cairns sailing day trips

Cairns City Tours

Cairns area, reef day cruises, island day cruises.

Green Island Sailing Day Tour

Join this amazing personalised team on the 16.5 meter sailing schooner 'Ocean Free' for a day to remember on the Great Barrier Reef. Renown as the most exclusive, personal, customer-oriented Great Barrier Reef tour in Cairns with only 25 lucky guests..

Green Island is a truly tropical haven situated 26 km from Cairns on The Great Barrier Reef. Ocean Free sails you to Pinnacle Reef, an exclusive reef site located in the highly protected Marine Park zone just off Green Island offering excellent coral coverage and vibrant marine life. It's protected waters are the perfect location to discover the reef snorkelling or scuba diving.

Experience the best of both worlds – the spectacular marine life on your private Great Barrier Reef site and then get taken straight to Green Island beach where you can explore the tropical island or just relax in the cool, crystal clear, shallow waters.

If you’ve never dived and wish to try it, we have introductory dives - guaranteed 2 divers to one instructor! (the usual ratio is 4:1) If you are a certified diver, you can enjoy the wonders of the reef with our experienced complimentary guides. At the end of your day hoist the sails and enjoy a sail home (engines off - wind permitting)

Adult $279|Child $220 Departs Daily 8.00 am - 5.00 pm Renown as the most exclusive, personal, customer-oriented Great Barrier Reef tour in Cairns with only 25 lucky guests. Join this amazing personalised team on the 16.5 meter sailing schooner 'Ocean Free' for a day to remember on the Great Barrier Reef. Ocean Free sails you to Pinnacle Reef, an exclusive reef site located in the highly protected Marine Park zone just off Green Island offering excellent coral coverage and vibrant marine life.

Related Tours

Fitzroy Island - Full Day

From Adult $95| Child $57 (4-14yrs)| Family 2A+2C $247 Please note seasonal prices apply Departs daily at 8.30am or 10.45am - 5.00pm Fitzroy Island Adventure is a quick 45-minute ferry to the beautiful coral Island on the Great Barrier Reef. Things to do on Fitzroy Island . You can hire snorkel equipment, glass-bottom boat tour, guided snorkel tours, go swimming, stand-up paddleboards and sea kayaking.  Those more active can do the Lighthouse Trail, a steep climb with rewarding views.

Green Island Full Day Tour

FROM $116 Full Day 9.00am - 5.00pm Half Day 11.00am - 5.00pm Snorkel and swim in the clear, cool island waters straight from the white sandy beach. Encounter a wide variety of colourful fish, turtles and other marine creatures whilst exploring the beautiful coral reef gardens surrounding Green Island.

Reef and Island • Moore & Fitzroy Island

Adult $285.00| Child $165 (4-15yrs) | Family 2A+2C $735 Departs Cairns 8.00am - 4.30pm July - August  24 - Tue Wed & Sat Sept - Mar 25 - Tue Thu & Sat Experience the ultimate Great Barrier Reef adventure combining 2 hours at Moore Reef Pontoon + 3 hour Fitzroy Island stop over in a day! Moore Reef Pontoon includes coral viewing with semi-submersible, glass bottom boat, underwater observatory, snorkelling & kids waterslide. Then a leisurely time at Fitzroy Island to relax & unwind including lunch.

Ocean Spirit Cruises

Adult $268|Child $138|Family $674 Departs daily 8.30am - 5pm  Sail to Michaelmas Cay on the Great Barrier Reef aboard Ocean Spirit Cruises spacious catamaran. Snorkel or dive the pristine reef in the shallow waters of the cay or view the reef from a glass bottom boat. Michaelmas Cay is a National Park and a protected sanctuary for hundreds of migratory seabirds.

Green Island & Outer Great Barrier Reef Tour from Cairns

Special save up to $30 per person Normally Adult $318|Child $132|Family $816 Adult $288.00| Child $156|Family $740

Departs daily 8.30am - 5.20pm Enjoy the best of both worlds with this complete Great Barrier Reef and Island tour. Enjoy 2 hours on Green Island and  3 hours on the Outer Barrier Reef.  Fast 45-minute catamaran ride to beautiful Green Island and enjoy 2 hours on this iconic  coral cay, and then continue your day adventure and discovery with a further 45 minute ride  to Great Adventures spacious activity platform moored on the majestic Outer Great Barrier Reef.

Green Island & Cairns City Sights Full Day Tour

Adult $215 |Child 4-14 yrs $127| Family 2A2C $686 Departs Mon to Sat 9am - 6pm Green Island and Cairns City Sights Tour is an exciting day tour that takes you on a journey to explore the natural beauty and cultural highlights of two unique destinations. Morning begins with a visit to the beautiful Green Island, where you have the opportunity to snorkel or do a glass-bottom boat tour to discover the Great Barrier Reef. Return to Cairns where you'll explore the sights and sounds of this vibrant tropical city.

Summer dates starting to fill up, Make sure to book your spot online now!

Reef Daytripper

Great barrier reef day trips from cairns, australia, snorkel & scuba dive catamaran charters.

Sail away to the picturesque Upolu Reef on our charming catamaran, Reef Daytripper, for a relaxing and fun-filled Great Barrier Reef adventure!

• Most Popular
• Clock 9 Hours
• Users All Ages

Reef Daytripper Full-Day Snorkel

Explore Upolu Reef, a beautiful location on the edge of the Outer Barrier Reef! Experience a perfect day of snorkeling or scuba diving in warm, clear, protected waters teeming with marine life and corals.

Reef Daytripper Private Charter

Avoid the crowds and experience the Great Barrier Reef the way nature intended! Snorkel, scuba dive, or just relax on the boat and soak up the sun. Equipment and guide included!

Snorkel, Scuba, Sail & Relax with a Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tour

Avoid the crowds and experience The Great Barrier Reef the way nature intended. No other operator in this category can offer you this superb personalised service. Join us and our fun-loving crew for one of our Great Barrier Reef day trips from Cairns, Australia!

Our destination, Upolu Reef, is a very beautiful location situated on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Our reef tours near Cairns are teeming with a large variety of interesting marine life and a beautiful array of corals. This sheltered lagoon offers perfect Cairns snorkeling or diving experiences in warm clear protected waters. A complimentary snorkel guide is available, which offers a fun and informative addition to the day trips from Cairns, Australia.

Being owner-operated means we take an active interest in the safety and well being of our customers, and our crew are considered a part of our family. We take great pride in delivering enthusiastic and friendly hospitality to our guests. We aim to visit two sites (weather permitting), allowing plenty of time for Great Barrier Reef snorkeling, scuba diving or just simply relaxing in the bow nets on the boat. Ready for an amazing underwater adventure? Book your Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tour online now!

Top-Rated Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tours!

The crew is excellent. Our skipper, Paul, was friendly and knowledgeable. Jan the scuba man was extremely thorough and professional. Kaitlin, our snorkel guide, was positive and full of environmental science knowledge. A simple but nourishing lunch was provided, as well as a nice glass of chilled white wine on the return trip, as well as an afternoon snack of crackers, cheese and fruit. What a delightful and unforgettable day this was!

Fantastic day on the reef! The group was small (only 15 or so people on the day we went) and that made for such a better experience. The locations on the reef that we visited were great and had a fantastic variety of reef life. The crew were fabulous to deal with, the staff explained all safety matters clearly, ran tours to show us around the reef hut also allowed us to self explore. 10/10 day would highly recommend!

The crew did a great job of trying to pep us up and gave us very helpful and informative briefings on our way out to the reef. On arrival, I was very grateful to have the option to swim with a pool noodle and stay with a guide/hang onto the life ring until I was comfortable enough to venture off on my own with some confidence. We were lucky to have very clear conditions in the water and many amazing creatures to see. Thank you to the crew for a wonderful day on the reef!

