the editor of Australian Traveller and International Traveller’s print titles. Whether exploring a regional Aussie town or a Barcelona barrio, she loves getting under the skin of the places she visits and reflecting that feeling back to readers in her writing.

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2 days, 1 night unforgettable dive, snorkel & sail adventure

Experience the best of Great Barrier Reef with maximum 12 guests and expert guides

🧑 Small group and guest to crew ratio

With a maximum of only 12 guests on board and a dedicated crew of 3, we are the smallest liveaboard in Cairns. ⛵️

🤿 Best diving locations

We have access to over 25 locations on the Reef and can guarantee the best dive and snorkel locations with incredible reef diversity on any given day. 🪸🐠🦈

👌 All dives guided by expert instructors

One of rare tours in Cairns where all dives are guided by experienced dive instructors who know where to take you and how to make sure your dive is comfortable and memorable.

Who are our guests

What our guests say about their experience, simply the best reef/dive experience for a family with teens.

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! 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.

Fantastic, relaxed experience for certified and non-certified divers

What an awesome trip, highly recommended! My family of 2 adults and 3 teens, just got back from a two day diving trip on Coral Sea Dreaming. The crew was fantastic, super chill, but very professional. Having only 12 passengers with 3 crew made for a relaxed vibe. The food was great and the diving/snorkeling was sensational (don’t skip the epic night dive!). Both the certified and non-certified divers had an awesome time. I definitely recommend booking Coral Sea Dreaming for your trip to the Reef.

First attempt to dive

This is a fantastic cruise, the crew are fantastic. Their encouragement and enthusiasm is wonderful. All of the crew constantly checking your safety whilst diving and snorkelling. Highly recommended.

Great experience!

AMAZING, the crew were so friendly, polite and attentive, the boat was SO COOL and the dives were just fantastic. The divemaster was very experienced and took us to some great sites. And I loved that hot meal after a day of sailing of diving. Thank you!!

Great experience!!!

We could not recommend it more! Whole crew and instructors went out their way to make our trip comfortable, safe and fun! With very few divers on board we have had Milln reef only for ourselves! And what a amazing reef that is 🥰🥰🥰

Incredible 10 out of 10... The best way to see the Reef

Had an amazing time with the Coral Sea dreaming crew, totally exceeded all expectations, wouldn't want to explore the reef in any other way. Would give them 10 stars if I could, I'll be recommending them to everyone I know and would love to do it again if ever in Cairns again. Cheers guys and thanks for the unforgettable trip!!

About the tour

Accommodation.

Our sailboat has 3 private cabins with double beds, suitable for couples; a 4-bunk cabin that is shared, and a separate are with 2 bunks for singles or kids. There are 2 shared bathrooms and hot shower.

Snorkelling & scuba diving

All of our locations have shallower areas suitable for snorkelling. If you want to try diving, we provide scuba diving experience tailored to absolute beginners.

We take your safety very seriously. All our dives are guided and you are always under the careful watch of our experienced instructors and the skipper.

Reef diversity

On all of our dives, we see some of the myriad of Reef inhabitants such as turtles, rays, nudibranchs, pelagics, sharks, countless reef fish and much more!

⛵️ Authentic sailing experience

Being a sailboat, we endeavour to sail whenever we can.

There is nothing quite like turning off the engines, and just sailing away with no other sounds than the waves made by the boat. 🌊

Ticket options

There are no hidden charges or extras. When you purchase diving, your expert guide is included in the price, as is all the dive gear. This includes the dive computer and torch for night diving. We do not charge any levies or surcharges. Book your overnight Great Barrier Reef tour today!

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Escape to a hidden tropical island

Frankland Islands Reef Cruises

Exclusive great barrier reef island tour – river, rainforest, reef.

Frankland Islands Reef Cruises provides an exceptional day tour experience to the Frankland Islands within the Cairns Great Barrier Reef region. With its stunning scenery, abundant marine life, fringing reefs, and and a variety of activities to enjoy, Frankland Islands is the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature.  

Immerse yourself in breathtaking coral gardens, unwind on pristine island beaches, and partake in activities such as snorkeling, semi-submersible tours, kayaking, paddleboarding, or guided walks led by our marine biologists.

With a group limited to just 100 individuals, you’ll have more time to interact with our knowledgeable crew and learn about the islands and their vibrant marine ecosystem.

No big crowds

We’re the only commercial operator with a permit to visit these pristine, uninhabited islands.

It starts with a rainforest river cruise , followed by a short open-water crossing.

Then relax and explore with no crowds, plenty of space and time (a minimum of 4 hours) to maximise your experience.

Full of marine life

Our destination is Normanby Island in the beautiful Frankland Group National Park.

Surrounded by vibrant fringing reefs, it’s home to many species of marine life , including turtles, octopuses and the ever-popular anemone clownfish, Nemo.

Tailor your day

Your day includes coach transfers from selected Cairns CBD accommodation, a guided Great Barrier Reef snorkel tour , a guided island walk and a beachside buffet lunch .

Optional activities include our adventure snorkel safari or grab a kayak or stand-up paddle board and explore!

Explore the reef with us

Discover a cairns hidden gem.

What makes our tour so special?

Discover the  untouched natural beauty of the Frankland Islands

Amazing Reefs

Snorkel in pristine, unspoiled coral reefs full of marine life

Exclusive Access

Explore this secluded hidden gem with no crowds

Tropical Waters

Enjoy stunning visibility in crystal-clear waters

See turtles, colourful fish, birds and so much more

Family-Friendly

Perfect for the whole family, with options for all ages

Stewardship

Support responsible tourism practices and help protect the reef

Marine Biology

Gain a deeper understanding of the reef’s ecosystem

All-Inclusive Tour

Discover the river, reef and rainforest all in one day

Could not have been happier with our day. Great guides, easy down river trip and across to the island with stunning views. The island itself was beautiful and incredibly isolated, it was a small personal tour that was highly enjoyable. You should definitely do the guided snorkel tour if you do the day trip

Perfection! Having the option of semi sub tour, sup, snorkelling on your own, snorkel safari in group, island tour, beautiful lunch and an ideallic island setting is superb for a family wanting to explore Great Barrier reef and not be stuck on a boat the whole day. Swimming above coral, colourful marine life, fish and swam with turtles! Would love to go again! Thank you crew we have wonderful memories.

It was am amazing experience! I got picked up by a coach in the morning, the coach was well ventilated, drove for about an hour in that until we hour to the ferry. The boat trip was about an hour long too where I saw beautiful sights of nature! They provided free drinks and snacks both ways in the ferry and lunch was also included in the island! They can provide something for every dietary requirement, including vegan.

