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Great Barrier Reef Cruises

Journey to the Great Barrier Reef. Dive into the ocean with our Green Island catamaran cruises or helicopter flight. Discover the reef's marine life.

Opens tomorrow

10:00am - 05:00pm

Recommended duration

3 hours

Great Barrier Reef Cruises
Person overlooking ocean and lush hills on Fitzroy Island adventure trail.
Boat approaching Fitzroy Island with lush hills and clear blue water.
Tourists on a glass-bottom boat tour at Fitzroy Island, viewing marine life.
Snorkelers exploring coral reefs with a marine biologist at Fitzroy Island.
Group enjoying a boat ride from Cairns to Fitzroy Island with lush hills and ocean views.
Group hiking through lush forest on Fitzroy Island adventure.
Hikers on a trail overlooking Fitzroy Island and Coral Sea near Cairns, Australia.
Sea turtle swimming over coral reef at Fitzroy Island.
Tourists snorkeling from a boat at Fitzroy Island, Australia.
Snorkeler exploring coral reef at Fitzroy Island, Australia.
People relaxing on a pebble beach at Fitzroy Island, surrounded by lush greenery and clear water.
Picnic lunch with rice cakes, apple, and spring rolls at Fitzroy Island beach.
Group enjoying drinks on a boat during Fitzroy Island adventure.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
6 hr
2 more
  • Spend a full day exploring Fitzroy Island with round-trip cruise, snorkel gear or glass-bottom boat tour, and access to rainforest trails.

  • Discover vibrant marine life with ample time to snorkel at Welcome Bay, under the jetty, and Nudey Beach—Australia’s top-rated beach.

  • Hike rainforest trails to the Summit or Lighthouse track for sweeping island and reef views, or relax on pristine coral beaches.

  • Learn from an onboard reef presentation and visit the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre to deepen your understanding of island ecology.

  • Choose variants with snorkel safaris, kayak tours, or helmet diving to customize your adventure and enhance your reef experience.

More details

  • Spend a full day exploring Fitzroy Island with round-trip cruise, snorkel gear or glass-bottom boat tour, and access to rainforest trails.

  • Discover vibrant marine life with ample time to snorkel at Welcome Bay, under the jetty, and Nudey Beach—Australia’s top-rated beach.

  • Hike rainforest trails to the Summit or Lighthouse track for sweeping island and reef views, or relax on pristine coral beaches.

  • Learn from an onboard reef presentation and visit the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre to deepen your understanding of island ecology.

  • Choose variants with snorkel safaris, kayak tours, or helmet diving to customize your adventure and enhance your reef experience.

from
AU$97
Group enjoying beach on Fitzroy Island with snorkeling gear, part of Half Day Adventure Tour from Cairns.
Boats near the shore of Fitzroy Island with lush green hills in the background.
Tourists walking along a sandy beach on Fitzroy Island, surrounded by lush greenery and ocean views.
Snorkeler exploring coral reef at Fitzroy Island, Australia.
Tourists on a glass bottom boat viewing marine life during Fitzroy Island tour from Cairns.
Tourists walking on a forest path during a self-guided tour on Fitzroy Island.
Tourists sitting on rocks overlooking ocean and forest on Fitzroy Island trail.
Cruise ship approaching Fitzroy Island beach with lush green hills in the background.
Snorkelers exploring coral reefs at Fitzroy Island.
People enjoying a glass bottom boat tour near Fitzroy Island.
Picnic lunch with rice cakes, apple, and spring rolls at Fitzroy Island beach.
Ferry docked at Fitzroy Island pier with lush greenery and ocean view, Cairns half-day cruise.
Tourists snorkeling from a boat at Fitzroy Island, Australia.
Tourists disembarking from a boat after snorkeling at Fitzroy Island beach.
Tourists sitting on Fitzroy Island beach with boats in the background.
Tourists boarding a boat at Fitzroy Island pier, with lush hills and clear waters, Australia.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
2 hr 30 min
1 more
  • Experience Fitzroy Island in just half a day, perfect for a quick visit from Cairns to explore its beauty.

  • Travel aboard a modern, air-conditioned catamaran that serves as your base, offering comfort and convenience while you explore the island’s beauty.

  • Enjoy over two hours of free time to snorkel vibrant coral reefs, relax on stunning coral beaches, or wander rainforest trails at your own pace.

  • Upgrade your experience by adding both snorkeling gear and a glass-bottom boat tour, or include a delicious lunch for the ultimate hassle-free adventure.

