Great Barrier Reef Tours from Cairns

Diving and Snorkelling Trips

If you’re looking to go diving or snorkelling during your trip to Cairns, we have various Great Barrier Reef tours for you to choose from! Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeller, we’re sure to have the perfect adventure to suit your travel style and skill level. 

 

Explore our vast range of Great Barrier Reef tours from Cairns below and enjoy an unforgettable experience swimming alongside the diverse marine species that call these tropical waters home. Book your trip online today!

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More Activities in Cairns

Looking to discover even more of Cairns and its tropical surroundings? We’ve got you covered! Check out our other popular Cairns activities and explore beyond the reef with Backpacker Deals!

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The Best Great Barrier Reef Tours from Cairns in 2024

1. Passions of Paradise - Great Barrier Reef Tour

Sail to two unique destinations and spend the day diving, snorkelling, and spotting all kinds of magnificent marine animals aboard one of the best outer reef tours from Cairns!

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2. Great Barrier Reef Snorkelling and Dive Cruise

Hop aboard a luxury cruise to the Great Barrier Reef aboard Evolution, Cairns’ fastest super yacht and spend the day relaxing on deck and snorkelling around the calm tropical waters.

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3. AquaQuest Outer Reef Day Trip

Enjoy an exciting snorkelling adventure to the outer Great Barrier Reef and swim alongside vibrant fish, colourful corals, and gorgeous turtles on this unforgettable day trip.

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4. Reef Daytripper 1-Day Sailing Tour

Venture out to one of the more secluded spots in the Great Barrier Reef and spend the day snorkelling, diving, and wildlife-spotting away from the crowds with this full-day sailing tour.

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5. Great Barrier Reef 2-Day 1-Night Snorkel Tour

Discover an enchanting underwater world, take in magical sunset views, and experience a boating adventure like no other with this overnight trip to the Great Barrier Reef!

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6. Dive and Snorkel Full-Day Tour With Helicopter Ride

Set out on an action-packed adventure to experience the beauty of the reef on every level, from the dazzling underwater paradise below to the magnificent aerial views above.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns?

Ultimately, it depends. The Great Barrier Reef is aptly named, covering almost 350,000 square kilometres in total. If you’re taking a boat trip to one of the reef’s islands nearer the mainland, it will generally take you around 45 minutes to get there from Cairns. However, if you’re venturing further afield, it can take anywhere between 1-2 hours depending on the type of marine vessel you’re travelling in. 

Where do reef tours depart from in Cairns?

In Cairns, Great Barrier Reef tours generally depart from the Cairns Marlin Marina, with a range of tour boats travelling to the reef from the marina daily. The marina is situated close to the Cairns Esplanade lagoon and numerous hotels and public transport options are also located nearby, making it a very easy spot to get to. 

What is the best month to visit the Great Barrier Reef?

The Great Barrier Reef’s tourist season is at its peak between May and October, and for good reason! During this time, the water is a pleasant temperature, the lower humidity makes for a pleasant swimming experience, and there are far fewer jellyfish lurking in the waters.

What kind of marine animals can you see at the Great Barrier Reef?

You can see a vast range of different sea creatures at the Great Barrier Reef, including turtles, clownfish, manta rays, and much more. If you’re extra curious about the diverse marine life you might encounter, check out our blog on the top Great Barrier Reef animals to look out for on your trip!