Explore the best of reef and island – with time to enjoy both!
Spend one day discovering the underwater wonders of the Great Barrier Reef from a floating activity pontoon, and the next relaxing on tropical Fitzroy Island. Snorkel, swim, explore rainforest trails, and return to your Cairns accommodation each night. This flexible two-day package is ideal for those who want to soak up the beauty of both destinations at a relaxed pace.
Fitzroy Island and Great Barrier Reef Adventure (2 days)
Fitzroy Island and Great Barrier Reef 2-Day Trip:
Two full-day adventures: One day on Fitzroy Island and one day on the Great Barrier Reef, with time to enjoy both destinations.
Island paradise: Relax on pristine beaches, snorkel straight off the shore, and explore rainforest walking tracks on Fitzroy Island.
Outer reef experience: Spend a full day at a floating pontoon at Moore Reef with snorkelling, glass-bottom boat tours, semi-submersible rides, and underwater observatory access.
Marine life encounters: Spot tropical fish, vibrant corals, and possibly sea turtles while snorkelling at both the island and the reef.
Family-friendly activities: Enjoy safe swimming areas, a waterslide at the reef pontoon, and flexible options for all ages and abilities.
Included extras: Snorkel gear, flotation devices, reef presentations, and buffet lunches are part of the package.
Convenient for travellers: Guests return to Cairns each night no accommodation required.
Operated by Sunlover Reef Cruises Departs Daily from Cairns – Return to Cairns Each Night
Explore the Reef. Discover the Island. No Overnight Required.
This two-day adventure is the perfect way to experience two of Tropical North Queensland’s most beautiful destinations — the Great Barrier Reef and Fitzroy Island — with the ease of returning to your accommodation in Cairns each night.
Spend one unforgettable day exploring the outer reef from a floating activity platform, and another day immersed in island paradise, where rainforest meets reef.
🌴 Day 1: Fitzroy Island Escape
A short 45-minute ferry ride from Cairns takes you to Fitzroy Island, a lush, mountainous island surrounded by fringing reef and tranquil beaches. Spend your day snorkelling from the shore, relaxing on the beach, or exploring island walking tracks.
🐠 Day 2: Great Barrier Reef Adventure (Outer Reef Pontoon)
Board Sunlover Reef Cruises from Cairns and set off for a full day at the Great Barrier Reef. You’ll travel to a floating reef pontoon located on the outer reef, where calm, sheltered waters are ideal for both snorkelling and relaxing.
Included Activities:
Snorkel over colourful coral gardens with tropical reef fish
Visit the underwater observatory for dry viewing of marine life
Enjoy a glass-bottom boat or semi-submersible reef tour
Slide down a 30-metre spiral waterslide into the ocean
Join a marine naturalist for fish feeding and reef talks
Relax on the spacious sundeck with provided lunch and refreshments
Did you know? The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world and can be seen from space!
🌞 Why Choose This Package?
Two iconic locations, one unforgettable experience
No need to change accommodation or stay overnight
Perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers
Great for swimmers and non-swimmers alike
Easy access from Cairns city
Flexible add-ons for diving, glass-bottom boat, or upgrades
A balance of reef adventure and island relaxation.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book accommodation on Fitzroy Island or the reef?
No. This package is designed so you can return to your Cairns accommodation each night. All transfers are included, making it easy and convenient.
What’s included in the package price?
The package includes return ferry transfers, snorkelling gear, flotation devices, reef pontoon access, glass-bottom boat or semi-submersible tours, buffet lunches, and guided presentations. Optional extras like diving, guided snorkel safaris, and scenic helicopter flights can be added.
Is the tour suitable for children and families?
Yes! Fitzroy Island is perfect for family beach days, and the reef pontoon has safe swimming areas, a waterslide, and non-swimmer-friendly activities. Families of all ages enjoy this trip.
Can non-swimmers still enjoy the reef day?
Absolutely. Non-swimmers can experience the reef through the underwater observatory, glass-bottom boats, semi-submersible tours, and marine life presentations.
What should I bring with me on each day?
Pack swimwear, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, walking shoes for Fitzroy Island, and a change of clothes. Don’t forget your camera, water bottle, and any personal essentials. Reef-safe sunscreen is highly recommended.