More details

  • Experience Fitzroy Island in just half a day, perfect for a quick visit from Cairns to explore its beauty.

  • Travel aboard a modern, air-conditioned catamaran that serves as your base, offering comfort and convenience while you explore the island’s beauty.

  • Enjoy over two hours of free time to snorkel vibrant coral reefs, relax on stunning coral beaches, or wander rainforest trails at your own pace.

  • Upgrade your experience by adding both snorkeling gear and a glass-bottom boat tour, or include a delicious lunch for the ultimate hassle-free adventure.

from
AU$97
Fitzroy Island ferry docked at lush green island, Cairns day trip.
Snorkeler exploring coral reef on Fitzroy Island day trip from Cairns.
Tourists observing marine life through a glass bottom boat at Fitzroy Island, Great Barrier Reef.
Fitzroy Island beach with clear water and lush greenery, Cairns day trip.
Lunch by the beach on Fitzroy Island with tropical drinks and scenic ocean view.
Tourist receiving snorkeling gear on Fitzroy Island beach, Cairns day trip.
Snorkelers exploring clear waters near rocky shore on Fitzroy Island tour.
Visitor overlooking ocean view from Fitzroy Island trail.
Glass bottom boat near Fitzroy Island, Australia, with lush greenery and clear blue water.
Fitzroy Island pier with tour boat, clear waters, and lush greenery, Cairns day trip.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
8 hr 30 min
2 more
  • Cruise from Cairns to Fitzroy Island on a high-speed catamaran and spend the day exploring tropical rainforest, white-sand beaches, and coral-filled waters.

  • Snorkel straight from the shore using the provided gear and flotation vest, or stay dry with a guided glass-bottom boat tour over vibrant reef gardens.

  • Enjoy a fresh tropical lunch box filled with island-style bites—perfect for a relaxed beachside meal or quick break between swims.

  • You’ll have up to 4.5 hours of free time to explore the island at your own pace—swim, sunbathe, hike rainforest trails, or just slow down and soak in the serenity.

  • With everything taken care of, this day trip is ideal for families, couples, and solo adventurers looking for a no-fuss Great Barrier Reef island experience.

More details

  • Cruise from Cairns to Fitzroy Island on a high-speed catamaran and spend the day exploring tropical rainforest, white-sand beaches, and coral-filled waters.

  • Snorkel straight from the shore using the provided gear and flotation vest, or stay dry with a guided glass-bottom boat tour over vibrant reef gardens.

  • Enjoy a fresh tropical lunch box filled with island-style bites—perfect for a relaxed beachside meal or quick break between swims.

  • You’ll have up to 4.5 hours of free time to explore the island at your own pace—swim, sunbathe, hike rainforest trails, or just slow down and soak in the serenity.

  • With everything taken care of, this day trip is ideal for families, couples, and solo adventurers looking for a no-fuss Great Barrier Reef island experience.

from AU$185
AU$152

18% off

Catamaran docked at Green Island, surrounded by coral reef and turquoise waters.
Snorkelers exploring coral reef during Green Island Reef Catamaran Cruise, Cairns, Australia.
Tourists observing marine life through a glass-bottom boat on a Cairns to Green Island cruise.
Coral reef underwater view during Cairns to Green Island cruise, showcasing diverse marine life.
Hikers on a trail overlooking Fitzroy Island and Coral Sea near Cairns, Australia.
Tourists walking on a forest path on Green Island, Cairns, Australia.
Snorkelers in clear water near Green Island beach, surrounded by lush greenery.
Glass bottom boat view of coral reef and fish near Green Island, Cairns.
Catamaran approaching Green Island pier on Full Day Reef Cruise, Australia.
Tour guide explaining snorkeling options on a boat from Cairns to Green Island.
Tour guide briefing group on boat during Cairns to Green Island cruise.
Buffet lunch on Cairns to Green Island cruise with salad and bread options.
Group enjoying a boat ride from Cairns to Fitzroy Island with lush hills and ocean views.
Book now, pay later
6 hr
Meals included
  • Journey to Green Island aboard the spacious 'Big Cat' catamaran and enjoy a full day exploring this unique coral cay, where vibrant reef meets lush rainforest—entirely at your own pace.

  • Choose how you'll witness the underwater magic. Snorkel straight off the pristine beaches, glide over coral gardens on a glass-bottom boat tour, or descend for a submariner's view in our semi-submarine. Guided snorkel safaris are also available.