Reef Daytripper is a fantastic day out on a catamaran, with very friendly and professional staff. They look after all of their guests in the water while you snorkel or scuba dive. Very relaxing cruise to and from the reef. Lying on the nets while cruising is an experience. They only take a small group out, so it's much more enjoyable than the bigger boats that go out to the reefs. This is definitely a 5 star experience. A must do when in Cairns!

The reef day tripper is a very well priced trip and extremely professional crew. The day was amazing from the first step on the gorgeous boat till the step off. Happy with how nice and friendly the knowledgeable staff were. They were very experienced and had a great love for the reef. Food and snacks supplied and was great after a big day snorkeling. Complimentary wine and quality gear with the option to dive. Best spots on the reef and great crew. We loved it!

Staff were incredibly friendly and professional. All wet suits and pool noodles provided. Their knowledge was great and the boat itself beautiful. We saw some amazing sea life including turtles, stingrays, clown fish and lots of coral. The food was delicious! Loads of snorkeling time, food at different portions of the day and a glass of wine to finish the tour. Having less than 20 passengers was great, plenty of room to snorkel and lots of time to ask the crew questions.

Why Choose Reef Daytripper?

Small group sizes.

With small passenger numbers (up to 20 people aboard the boat maximum) and up to 4 crew per 20 passengers, you won’t feel like just a number. A smaller group size makes for a more intimate, personalised experience, with ample room to snorkel, dive, and relax aboard our catamaran.

Knowledgable & Experienced Crew

You’ll receive casual and informative reef education while aboard our catamaran. We’re happy to answer your questions about the fish and the reef ecosystem! Complimentary guided snorkel tours and scuba diving guide provided at no extra charge!

A Company That Cares

Our eco-friendly tours have the lowest carbon footprint of any Cairns tour operator! We are locally owned and operated, which means we care greatly about the reef and take great pride in delivering enthusiastic and friendly hospitality to all our guests.

PADI Certified

PADI Dive Instructors undergo rigorous training to ensure your scuba certification class is fun, exciting and safe at the same time!

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Snorkel, Dive & Sail

ECO TOUR - Be a Marine Biologist For The Day

Full day Outer Reef Tour PLUS Be a Marine bio Experience – starting from $410

Multi Award Winning Great Barrier Reef Tours Cairns

Experience the adventure of snorkelling, diving and sailing on our Great Barrier Reef Tours. The 25 metre high performance catamaran sails daily from Cairns to two unique outer reef locations, where you can dive and snorkel with turtles, colourful fish and see an amazing variety of corals.

Enjoy a personalised day on the Great Barrier Reef with a friendly crew dedicated to making your trip memorable and a local operator whose environmental credentials and attention to detail have earned many awards including the Australian Tourism Award for Adventure.

Our Tour Includes

• Sailing on a stylish and fast catamaran to two unique outer reef destinations
• All Snorkelling equipment including a free guided Snorkel Tour
• Relax on our stylish upper deck or netted deck trampoline at the bow of the boat
• A chef prepared tropical buffet lunch of hot and cold dishes including fresh tropical fruit.
• Morning and afternoon tea provided
• Meet with our Eco accredited marine naturalist who provide presentations on coral fish and life

Help protect the Great Barrier Reef. Experience our ECO tour

Your day on the Great Barrier Reef

REEF LOCATIONS

Phone 07 4041 1600.

• Book Online

Our Activities

See below the array of activities you can include on your Great Barrier Reef Tour. Whether its diving your interested in or exploring your underwater photography skills, we have you covered.

Snorkelling

Included for free on your full day outer barrier reef trip

Green turtles, manta rays, clown fish, soft and hard corals – you never know what you will come across when you snorkel in the warm, clear waters on our Great Barrier Reef Tours. A full briefing on how to snorkel, fit the equipment and make the most of your time at the Reef is given. Join a free snorkelling tour for a unique insight into this special World Heritage area. Read more

Introductory diving

1st Introductory Scuba Dive $90

2nd Introductory Scuba Dive $60

Introductory diving is a safe and fun Great Barrier Reef adventure that allows you to get up close to turtles, giant clams, clown fish, coral trout, barramundi cod and a variety of colourful corals at our spectacular destinations. All introductory scuba divers start from the safety of the Passions of Paradise catamaran and dive in a calm, shallow lagoon full of marine life. Read more

Certified Diving

1st Certified Scuba Dive $75 (Includes all gear hire, dive computer and wetsuit)

2nd Certified Scuba Dive $55

Certified scuba divers have an amazing range of exclusive reefs to dive with a selection of drift dives, wall dives and swim throughs. The Passions of Paradise specially designed glass bottom dive tender will take you to the best locations on the day for a fully guided dive with all your equipment, including wetsuits and computers, provided. Explore the depths of the Great Barrier Reef. Read more

Great Barrier Reef ECO Talk

Included for free on your full day Outer Barrier Reef trip

Join our free eco talk on the way back from the reef following your in-water activities. This fun and lively 30 minute commentary on the coral, fish and unique features of the Great Barrier Reef is a great opportunity to learn more about the ecosystem you have just dived and snorkelled. Highly interactive, marvel at how hard and soft corals co-exist, why reef creatures work together and why Nemo’s father is actually his Mother? Come away appreciating how we can all take a part in protecting the Great Barrier Reef for future generations.

Underwater Camera Hire

We do have underwater cameras available on board to hire. These cameras are Intova Sport HD’s and they take micro SD cards which are available on board to buy or you can use your own! Our helpful staff will show you how use these to take cool underwater videos and photos. The crew are also on hand to help take the perfect underwater selfie on our Great barrier Reef Tours.

Be A Marine Bio for the Day

For Snorkellers & Certified Divers

Do you have a passion for conservation? Why not upgrade your reef tour and join one of our unique and exciting conservation and education programs? This is your chance to engage in a day of real-world science and help us monitor our sites while providing important data for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. Read More >

BOOK ONLINE

Departure Details and What to Bring

• Check in is at our counter at the Reef Fleet Terminal, Marlin Marina from 7:00 am for 8 am departure.
• Bring, hat, sunscreen, bathing gear, sunglasses, towel, etc. as you would for travelling to the beach. We have credit card facilities on the boat.
• We welcome you to visit us at our counter at the Reef Fleet terminal, open 7 days a week, until 4 pm for more information or email us.

Check out our customer reviews

Read our reviews on TripAdvisor & Facebook or leave us one yourself

“ We had such a great day on the reef with Passions of Paradise! The boat was comfortable and not too crowded. The crew was professional, knowledgable and approachable, and had high safety standards. They really took care of every passenger, from experienced divers to those who could not swim. You get plenty of time to snorkel at two reef locations, and scuba diving or glass-floor boat tours are optional extras. We had an experience of a lifetime, and would highly recommend it. Therese - TripAdvisor

“ We were unsure of which boat to choose for our tour of the reef, but knew we wanted to give the kids a sailing experience of some sort so ended up choosing Passions Of Paradise... We are so glad we did. From the friendly crew, who let the kids "drive the boat", to the water crew that made them feel comfortable having never snorkelled before, they were all amazing. The food onboard was delicious, organised and prepared by the well oiled machine that the crew really are. The best thing about it was how personal it felt... The crew were happy to sit and chat, answer both ours and the kids questions and generally make you feel part of their little family for the day... Great choice for all age groups, families, couples, young groups etc. The scenery was a bonus, exclusive reefs made it that bit more special. Thanks again POP! Can't wait to visit you all again! Love Hayley, Paul, Sam & Charli Hayley - Facebook

