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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.
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Slide 1 of 11, Cruise ship on the Great Barrier Reef with passengers enjoying the view.
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.

Cairns to Outer Reef Snorkel Cruise with 2 Reef Visits & BBQ Lunch

8 hrs - 8 hrs 30 mins
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$275
Slide 1 of 8, Clownfish swimming among coral reefs in the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns.
Clownfish swimming among coral reefs in the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns.
Coral reef with diverse marine life in the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns snorkel cruise.
Snorkeler exploring coral reef with clownfish near Cairns, Australia.
Snorkelers in Cairns exploring outer reefs with a dive boat in the background.
Snorkel cruise boat on the Great Barrier Reef near Cairns, Australia.
Snorkelers on a boat preparing for a dive at the Great Barrier Reef near Cairns.
Snorkelers exploring coral reefs in clear waters near Cairns, Australia.
Tour guide showing cultural artifact to tourists on a snorkel cruise from Cairns.

From Cairns: Snorkel Cruise to 2 Outer Reefs with Lunch & Optional Dive

8 hrs 15 mins - 8 hrs 30 mins
2 more

  • Visit two of the premium outer Great Barrier Reef sites.

  • Take your pick from snorkelling, introductory diving, or certified scuba diving while visiting two premium outer Great Barrier Reef locations

  • Explore a thriving underwater world as you snorkel in the waters of the Great Barrier Reef.

  • Get a chance to see anemones, clownfish, angelfish, and more fascinating marine species.

  • Gain an insight into the region's diverse ecosystem and indigenous heritage as you interact with indigenous rangers.

  • Watch live demonstrations of traditional dances, listen to the didgeridoo, feed fish, and much more.

  • Sip on complimentary morning and afternoon tea, and relish in a delicious cold buffet lunch.

More details

  • Visit two of the premium outer Great Barrier Reef sites.

  • Take your pick from snorkelling, introductory diving, or certified scuba diving while visiting two premium outer Great Barrier Reef locations

  • Explore a thriving underwater world as you snorkel in the waters of the Great Barrier Reef.

  • Get a chance to see anemones, clownfish, angelfish, and more fascinating marine species.

  • Gain an insight into the region's diverse ecosystem and indigenous heritage as you interact with indigenous rangers.

  • Watch live demonstrations of traditional dances, listen to the didgeridoo, feed fish, and much more.

  • Sip on complimentary morning and afternoon tea, and relish in a delicious cold buffet lunch.

from
AU$255
Slide 1 of 10, Snorkelers exploring coral at Moore Reef with a cruise ship in the background, Great Barrier Reef.
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.

[Best-Value] Cairns to Moore Reef Full Day Snorkel Cruise with Pontoon Activities & Buffet Lunch by Sunlover

8 hrs - 9 hrs
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$307
Slide 1 of 14, Aerial view of a pontoon with tourists in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
Aerial view of a pontoon with tourists in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
Tourists on a glass bottom boat viewing coral and fish at Great Barrier Reef near Cairns, Australia.
Tourists in a semi-submersible boat viewing marine life at the Great Barrier Reef.
Marine biologists and children using microscopes on a Great Barrier Reef cruise from Cairns.
Tourists snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef, wearing masks and life vests.
Aerial view of a pontoon at the Great Barrier Reef surrounded by vibrant coral formations.
Tourists on a pontoon enjoying a cruise from Cairns to the Great Barrier Reef.
Tourists relaxing on a sundeck of a pontoon at the Great Barrier Reef.
Guests enjoying buffet lunch on Cairns to Great Barrier Reef cruise.
Tourists preparing for a dive on a Great Barrier Reef cruise.
Snorkeler swimming with a large fish at the Great Barrier Reef near Cairns.
Cruise ship near coral reef in Great Barrier Reef, Cairns.
People observing fish through windows on a semi-submersible at the Great Barrier Reef.
Woman enjoying Great Barrier Reef view from helicopter.

[Latest Pontoon] From Cairns: Outer Reef Snorkel Cruise with Pontoon Activities & Lunch by Reef Magic

8 hrs - 9 hrs
2 more

  • Experience a complete reef adventure on the newest all‑weather pontoon at the outer reef, where clearer waters and vibrant coral create a truly immersive setting.

  • Benefit from a friendly, locally owned Cairns crew known for personalised service and access to premium snorkelling and diving equipment.