  • Wander shaded rainforest boardwalks under ancient trees, relax on sun-kissed white sand beaches, or dive into the turquoise waters. Enjoy up to 5 hours of leisure time to explore Green Island's beaches and rainforest trails independently.

  • For a fully planned day, opt for the tour that includes a buffet lunch. You'll enjoy freshly-prepared hot and cold items with native Australian ingredients from an award-winning restaurant.

More details

  • Journey to Green Island aboard the spacious 'Big Cat' catamaran and enjoy a full day exploring this unique coral cay, where vibrant reef meets lush rainforest—entirely at your own pace.

  • Choose how you'll witness the underwater magic. Snorkel straight off the pristine beaches, glide over coral gardens on a glass-bottom boat tour, or descend for a submariner's view in our semi-submarine. Guided snorkel safaris are also available.

  • Wander shaded rainforest boardwalks under ancient trees, relax on sun-kissed white sand beaches, or dive into the turquoise waters. Enjoy up to 5 hours of leisure time to explore Green Island's beaches and rainforest trails independently.

  • For a fully planned day, opt for the tour that includes a buffet lunch. You'll enjoy freshly-prepared hot and cold items with native Australian ingredients from an award-winning restaurant.

from
AU$109
Cruise boats on clear waters near Green Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
Tourists observing marine life through a glass-bottom boat on a Cairns to Green Island cruise.
Glass bottom boat view of coral reef and fish near Green Island, Cairns.
Snorkeling family exploring coral reef on Cairns to Green Island cruise.
Coral reef underwater view during Cairns to Green Island cruise, showcasing diverse marine life.
Tourists enjoying a glass bottom boat ride from Cairns to Green Island, viewing marine life.
Docked boat at Green Island pier, Cairns, with clear turquoise waters and distant boats.
Tourists on a boat approaching Green Island, clear waters visible, Cairns half-day cruise.
Snorkelers exploring coral reef during Green Island Reef Catamaran Cruise, Cairns, Australia.
Tour guide briefing group on boat during Cairns to Green Island cruise.
Buffet selection on Cairns to Green Island cruise with seafood and salads.
Sea turtle swimming over coral reef near Fitzroy Island, Australia.
Tourists walking on a forest path on Green Island, Cairns, Australia.
Cruise ship anchored at Great Barrier Reef with clear blue waters.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
4 hr
  • Set off on a high-speed half-day cruise to Green Island aboard a modern, air-conditioned catamaran—perfect for those short on time.

  • Choose your reef encounter: snorkel through vibrant coral gardens or relax on a glass-bottom boat tour for stunning marine views.

  • Receive a quick yet thorough safety briefing before diving into your aquatic adventure, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

  • Spend over 2 hours on the island—stroll rainforest boardwalks, unwind on sandy beaches, or upgrade to a semi-submarine ride for a unique underwater view.

  • Designed for busy travelers, this experience delivers the essential highlights of the Great Barrier Reef in one efficient and memorable trip.

More details

  • Set off on a high-speed half-day cruise to Green Island aboard a modern, air-conditioned catamaran—perfect for those short on time.

  • Choose your reef encounter: snorkel through vibrant coral gardens or relax on a glass-bottom boat tour for stunning marine views.

  • Receive a quick yet thorough safety briefing before diving into your aquatic adventure, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

  • Spend over 2 hours on the island—stroll rainforest boardwalks, unwind on sandy beaches, or upgrade to a semi-submarine ride for a unique underwater view.

  • Designed for busy travelers, this experience delivers the essential highlights of the Great Barrier Reef in one efficient and memorable trip.

from
AU$109
Aerial view of Green Island surrounded by coral reefs in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
Plane on Cairns airport tarmac before scenic flight to Great Barrier Reef.
Interior seating of a small aircraft at Cairns Airport with headsets on seats.
Woman seated in plane for scenic flight to Outer Edges of Great Barrier Reef.
Aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef's outer edges with boats on turquoise waters.
Aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef's outer edges with vibrant coral and clear blue water.
Aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef's vibrant coral formations in clear blue waters.
Pilots standing together on the tarmac at Cairns Airport.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
40 min
  • Soar over turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and isolated sand cays for an unrivaled bird’s‑eye view of the outer Great Barrier Reef.
  • Enjoy the comfort of a modern, air‑conditioned high‑wing aircraft with spacious, guaranteed window seats.
  • Get expert live commentary and learn more about iconic landmarks like Green Island and Arlington Reef.
  • Capture breathtaking photo opportunities of intricate reef formations, dramatic continental shelf edges, and abundant marine life.
  • Perfect for families, adventure seekers, and photography lovers looking for a unique perspective of the Great Barrier Reef.