What a hidden gem this tour was. Beautiful island, river cruise and great reef. Nice small group. Had the island to ourselves. Knowledgeable, friendly crew. Fabulous value. Will definitely be recommending this trip.

Highlight of the holiday!! Can’t recommend enough: we were picked up outside our hotel in the morning, drove to the boat where we had a great trip down the Mulgrave river before another 30 min on the sea and we arrived at the island. Variety of activities available from free snorkelling in a watched boundary and a snorkel tour a bit further out, to a semi-submersible and rainforest island tour where you can see in rock pools. The semi-sub was a little murky so if you enjoyed the snorkelling tour, I’d carry on on your own, as it’s what you saw before, but less clear, but if you’re not comfortable snorkeling, then it’s a great alternative to see the corals.

Excellent day tour to a great little island. Crew were wonderful and provided an overall fabulous experience. Suitable for most all ages/abilities and can do as much or as little as you like. Highly recommend.

Very well organized. Staff was amazing!! Something for everyone. You had your choice of snorkeling, glass bottom boat, kayaks, sup, guided nature walk ( totally amazing and interesting!) and there was even a treasure hunt for young kids. Food and snacks were great as well! Highly recommend!

Had a great day out on Frankland Island Reef Cruises. You can do as much or as little as you want on the island so perfect if you want to snorkel and spend lots of time in the water or just sit on the beach in the sun listening to the birds. The boat trip over is pretty short so good if boat travel isn’t your thing. Semi-sub trip is great if you are not a confident swimmer or fan of snorkeling. The information is interesting and while not crystal clear its a good reminder the reef can survive & flourish but we can do lots to help in our everyday life. Loads of food for lunch and afternoon cheese & biscuits was a great way to finish off the day. Highly recommend this trip

We can throughly recommend this small, relaxed all-inclusive reef tour. The crew were amazing, the snorkel safari the best we’ve ever been on in clear, calm waters seeing beautiful corals, fish and turtles close up. Semi sub tour of the island, guided walk, use of paddle boards and kayaks and amazing food all included. A really great day out. Thanks to all the crew. You worked so hard all day and were fun, helpful, friendly and very informative. Thank you

What an amazing day out in frankland Island. Would highly recommended this trip – one of the best snorkelling I’ve done and its guided. if your not the best swimmer you can just walk straight into the crystal clear water and still see lots of amazing stuff. The submarine was brilliant, got to see loads. The island walk was very educational and saw some very unique things. Great staff, great food. Overall amazing day out would highly recommend 🙂

Book your Frankland Islands Reef Cruise now!

Summer dates starting to fill up, Make sure to book your spot online now!

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!

• Most Popular
• Clock 9 Hours
• Users All Ages

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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Discover The Great Barrier Reef

Reef Magic operates day trips direct from Cairns to the Reef Magic activity pontoon located on the outer Great Barrier Reef. Our pontoon is the newest and most technologically advanced pontoon on the Great Barrier Reef.

Reef Magic Cruises operate day trips direct from Cairns to the Reef Magic activity pontoon located on the outer Great Barrier Reef.

Explore your own backyard!

Are you dreaming of a hassle-free getaway that combines excitement, education, and pure natural beauty? Look no further than Reef Magic in Cairns, right here in Australia’s tropical backyard.

Explore an unforgettable domestic holiday that’s perfect for families of all sizes, offering hassle-free adventures and memories that will last a lifetime.

Experience Our Outer Reef Pontoon!

Our pontoon is the newest and most technologically advanced pontoon on the great Barrier Reef. 

Reef Magic operates day trips from Cairns to the brand new Reef Magic Pontoon located on the outer Great Barrier Reef.

The all-weather Reef Magic Pontoon  is designed and built for a sustainable future. At over 1003sqm, with a capacity of 450 guests, with numbers kept to a maximum of 250, our guests can escape the crowd and enjoy the reef. 

With loads of activities for all ages, you can snorkel in the sheltered coral lagoon, join our Marine Biologists on a Guided Snorkel Safari, try Scuba Diving or even Sea Trek Helmet Diving.

Sit Back, Relax & Enjoy!

If simply relaxing & soaking up the tropical warmth is more your style then take time out on our spacious sundeck.  Best of all when traveling with Reef Magic, you benefit from the expert local knowledge of Australian owned, Cairns based crew who bring the friendly inclusive atmosphere for which we are renowned for.

Our Complimentary Inclusions

All snorkelling equipment including personal flotation devices in adult/child sizes

Wetsuit & lycra suit use

Wetsuits are 5mm with short arms/legs. Lycra suits provide fantastic sun protection and in season are useful in reducing the risk of jelly fish stings.

Informative Commentary

On board Marine Biology presentation en-route to the reef.

Cultural Guides & Activities

Our Guides blend education and entertainment with interactive cultural demonstrations and story telling throughout the day.

Morning & Afternoon tea

Seasonal Tropical Fruit Platters with Fresh Coconut Shavings / Raspberry and Banana Muffins or Assorted Danish Pastries / Cake and Slice Selection.

Tea, coffee and drinking water will be available free of charge throughout the day. Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks can be purchased on board.

Gourmet Buffet Lunch

Enjoy a full hot/cold buffet lunch freshly prepared by the highly awarded & renowned Ochre Restaurant & Catering.

Huge Sundeck

Use of Sundeck, Fresh Water Showers and Changing Rooms.

Non-Swimming Activities

Air-conditioned Underwater Observatory, semi-submersible and glass bottom boat tours with interactive commentary.

Proudly Australian Owned & Operated

Reef Magic is steered by a small team of local experts with unmatched professionalism and knowledge of the reef. It is owned by Experience Co Limited (EXP), an Australian owned company specialising in adventure and leisure tourism.

The combination of localised management and large-scale ownership allows us to share our dreamy cruises with more people, and continue expanding our efforts in ecotourism and reef preservation.

Passionate About Ecotourism, Adventure & Sustainability

What our customers have to say.

