Reef Experience: Great Barrier Reef tours

This Great Barrier Reef tour departs daily from Finger A Cairns Marlin Marina.

  • Boarding at 730 a.m. for an 8:00 a.m. departure
  • Departure time: 7:30 a.m.
  • Return:  4:30 pm
  • Adults cost $225
  • Children $145  ( 4 -11 years )
  • Family 2 adults and two children (4-11 years)  $595

Experience the Best of the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns

Welcome aboard our high-speed catamaran, “Reef Experience,” where you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey to two pristine locations in the Outer Great Barrier Reef. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonder of this World Heritage environment.

Why Choose Reef Experience?

Reef Experience is not just a tour; it’s an all-inclusive adventure. We provide a FREE Scuba Dive and Glass-bottom boat tour, ensuring every guest can maximise their Great Barrier Reef experience, regardless of their swimming, snorkelling, or scuba diving skills.

Your Day Begins

We start by picking you up from your Cairns accommodation and kickstart your day with our renowned BBQ bacon and egg burgers, complemented by tropical fruits. As we make our way to the Outer Barrier Reef, we’ll give you an overview of what to expect throughout the day.

Educational and Informative

Our Marine Biologists will give you an informative marine presentation during the journey. Learn about the diverse marine life that thrives in this remarkable ecosystem.

Exploring the Reef

Once we arrive at the Reef, you’ll have the chance to snorkel and scuba dive, even if you’re not a seasoned swimmer. For experienced swimmers and snorkelers, our crew will guide you to the best coral patches and reveal where to find the extraordinary marine creatures that call the Great Barrier Reef home.

No Swimming Skills Required

If you’ve never snorkelled before or can’t swim, don’t worry. Our friendly and professional crew is always ready to assist. The water is ideal for introducing you to our vibrant tropical fish, ensuring everyone enjoys this incredible experience.

Your Unforgettable Day

We are dedicated to ensuring that our guests have the best day possible while experiencing the magic of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. A day with us promises to be one of the most memorable experiences of your life.

Extend Your Stay

Reef Encounter

If you wish to prolong your stay on the Great Barrier Reef, please click here to learn more about our floating hotel, Reef Encounter.

Discover the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef with us. Book your adventure today!

Please contact us for more information or to make a reservation. We look forward to sharing this incredible journey with you.

Our Outer Barrier Reef locations

Reef Experience FAQ’s

Q. What is included in the Reef Experience tour?

A. Our Great Barrier Reef tour includes transportation from your Cairns accommodation, BBQ breakfast, a FREE Scuba Dive, a Glass-bottom boat tour, and snorkelling opportunities for all levels of swimmers.

Q. Do I need to know how to swim to join the tour?

A. No swimming skills are required. Our professional crew is available to assist and ensure everyone can enjoy the experience, even if you’ve never snorkelled before.

Q. Are there options for experienced swimmers and snorkelers?

A. Absolutely! Our crew will guide experienced swimmers and snorkelers to the best coral patches and areas to spot the incredible marine life.

Q. Can I extend my stay on the Great Barrier Reef?

A. Yes, you can! We offer options to stay longer on the Great Barrier Reef. Please click here, Reef Encounter, to learn more about our floating hotel.

Q. What can I expect during the marine presentation?

A. Our Marine Biologists will provide an informative presentation during the journey to educate you about the unique marine life of the Great Barrier Reef.

Q. Is the tour suitable for families with children?

A. Yes, our tour is family-friendly. We ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for guests of all ages. Kids love to have a drive of the boat and our onboard activities.

Q. What should I bring for the tour?

A. Please bring swimwear, a hat, a towel, and a change of clothes. We provide snorkelling equipment, but you’re welcome to bring your own. Reef Experience has free reef-friendly sunscreen for all guests.

Q. How can I make a reservation?

A. You can easily make a reservation by clicking here and following the prompts. If you have any questions, please contact us.

Q. Is there a vegetarian or vegan meal option available?

A. Yes, we can accommodate dietary preferences. Please let us know in advance, and we’ll ensure you have suitable meal options.

If you have any other questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to make your Great Barrier Reef adventure a memorable one.