More details

  • Soar over turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and isolated sand cays for an unrivaled bird’s‑eye view of the outer Great Barrier Reef.
  • Enjoy the comfort of a modern, air‑conditioned high‑wing aircraft with spacious, guaranteed window seats.
  • Get expert live commentary and learn more about iconic landmarks like Green Island and Arlington Reef.
  • Capture breathtaking photo opportunities of intricate reef formations, dramatic continental shelf edges, and abundant marine life.
  • Perfect for families, adventure seekers, and photography lovers looking for a unique perspective of the Great Barrier Reef.
from
AU$229
Cruise ship with snorkelers near Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
Helicopter flying over Great Barrier Reef with cruise ship below.
Snorkelers enjoying the water near a cruise ship on a Cairns to Great Barrier Reef tour.
Barbecue buffet lunch on a cruise ship with ocean view during Great Barrier Reef cruise.
Cruise passengers enjoying drinks and snacks on Great Barrier Reef tour.
Cruise ship on the Great Barrier Reef with passengers enjoying the view.
Red helicopter flying over the Great Barrier Reef's turquoise waters.
Helicopter cockpit view over the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
Snorkeler with a large fish at Great Barrier Reef during full day cruise.
Clownfish in anemone with diver in the Great Barrier Reef.
Turtle swimming among fish at the Great Barrier Reef.
Barbeque chicken grilling on deck during Great Barrier Reef cruise with ocean view.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
8 hr 30 min
2 more
  • Set sail on an elite reef expedition aboard a luxurious 35‑metre superyacht that combines expansive decks, elegant comfort, and high‑end service.
  • Enjoy guided water activities at two handpicked reef sites, then fly above the reef on a thrilling 10‑minute heli-flight with panoramic views.
  • Indulge in a gourmet BBQ buffet with complimentary wine, ensuring an all‑inclusive dining experience that perfectly complements the luxury setting.

More details

  • Set sail on an elite reef expedition aboard a luxurious 35‑metre superyacht that combines expansive decks, elegant comfort, and high‑end service.
  • Enjoy guided water activities at two handpicked reef sites, then fly above the reef on a thrilling 10‑minute heli-flight with panoramic views.
  • Indulge in a gourmet BBQ buffet with complimentary wine, ensuring an all‑inclusive dining experience that perfectly complements the luxury setting.
from
AU$395
Cruise ship on the Great Barrier Reef with passengers enjoying the view.
Snorkelers enjoying the water near a cruise ship on a Cairns to Great Barrier Reef tour.
Tourists relaxing on bean bags on deck during Great Barrier Reef cruise from Cairns.
Turtle swimming among fish at the Great Barrier Reef.
Tourists snorkeling among colorful fish in clear waters of Great Barrier Reef during Cairns cruise.
Snorkeler exploring coral reef with colorful fish in Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
Cruise ship near coral reefs on Great Barrier Reef, Cairns.
Tourists discussing itinerary with guide on a cruise ship to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns.
Cruise passengers enjoying drinks and snacks on Great Barrier Reef tour.
Barbecue buffet lunch on a cruise ship with ocean view during Great Barrier Reef cruise.
Divers exploring coral reef with colorful fish, Cairns to Great Barrier Reef snorkelling tour.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
8 hr
2 more
  • Start your day in Cairns and cruise to two outer reef sites, where pristine coral gardens and clearer waters set the scene for snorkelling or diving.

  • Enjoy live expert commentary and friendly guidance that make vibrant marine life feel accessible, whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned explorer.

  • Recharge between reef stops with a tropical BBQ buffet lunch onboard, keeping you fuelled and ready for more underwater moments.

More details

  • Start your day in Cairns and cruise to two outer reef sites, where pristine coral gardens and clearer waters set the scene for snorkelling or diving.

  • Enjoy live expert commentary and friendly guidance that make vibrant marine life feel accessible, whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned explorer.