“ Absolutely brilliant day with the crew today. Every single person on the staff was kind, patient and happy to answer any and all questions. Had a good chat with the engineer Warren who was super friendly and Dusty absolutely nailed it as the semi-submerged tour guide. But yeah every single crew member were absolute legends! 100% recommend! Especially if you have younger kids. Chris

“ Great day out with Reef Magic. The crew were excellent - very friendly and knowledgeable about the reef. Highly recommended. Patricia

“ What a fantastic day! Managed to see sharks, turtles, a manta ray and plenty of fish and coral. Snorkel safari worth the extra. Marine biologist on board was very informative and lovely. Great crew. Food surprisingly good. Highly recommended! Ben

“ Great way to see the Great Barrier Reef in all its glory. Staff were very polite and helpful. The cruise ships were also very tidy and served some delicious food. There is eftpos and internet on the boats. Definitely a great day out with the family, no matter what the conditions. Tons of fun and will be back to experience the reef again soon. Rhys

“ Amazing cruise and friendly customer service. Definitely recommend it to my friends and family. Daniel

“ We went out with my elderly grandparents, both in their 90's and use walking frames. The wonderful staff made this 1 to remember they could of not provided any more help and where so friendly and safe Well done all of you Jenette

“ Had an awesome day with these guys, it was a particularly rough day on the water and the crew went above and beyond to make us and our toddler comfortable. Super lovely, friendly and accommodating. The lunch was really tasty! Great experience. Maryam

Australia's Natural Wonder of the World

Committed 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. Our state of the art pontoon is sustainably powered by three wind turbines and 12 solar panels.

Book Additional Activities Online or Enquire on the Day

Optional activities may be pre-booked online at checkout, or on the day. Otherwise, if you wish to speak with our crew who can suggest recommendations or the best activities to suit your ability, you may prefer to wait until the day of the cruise to purchase them in person.

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Green Island Cairns

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About Green Island Cairns

Green Island is a beautiful 6000 year old coral cay located in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, just 27km offshore from Cairns, and one of the most popular destinations on the Great Barrier Reef for visitors coming to Far North Queensland.

A ferry trip to Green Island only takes 45 minutes, it makes for a great day out or convenient half day experience.

Green Island History

Green Island is a 12 hectare coral cay that is over 6000 years old. A coral cay is a sandy island formed on the surface of the coral reef over thousands of years.

The Island was the result of the ocean currents build-up of sand and coral rubble deposited on the calm side of the platform reef, and is now the only coral cay on the Great Barrier Reef that is covered in rainforest!

Green Island became a national park in 1937, a marine park in 1974 and protected as part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area in 1981. The Great Barrier Reef has over 400 types of corals and 1,500 species of fish. It is common for visitors to Green Island to swim only metres away from Green and Hawksbill turtles just off the beach, which are endangered species. The island also has a wide diversity of bird and insect life which live inside the tropical vine forest that covers the island.

The Aboriginal people, the Gungandi people know the island as Wunyami. They still maintain a close connection to the island and reef which were used as an initiation ground for young men in the past.

Green Island Ferry

The Great Adventures Green Island Ferry departs Cairns 3 times daily. Your journey to Great Island takes only 45 minutes. You can choose the Eco (Snorkeling or Glass Bottom Boat) or the Discovery (Snorkeling & Glass Bottom Boat)

Cairns to Green Island Departures

• 8.30am (Check in at 8.00am)
• 10.30am (Check in at 10.00am)
• 12.30am (Check in at 12.00pm)

Green Island to Cairns Departures

• 12.00pm (Check in at 11.30am)
• 2.30pm (Check in at 2.00pm)
• 4.30pm (Check in at 4.00pm)

Great Adventures Green Island Ferry Features

• Return on air-conditioned, fast catamaran
• Snorkel equipment
• Glass Bottom Boat coral reef viewing tour
• Up to 7 hours on Green Island
• Morning tea and coffee served until departure from Cairns
• Use of Island swimming pool exclusive for Great Adventures guests.

Big Cat Green Island Day Tour

Big Cat is a comfortable air-conditioned 35 metre catamaran with spacious interior cabins and a relaxed atmosphere. Travel time to Green Island is just 45 minutes from Cairns. Big Cat Green Island offers a full day on Green Island.

• 9.00am (Check in at 8.30am)

Green Island to Cairns Departure

• 5.00pm (Check in at 4.30pm)

Package Options

Pak 1: Return ferry transfers, Glass Bottom Boat OR Snorkel equipment Pak 2: Return ferry transfers, Glass Bottom Boat OR Snorkel equipment and Hot/Cold Buffet lunch Pak 3: Return ferry transfers, Glass Bottom Boat OR Snorkel equipment and Semi-Submersible Pak 4: Return ferry transfers, Glass Bottom Boat OR Snorkel equipment, Hot/Cold Buffet lunch and Semi-Submersible

Green Island Reef Rocket Ferry

Reef Rocket is a modern, comfortable, air-conditioned, high speed catamaran. Travel time to Green Island is 45 minutes from Cairns.

Reef Rocket Cairns to Green Island Options

9.00am - 1.00pm (Check in at 8.30am) 11.00am - 5.00 pm (Check in at 10.30am) 1.00pm - 5.00pm (Check in at 12.30pm)

Special Family Pricing

We offer special rates for families on all Green Island Ferry & Day Tour experiences. All of our family rates are 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. ​Please check the booking form for up to date family pricing for your group.

Things To Do On Green Island

For a small island, there are so many activities and things to do on Green Island. These include snorkelling, swimming, and scuba diving, parasailing or exploring the island further with a self-guided island walk.

If you are unable to swim or have small children, you can view the reef by glass bottom boat or semi submarine. If you want a less active day, perhaps visit the Marineland Melanesia which is home to Cassius the world’s largest Crocodile in captivity. Shopping is also an option at the island resort shop and boutiques, or spoil yourself at, Oiled, the Green Island Massage centre.

Being so easily accessible, Green Island is one of the most popular destinations on the Great Barrier Reef for visitors coming to Cairns and Far North Queensland. Green Island and the surrounding coral reef are a protected World Heritage Site, one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Snorkeling On Green Island

All Green Island Ferry options include snorkelling equipment so you can experience the beauty of the coral reef only metres off the beach.

The waters around Green Island are home to a large population of sea turtles who are often found swimming in the seagrass and reefs close to the island shore.

Snorkelling Equipment includes a Mask, Snorkel and Fins

Lycra Suits and Floatation Vests are available for hire atthe Dive Centre or can be organised on the ferry.

On your journey to Green Island safe snorkelling tips are given, and a patrolled swimming area is provided on the northern side of the island near the beach hire hut.

Snorkel Boat Tour From Green Island

Additional 1 Hour Boat Snorkel Trip | $54 Adult | $38 Child The boat snorkel trip gives you the opportunity to experience much more of Green Island's amazing marine life. After a short 5-7 minutes trip offshore, you will be at one of our four beautiful dive and snorkel sites, about 1.5km from Green Island. Be ready to snorkel amongst colourful marine life and coral gardens, as our lifeguard supervises and directs you to the best areas of the site. (buoyancy vests included).

Snorkelling gear is not available on the vessel. Please bring your own snorkelling gear. You can hire snorkelling gear from the dive shop on Green Island.