  • Enjoy diverse water activities: a glass‑bottom boat tour, talks by a marine biologist, plus the option to add a guided snorkel or an introductory scuba dive.

More details

  • Experience a complete reef adventure on the newest all‑weather pontoon at the outer reef, where clearer waters and vibrant coral create a truly immersive setting.

  • Benefit from a friendly, locally owned Cairns crew known for personalised service and access to premium snorkelling and diving equipment.

  • Enjoy diverse water activities: a glass‑bottom boat tour, talks by a marine biologist, plus the option to add a guided snorkel or an introductory scuba dive.

from
AU$325
Slide 1 of 8, Tourists preparing to dive from a boat on the Outer Great Barrier Reef trip from Cairns.
Tourists preparing to dive from a boat on the Outer Great Barrier Reef trip from Cairns.
Children preparing snorkeling gear on Outer Great Barrier Reef trip from Cairns.
Snorkelers exploring vibrant coral reef in Great Barrier Reef's clear waters during Cairns cruise.
Snorkelers exploring coral reefs in the Outer Great Barrier Reef near Cairns.
Tourists serving themselves at an all-you-can-eat buffet with diverse dishes.
Tourists preparing to snorkel from a boat in the Great Barrier Reef's clear waters.
Tour boat on the Outer Great Barrier Reef trip from Cairns, Australia.
Catamaran on Outer Great Barrier Reef tour from Cairns with passengers enjoying the view.

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Cruise Guided Snorkelling Tour at 3 Outer Reefs

8 hrs 30 mins
1 more

  • Go on a trip from Cairns to the Outer Great Barrier Reed and enjoy up to five hours exploring two reef sites, perfect for both experts and beginners.

  • With an expert guide and all necessary equipment provided, you'll have a comfortable and safe experience!

  • Indulge in a tropical buffet lunch with a selection of hot and cold dishes, plus tea, coffee, and chilled water to keep you refreshed all day.

  • Unwind on spacious sun decks, relax in air-conditioned indoor areas, and freshen up after your adventure with hot freshwater showers onboard.

  • Fun fact: The Norman Reef is home to the largest mollusc in existence, the Giant Clam!

More details

  • Go on a trip from Cairns to the Outer Great Barrier Reed and enjoy up to five hours exploring two reef sites, perfect for both experts and beginners.

  • With an expert guide and all necessary equipment provided, you'll have a comfortable and safe experience!

  • Indulge in a tropical buffet lunch with a selection of hot and cold dishes, plus tea, coffee, and chilled water to keep you refreshed all day.

  • Unwind on spacious sun decks, relax in air-conditioned indoor areas, and freshen up after your adventure with hot freshwater showers onboard.

  • Fun fact: The Norman Reef is home to the largest mollusc in existence, the Giant Clam!

from
AU$275
Slide 1 of 15, Cruise ship and pontoon near Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef, Australia, with snorkelers in clear water.
Cruise ship and pontoon near Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef, Australia, with snorkelers in clear water.
Tourists on pontoon enjoying Moore Reef views, Great Barrier Reef.
Tourists snorkeling at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef near a boat in clear blue waters.
Tourists enjoying buffet lunch on Fitzroy Island with Great Barrier Reef view.
Man sliding from boat into ocean water.
Tourist viewing marine life through semisubmersible windows at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
Tourists observing marine life through a glass bottom boat at Fitzroy Island, Great Barrier Reef.
Tourists sitting on rocks overlooking ocean and forest on Fitzroy Island trail.
Tourists walking along a sandy beach on Fitzroy Island, surrounded by lush greenery and ocean views.
Tourists receiving snorkeling gear on Fitzroy Island beach, Great Barrier Reef.
Snorkeler exploring coral reef with colorful fish in Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
Snorkelers exploring clear waters near rocky shore on Fitzroy Island tour.
Tourists on Seawalker helmet dive at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef, observing coral and fish.
Tourists learning about turtles from a guide at the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, Fitzroy Island.
Ferry docked at Fitzroy Island with lush greenery and clear blue water.

From Cairns: Fitzroy Island & Moore Reef Tour with Pontoon Activities & at-Island Buffet Lunch by Sunlover

9 hrs 30 mins
1 more

  • Cruise to both Fitzroy Island and the outer Great Barrier Reef in one epic day—two distinct reef environments, one seamless itinerary.