💡 Helpful Tips
Bring swimwear, towel, hat, sunscreen, and a change of clothes
Seasickness medication is recommended for sensitive travellers
Reapply sunscreen regularly and stay hydrated
Check in early and allow time for boarding
Respect marine life and follow all reef-safe snorkelling practices.
📍 Departure Details
Location: Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal Check-In: Approx. 8:00–8:30 am (subject to confirmation) Return: Around 5:00–5:30 pm each day
A day at beautiful Fitzroy Island & a day on the Great Barrier Reef!
Fitzroy Island Full-Day Package
8.45 am – 9.45 am Check in
09.30 am – 10.00 am Boarding
10.15 am Depart Cairns Marina
11.00 am Arrive Fitzroy Island 4.5 Hours of Island time
3.30 pm Depart Fitzroy Island
4.30 pm Arrive Cairns Marina
Great Barrier Reef Moore Reef
8.45 am – 9.30 am Check-in
09.30 am – 10.00 am Boarding
10.15 am Depart Cairns Marina
11.00 am Arrive Moore Reef Pontoon 4 hours at the Reef
4.00 pm Depart Moore Reef Pontoon
5.30 pm Arrive back at Cairns Marina
✅ Tour Inclusions
Two full-day tours (Great Barrier Reef and Fitzroy Island)
Return ferry transfers from Cairns each day
Snorkelling equipment, flotation devices, lycra suits or wetsuits
Buffet lunch on reef day + lunch option on island day (based on package)
Friendly crew, safety briefings, and helpful guides
National Park fees and reef levies
Please Note: This tour does not include accommodation. Guests return to their Cairns hotel each evening.
Fitzroy Island Full-Day Package
Guided Snorkel Tour
Guided Kayak Tour
Nature & Rainforest Walks
Turtle Talk at the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre
Great Barrier Reef Moore Reef
Guided snorkel tour
Seawalker helmet dive
SCUBA dive
Scenic helicopter flight
Simply pack a bag as if you were going to the beach for the day. Suggested items include:
Photo ID and booking details
swimming costume and beach towel
sunscreen (SPF 30+) reef friendly is recommended
sun protective clothing such as t-shirt or rash vest, hat and sunglasses
cash or credit card for purchases on the island
food and drinks for the Fitzroy Island day (you can also purchase on the island)
reusable water bottle
sturdy footwear if you intend on bushwalking on Fitzroy Island
camera
Checking in for Fitzroy Island
Check-in at Sunlover reservations desk inside the Reef Fleet Terminal CHECK-IN Opens 8.45 am – Closes 9.45 am DEPARTURE 10.15 am
Checking in for Moore Reef
Your first stop is the Sunlover reservations desk inside the Reef Fleet Terminal where our team will issue you with a boarding pass and directions to the catamaran. CHECK-IN Opens 8.45 am – Closes 9.45 am
BOARDING Opens 9.30 am – Closes 10.00 am DEPARTURE 10.15 am
PLEASE CALL 07 4037 2700 TO CHECK AVAILABILITY BEFORE BOOKING
A minimum of 24 hours notice is required to re-schedule or alter all or part of a reservation.
We are required to notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to make sure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during our standard business hours (9 am-5 pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent via email to: [email protected]. Any emails received outside of these hours will be considered received the following day.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
20% cancellation fee 24 hours or more before departure
100% cancellation fee within 24 hours before departure and for "No Show"
There will be no refund of any part of your tour costs should you fail to arrive at a scheduled tour departure time. Tour departures may not be delayed due to passenger circumstances - including events beyond your control, medical problems, airline delays, weather, etc.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation, and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities.
Terms And Conditions
This website acts as a booking agent only for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavour to provide accurate information, we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning services.
Children’s prices are from 4 – 15 years of age
We are not liable for changes to tours, pricing or itineraries; all of which are subject to change without notice.
Neither this site, nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, loss of personal belongings, property damage, delay or personal injury.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. In a medical emergency, any evacuation, vessel relocation, medical or other expenses are the financial responsibility of that passenger. Please be aware that scuba diving and other in-water activities are not covered by all travel insurance companies.
Please inform us of any special requirements prior to your date of travel; such as dietary requirements, allergies, mobility and disability issues. This can be done in the 'Booking Message' section of your online reservation or by contacting our friendly reservations team
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