Green Island Self Guided Boardwalk

The Green Island Boardwalk is a leisurely 1.3km return taking less than an hour. The boardwalk access takes you through the national park forest to the south-east beach.

A self-guided island walk brochure is available from the information centre for visitors to explore Green Island at their own pace.

A map available from the information centre will point you in the right direction to start your self-guided Eco Walk. This trail guides you to numbered locations that explore the history of the island and informative facts about some of the 126 native species of plant life on Green Island.

The walk has been voted one of Queensland’s top bushwalks in the state giving people the opportunity to spot some of the 28 species of forest birds and 35 species of seabirds that live on the Island. The Eco walk takes less than one hour and the map is available in six different languages.

Marineland Melanesia

Marineland Melanesia is a unique attraction on Green Island; home to over 50 crocodiles, marine aquariums with coral, fish, giant sea turtles, and a magnificent range of tribal carvings. Also displayed are a number of old and restored marine artefacts and stationary engines.

This family owned and operated business has been a popular tourist attraction operating on Green Island since the early 1960’s. Located just a short stroll along the path to the left of the jetty, look out for the iconic shipwreck entrance and gift shop. See exciting crocodile shows, you can even have your photo taken holding a baby crocodile! Marineland Melanesia is also home to Cassius - the largest crocodile in captivity.

Green Island Beach HireHire of water sports equipment such as canoes and windsurfers, lockers, towels and umbrellas are available through the resort and beach hire hut.

Beach Hire Prices

$40 | 2 Beach lounge chairs & umbrella (all day) $15 | Beach volleyball (2 hours) $30 | Double Kayak (1/2 hour) $20 | Single Kayak (1/2 hour)

Dining Options On Green Island

The Canopy Grill The Canopy Grill offers quick service and is a good option for families with young children. Offering Burgers, hot dogs & fish and chips, or café style wraps. Open daily from 09:30 to 15:30.

Emeralds Restaurant Emeralds Restaurant offers air-conditioned or outdoor a la carte dining from 10am. Breakfast is also available up to 10.30am.

Big Cat Buffet (for passengers of the Big Cat Ferry) Must be pre-booked with your Big Cat Ferry ticket. A delicious buffet lunch is served aboard ‘Big Cat’ at Green Island for those who have chosen this option.

Greens Buffet Green Island’s enclosed food court dining area offer guests a delicious buffet or a meal purchased from one of the island’s food outlets including the Canopy Grill or Lite Bites in this lunch retreat amid the rainforest.

Green Island Resort

Green Island Resort features 46 elegant suites nestled amidst a lush rainforest on the 6000 year old coral cay of Green Island, located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, just 27 km off the coast of Cairns. With 126 indigenous plant species and an array of vibrant birdlife, this 15-hectare (37-acre) island offers an unforgettable experience amidst its verdant rainforest and mesmerizing coral gardens.

The 45 minute walk around Green Island is a popular choice for resort guests. The Eco-walk and walking around the Island are the best way to experience the magic that lives amongst Green Island.

Green Island Resort has been awarded Advanced Ecotourism Certification for preservation and their commitment to the island’s surrounding rainforest and reef, and the management of this eco-sensitive resort.

Resort Accommodation

Green Island Resort has two styles of accommodation: Reef Suites and Island Suites. All suites are set in clusters under the rainforest canopy and adjoin to the central facilities via raised covered walkways. They are cleverly secluded from the remainder of the island and day visitor facilities

Island Suite

Green Island Resort's Island Suites offer luxurious and spacious accommodations with a tropical flair. The suites feature a large open-plan living area, separate bedroom, modern bathroom, and a private balcony with views of the island. Amenities include air-conditioning, mini-fridge, flat-screen TV, and a choice of twin beds or king-sized bed. Interconnecting or adjacent rooms are available for families.

The Reef Suite at Green Island is a luxurious and spacious (66 sq m) split-level room designed for a romantic getaway or special occasion. It features a comfortable king-sized bed, a cozy lounge area, a separate bathroom and shower, and a private balcony with views of the lush rainforest. The room can accommodate up to 2 adults and offers air conditioning for added comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far away is Green Island from Cairns? Green Island is located 27km offshore from Cairns, within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

How long does it take to get there? Ferry transfers take just 45 minutes. Ideal for those who are short of time and looking for a quick getaway, or for those who are sensitive to the motion of the ocean, after a quick ferry ride you'll be on dry land where all reef & island activities take place.

When is the best time to visit? Situated in the tropics the climate is favourable year round, making it suitable for water activities anytime. The warm waters range in temperature from 22-29 Celsius (75-85 Fahrenheit).

Is Green Island suitable for my family? Green Island is an easy trip for people of all ages. The half day options are ideal for small children, infants, babies and the elderly. The facilities on the island provide ease and convenience.

Can I bring my own lunch? Yes you can bring your own packed lunch or choose to dine at one of the various food outlets. Some tour operators include lunch in their package rates.

Is the island wheelchair accessible? Green Island is accessible for wheelchairs, please advise on booking as not all vessels offer wheelchair facilities. Once on the island wide paved or timber walkways allow for wheelchair access and there are disabled toilets.

Is it safe to swim? Yes you can swim or snorkel straight off the beach. This is ideal for beginner snorkellers providing the opportunity to gain confidence in the water. The main beach area is patrolled by Surf Lifesaving Queensland lifeguards

Are there Marine Stingers at Green Island? It's very rare but, Jellyfish season is generally between November to May, during this time it is advised to wear a stinger suit when entering the water to avoid any 'bites' or stings.

Will I see turtles? There is a high chance you will get to see a turtle. The sea grasses surrounding Green Island are a popular feeding ground for green sea turtles, they can be frequently spotted from the jetty.

What happens if it's raining? Trips still operate to Green Island even if it's raining. In most cases you'll find that it'll be raining in Cairns and clear & fine at the reef, as the rain tends to draw towards the mountains.

Are lockers available? Green Island offers coin lockers for your convenience. These lockers are compact but sufficient for storing your valuables while you enjoy your time in the water.

Where can I park my car while I am on the Green Island tour? The Reef Fleet Terminal is located next to the Pier Marketplace where you can access paid parking. Additionally, the Cruise Liner Terminal also has a paid car park where you can purchase a day pass for approximately $10.

Read Green Island Cairns Reviews

Les gilbert.

Enjoyed the ride to & from Green Island. The glass bottom boat guide was excellent. Unfortunately, tide was too low for swimming so stuck to pool. Overall, according to expectations.

Great staff with a good boat and great lunch and location was perfect

Daren Bartholomaeus

The only issue was the birds and the mess they left, not that its anyones fault but it was the only thing that let the island down, I thought anyway.