  • Start your day at the Moore Reef floating pontoon, a marine playground teeming with coral and tropical fish, before transferring to Fitzroy Island to wander rainforest trails and unwind on white-sand beaches.

  • Snorkel with guidance from marine experts, slip down a 30-meter spiral waterslide into the ocean, or stay dry with glass-bottom boat and semi-submersible tours.

  • Enjoy a premium buffet lunch on Fitzroy Island before heading back to the beach or reef.

  • Customize your day with optional upgrades like a Snorkel Safari, a Seawalker helmet dive, or a visit to the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre.

More details

  • Cruise to both Fitzroy Island and the outer Great Barrier Reef in one epic day—two distinct reef environments, one seamless itinerary.

  • Start your day at the Moore Reef floating pontoon, a marine playground teeming with coral and tropical fish, before transferring to Fitzroy Island to wander rainforest trails and unwind on white-sand beaches.

  • Snorkel with guidance from marine experts, slip down a 30-meter spiral waterslide into the ocean, or stay dry with glass-bottom boat and semi-submersible tours.

  • Enjoy a premium buffet lunch on Fitzroy Island before heading back to the beach or reef.

  • Customize your day with optional upgrades like a Snorkel Safari, a Seawalker helmet dive, or a visit to the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre.

from
AU$337
Slide 1 of 10, Fitzroy Island ferry docked at lush green island, Cairns day trip.
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.

Sunlover: Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full-Day Cruise with Snorkel, Glass Bottom Boat Tour & Lunch

8 hrs 30 mins
3 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$202
Slide 1 of 12, Snorkelers exploring coral reefs at Fitzroy & Green Islands.
Snorkelers exploring coral reefs at Fitzroy & Green Islands.
Tourists enjoying a glass-bottom boat tour near Fitzroy and Green Islands.
Tour group on a boat near Fitzroy and Green Islands, receiving snorkeling gear briefing.
Couple walking on a forest path on Fitzroy Island, surrounded by lush greenery.
Hikers ascending a trail with views of Fitzroy and Green Islands in the background.
Tourists on a boat enjoying views of Fitzroy and Green Islands, Australia.
Group hiking through lush forest on Fitzroy Island trail.
Snorkelers exploring coral reefs near Fitzroy and Green Islands.
Sea turtle swimming over coral reef near Fitzroy and Green Islands.
Coral reef underwater at Fitzroy and Green Islands, vibrant marine life.
Tourists on a boat approaching Fitzroy Island, with clear blue waters and coral reefs visible.
Buffet lunch on a boat tour to Fitzroy and Green Islands.

From Cairns: 2 Islands in 1 Day Trip of Fitzroy & Green Islands

8 hrs 30 mins
1 more

  • Visit Fitzroy and Green Islands in one day, with over 6 hours to explore the Great Barrier Reef.

  • Join expert marine commentary and a biology presentation; snorkel or relax among colorful fish, turtles, and coral reefs.

  • Explore rainforest walking trails, pristine beaches, and rich marine life; snorkelling gear included with selected options.

  • Travel comfortably between islands with smooth, well-timed transfers.

  • Upgrade your experience with a Fitzroy glass-bottom boat tour, snorkelling gear for both islands, or a picnic lunch.

  • Ideal for time-limited travelers, two iconic islands in one seamless day.

More details

  • Visit Fitzroy and Green Islands in one day, with over 6 hours to explore the Great Barrier Reef.

  • Join expert marine commentary and a biology presentation; snorkel or relax among colorful fish, turtles, and coral reefs.

  • Explore rainforest walking trails, pristine beaches, and rich marine life; snorkelling gear included with selected options.

  • Travel comfortably between islands with smooth, well-timed transfers.

  • Upgrade your experience with a Fitzroy glass-bottom boat tour, snorkelling gear for both islands, or a picnic lunch.

  • Ideal for time-limited travelers, two iconic islands in one seamless day.

from
AU$196
Slide 1 of 8, Sailing boat on the ocean during Cairns to Great Barrier Reef and Green Island cruise.
Sailing boat on the ocean during Cairns to Great Barrier Reef and Green Island cruise.
Diver exploring coral reef with sea turtle, Great Barrier Reef, Cairns sailing cruise.
Aerial view of Upolu Cay with sandy beach and surrounding turquoise waters.
Snorkelers exploring coral reefs at Wonder Wall, Green Island.
Snorkelers exploring clear waters near a sandy beach with distant islands.
Grilled salmon with herbs and spices on a slate plate at Rafa Nadal Museum Xperience dining.
Tiger prawns garnished with herbs and lemon slices on a blue plate.
Small boats sailing near coral reefs in the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns.

