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

Two reef destinations in one day

If you're short on time but want the full Great Barrier Reef experience, this cruise is the perfect solution. Departing from Cairns, you’ll explore two wildly different parts of the reef—each offering unique ways to connect with nature above and below the surface.

What to expect

Your day kicks off at the Moore Reef Pontoon, a floating playground on the outer reef. Step into the water for snorkeling or a guided snorkeling tour, glide across the surface in a glass-bottom boat, or take a semi-submersible ride for an easy front-row view of marine life. Kids can splash down the giant waterslide or swim safely in the ocean pool, while adults relax on the sundeck or watch the reef world unfold through the underwater observatory.

Next, cruise to Fitzroy Island, a postcard-worthy escape where rainforest trails lead to hidden coves and the white sands of Nudey Beach. Wander beneath the rainforest canopy, or simply stretch out on the sand with the reef just steps away.

Midday, recharge with a premium buffet lunch on the island, filling up on tropical dishes and fresh Aussie flavors before diving back into the water or exploring more of the island. Later, you can deepen your adventure with a marine biologist-led Snorkel Safari, stroll the seabed on a Seawalker helmet dive, or join a Turtle Rehab Centre talk to learn how conservationists care for injured sea turtles.

Upgrades

Want to dive a little deeper? You can elevate your experience with:

• Snorkel Safari – Join a marine naturalist on a guided snorkel session to discover harder-to-reach coral gardens and learn about marine life as you go.

• Seawalker Helmet Dive – Underwater catwalk without needing a dive certification. A bucket-list-worthy way to meet the reef up close.

• Turtle Rehabilitation Centre Talk – Learn about local conservation efforts during an optional presentation led by caretakers and marine experts.

Schedule

• 7 to 7:30am: Check-in at Reef Fleet Terminal at Sunlover's desk

• 7:45am: Boarding closes

• 8am: Depart Cairns

• 9:30am: Arrive at Moore Reef Pontoon

• 12pm: Depart Moore Reef Pontoon

• 12:45pm: Arrive at Fitzroy Island,

• 12:45pm to 1:45pm: Lunch

• 2.5 hours of island time

• 3:30pm: Depart Fitzroy Island

• 4:30pm: Arrive at Cairns Marlin Marina