Donna Ribton-Turner

We had a fabulous day on our Travstar trip to Green Island. The boat trip, glass bottom boat, snorkeling, rainforest walk, everything was just wonderful. Enjoyed by grandkid, grandma & parents alike. Highly recommended.

Colin Mayfield

We had a very good time on Green Island. There were lots of fish swimming around when we were snorkeling. The island was clean and tidy.

MICHAEL COX

Great day out. Staff exceptional, lunch good, time at Pontoon just right.

Love Green Island. We booked just the ferry, round trip (no extras). Was nice to not have a schedule on the island and flexibility to choose what (if anything) we wanted to do/when.

Carol Crump

had a wonderful day with my grandchildren on green island they really enjoyed everything that was on offer.

Kyra Garriti

Loved it and would recommend Big Cat to the world to JUST DO IT AND SEE FOR YOURSELF.

Green Island was beautiful but over crowded. Definite recommend for families.

WOW! This was an awesome day for us. Different ages, something for everyone. Friendly staff, they were amazing all throughout our tour. Service and facilities were tops! Thank you so much! So happy!

Sha Cordingley

Great day with Big Cat, with a wonderful whale sighting for good measure

Keep up the good work,we have recommended you guys to friends

Our group of eight people had a fantastic time on Green Island, and the whole experience from booking to enjoying our day went extremely smoothly. Great value for money!

Easy booking , great day out . Fantastic customer service

Pamela Taylor

Amazing adventure.

Enjoyed our trip to Green Island. Perfect little spot for the kids to play. Mostly helpful, especially when one of our kids was sea sick.

Helen Brent-Jones

We booked this tour through travstar. We received great service from travstar and the tour was very enjoyable.

Margaret Francese

Fantastic day out! Staff were friendly and super helpful. Facilities were excellent and I would highly recommend you book!

Graham Roughton

We had a great time, but next time we will pick to go there on a high tide

View Green Island Cairns Photos

Green Island Cairns News

7 Green Island is inclusive and accessible

Island Experience - Great Adventures Green Island & Green Island Resort

Green Island’s wide paved or timber pathways are easy for wheelchairs to access, as is the jetty – perfect for some turtle spotting. There is a boardwalk through the rainfo

Green Island’s wide paved or timber pathways are easy for wheelchairs to access, as is the jetty – perfect for some turtle spotting. There is a boardwalk through the rainforest into the centre of the Island to explore the flora and birdlife. The sandy beach for access to the water is not accessible by wheelchair. The glass bottom boat is only accessible via a number of steps.

The day visitor area has disabled toilet facilities and easy access to the food outlets.

At our Cairns jetty and Green Island, Great Adventures catamarans have boarding ramp gangways able to accommodate standard sized wheelchairs, however larger motorised wheelchairs may not be suitable. Depending on tidal conditions, at times there may be a few steps at the end of the gangway onto the jetty. We recommend contacting our reservations staff 24 hours prior to travel to ensure the most appropriate departure times regarding tide.

Green Island Resort has an Island Suite configured for wheelchair access to the room and bathroom facilities, with the room located in easy access to central facilities and boardwalks. 

For more information about wheelchair accessibility across our operations, or contact our friendly reservations teams for advice.

6 Big Cat now 7 Days a week

Big Cat Green Island is now back to 7 days a week operation from Boxing Day 2022!

The only semi-submersible boat on Green Island and a fresh buffet lunch (including prawns) served daily by award winning Ochre Restaurant.

The Big Cat Full Day G

The Big Cat Full Day Green Island Tour departs Cairns at 9am and returns at 5pm. You have the option to include Snorkeling Gear, Glass Bottom Boat,  Buffet Lunch & a Semi-Sub Tour.

7 Rare dugong sighting at Green Island

A group of very excited scuba divers with Great Adventures Cruises at Green Island were treated to a rare encounter with a young adult dugong.. Estimated to be around 2 metres in length, this was the first dugong sighting recorded by Great Adven

A group of very excited scuba divers with Great Adventures Cruises at Green Island were treated to a rare encounter with a young adult dugong.. Estimated to be around 2 metres in length, this was the first dugong sighting recorded by Great Adventures divers at Green Island in several years. It was also the first ever sighting for videographer Dan (DD) Liu and two very lucky introductory divers on holiday from Ballarat Victoria.

“It was so exciting to see! He was very curious swimming near us as the group were diving on a nearby coral bommie. He came close within about 4 metres, swimming away and then coming back for another look before swimming off over the seagrass beds,” said DD 

Dugongs, often called sea cows, as they graze shallow seagrass meadows (eating up to 40kg a day!) are found across the tropical belt in Australia. They reach a length of 3 metres, live up to 70 years of age and can weigh as much as 400kg.

“Dugongs are fascinating mammals, sharing a common ancestor with elephants, and early sailors are believed to have confused them for mythical mermaids,” said Quicksilver Group Environment Compliance Manager, Doug Baird.

“They are most closely related to the manatee, their northern hemisphere relative. They resemble a large dolphin but lack a dorsal fin and have an upper lip covered in thick bristles.  They are well designed for aquatic life, with nostrils situated on top of their heads so they can breathe, and have a large, strong tail that propels them through the water. Their eyes and ears are on the side of their heads. Although their eyesight is poor, they have an acute sense of hearing.”

Dugong are threatened on a worldwide scale and in Australia, are a protected species under various legislation including the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975.

This important sighting will be reported to GBRMPA’s Eye on the Reef monitoring program contributing valuable information about these endangered creatures as well as the long-term protection and management of the reef.

2 Official launch for new Wunyami Cultural Walking Tour

The Gunggandji and Yidinji Traditional Owners have commenced Wunyami Cultural Walking Tours, providing an authentic indigenous experience for visitors to Green Island.

The Wunyami Cultural Walking Tour is 100% indigenous owned and operated. It’

The Wunyami Cultural Walking Tour is 100% indigenous owned and operated. It’s a wonderful addition to the island experience bringing traditional stories to life and a whole new perspective to the cultural history. Wunyami, which means “Place of Spirits” is Green Island’s original name. 

Participants learn about traditional food and medicinal uses of the rainforest plants, participate in traditional fire lighting techniques and can learn about cultural importance of clay painting. 

Elders Gudju Gudju Fourmile and Garth Murgha (Muka) say,” Our guides explain how the island is connected to an ancient journey of two ancestorial story-time beings who fought and formed the island and who still protect it today. This story is shared by the GuruGulu Gunggandji people (Yarrabah) and the Gimuy Yidinji people (Cairns). Our guides tell of the relationship of these warriors and the connectivity of this iconic island to the ancient seascape.”

Guides have been given special permission from their elders to share the stories of the island and the Great Barrier Reef with all who come on this tour.