Cairns to Green Island and Outer Reef Sailing Cruise with Guided Snorkel and Lunch

9 hrs
1 more

  • Sail on a small-group cruise with early access to Upolu Cay and the Wonder Wall, ensuring a personalized marine adventure each moment.

  • Enjoy guided snorkel tours led by marine experts with a high crew-to-guest ratio, delivering safety and unforgettable insights throughout the journey.

  • Relish a premium buffet lunch onboard featuring smoked salmon, prawns, and more—perfectly complementing your immersive reef exploration.

  • Capture early, exclusive access to pristine reef sites with a glass-bottom boat option for non-swimmers, ensuring every guest gets an extraordinary view.

More details

  • Sail on a small-group cruise with early access to Upolu Cay and the Wonder Wall, ensuring a personalized marine adventure each moment.

  • Enjoy guided snorkel tours led by marine experts with a high crew-to-guest ratio, delivering safety and unforgettable insights throughout the journey.

  • Relish a premium buffet lunch onboard featuring smoked salmon, prawns, and more—perfectly complementing your immersive reef exploration.

  • Capture early, exclusive access to pristine reef sites with a glass-bottom boat option for non-swimmers, ensuring every guest gets an extraordinary view.

from
AU$289

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    • What our guests say

    Samita N

    Australia
    Family
    3 weeks ago
    We had a wonderful experience with Big Cat Cruises to Green Island from Cairns. The cruise was comfortable, well organised, and the staff were friendly and helpful throughout the journey. The glass-bottom boat tour was a highlight for our family. We loved seeing the beautiful coral, colourful fish, and marine life without needing to snorkel. Green Island itself was beautiful and perfect for a relaxing family day out. A fantastic experience and highly recommended for families visiting Cairns. Thank you Big Cat Cruises for making our day so memorable! 🐠🌴

    Cairns to Green Island Half Day Cruise with Activity Upgrades

    Adam H

    Australia
    Family
    Apr 2026
    It was a magical day with my family, even our 4yo snorkeled with us. We were very lucky with the weather, saw sea turtles, lots of fish and even reef shark. Corals are amazing!

    Cairns to Green Island Half Day Cruise with Activity Upgrades

    Simon S

    Australia
    Group
    Jun 2026
    Friendly crew, comfortable boat, great facilities made for a fabulous day out. Highly recommended for half day or full day

    Cairns to Green Island Full Day Cruise with Activity Upgrades

    Barry M

    Australia
    Couple
    5 days ago
    The trip there and back , the island was disappointing to me , glass bottom boat was a waste of time and money as the tide was middle going out and as the water cloudy you could not see anything, I know you can't do anything about the weather and tides but needs more thought compared to green island it was , to me anyway , disappointing.

    Sunlover: Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full-Day Cruise with Snorkel, Glass Bottom Boat Tour & Lunch

    Richard V

    Australia
    Couple
    Jun 2026
    We had a great day. Weather was the best. Unfortunately the water was murky to enjoy the Glass bottom boat experience though the the ladies were great hosts.

    Sunlover: Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full-Day Cruise with Snorkel, Glass Bottom Boat Tour & Lunch

    Marcia J

    Australia
    Solo
    Jul 2026
    The sights were amazing , staff were lovely . For people having a short stay in cairns better to do 2 islands in one day , recommend to do 1 island full day tour to have a relaxed holiday

    From Cairns: 2 Islands in 1 Day Trip of Fitzroy & Green Islands

    Natalie F

    Australia
    Couple
    May 2026
    Everything was absolutely brilliant, from staff the ride across and glass bottom boat tour, highly recommend for everyone

    Cairns to Green Island Full/Half-Day Cruise with Glass Bottom Boat Tour

    Wolfgang W

    Germany
    Couple
    Apr 2026
    Great experience. Exciting views on different parts of the reef despite missing sunshine. Smooth flight. Experienced pilot with informative comments. All crew members at airport and in the air extremely helpful, friendly and funny. A special thanks for finding and returning my lost loved sun glasses within only a couple of minutes to my hotel (special thanks to Greg!).

    From Cairns: Outer Great Barrier Reef 40‑Minute Scenic Flight

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