“ The whole team at Passions made our group feel so welcomed and relaxed. They were informative, and catered for a variety of people's needs; kids, through to grandparents. Locally owned as well. Would highly recommend these guys to anyone for an amazing reef experience. Elle - Tripadvisor

“ I went snorkelling back in February as part of a top deck group activity! I wasn't going to go because I can't swim and thought I would be in the way! I'm terrified of the water but I didn't want to leave Oz without seeing the Reef. All the crew on passions were so helpful, professional and encouraging. I wasn't made feel silly for being unable to swim, in fact quite the opposite! Kieran, a cool guy working onboard, looked after me. He took me out snorkelling and ensured me I was safe and nothing would happen to me! All I had to do was hold onto the life ring and he did the swimming! It was the best experience of my life! I felt so safe despite being terrified! I was so proud of myself. However I don't think I could have done it without Kierans help. Hopefully he reads this. Thank you Norma - Facebook

“ Excellent service from Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef experience operatin operating out of Cairns in Northern Queensland, Australia. I have just completed second day trip in a month with this company - taking groups of folks for SCUBA & snorkelling bon the reef. A local independent outfit, very professionally run with really positube and supportive atitudes from everyone on board and from the back office staff too. Many thanks to Mossy, Aelx, Nicky, Nichola, Sion & Kate - plus all of the others. I will definitely be recommending you to others! Best wishes from Michael Perrins in Cleveland, Ohio! Michael - Facebook

“ The Passions of Paradise tour exceeded all expectations. The crew is friendly, relaxed, extremely service-minded and passionate about the reef and its inhabitants. On top of all this, the lunch was of very good quality. I do recommend to bring something warm to wear after the snorkling though! Lina - Tripadvisor

“ Great day scuba diving and snorkeling. Knowledgeable crew with a sense of humor and a great passion for the reef. Not just involved in diving but devoted to the care of the reef and saving it. A pleasure to see and experience! Thank you to Mossy, Russel and Zoe. Debra - Facebook

PHONE 07 4041 1600

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Keep up to date

• Dive into citizen science on the Great Barrier Reef April 12, 2024
• Reef stewardship earns Passions a Banksia Award March 24, 2023
• The Secret to a Clear Mask While Snorkelling… February 13, 2023
• Coral Nurture Project work continues on the Great Barrier Reef June 5, 2020

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Two day / one night - sail the reef prices from $629 aud.

Dive and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef without the crowds  when you embark on a two-day Cairns sailing adventure experiencing the  best outer reef sites.  With a maximum of only 12 guests, this vessel is an intimate  Great Barrier Reef overnight trip visiting spectacular reefs with amazing  coral.

• Dive or Snorkel
• Maximum 12 Guests
• Fully Air Con
• Sailing Experience

Availability (days of the week)

More information...

Prices Simply click the price below to add an item to your booking

Your Great Barrier Reef adventure will include up close and personal encounters with turtles, reef sharks, barracuda and Maori wrasse as we visit up to five different sites on one of the world's most pristine and diverse ecosystems over two days.

This company owns 20 moorings on nine different reef systems so our reef locations are some of the best in Cairns and allow us to select the ideal site  for the conditions on the day. For almost 20 years this yacht  has been taking passengers to pristine outer reef locations such as  Flynn, Milln and Norman reefs.

After a day of exceptional diving and snorkelling, sit on the deck as  the sun sets and enjoy the peacefulness of the Great Barrier Reef at  night. Wake up to the sun rising over the Coral Sea and enjoy an early  morning dive or snorkel in warm, tropical waters teeming with fish. 

There is never a rush on this cruise and we insist you enjoy all the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef at your own pace.

Consistently rated one of Cairns’ best reef adventures , we invite you to join our fun and friendly crew on the holiday of a lifetime. When you travel with us, our aim is to fulfil your dreams.

Snorkelling

Enjoy all the snorkelling you want without a rigid schedule. We want you to take your time so that you can immerse yourself in this vast wonderland. For your comfort, we anchor in well protected lagoons where shallow reef flats and coral gardens are just meters from the boat. This means you can experience all the best reefs no matter how experienced you are. Got a question or need some help? Our crew will be delighted to lend a hand.

Certified Scuba Diving

Whether you are newly certified, need a refresher or very experienced, our dive sites are legendary. We travel to the best outer reefs and our staff will ensure that we show you all the fun stuff at a level you feel comfortable with. Our SCUBAPRO dive gear is state-of-the–art, plus, where we dive, there are no crowds. Flexible diving options mean you can dive with or without a guide in truly spectacular settings.

Introductory Scuba Diving

For those who want to try diving for the first time, there is no better place than the Great Barrier Reef. Introductory diving gives you a unique perspective on the underwater world. It’s an absolute “must do” and our highly skilled Instructors will have you playing with the fish in no time. It’s safe, fun, and a great way to get “up close and personal” with our resident marine life without having to complete a dive course.

She is a spacious 60 foot steel ketch, recently  refurbished and in excellent condition. She is comfortable, very safe,  and carries all the latest navigational aids and sleeps 12 passengers  and carries between 3 to 4 crew. A variety of cabin options are  available including private cabins, single bunks, a family cabin (1 x  double, 2 x single) or quad share. The vessel is in current 2B survey  with a 200 mile offshore range which makes her ideal for private  charters.

A large rear cockpit and forward deck (including a hammock!) provide plenty of room for passengers to spread out and relax. The boat is equipped with the latest SCUBAPRO dive gear (including computers) and a brand new Bauer diver compressor to fill tanks while at sea. All snorkelling gear and wetsuits are provided.

A rear platform allows passengers to get in and out of the water and the boat is equipped with full toilet facilities and a separate hot water shower. An additional fresh water shower is also located at the rear of the boat next to the dive platform. A large well-equipped galley ensures awesome food and plenty of it.

Board at 0745, finger A02, Marlin Jetty, for morning tea and greet the crew.   Set sail to Cairns outermost reefs. Along the way we conduct introductory and certified dive briefings and a marine naturalist brief. There is plenty of time for passengers to mingle and relax, and get to know each other.   Arrive at Flynn Reef, our first Outer Reef location. We love this site for its fabulous visibility. Depths range from 5 to 28 meters giving divers a wide range of options depending upon experience. For the snorkeler, you’ll experience extensive coral gardens with an unbelievable amount of marine life. Expect to encounter turtles, small reef sharks and schools of pelagic fish. Our in-water activities are followed by lunch.   Boat generally moves to a second mooring on Flynn Reef. Here, large coral bommies sit alongside a reef wall making diving and snorkelling truly spectacular. Dive to 18 meters or snorkel the shallow reef flats. This is usually where one of our staff will offer a guided snorkel tour for those interested in learning more about the reef. Afternoon tea is served   Boat moves to Milne Reef, home to the Three Sisters and The Whale The Sisters is one of Cairns most famous dive sites and offers unsurpassed night and early morning dives. Depths range from 6 to 36 meters. Passengers undertaking a night dive are briefed and the diving begins. Dinner is served once activities are completed (during winter, dinner may be served prior to night diving).  After dinner, passengers enjoy tea and coffee, a drink and tall tales.

Awake to the dawn and watch the sun rise over the Coral Sea. Throw yourself into the warm tropical water and wake yourself up! This is the perfect time to snorkel or scuba dive as early morning is a fantastic time to see reef sharks, turtles and cruising pelagic fish. Breakfast is served.   Boat departs to its next location on Milne Reef (The Whale).This large coral bommie stands in 24 meters of water with excellent surrounding coral gardens, perfect for snorkelling, close to the boat. The Whale is a great dive to see basking sharks. Morning tea is served.   After mid-morning, the boat travels to Thetford Reef,  its last anchorage for the day. Coral draped walls rise up from 18 meters in a circular lagoon to ensure great diving and snorkelling. This is also an excellent time to catch up on some serious sun tanning or relax, read a book or take in the stunning views. Lunch is served before departure.   Upon leaving our anchorage we hoist the sails. It is very common to have dolphins surf the bow wave and during the winter months, see humpback whales. The emphasis on the journey home is to relax and enjoy the company of new found friends. Finally, as we leave behind the wonders of the reef, passengers are treated to a spectacular view as we approach one of Australia’s most scenic harbours – mountains on the left and right rising high above a beautiful tropical city skyline.