The new business venture also includes the Black Seahorse gift shop which has opened in Green Island Resort’s day visitor area, selling a range of authentic indigenous artworks and merchandise. The shop draws its name from the Black Seahorse, a known lucky charm for the saltwater women of the Great Barrier Reef in memory of Alma Fourmile (nee Patterson Katchewan).

The Wunyami Cultural Walking Tour are available daily and takes approximately 1 hour. Tours can be booked at the Black Seahorse gift shop on the island. 

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Enjoy Green Island

Welcome to Green Island Great Barrier Reef – Australia

Just 45 minutes from Cairns by fast catamarain, Green Island is a beautiful 6000 year old rainforest covered coral cay, located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park – one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Snorkel or dive the coral gardens surrounding this tropical National Park island paradise, exploring the abundant marine ecosystems teaming with life, or walk the nature trails around the island to discover the colourful bird life and unique rainforest that call the island home.

The perfect destination for families and those looking to spend a leisurely day exploring one of the most beautifully unqiue parts of the Great Barrier Reef.

Ferry Transfer

Green Island return transfer

• Return transfers on board Great Adventures
• Up to 7 hours on Green Island
• Self Guided Eco Island Walk
• Use of day facilities (toilets, showers, pool etc)
• Morning tea and coffee

Green Island Eco Adventure

• Snorkel equipment hire OR Glass Bottom Boat tour

Green Island Discovery Tour

• Snorkel equipment hire
• Glass bottom boat tour
• Great Adventures beach bag

Optional Activities

Green Island has a range of activities to fill you day with, from snorkeling and diving, to scenic heli flights and parasailing. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, even if all you want to do is drink cocktails on the beach.

What our customers say TripAdvisor 4/5 based on 2,366 Reviews.

Celine Wai October 2020

• Barrier Reef Australia
• Things To Do

Mission Beach Reef Trip | Snorkelling & Diving

Tour Code: 401

Departing: Mission Beach

Tour Highlights

• Our Mission Beach dive and snorkel tour embarks on the type of unique destinations where it’s not uncommon to see some of the Great Barrier Reef’s friendly marine life; such as dolphins, mantarays and even whales 
• Get your selfie on the beautiful beach of Dunk Island with your modern catamaran and the Great Barrier Reef as your backdrop.
• Take the chance to snorkel and dive on this fantastic day trip!  Make sure you pre-book your introductory dive to avoid missing out.
• Depart Mission Beach at 8.30am take a transfer boat from Dunk Island to the outer Great Barrier Reef and enjoy a day of snorkeling asn scuba diving prisitine reefs. 

Description & Tour Inclusions

Included in price.

• 4 hours on the Great Barrier Reef
• Visit 2 reef locations
• Tea & coffee
• Fresh muffins on the way out
• Face mask, snorkel, fins (stinger suits in season)
• Free snorkel briefing and training
• Full buffet lunch, cold cuts, salads, prawns, bread rolls & fruit
• Maxi 45 guests onboard

From the stunning coastal town of Mission Beach, you’ll be spirited across the waves to Dunk Island to meet your boat and crew that will take you to the outer Great Barrier Reef. You spend your day snorkelling and scuba diving through coral gardens and colourful reef fish.

Mission Beach is renowned as a truly stunning and picturesque coastal town. It’s comprised of 4 pristine bays, and today you’ll be leaving from the sublime Wongaling Beach   for your dive and snorkel tour to the outer Great Barrier Reef 

A short 10 minute ride later, you’ll arrive at the shores of Dunk Island, where your vessel awaits.  You’ll meet your friendly hosts at the office, and take a short walk down to the beach where your fast-boat awaits (wear your swimmers, as you’ll walk knee-high through the sea to board!)

Once aboard, you’ll embark on exploring the famed Great Barrier Reef !

We will provide a sumptuous morning tea to indulge in, as your hospitable crew share a reef presentation and some snorkeling tips to enhance your experience.

We will have two different reef sites to explore today, both chosen for clear waters and quality coral.

You’ll likewise find both destinations rich with colourful marine life in the form of stunning reef fish, rays, and maybe even a sea-turtle!

Choose to snorkel, or even try your first dive among these coral kingdoms.

Lunch is a mouthwatering buffet affair cooked by an onboard chef!  

Then its onto your second reef destination promises some more extraordinary sights.

Perfect Selfie

Share your selfie on our Facebook page and tag your best Instagram pics with #barrierreefaustralia for your chance to be featured.

Mission Beach Great Barrier Reef Tour Itinerary

8.30am & 9am  - You will begin your adventure to the Great Barrier Reef from our beachfront office at Wongaling Beach where you will board our reef transfer boat from the beach.She is a fully enclosed custom built passenger transfer vessel designed specifically for beach landing.

Wear your swimmers as you have to walk through water to your knees to board!!

Just a quick 10 minute transfer will land you onto beautiful Dunk Island where you will board our outer reef boat.  

9.30am  - After introductions and safety briefing from your captain, we depart Brammo Bay at Dunk Island and head off to the East sitting on 18 knots reaching our first reef location in under 11/2 hours. 

11am  - In the water at our first Outer Great Barrier Reef location (our locations are determined on the day to suit weather conditions).  You will have an hour exploring our untouched reefs with our crew on hand to assist with your gear and getting going.  Our free snorkel briefing will cover what to do and what not to do to ensure yoursafety and enjoyment at the reef. 

12pm  - Depart for a 1/2 hour cruise to our second snorkel location and lunch preparation.

12.30pm  - Arrive at our second location where the ships captain will cook your BBQ lunch served alongside fresh prawns, salads and fresh tropical fruit.  After your well earned lunch, onto the second of our snorkel and dive explorations.  Another hour of learning,seeing and experiencing one of the worlds natural wonders.

3pm  - After another hours snorkelling your crew will 'up anchor' and head for home back to Dunk Island.

4.30pm  - Transfers onboard for a quick trip to mainland Mission Beach.

• Dunk Island

Just 10 minutes from the picturesque village of Mission beach, you’ll reach the pristine shores of Dunk Island, where your vessel to the Great Barrier Reef awaits.

Indigenous Aboriginal people once named it ‘Coonanglebah’ which translates to ‘The Land of Peace and Plenty’. 

The sparkling bay of Dunk is a remarkable breeding ground for sea turtles, so keep your eye out on the ocean even as you’re cruising aboard the boat; these beautiful animals regularly pop up for air.  

Dunk Island, with its postcard-perfect scenery, is a great way to start your day.

Snorkelling among Marine Life

Your friendly and expert guides will share all you need to know about snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, along with a few tips to enrich that adventure.