Next, see our fantastic Great Barrier Reef tours.

 

  • Up to 6 hours at two pristine Outer Great Barrier Reef Tour locations
  • 2 spectacular  outer Barrier reef locations
  • the best crew on the reef

Cairns Deluxe Itinerary for Great Barrier Reef tour Snorkeling  and Diving

  • 07:30 – First Board Reef Experience boat at the Cairns Marina ‘A-Finger’ for check-in
  • 08:00 – Approximate departure and Safety Talk with snorkel briefing
  • 08:30 – Marine Biology presentation, followed by a detailed scuba dive briefing.
  • 09:30 – Arrive at our first spectacular reef site, snorkel and dive with thousands of vivid tropical fish, giant clams, plus more.
  • 10:30 – Next, take the Glass Bottom Boat tour (approximately 20-minute tour)
  • 12:30 – Then enjoy a delicious Lunch
  • 13:00 – Cruise to our second location to explore forests of coral, large sea fans and black coral trees in its shallow lagoons
  • 15:00 – Depart the Great Barrier Reef.
  • 15:30 – Glass of wine, tropical fruits, cheese and biscuits.
  • 16:30 – Arrive back in Cairns.

 

Reef Experience has more inclusions and the best price.

  • Great Barrier Reef boat tour with a glass bottom (weather permitting)
  • Marine Biologist Presentation
  • Free certification or introductory dives are available.
  • Cairns hotel transportation
  • a bbq breakfast
  • an excellent lunch (Please advise any dietary requirements when you book)
  • a glass of wine and a small snack to enjoy on the way back home
  • All fees and taxes related to the Great Barrier Reef
  • Snorkelling gear and instruction are included in your day.
  • Flotation aids, including life rings and life jackets, as well as swimming noodles
  • Water, tea and coffee all day long (while the boat is stationary)

 

 

  • Underwater Digital Camera Hire
  • Snack Bar Purchases: Soft drinks, chocolate, chips, alcohol etc.
  • Marine Biologist Guided Snorkel Tour of the reef: Snorkel with an experienced Marine Biologist and learn about the marine life you see on an educational and interactive tour.
  • Great Barrier Reef souvenirs – T-shirts, hats etc.
  • Dive Guides for already qualified ‘Certified’ scuba divers (dive guides included for beginner divers)
  • Prescription Mask Hire our clients who wear contact lenses. Normally, you will be able to use them on the day.
  • Bus transfers from accommodation outside of the Cairns Business Area.
  • Second Scuba Dive at our beautiful afternoon Great Barrier reef location.

 

  • Cash and/or credit card for purchases
  • Swimming Clothes, Towel, Hat and Sunglasses,
  • Proof of qualification if you’re a Certified Diver

 

Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tour, Reef Experience departs from

Cairns Marina: ‘A-Finger’ Number 8 View map to Cairns Marlin Marina

Boarding commences at 7:30 a.m. for check-in. The Reef Experience vessel arrived directly at Cairns Marina at approximately 4:30 p.m.

Where Can I Park?

Several parking stations throughout Cairns are within walking distance of the Marina.  Click here to see where

 

 

Important Information for Scuba Diving

We are passionate about showing you Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, so please ensure you understand the scuba diving laws.

Queensland, Australia, has the strictest scuba diving rules globally and the safest scuba diving record.   We are regulated by the Queensland Government Code of Practice and comply with all regulations, including medical, as is the law.

We recommend that all of our passengers complete our dive medical questionnaire.   Some medical conditions, age and medications may prevent you from scuba diving.

Our mission is always to provide our passengers with the best Great Barrier Reef experience.

Scuba Diving Medical Questionnaire

We are happy to help you with any questions you may have.   Please contact our office on 07 4037 2700 or email us.

Alternatively, you may like to consult your Doctor for a Dive Medical using the Australian Standard Forms’ AS.4005.1

Flying after Scuba Diving

After scuba diving, you must not fly for at least 18 hours.

You should not fly for 24 hours after your last dive for multiple dives.
If you are Skydiving or Hot Air Ballooning, you must wait 24 hours after your dive.
We recommend waiting a minimum of 24 hours whenever possible.

 

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