Please note: While we have tried to describe a typical trip, our itinerary is reflective of weather conditions at the time. As we have access to a large number of exclusive moorings, we will always seek out the most comfortable locations therefore times and areas/reefs visited may vary.   Passengers are at all times consulted and briefed on what they would like to do at each site.

Private charters .

Create your ideal Great Barrier Reef adventure with a private charter. Perfect for groups seeking a personalised experience, our flexible charters let you customise your trip. Whether it's multiple nights on the reef, abundant diving opportunities, or an exclusive experience, our tailored private charters fulfill your desires. Discover the Reef your way. 

You can hire the boat for anywhere from 2 to 5 days and for up to 12 people (this is a legal limit for the boat, and we can not accept more passengers including children). Charter includes your own dedicated crew (skipper and 2 dive instructors), food, bath towels, fuel, diving and snorkeling gear. If you are looking to complete your diving course during the trip, we are happy to help with that, but contact us for more information as it depends on the case.

O ur locations are home to a diverse range of marine life and coral and are all suitable for snorkelers right through to experienced divers. We will always seek out the best reef locations based on the current weather conditions. One day trip is doable, but we do not recommend it. It takes about 3 hours each way to the reef and back, which leaves you with only a small amount of time for diving and snorkeling. Unfortunately we are not licenced as a fishing charter so we can't do any fishing from the boat.

If you are looking for a trip longer than 5 days, it is possible to do for smaller groups, up to 7 people. Our constraints are the amount of water and fuel we can bring.

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Whether you fancy taking a leisurely cruise on a luxury catamaran or prefer to stay overnight on a reef boat for as much diving and snorkelling as you can handle, there are numerous sailing adventures to embark on from Cairns and Port Douglas. Cairns sail boats and Cairns cruises are the perfect diversion for visitors to the city, while several trips depart from Port Douglas as well.

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Reef Locations?

Reef Boat Day Trip - Passions of Paradise

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Cairns Dinner Cruise

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Reef Boat Day Trip - Ocean Free

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Enjoy a romantic evening on a Cairns dinner cruise aboard the luxurious Spirit of Cairns catamaran.

Sail away to Pinnacle Reef on eastern lee of Green Island for an unforgettable reef experience.

Travel to beautiful Michaelmas Cay & Paradise Reef with a small dedicated operator on board the magnificent 25metre custom designed sailing catamaran.

Reef Boat Overnight - Coral Sea Dreaming

Experience the spectacular outer Great Barrier Reef without the crowds With Coral Sea Dreaming (2 days & 1 night). Maximum of just 12 passengers.

Low Isles Afternoon Cruise - Sailaway

Enjoy an afternoon of luxury on board Sailaway V for an afternoon cruise to tropical Low Isles. Snorkel, explore or relax on the beach.

Low Isles Day Trip - Port Douglas - Wavedancer

Spend a day exploring the Low Isles on a return cruise from Cairns onboard Wavedancer, with snorkelling, a glass bottom boat and guided walking tour.

Port Douglas Sunset Sail - Sailaway

Soak up the peace and tranquility of a tropical sunset over the Coral Sea with spectacular mountain views. Welcome drink and canape's included.

93% of new customers that used Everything Cairns to provide advice and securely book their Cairns activities have let us know they've had a good or excellent experience with us. Thank you .

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1 Day Green Island and Great Barrier Reef Tour

• Trip Styles: Comfort

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Ocean Free sails you leisurely to Pinnacle Reef, an exclusive mooring on the eastern lee of Green Island.

Not certain about dates, or have a question? Ask here

Our 1 day Green Island and Great Barrier Reef Day trip on Ocean Free is the only sailing boat going out to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns. This is a real Sailing experience with the engines switched off for great sail home. You can help hoist the sails and even take the helm if want!

Ocean Free takes you out to Green Island and is the only Green Island Tour to have a private reef mooring on the Great Barrier Reef just 1 km off the island so snorkelling at any time just off the boat. With other Green Island Tours must wait for either an organised snorkel tour with guide / OR go with divers to an area on the reef but with no guide.

Shallow reef area with beautiful Coral Garden just off the boat – only 1M under surface for easy viewing!  Reef area is a highly protected area with no fishing permitted so lots of marine life! Great food all day! Danish pastries, fruit on boarding and large smorgasbord lunch with smoked salmon, prawns, chicken, mixed meat platter, 3 salads and assorted bread. Plus fruit, cheese and crackers and assorted cake platters on sail home.

Ocean Free Sail to Green Island & The Great Barrier Reef

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Our travellers often combine this trip with some of these trips:

1 Day Atherton Tablelands Waterfalls Tour

1 Day Cape Tribulation, Daintree Rainforest and Wildlife Tour

• Total Price: $ 633 Add All To Cart Add All To Wishlist Browse Wishlist
• This item: 1 Day Green Island and Great Barrier Reef Tour ( $ 255 )
• 1 Day Atherton Tablelands Waterfalls Tour ( $ 149 )
• 1 Day Cape Tribulation, Daintree Rainforest and Wildlife Tour ( $ 229 )

Ocean Free is berthed at A Finger, no 4 at the Marlin Marina, Cairns. Check-in is at 7.15am at the Reef Fleet Terminal. Boarding after check-in from 7.30am A Finger no 5 Marlin Marina Cairns. We depart at 8am and arrive at Pinnacle Reef at Green Island at 10am. All morning snorkel and dive (optional extra) at Pinnacle Reef, where you can explore a beautiful coral garden home to lots of different colours of staghorn, boulder coral and soft corals, as well as many species of reef fish, sea-cucumbers and giant clams. Turtles and black-tipped reef sharks (totally harmless and very timid!) are also a common sight. Lunch, a self-serve buffet, is available from 12.15pm and after this, the Ocean Free tender goes across to Green Island. Stay on the island the whole afternoon, or for just an hour if you prefer to return to main vessel and do more snorkelling off the boat –  the choice is yours. Ocean Free departs Green Island at 3pm for an awesome sail home. During the trip you will be treated to platters of fruit, cheese and crackers and selected cakes, while sipping on a glass of wine. Expect to be back in Cairns around 5-5.15pm, depending on the wind.  Please note:  you can spend the whole day on the island or the whole day on the boat, just inform the skipper in the morning if you want to go across to the island straight away. Most people prefer the experience of the boat and island but the choice is yours.

• Visit Green Island for a day out on the Great Barrier Reef snorkelling and exploring.
• Snorkel Pinnacle Reef by just stepping straight off the boat.
• Essential things to pack
• Important Booking Info
• Ocean Free is an Advanced Eco Certified product. Throughout our years of operating we have always and continue to have a strong commitment to protecting our beautiful Great Barrier Reef.
• Ocean Free offer introductory diving (no experience needed) and certified diving. All dives are guided and the highest ratio of dive instructor to diver is offered. We take your safety seriously.
• The Levy AU$20.00 to be paid per person at check-in.