You’ll be fitted with a mask, snorkel, and fins.  You’ll see the kind of astonishing formations and textures the Great Barrier Reef is famous for - stag forests, coral bommies and anemones.

You may be lcuky enough to spot  a sea-turtle sighting, sting-rays, or even a reef shark. 

However you will undoubtedly sight giant clams, starfish, and a huge variety of reef fish.

Introductory Scuba Dive on the Great Barrier Reef

On an introductory dive, you’ll learn all the skills you need from a qualified dive instructor.

For up to 30 minutes, you’ll explore the underwater world with an up close view of the colourful corals and tropical fish in a small group. 

Enjoy the feeling of weightlessness in the peace and quiet under the surface. 

You may be lucky enough to spot a sea-turtle pass close by or a large wrasse or black tip reef shark.

Certified Scuba Dive on the Great Barrier Reef

Many scuba divers travel the globe to explore this famed World Heritage listed underwater environment.

Yet there’s something truly special about embarking on a diving expedition from the shores of Mission Beach; it is the birthplace of the Great Barrier Reef marine park, world heritage listed, and protected to ensure its pristine domain.

In the pinnacles, and bommies (coral mountains) it’s a given that you’ll discover a myriad of marine life; some which are found nowhere else!

On a 30 minute certified dive, experienced divers have shared how some of the coral found here is amongst the most colourful ever seen. 

See other tours and attractions in Mission Beach.

Tour Details

Tour languages offered.

Departs From

• Mission Beach

Departure Time

8.15am check in - 8.30am departure - returns 4.30pm

Departure Instructions

Meet at Clump Point Boat Ramp, Mission Beach QLD 4852 Australia

Destinations

• Great Barrier Reef
• The exact locations vary based on weather on the day, however our favourite moorings are at Eddy Reef and Beaver Reef.

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Excludes Christmas Day and New Years Day

4 hours (approx.) on the reef

Available for Purchase / Hire

• Merchandise - Hats & Stubby Coolers
• Extra Diving
• Wetsuits (included with diving)
• Fully licensed bar onboard

Fitness Level Required

Medium, Active

Restrictions

Scuba Diving – minimum age 12

IN-WATER RESTRICTIONS

Scuba Diving Restrictions

• Certain medical conditions and medications may preclude some people from scuba diving.
• Participation is subject to a medical questionnaire completed on board with the tour operator
• Minimum age for scuba diving is 12 years.
• Flying after scuba diving: a wait of 12 hours is recommended after one dive, 18 hour after 2 dives and at least 24 hours after multiple dives, before ascending to an altitude of 300 metres or greater.

Read more about Diving Safety on the Great Barrier Reef.

Additional Information

• Medical questionnaire required for divers.
• Please wear board shorts or swimmers at beginning of tour, as vessel boarding begins from the beach itself (you’ll need to walk through a few feet of water!).
• Depending on level of mobility, some disabled passengers can be assisted

What to Bring

• Cash or credit card for drinks, snacks and souvenirs.

Cancellation Policy

All cancellations must be in writing. Please note that all cancellations will incur an administration fee. Please see our  terms and conditions  for details prior to booking.

• Bookings cancelled at least 7 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
• Bookings cancelled between 3 and 6 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is a 50 percent cancellation fee.
• Bookings cancelled within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.

Prices are AUD, per adult and include all levies fees and taxes.

Child: au $142.00 Family: au $728.00

Choose Your Option

15 yrs & over

Ages of Children

(discounts may apply), 1300 231 118, +61 427 074 745, you may also like.

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Departing: Shute Harbour

Pickup: Airlie Beach

Full Day Sail Around Magnetic Island | From Townsville or Magnetic Island | RAG

Full day sail around Magnetic Island. Visit locations only accessible by boat. Small & personalised trip with 10 guests maximum. Departs from Townsville or Magnetic Island.

Departing: Townsville city

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Small group scuba diving tours Whitsundays. Departs Airlie Beach, maximum 8 guests on board, catering for experienced divers as well as beginners and snorkellers.

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Enjoy a private charter dive and snorkel tour from Port Douglas on a boat with crew to explore the Great Barrier Reef.

Departing: Port Douglas

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The Great Barrier Reef’s Mass Bleaching Disaster: Can Ecotourism Help?

Jesse Chase-Lubitz , Skift

April 22nd, 2024 at 12:30 PM EDT

The Great Barrier Reef is experiencing its fifth coral bleaching event in eight years. Surprisingly, tour operators are crucial in providing the research the government needs to save the treasure.

Jesse Chase-Lubitz

The Great Barrier Reef is in the midst of its worst mass bleaching event on record — a process in which warmer-than-usual water causes corals to expel their algae and turn white. Corals can survive a bleaching event, but it puts them under stress and makes them more susceptible to dying.

The tourism sector in the Great Barrier Reef has a long history of trying to lessen the harms of human impact. And in recent years, it has found that tourists can help.

The Reef brings more than 2 million tourists to the northeast coast of Queensland, Australia every year and it provides 60,000 jobs. The reef ecosystem boasts 400 types of coral, 1,500 species of fish, rare whale species and six of the world’s seven marine turtle species. It was designated a World Heritage site in 1981. However, the experience has been changing as the climate warms. 

UNESCO, the UN body that oversees World Heritage sites, suggested in 2021 that the site be added to its “In Danger” list. It avoided that designation but will be evaluated again in the second half of 2024.

A History of Conservation Tourism

Tourism in the Great Barrier Reef has been conservation-focused for decades — the industry is closely regulated, caps are put on locations and tour operators, and in the past few years, tour operators have increasingly shifted their focus to educating a concerned audience about how climate change is impacting the reef. 

“There have always been really conscious travelers,” said Mark Olsen, CEO of Tourism Tropical North Queensland, a non-governmental organization in Cairns, Australia. “But I think we’ve finally hit a mainstream audience, particularly travelers in their 20s and 30s who have grown up in a climate crisis and who understand that the natural world is under stress from human-induced effects.” 

Passions of Paradise is among a handful of operators that offer a science tour in which tourists can dive and help monitor coral health and nurseries. Other groups have glass bottom boats that show tourists where the reef is struggling, where corals have been relocated to help them thrive, and where life is still vibrant. 

One company, Reef Magic , offers visitors the chance to help replant corals outside the water. Replanting coral fragments is a highly regulated process, so most companies don’t have approval to let non-experts partake. 

But Olsen says that the industry is seeing a demand for tourists who want to help, and they’re working to respond by offering hands-on activities. 

