Headout logo. Link to home.
Help
Sightseeing Cruises

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Pontoon Activities and Lunch by Reef Magic

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.

Duration

8 hr - 9 hr

Open today

10:00am - 05:00pm

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Guided tour

Meals included

Indulge in a sumptuous meal as a part of your experience

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

    • 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.

    • Full-day tour to Reef Magic Pontoon from Cairns

    • 5 hours at reef activity pontoon

    • Snorkelling equipment with safety instructions

    • Lycra suit and wetsuit

    • Buffet lunch (menu here)

    • Morning and afternoon tea

    • Tea, coffee, and drinking water

    • Guided snorkeling tour (if option selected)

    • Introductory dive (if option selected)

    • Glass-bottom boat and semi-submersible tour with commentary

    • Fish feeding and Great Barrier Reef marine biology presentation

    • Sundeck, fresh water showers, and changing rooms

    • Underwater reef viewing observatory

    • Infants’ safety swimming enclosure

  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

  • How do we collect reviews?

    4.5
    948 ratings
    5/5
    730
    4/5
    114
    3/5
    19
    2/5
    19
    1/5
    66
  • Your journey begins from Cairns aboard a medium-sized catamaran, cruising out to the outer reef’s Moore Reef, known for its clearer waters, vibrant coral gardens, and abundant marine life. Step onto a newly rebuilt pontoon, designed for smaller groups so you can explore without the crowds.

    Certified guides provide detailed tips before leading optional guided snorkelling sessions, letting you discover colourful reef residents at your pace. With up to five hours on the reef, mix relaxed snorkelling with semi‑sub rides for a different view beneath the surface.

    In between, unwind over a tropical buffet lunch and tea breaks, and join interactive eco-presentations to learn what makes the outer reef so unique. The smaller group size means personalised attention, easy access to premium gear, and space to truly enjoy the surroundings. You can also upgrade your day with a guided snorkel or introductory scuba dive for an extra splash of adventure.

  • SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

    Monday10:00am - 05:00pm
    Tuesday10:00am - 05:00pm
    Wednesday10:00am - 05:00pm
    Thursday10:00am - 05:00pm
    Friday10:00am - 05:00pm
    Saturday10:00am - 05:00pm
    Sunday10:00am - 05:00pm
  • What to bring

    • Bring your swimsuits, towels, sun protection (SPF 30+ and water resistant), hat sunglasses, camera, and cash/credit card for onboard purchases.

    • Have your ID ready for a seamless experience.

    What's not allowed

    • Safety is a priority, so the diving experience is restricted for children under 12 years.

    Accessibility

    • Certain medical conditions like asthma, epilepsy, high blood pressure, or specific medications may exclude individuals from diving.

    • This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.

    Additional information

    • A medical questionnaire must be completed and signed by a parent/guardian for divers under 18 years.

    • After diving, intervals of 12-24 hours are recommended prior to flying depending on the depths of dives and accrued dive time.

    • Helicopters for scenic flights have maximum weight limits to ensure safety. Here’s a quick guide: 3-seat: 240 kg (529 lbs), 4-seat: 320 kg (705 lbs), and 6-seat: 490 kg (1,080 lbs).

    • Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

    • Please arrive at the boarding point 15 minutes before the scheduled time of your cruise to avoid any delays.

    • Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.

    Boarding point

    • Board your cruise at Reef Magic.

    • Address: Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia.

    Get directions to the boarding point

Similar experiences you'd love

Free cancellation
Aerial view of Kuranda Scenic Railway winding through lush rainforest in Queensland, Australia.
Guided Tours
Instant confirmation
4.4
Rated 4.4 out of 5.0 from 231 ratings.
from
AU$195
Free cancellation
Group enjoying beach on Fitzroy Island with snorkeling gear, part of Half Day Adventure Tour from Cairns.
Guided Tours
Instant confirmation
4.8
Rated 4.8 out of 5.0 from 737 ratings.
from
AU$97
Free cancellation
Person overlooking ocean and lush hills on Fitzroy Island adventure trail.
Guided Tours
Instant confirmation
4.4
Rated 4.4 out of 5.0 from 936 ratings.
from
AU$97
Free cancellation
Kuranda Scenic Railway train crossing bridge with waterfall backdrop in Queensland, Australia.
Day Trips
Instant confirmation
4.3
Rated 4.3 out of 5.0 from 246 ratings.
from
AU$288
Free cancellation
Snorkel cruise boat with tourists on turquoise water near Airlie Beach, Whitsundays.
Rafting
Instant confirmation
4.8
Rated 4.8 out of 5.0 from 158 ratings.
from
AU$209
Download app section background

We've served 40 million+ guests and we are here for you

40 million+

Happy customers across 10,000+ experiences

In the media

Featured and recommended by the best brands

24 x 7 help center

Have a question? Live chat with local experts anywhere, anytime