Ocean Free welcomes all guests. Youth, families, adventurous middle aged and fit mobile retirees willing to give it a go. However, guests are required to get in and out of a dinghy from the main vessel and on to the beach at Green Island, so they need to be mobile and steady on their feet. Anyone wanting an extremely personalised tour with very small numbers, unsurpassed service and awesome sailing should choose Ocean Free. We are the only reef and island tour catering for very small numbers

We pride ourselves in serving top quality food. In the morning you are greeted with tea, coffee and Danish pastries. Cask water is available all day. For lunch you will be served a large smorgasbord of prawns, smoked salmon, mixed meat plate, chicken, 3 different salads and a selection of breads. During the afternoon, tropical fruit, cheese and crackers, a selection of cakes and a glass of wine will be served, all inclusive in tour price.

Do you cater for vegetarians?

Yes we do. We have three different types of salads and breads, but will order a vegetarian meal for you on request. Please let our reservations team aware of any dietary needs when you book, as it has to be pre-booked.

What sort of drinks do you serve?

We have the usual soft drinks (Coke / Diet Coke / Lemonade/ Fanta) and water. We also have wine and beer.

Yes, we offer extremely safe and fun diving for certified divers and first timers, who are wishing to try an introductory scuba dive. We specialise in first time divers, offering a very exclusive one instructor to 2 diver experience and even 1:1 for those requiring extra attention! Our certified divers are in small groups, with a complimentary guide to ensure maximum enjoyment.

Guests are able to do 2 dives at 2 different sites.

There are certain conditions that preclude one from diving, such as asthma, diabetes, heart conditions and epilepsy. All divers are required to fill out a diving medical questionnaire on board the boat to ensure that they have no medical condition (past or present) or taking any medication that could be detrimental to diving. It is absolutely imperative that you are honest when filling in this form as diving has some special requirements due to pressure changes. Some clients may need a diving medical from a diving doctor in order to dive. Should you have any questions regarding diving and dive medicals, please phone us on our booking number and we will gladly assist you. Top Tip: QLD has the highest safety standards in the world; you can be assured of the very highest standard of care.

In order to do an introductory dive you must be 12 yrs old. The upper age is only limited by the fitness and medical condition of the individual.

All of our certified divers are assessed for their ability and provided with a guide free of charge (dive master or instructor); therefore, you can feel confident that you will be looked after, even if you are a little “rusty”. If the instructor assesses you to need more attention, they may suggest doing an intro dive as your first dive.

Travellers who bought this trip often also travelled on these trips:

1 Day Kuranda Rainforestation Experience with Skyrail from Cairns

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Cairns Reef Tours

• The Reef Fleet Terminal

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About Cairns Reef Tours

Cairns is the gateway to the great barrier reef.

Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. There are many ways to experience the Reef from Cairns, whether you're a swimmer or non-swimmer, diver or beginner snorkeller, travelling with family or looking for that perfect romantic escape, there's an experience to suit all budgets and requirements.

Most outer reef trips from Cairns are a full day experience including all snorkel/dive equipment and lunch plus morning/afternoon tea.

Reef Tour Family Pricing We offer unique rates for families on all Cairns Great Barrier Reef tour experiences. Family rates are generally based on the following:

• Infants (3 Years & Under) travel free
• Children (4 - 14 years) Half Price
• Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) 1 Child travels free

Family pricing may change slightly depending on the tour options you choose. On Evolution 16 year olds are still considered children. Some dive operators do not have family rates. ​Please check the booking form for up to date family pricing for your group.

The Reef Fleet Terminal is the main check-in point for all reef trips. Most Reef Operators will have a desk inside the terminal where you will check in and collect your boarding pass. The Terminal is located at 1 Spence Street Cairns, which is next to the Shangri-La Hotel at The Pier Shopping Centre.

Some reef trips board directly onto the vessel, you will be advised details on booking, along with your boarding/check in time.

Coach transfers from your accommodation can be arranged or if you're travelling with 3 or more people we recommend taking a taxi or uber as hotel transfers organised by the operators are charged per person.

Hotel Transfers & Parking

Hotel Transfers Accommodation Transfers are available for all Reef Tours. When booking you will be given the option to selct Self Drive or Select your property from a list. The prices for the transfers will vary depending on the location of your accommodation. If you are staying at an Airbnb or private house find the closest holiday apartments or hotel and select it as your pickup point.

Parking for the Day For self-drivers, Council parking is available at The Pier for about $10 for the day. There is also all day parking at the outdoor carparks located near the Cruise Liner Terminal on Wharf Street, about two blocks away. The price for the day is $4 and it is just a 2 minute walk along the Esplanade to the Reef Fleet Terminal & Marina.

Cairns Reef Tour Times

If you would like a later start, the latest departure from Cairns to the Outer Reef is the Great Adventures Pontoon experience departing at 10.30am with check-in at 9.45am. If you have a flight departing on the evening of your reef trip the earliest return into Cairns after an Outer Reef tour is 4.30pm with Evolution.

There is no half day outer Reef Tour option from Cairns as the closest Outer Reef is 90 minutes cruise.

When to Book Book as early as you can. Pre-booking is essential. Cairns Reef Tours are frequently booked out. Please do not turn up without a booking on the day. Book early for school holidays and through winter as during peak times reef trips can be completely full for the next five days.

Date changes are fine as long as you give us at least 24 hours notice

Checking Availability & Booking We offer a live connection to all the local Cairns Reef Operators. Your seat is instantly guaranteed when you book here.

Check-in & Mobile Tickets On the day of the reef tour you will either check in at the Reef Fleet Terminal or make your way directly to the vessel at the Marlin Marina. In most cases you will not need a ticket as your name will be on the days manifest when you check in. If you need to show a ticket you can simply present the e-mail confirmation you received on your mobile device.

Departure and Arrival Times

Evolution 08:00am | Departs Cairns 04:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Sunlover 08:45am | Departs Cairns 05:00pm | Arrives Cairns

Reef Day Tripper 07:30am | Departs Cairns 04:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Great Adventures Island & Reef 08:30am | Departs Cairns 05:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Ocean Freedom 08:00am | Departs Cairns 04:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Reef Magic 09:00am | Departs Cairns 05:00pm | Arrives Cairns

Reef Quest 08:30am | Departs Cairns 04:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Reef Experience 08:00am | Departs Cairns 04:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel 09:00am | Departs Cairns 05:00pm | Arrives Cairns

Silverswift 08:30am | Departs Cairns 04:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Great Adventures 10:30am | Departs Cairns 05:30pm | Arrives Cairns

Passions of Paradise 08:00am | Departs Cairns 05:00pm | Arrives Cairns

Ocean Free 08:00am | Departs Cairns 05:00pm | Arrives Cairns

Quicksilver 08:00am | Cairns Pick-up 10:00am | Departs Port Douglas 04:30pm | Arrives Port Douglas 05:30am | Cairns Drop-off

Snorkelling On The Great Barrier Reef

Snorkelling gear is included with all of our Reef Tours. Snorkeling is the best and easiest way to see the reef because 90% of its diversity occurs within 4 metres of the surface.

It doesn't take long to get the hang of it and for beginners a crew member is usually on hand to offer tuition on gear use and snorkel techniques.

Snorkelling offers all swimmers, regardless of their skill level, the opportunity to see this diverse eco-system of the Great Barrier Reef up close.

A selection of buoyancy aids (foam noodles, life jackets and wetsuits) allows you to float effortlessly over rich, colourful coral gardens, and snorkel guides are usually available to guide you through the natural maze of beautiful coral and fish and point out all the 'cool stuff'.

Intro Dives Introductory diving, also resort diving are dives where people without diver training or certification can experience scuba diving under the guidance of a diving instructor. Intro dives are offered on most reef tour from cairns and available anyone over 12 years. The dive usually has a duration of 20 minutes.

Participants are briefed on the way out to the reef site to ensure both an exciting and safe first dive.

