Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tour​ from Cairns

In Cairns, rain is usually confined to the mountainous areas. Since the outer reefs where we operate are located nearly 40 km off the coast, the weather on the open sea is usually clear, with excellent underwater visibility. Even if it rains in the city, conditions on the Great Barrier Reef are usually ideal. Tours operate as usual unless there are maritime safety alerts.

Cairns is the main gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Setting out from its marina significantly shortens the sailing time and allows you to spend several hours exploring the reef.

Any time of year is excellent, since the waters of the Coral Sea rarely drop below 26 °C (79 °F). However, the period between April and November offers lower humidity and excellent visibility, while after the full moon in November or December, it’s possible to witness the phenomenon of mass coral spawning—a unique natural phenomenon known as the “underwater snowfall.”

Boat Tours and Snorkeling:

• Infants (ages 0–3): free.
• Children (ages 4–16): child rate.
• Adults (17 and older): general rate.
• Family package: 2 adults + 2 children (ages 4 to 16).

Introductory diving: minimum age 12.

Certified diving: minimum age 10 years (children under 12 must be accompanied by an instructor or private guide).

We serve a barbecue-style buffet lunch prepared fresh on board. It includes shrimp, fish, meat, and a selection of tropical salads.

Important notice: We offer vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Requests for vegan meals or specific allergy accommodations must be made at least 48 hours in advance. Travelers on strict diets are advised to bring their own snacks.

We accept payments by VISA, Mastercard, and American Express, as well as cash.

You'll sail on a 108-feet (33 m) superyacht with a maximum authorized capacity of 160 passengers. It features two air-conditioned indoor lounges, a bar, three outdoor deck areas for sunbathing, and hydraulic platforms at water level for easy access to the sea.

Accessibility depends on sea conditions, weather, and operational requirements. If you need special assistance or accessibility accommodations, please contact our reservations team before booking the tour.

It is recommended that you have basic swimming skills. However, people who cannot swim or who want added safety can enter the water using life jackets and flotation devices provided free of charge by the crew. Please note that the boat anchors in deep water off the outer reef (there is no dock or island), so the water is too deep to stand in.

If you plan to add scuba dives to your Great Barrier Reef snorkeling tour from Cairns, please note the following:

• Medical Questionnaire: All divers must complete a Queensland health declaration form on board. Divers 65 years of age or older (or 45 years of age for PADI courses) must provide a prior medical certificate of fitness.
• Certification: Certified divers must present a valid international certification card.
• Flight Safety: You are not permitted to fly on a commercial aircraft within 24 hours of your last dive (this does not apply to the optional helicopter flight).
• Refund Policy: No refunds will be issued for dives voluntarily not completed.

Dive sites are chosen each day based on weather conditions and water clarity to ensure the best experience. Typically, in the morning we visit one of the two outer reefs (Norman Reef or Saxon Reef), and in the afternoon we head to North Hastings Reef for optional activities and a second snorkeling session on the Great Barrier Reef.