Reef Research Relies on Tour Operators

Beyond tour activities, tour operators are crucial to the monitoring of the coral reef. Twenty-six tour operators are engaged in an initiative in which they provide surveys to the government. Between 2023 and 2024, they provided almost 3,500 reef health surveys to the government.

“There has always been strong involvement of tour operators in monitoring,” said Gianna Moscardo, a professor in Tropical Environments and Societies at James Cook University in Australia. 

But this involvement wasn’t fully recognized until the pandemic, when the lack of tourists meant the region wasn’t collecting enough data on the reef. The Australian government realized this and started providing extra funding to reef operators to continue monitoring.

Now, the groups are not only invested in monitoring, but they’re also pulling out all the stops to limit their negative impact. 

Between 2019 and 2021, at least six companies joined the Coral Nurture Initiative , a partnership between researchers and tour operators to conduct research and restore the reefs where they operate. 

An operator called Tropic Wings plans to introduce a dozen battery-powered vehicles, becoming the sole tour operator in Australia with fully electric coaches. Another operator, Sailaway Port Douglas , is using the first electric glass-bottom boats.  

“[Covid] was really a catalyst for more businesses to turn their enterprise toward conservation,” said Olsen. 

Scientists don’t see this as an all-in-one fix for the corals — the fossil fuel emissions from international tourism are central to the problem. However, the travel industry in the Great Barrier Reef has been an essential part of how the region collects data, and the emerging partnerships could set a standard for similarly vulnerable ecosystems around the world. 

“Tourism is what’s getting us the information that allows us to say, what’s the damage? What is the response? What corals are coming back?” said Olsen. “I think since December the tourism sector has collected 15,000 observations of the natural environment. It’s a proper partnership.”

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Photo credit: Part of the Great Barrier Reef from above. Credit: Yanguang Lan

Queensland premier Steven Miles questioned over bringing two government jets on crime prevention tour

Live Moment Queensland premier Steven Miles questioned over bringing two government jets on crime prevention tour

Queensland's premier has faced questions over his use of government jets, as the state government announces plans to bolster police numbers and give Cairns a dedicated chopper.

Premier Steven Miles said he believed the use of two government jets to travel across regional Queensland this week to make crime prevention announcements was appropriate.

Mr Miles, Police Minister Mark Ryan and newly minted Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski have travelled to several regional cities a day this week, including Cairns, Townsville and Hervey Bay.

To transport the travelling parties — which also included local MPs — two government jets were used on multiple days to travel between Brisbane and north Queensland.

Steven Miles said the Queensland Government Air (QG Air) planes were needed for the busy schedule.

"It was determined that was the most appropriate way to deliver the itinerary," he said.

"It just would not be possible for me to have done that without access to those QG Air planes."

Mr Miles said he used commercial flights for travel when possible.

"That itinerary was based on my desire to make sure that I, the police commissioner, and police minster are in regional Queensland as much as we can possibly be," he said.

Live Moment

Look back at how ABC readers and other Australians responded to this live moment.

How can a Polair helicopter assist police?

• Police say Polair capabilities can enhance police operations in regional areas
• Polair helicopters have advanced camera, thermal imaging and night vision capabilities
• The helicopters are used daily to help police with tracking offenders, surveillance operations and search and rescue missions

That is where we will leave our live coverage. Thank you for joining us.

If crime rates are going down in Cairns why is a police helicopter needed?

Police Minister Mark Ryan says in the financial year to date, which is about nine months, the number of offences against properties in Cairns is down 12 per cent   and the unlawful use of a motor vehicle is down 20 per cent.

He says the new helicopter will be there to complement the work that police do.

"Polair is not just about apprehending offenders, it is about saving lives. "The very first call for service the Townsville helicopter was called to was a little boy lost in the bush. "Police tell me that they may not have found that boy if it was not for the helicopter. "That is why you need Polair."

MP says a police helicopter is a 'game changer' for Cairns

"If you are a crook out there you will now be observed from a very high altitude, you won't even know that the machine is even up there, but it will see you," Barron River MP Craig Crawford says. "It can lock on to the vehicle that you have stolen, it can see your heat signature when you are running through the park in the middle of the night. "You will be caught, you will be found, you will be charged and you will go in front of a magistrate."

Wondering what this is? Join us next time we're live and be part of the discussion.

On Monday, Mr Miles travelled from Brisbane to Cairns to hold a press conference alongside Mr Gollschewski after he was announced as the new police commissioner.

Mr Miles spoke in Cairns again on Tuesday, before he travelled to Townsville then Hervey Bay to make announcements about tackling youth crime with Mr Ryan and Mr Gollschewski.

The trio went from Brisbane to Cairns and Townsville again on Wednesday to spruik a new police helicopter and funding for more police officers.

Deputy Opposition Leader Jarrod Bleijie said the premier was   "wasting valuable resources with two luxury jets flying to the same location".

"The same five locations with his police minister," he said.

"They couldn't fly in the same plane together?"

Official guidelines state the government jets should only be used when commercial flights are unavailable or inadequate.

'Aggressive recruitment campaign'

The dedicated police helicopter will be used to combat crime, as the state government announces plans to bolster the force with 900 new officers.

The ambitious recruitment target comes ahead of the looming state election and two days after Steve Gollschewski was appointed as police commissioner.

The commitment includes a boost of 500 sworn officers and 400 unsworn personnel over the next three years.

Despite a competitive labour market, the state government said an "aggressive recruiting campaign" had led to a 200 per cent jump in the number of recruits in the pipeline over the last year.

Nearly 700 aspiring officers are undergoing training and more than 2,000 applicants are in the recruitment process.

"The extra personnel will be allocated to areas across Queensland, ensuring we are future-proofing our police and keeping pace with population growth," Commissioner Gollschewski said.

"Despite the recruiting challenges being experienced in policing jurisdictions across Australia, the QPS is continuing to see a healthy pipeline of police recruit applicants."

New police chopper

With crime shaping up as a key issue in this year's state election, the Queensland government has also committed to purchasing a police helicopter for Cairns.

The aerial asset will include sophisticated thermal imaging cameras and night vision capabilities.

Townsville received a police chopper in January, which is flown daily to track offenders and stolen cars, conduct surveillance operations and search for missing people.

So far, it has taken 110 flights and located 74 persons of interest and 41 stolen vehicles. 

"We heard yesterday from the police in Townsville that the helicopter there can allow them to do some tasks that might have once taken weeks in just minutes," Premier Steven Miles said. 

Commissioner Gollschewski said he was "delighted" that Cairns would be getting its own chopper. 

"We've seen how extraordinarily successful these assets are both in south-east Queensland and in Townsville," he said.

"They are a game changer for our police here and they will be a game changer for the community."

The announcements are the latest in a suite of new government initiatives to combat crime.

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