Certified Dives Divers will love the dramatic drop offs, swim throughs and bommies. Buddy up with a dive partner, or tag along with a dive guide for a grand tour of all the best spots on the reef.

Great Barrier Reef Pontoons

There are 5 Reef Pontoons accessible from Cairns. Pontoons give you space and are suitable for all ages and especially ideal for families.

A pontoon is a spacious floating reef platform located at the outer barrier reef.

Pontoons Generally Feature, sundecks and undercover areas for relaxing and lunch, change rooms and snorkel access platforms. Glass Bottom Boat & Semi-Sub Tour departure points.

Some pontoons have built in under water observatories and special children's enclosed swimming areas. The Sunlover Moore Reef pontoon has a waterslide.

Pontoon Reef Tours offer a range of activities for swimmers and non-swimmers it means that everyone can experience the very best of the Great Barrier Reef.

Glass Bottom Boat Tours

Explore the wonders of the reef from the comfort of a glass bottom boat tour.

Hovering over beautiful coral gardens, giant clams and schools of colourful reef fish, a glass bottom boat is ideal for kids, non-swimmers and for those who are wanting to learn more about the reef.

Tours usually last around 30 minutes with a running commentary by a marine biologist. Most pontoon and island experiences include the option of taking a glass bottom boat tour.

Semi-submarine Tours

A semi-submersible coral viewing tour treats passengers to a divers view of the coral reef and marine life.

Sitting 1m below the water level, passengers can enjoy gliding through coral gardens and along the edge of coral drop bommies spotting a huge array of colourful reef fish.

With large viewing windows and air conditioning, these semi-submersible tours provide a divers perspective of the reef in comfort and without getting wet!

Tours are usually take around 30 minutes and are fully guided by an on-board marine biologist.

Wheely Friendly Reef Tours

The Great Barrier Reef is wheely friendly from Cairns. Here are a few experiences that offer wheelchair access.

Reef Magic There is ramp access from the wharf to the vessel and vessel to the Marine World platform. However, passengers are required to negotiate at least one set of stairs on the vessel depending on tides and loading position so assistance may be required. The Reef Magic II catamaran has wide isles and a wheelchair accessible toilet & shower. Access to the water, coral viewing vessels, underwater observatory and sundeck all require stairs to be negotiated and would require a carer to be present if unable to walk unassisted.

Great Adventures Outer Reef Great Adventures vessel "Reef King" does have a motorised chair lift to enable transfer between the upper and lower decks, however it is recommended that passengers have some mobility or assistance to transfer from their wheelchair. Toilets on the vessel and outer reef are not wheelchair accessible. There are ramp facilities from the vessel to the floating platform. There are no disabled facilities on the platform and the platform does have decking where wheelchair wheels may get stuck. Access to the underwater observatory, swim platforms and semi-submersible is by stairs only.

Quicksilver Cruises Quicksilver VIII is the most suitable vessel for wheelchair passengers, however there are occasions when this vessel may not operate which is often not known till 24 hours prior to departure, so it is recommended to reconfirm your booking prior to travel. On Quicksilver VIII there is an oversized toilet cubicle suitable for most wheelchair passengers. Quicksilver V also has a wheelchair accessible toilet. At the platform a chair lift enables disabled passengers to be lowered into the water to enjoy snorkelling. There are ramp facilities from the vessel to the floating platform, however access to the underwater observatory, swim platforms and semi-submersible coral viewing vessel is by stairs only.

Sunlover Cruises Sunlover Cruises is very well set-up to accommodate wheelchairs. They have multiple entrance points onto the vessel, as well as a dedicated wheelchair table on the main deck, wheel chair ramps to get over door jams and very experienced and willing crew. In some circumstances, they may be able to offer glass bottom boat rides and even SCUBA Diving! but cannot guarantee this every time.

Choosing A Good Day To Visit The Reef

Visiting the Great Barrier Reef is an unforgettable experience, and the weather plays a significant role visibility and comfort on your tour. Here are some things to factor in when choosing a day for your tour to the Reef.

Wind Speed: This is the main factor which will influence visibility. Low wind speeds are preferable, ideally less than 15 knots / 27km. Lower wind speeds result in calmer sea conditions, which means better visibility underwater and a more pleasant boat ride to and from the reef. Calm, sunny days following a period without heavy rain being ideal.

Sunshine: Sunny days enhance the colors of the coral and marine life, making your experience more vibrant. However, it's important to protect yourself against sunburn and dehydration, so be sure to apply waterproof sunscreen and drink plenty of water.

Season: The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is during the Australian winter and spring, from June to October. This period avoids the wet season (December to March), which can bring heavy rains and lower visibility due to run-off from the land.

Tides: Low tide can be the best time for snorkeling in shallow reef areas, as the coral and marine life are closer to the surface. However, some areas are best at high tide to avoid strong currents and to ensure there's enough water depth for comfortable snorkeling or diving.

Read Cairns Reef Tours Reviews

Helen brennan.

Really enjoyed my day, it was relaxing and fun. The next time I want a day trip to unwind, would definitely consider another visit to Green Island. Thanks

Kerry Irving

Great day snorkelling, excellent facilities and amazing customer service!

Very good experience. The crew are very knowledgable and helpful and knew what they were doing. They also cooked the food which was delicious! I had a lot of fun. I did the snorkelling and saw a lot of fish, turtles and more. I felt very safe snorkelling as they kept an eye on us. It was a small group, which I really liked. I would definitely recommend this trip!

We just returned from an overnight trip and would turnaround and do it again! We loved everything!!! We are a group of four beginner divers (two adults and two teenagers) and we could not have had a better experience - the captain and dive instructor were knowledgeable, helpful and great company! Thanks Roman and Teddy!! The equipment is really well looked after and the boat is comfortable. We saw truly amazing things, learned something that we hadn?t tried before and even managed a night dive. Indescribably good. Do yourself a favour - explore the reef with these guys. It was amazing.

Samantha Anderson

Friendly, professional staff. Highly recommend a cocktail on the upper deck at the end of the trip. Delicious!

Craig Findlay

We scored a great day with only 7 on board, a whole day with the island pretty much to ourselves to explore and the ride over was great, the crew were very informative and welcoming, a well stocked bar if needed and an all round great experience. Will definitely go again

Thanks Jodi you made our trip easy and we had an amazing time

johannes kole

nice day out, friendly staff. Island has nice walks and beaches, even hot showers. Only minus; fly season.

It was great for my family. My children (7 and 10) had a great time. The staff were all friendly and taught them how to snorkel. They can swim but are a bit scared. Eventually they were snorkelling and swimming freely. Also the meals were all delicious! Thank you so much!(Arigatou!)

Garry Sanders

Totally enjoyed the whole experience. The crew were excellent (plus). Lunch was good. Trip across and back was good.

Jonathan Chapman

The whole experience provided on board the Evolution was second to none. We have waited a long time for this experience and it didn't disappoint us. The crew did you proud and the service they provided was excellent and the food was so tasty and plenty of it.

Laura Heiskell

An incredible day-book it!

David Muller

Best time, best value for money. Will be back. Dave

Linda Stewart

Took my kids and grandchildren ages 6mths through to 32. They catered for everyone and we had a fantastic day

Mark Ludlow

Very enjoyable day

The whole family had a fantastic trip to Dunk Island, would definitely recommend for families with young children not old enough to enjoy a day on the reef. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable. Overall a good experience and value for money. Definitely want to go back again as not enough time to explore in one day.

Andrew Arnett

Had a grate day out captain and crew are amazing. We will see you all again

Janie Beckhouse

We were well looked after on the ferry to Dunk Island and it is well worth spending the money to go to spend time on the island and enjoy the beautiful rain forrest and beaches. There is a great pop-up Mexican cafe on the island, too (Fri, Sat & Sun). The staff on the ferry were informative and friendly.