  • Recharge between reef stops with a tropical BBQ buffet lunch onboard, keeping you fuelled and ready for more underwater moments.

from
AU$265
Snorkelers exploring coral at Moore Reef with a cruise ship in the background, Great Barrier Reef.
Tourist sliding into ocean from Sunlover waterslide at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef cruise.
Woman observing fish through semisubmersible window during Moore Reef cruise, Great Barrier Reef.
Snorkeler with sea turtle at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef day cruise.
Tourists serving themselves at a buffet on Moore Reef Day Tour, Great Barrier Reef.
Tourists on a glass-bottom boat viewing Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef.
Tourists on Seawalker helmet dive at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef, observing coral and fish.
Family snorkeling at Moore Reef with Sunlover Cruises, Great Barrier Reef.
Tourists snorkeling at Moore Reef during Great Barrier Reef Day Tour, Australia.
Aerial view of pontoon at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef with snorkelers in clear water.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
8 hr
1 more
  • The Moore Reef pontoon is equipped with activities suitable for all ages, including a giant waterslide—the only one of its kind on the Great Barrier Reef.

  • Spend 4 hours exploring the reef by taking advantage of the free inclusions such as glass-bottom boat tours, all snorkeling equipment, and an underwater observatory.

  • Enhance your reef adventure with additional experiences, such as the Seawalker helmet dive or guided snorkel tours, perfect for swimmers and non-swimmers alike.

More details

  • The Moore Reef pontoon is equipped with activities suitable for all ages, including a giant waterslide—the only one of its kind on the Great Barrier Reef.

  • Spend 4 hours exploring the reef by taking advantage of the free inclusions such as glass-bottom boat tours, all snorkeling equipment, and an underwater observatory.

  • Enhance your reef adventure with additional experiences, such as the Seawalker helmet dive or guided snorkel tours, perfect for swimmers and non-swimmers alike.

from
AU$295

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About SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

SEA LIFE Melbourne houses diverse marine species, including seahorses, tropical fish, and the small but mighty King penguins. Explore the 10 themed zones of the aquarium, today!


Address
King St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Also known as
Melbourne Aquarium
Year opened
2000
Visitors per year
10000000
Expected wait time - Standard
30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
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Plan your visit

Millions love heading out with us

Irene Mukwindidza
AU

Irene

Australia
Jul 2025
5/5
The ticketing process was easy and straightforward. The day was a good surprise! The staff the biologists, every staff member was good and respectful ! Joelle was great ! The food was yummy , what a good buffet at such a good price, the salads excellent!! We enjoyed our day at the Greenland Island. Thank you Head out !
Merinda Tinkham

Merinda

Jul 2022
4/5
I only gave a Good rating because the Big Cat Green Island tour itself was good. The details of the tour on Headout's website were incorrect. The end of the trip was two hours after what was advertised on the site. I had selected to go snorkeling but, on the day, was told I was booked on the semi submarine and glass bottom boat. Two other parties from my group booked through Headout and we all ended up being booked on different things. It didn't make sense. Not only that but my sister's family booked the same tour through Headout days before I did but never received tickets. When she enquired with Headout about the booking, Headout had not yet submitted the necessary paperwork with the tour operator. Headout submitted the paperwork late and then ended up canceling my sister's booking by email. No call. I don't recommend booking through this site.
Evon Pearce
NZ

Evon

New Zealand
Aug 2025
4/5
Everything was great. Crew were friendly and helpful. Enjoyed the commentary on the glass bottom boat tour and in the croc museum.
Ian McLeod
AU

Ian

Australia
Oct 2023
4/5
It was a great trip on the water there and back, great day ,plenty of fish and turtles, even seen a reef shark. I wish the captain would of given some commentary about the surroundings e ect besides how long we will take to get to reef and back to the mainland. Besides that , half day tour was enough time for what we went to see.
Christy Sebastian
AU

Christy

Australia
Jul 2025
5/5
Very professional and easy to follow. staff are all great and helpful. the glass boat guides and guide for the guided snorkeling experince were also very professional and helpful. Thank you
Lisa Grant
AU

Lisa

Australia
Feb 2024
5/5
Very friendly helpful staff on the boat and snorkelling was amazing. Speaker system upstairs needs to be updated. Couldn't understand a word but our demonstrator was pretty awesome 👍
Trudy Burney
AU

Trudy

Australia
Oct 2024
4/5
Pleasant boat trip and freedom to do own snorkeling session and we saw fish snd turtles. A bit of organisation problems with change of pier and lunch pickup time not too professional.
Karen Hulston
AU

Karen

Australia
Aug 2024
4/5
Great day all round, glass bottom boat and Fitzroy Island, seemed to be very well organised. One problem which was resolved by the staff at the Cairns Reef Terminal was that we had purchased lunch and this hadn't been ordered by Headout. the staff at the terminal were able to organise for this to happen. Lucky we had arrived early or we may have missed out!
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