Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling One Day Tour​ from Cairns

Locations are chosen each day based on weather conditions and water clarity to ensure the best experience for all activities. Generally, the tour travels to one of our two outer reef locations in the morning (Norman Reef or Saxon Reef) then they head to North Hastings Reef in the afternoon to conduct Helicopter Flights and Semi-Submersible tours.

The rain in Cairns tends to stick to the mountains. Cairns is located in the wet tropics and attracts fairly high rainfall. However, as the reef is 40 km offshore, the clouds don’t collect, and the rain tends to stay away. However, even if t rains, it will usually be fine on the outer reef locations.

Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the perfect place to stay when you want to visit the Great Barrier Reef. Cairns is the closest city so you reduce your travel time and spend more time at the reef.

The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is from April to November, but it is really always a good time whenever you can travel. Temperatures around the GBR don’t usually drop below 26°C (79°F). In November, the mass spawning of corals is a sight to see snorkelling and scuba diving. Once a year after the full moon in November/December, the corals release eggs and sperm into the water creating multi-coloured underwater snowfall making this an unforgettable natural experience.

Reef (snorkel), Rainforest and Outback Tours:

• Child 4 - 16 years
• Infants 0 - 3 years Free of charge
• Adult 17+ years
• Family 2 Adults, 2 Children (child age 4 - 16 years)

Child age for Scuba Diving:

• Introductory Dive: Minimum age 12
• Certified Dive: Minimum age 10 and must dive with parent, guardian or private guide.

Lunch consists of an Aussie BBQ featuring prawns, fish, steak, vegetarian options, vegan options, and a selection of fresh tropical salads.

A range of dietary requirements can be catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets. Any special dietary requests must be advised at the time of booking, or at least 48 hours prior to travel.

Vegan meals are available on request only. Reservations must be notified at the time of booking, or no later than 48 hours before departure, so that a suitable meal can be arranged. As vegan morning and afternoon tea options may be limited, bringing personal snacks is also recommended.

VISA, Mastercard, and AMEX are accepted onboard. Cash is also accepted.

The Reef Cruise operates with up to 160 passengers during peak periods. The vessel is large and features two indoor saloon areas as well as three spacious outdoor decks, providing ample space for all guests.

Reef Cruise: Accessibility is subject to weather, sea conditions, and operational requirements. Guests requiring special assistance or alternative access arrangements should contact the reservations team before booking.

A basic fitness level is required. Snorkeling participants must be able to swim, and scuba diving requires good health and physical condition. Review of the scuba diving waiver is recommended before travel.

• All divers must complete a Queensland medical questionnaire.
• Certified divers must present a valid internationally recognized scuba certification card.
• Minimum age: 12+ years for introductory dives and dive courses; 10+ years for certified divers.
• Divers over 65 years (or 45+ for PADI courses) must provide medical clearance.
• Medical clearance is also required for certain medical conditions or prescription medications.
• No diving is permitted until medical fitness has been confirmed.
• No refunds are provided for voluntary uncompleted dives.
• Flying is not recommended within 24 hours of the last dive (helicopter flights excluded).