Friendly staff, well-equipped vessel.

Great way to see Cairns. Highly reccomended Thanks Chris.

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Cairns Reef Tours News

6 Temporary Pause for AquaQuest | May 9 to May 17

AquaQuest will be taking a short break from May 9 to May 17, 2024. 

Departing from Cairns, AquaQuest offers a swift 90-minute journey to the outer reef, where the real adventure begins. Spend five hours exploring two of the most pristine snorke

AquaQuest will be taking a short break from May 9 to May 17, 2024. 

Departing from Cairns, AquaQuest offers a swift 90-minute journey to the outer reef, where the real adventure begins. Spend five hours exploring two of the most pristine snorkeling sites on the Norman, Saxon, and Hastings Reefs, selected daily based on the best conditions.

7 Reef Tours Update

Special Snorkel Offer with SeaQuest: Save $50!  In exciting news, a special snorkeling offer with SeaQuest is now available. At just $189 per person, this limited-time offer is valid until March 31, 2024. 

OceanQuest is Back The OceanQuest live

Special Snorkel Offer with SeaQuest: Save $50!  In exciting news, a special snorkeling offer with SeaQuest is now available. At just $189 per person, this limited-time offer is valid until March 31, 2024. 

OceanQuest is Back The OceanQuest liveaboard has successfully undergone maintenance and is now ready to welcome guests aboard for memorable Great Barrier Reef adventures.

Frankland Islands Tour The one and only Frankland Islands tour is making a comeback on March 13, 2024. After receiving its share of care and maintenance, the tour is poised to offer guests it's unique island experience.

7 Whale Watching Season in Cairns from June and September

The Great Barrier Reef, a jewel off the coast of Cairns, Australia, is not only famous for its vibrant coral and teeming marine life but also as a stage for one of nature's most magnificent performances: the annual whale migration. This spectacl

The Great Barrier Reef, a jewel off the coast of Cairns, Australia, is not only famous for its vibrant coral and teeming marine life but also as a stage for one of nature's most magnificent performances: the annual whale migration. This spectacle draws nature enthusiasts and wildlife watchers from around the globe, eager to witness these gentle giants. 

The whale watching season along the Great Barrier Reef is primarily between June and September. This period marks the migration of several whale species, including the awe-inspiring humpback and the elusive minke whales, as they travel to the warmer waters off the coast of Queensland to breed and give birth before heading back to the Antarctic.

Humpback Whales Humpback whales, known for their impressive acrobatics and haunting songs, are the main attraction. They start to make their appearance in the waters off Cairns around June, with sightings peaking through July and August. These months are ideal for witnessing these majestic creatures as they breach, tail slap, and nurse their young, offering a spectacular show to those fortunate enough to be in their presence.

Dwarf Minke Whales The Great Barrier Reef is also one of the few places in the world where you can swim with dwarf minke whales, an experience offered during a limited window from June to July. These curious and playful creatures often approach swimmers, providing an unforgettable and intimate wildlife interaction.

Whale Watching Experiences from Cairns For the best whale watching experience, consider booking a tour that specifically targets whale sightings. Many operators from Cairns offer day trips to the Outer Reef, where the chances of encountering whales are higher. These tours not only provide the opportunity to see whales but also to explore the stunning underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef.

Fitzroy Island Adventures provides a unique opportunity for whale watching tours from Cairns and Fitzroy Island during the season. Additionally, other reef service providers may also offer special whale watching tours, typically announcing these exclusive experiences before the season starts each year.

Witnessing the migration of whales on the Great Barrier Reef is a once-in-a-lifetime experience thatis available in Cairns between June and September.

4 Great Weather for a Trip to the Reef

If you've been waiting for the perfect moment to explore the majestic Great Barrier Reef, the stars have aligned just for you. From Monday, 5th to Wednesday, 7th of February, we're blessed with absolutely stellar weather conditions.

Wind Foreca

If you've been waiting for the perfect moment to explore the majestic Great Barrier Reef, the stars have aligned just for you. From Monday, 5th to Wednesday, 7th of February, we're blessed with absolutely stellar weather conditions.

Wind Forecast Gentle breezes at just 10 knots for the entire period, creating ideal conditions for sailing, snorkeling, and diving. These mild winds mean smoother waters, clearer visibility underwater, and an all-around pleasant experience whether you're on or in the water.

This is a great opportunity to witness the reef's vibrant marine life & stunning coral gardens.

8 Environmental Management Charge (EMC) Explained

When you book a day tour to the Great Barrier Reef, you may notice an additional fee called the environmental management charge (EMC). This fee is a part of most commercial activities, including tours, that operate within the Great Barrier Reef

When you book a day tour to the Great Barrier Reef, you may notice an additional fee called the environmental management charge (EMC). This fee is a part of most commercial activities, including tours, that operate within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park under a permit issued by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

When you participate in a tourist activity on the Great Barrier Reef, you are usually responsible for paying this charge to the tour operator. The tour operator then forwards the fee to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

Why do you have to pay the fee?

The environmental management charge plays a crucial role in the day-to-day management and long-term resilience of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The funds collected through this charge are directly used for the management and conservation efforts of the marine park.

Additionally, when you provide visitation information along with the environmental management charge, it greatly helps the Reef Authority and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) in developing sustainable management plans for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

By paying the environmental management charge, you are contributing to the protection and preservation of this magnificent natural wonder, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy its beauty.

6 Starlink on the Reef

Reef Magic has introduced Starlink wifi access onboard their pontoon so guests can enjoy uninterrupted digital access to share their day on the Great Barrier Reef. It will also enable the GBR Biology team to conduct live feeds from the pontoon s

Reef Magic has introduced Starlink wifi access onboard their pontoon so guests can enjoy uninterrupted digital access to share their day on the Great Barrier Reef. It will also enable the GBR Biology team to conduct live feeds from the pontoon showcasing their work with reef education and sustainability.

2 OceanQuest is back in the water Saturday, the 18th of March, 2023

Our Divers Den liveaboard vessel ‘OceanQuest’ is back in the water this Saturday, the 18th of March!

OceanQuest has had a whooping $700K spent on her in the latest refit. She has been freshly painted,  fabulously rebranded and has some addition

Our Divers Den liveaboard vessel ‘OceanQuest’ is back in the water this Saturday, the 18th of March!

OceanQuest has had a whooping $700K spent on her in the latest refit. She has been freshly painted,  fabulously rebranded and has some additional new soft furnishings - we are ready take our guests on a unique and memorable reef experience with our flexible daily departures and PADI course options.

OceanQuest is a 36 metre catamaran over 3 decks with the capacity to sleep 48 customers overnight.

There are 18 Twin Cabins with two single beds and 4 Double Cabins that have a double bed, all cabins are equipped with air conditioning, and en-suite bathroom facilities. OceanQuest provides a spacious and comfortable ‘home away from home’ on The Great Barrier Reef, offering a truly unique experience for all divers and snorkelers wanting to explore this pristine underwater playground. 

7 Reef Quest Day Trip March Special | $199

ReefQuest Cairns is offering a discount for March 2023 on  snorkelling and diving options. The special is valid until 31st of March. Please see the prices below:

• $199 for day trip + snorkelling
• $269 for day trip + one intro dive
• $269 for da

ReefQuest Cairns is offering a discount for March 2023 on  snorkelling and diving options. The special is valid until 31st of March. Please see the prices below:

• $269 for day trip + one intro dive
• $269 for day trip + two certified dives

ReefQuest is an 8 hour Great Barrie Reef experience from Cairns. The modern vessel 3 large sun decks, 2 air-conditioned indoor saloons, a spacious dive deck, and a sunken platform for easy access in and out of the water. 

ReefQuest Departs Cairns at 8:30 and returns at 4:30.

4 Whale shark encounter at Moore Reef

Passengers with Great Adventures had a rare encounter while they were seated in the semi-submarine at Moore Reef.

The whale shark, estimated to be 4 - 5 metres in length swam up close and alongside the semi-sub window as excited passengers look

The whale shark, estimated to be 4 - 5 metres in length swam up close and alongside the semi-sub window as excited passengers looked on in awe. 

More often associated with the northern waters of Western Australia, whale shark encounters on the Great Barrier Reef are quite rare.

“We wouldn’t normally expect to see them here at this time of year. As plankton feeders you would expect likelier sightings around seasonal plankton blooms and coral spawning.”

As the largest fish in the sea reaching lengths of over 12 metres, whale sharks are docile fish feeding mostly on plankton, crab larvae and jellyfish, which they scoop up with their colossal gaping mouths while swimming close to the water’s surface. They are listed as a vulnerable species and prior to the mid 1980s there were less than 350 confirmed reports of whale sharks world-wide. 

3 Ocean Spirit returning in September 2022

After nearly two and a half years, we're excited to announce Ocean Spirit's Michaelmas Cay cruise is recommencing from 17 September. The beautiful 32 metre (105ft) sailing catamaran is undergoing refit to be ship shape and in top condition to we

After nearly two and a half years, we're excited to announce Ocean Spirit's Michaelmas Cay cruise is recommencing from 17 September. The beautiful 32 metre (105ft) sailing catamaran is undergoing refit to be ship shape and in top condition to welcome guests aboard.

Sail, snorkel, dive, relax. A day with Ocean Spirit can be as leisurely or active as you choose. Snorkel from the cay’s protected shallow waters, view the corals from a glass bottom boat or take some time to observe the island’s fascinating birds. Michaelmas Cay is a National Park and very important protected sanctuary for migratory seabirds, perfect for keen bird watchers. The reef surrounding the cay is renowned for an abundance of giant clams and sea turtles amongst a myriad of colourful marine life.

Throughout the day, the “beach buggy” transfers guests between Ocean Spirit and the beach. To protect this special bird sanctuary, access on the cay is limited to the roped beach area. Optional activites include introductory scuba diving and marine biologist guided snorkel tours to learn much more about the reef and the creatures that inhabit it.

Or if you prefer, just relax on the beach or onboard Ocean Spirit’s spacious decks. A perfect finishing touch to the day is a glass of complimentary sparkling wine on the way home. A Five Star day on the Reef!

10 Sunlover Special extended to 31st March 2022

Sunlover Reef Cruises will continue the special rates for their Great Barrier Reef day trip from Cairns until the 31st March 2022.

• $199 adults (17+ years)
• $99 children (4 - 16 years)
• $497 families (2 Adults + 2 Children)

The Sunlover Grea

Sunlover Reef Cruises will continue the special rates for their Great Barrier Reef day trip from Cairns until the 31st March 2022.

The Sunlover Great Barrier Reef experience departs daily at 9.30am from Cairns. Our state-of-the art Moore Reef Marine Base is perfectly positioned and fully equipped so that any age or ability can fully experience the magic of the reef with its abundance of colourful coral, fascinating fish, turtles & more.

6 Evolution Semi-Sub is back on the 20th Dec 2021

We are delighted to announce that from the 20th of December, the Semi-Submersible is back and operational again! The semi-submersible coral viewing reef tour is the perfect activity for non-swimmers on the Great Barrier Reef. Learn all about th

We are delighted to announce that from the 20th of December, the Semi-Submersible is back and operational again! The semi-submersible coral viewing reef tour is the perfect activity for non-swimmers on the Great Barrier Reef. Learn all about the Great Barrier Reef with live commentary by our Marine Biologist and enjoy spectacular coral formations and spot marine life without getting in the water.

The semi-submersible tour operates at our second reef site, Hastings Reef, and runs for approximately 20 minutes.

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Ocean Free | 1 Day Sailing Green Island & Great Barrier Reef

Departure Times

Departure Point: Cairns - Reef Fleet Terminal, Marlin Marina

Pricing Options

Join Ocean Free for a one day sailing tour to Green Island and the Great Barrier Reef

• Look forward to an unforgettable day of exploring, relaxing and getting to see one of the most beautiful parts of the world
• Visit the beautiful Green Island and Pinnacle Reef
• Scuba dive, snorkel, and enjoy small group sailing
• Transfers to and from Green Island

The Ocean Free: 1 day Sailing Green Island & Great Barrier Reef combines sailing, snorkelling and scuba diving in one terrific trip. The Great Barrier Reef has rightfully earned its title as a natural wonder of the world and Ocean Free gives you the chance to view it is up close and personal. Guests will sail to Pinnacle Reef and Green Island with time to swim, dive or snorkel in the sheltered waters, or simply relax throughout the day in your natural surroundings. You may even get to feed the fish! With just a small group of guests (maximum is 25), this tour offers a personal and exclusive experience.

Highlights & Features

• Spend over 4.5 hours on the exclusive mooring on the Great Barrier Reef
• Great food including Danish pastries and fresh fruit on board
• Tropical smorgasbord lunch including seafood
• Snorkelling tuition and tours and use of all snorkelling equipment
• Scuba diving demonstration
• Afternoon tea and a glass of wine during the day
• Fish feeding
• Glass bottom boat & semi-submersible tour add-ons
• $20 Reef Levy to pay on arrival (included in advertised price)

Explore the Great Barrier Reef on this fantastic day trip bound to immerse you in the magic of this natural world wonder!

Important Information

Please note divers may be subject to a medical questionnaire before they are able to dive. Please click here for more diving information and to read the medical questionnaire.

• This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change

Sample Itinerary

Sailing Make your way to Pinnacle Reef under the power of the wind, cutting your way along the surface of the warm, blue water. The 16m schooner offers a comfortable ride, and with only 25 passengers you will be able to escape the crowds and enjoy the serenity of the reef!

Snorkelling Upon arrival at Pinnacle Reef, enjoy a swim, snorkel, scuba dive or just relax. Ocean Free's exclusive mooring e...

Snorkelling Upon arrival at Pinnacle Reef, enjoy a swim, snorkel, scuba dive or just relax. Ocean Free's exclusive mooring ensures that the ocean is uninterrupted by crowds. The "bommies" (coral outcrops) and coral gardens are just one metre under the surface and are teaming with life and are easily spotted while snorkelling. All your snorkel equipment is included, all you need to bring along is a sense of adventure!

Scuba Diving Both introductory and certified divers are welcome on board Ocean Free where they can enjoy all the reef has to offer. Our qualified instructors and guides will ensure you feel comfortable and safe, whether it’s your first time or not, so you can enjoy the thrill of scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef.

Destinations

Pinnacle Reef During your one-day sailing trip, you'll get to visit Green Island and the Great Barrier Reef. Sail to our exclusive mooring on Pinnacle Reef, just 1km offshore from Green Island where you can snorkel and dive and explore the reef at length. You can get a tender to the island to explore and check out all it has to offer, or spend your day enjoying the offshore reef. This Marine Park Reserve is protected from fishing and has an abundant range of marine life.

Green Island You're free to spend as little or as long as you like on the island, taking time to enjoy its walking tracks, beaches, restaurants, reefs and facilities. The island also offers a perfect place to swim, sunbathe, enjoy a glass bottom boat ride, a semi-sub tour or Marineland Melanesia to see saltwater crocodiles up close, including the world's largest captive croc!

Optional Add-ons Ocean Free provides tender transfers to Green Island throughout the day, so you can spend time on the reef and the island. Glass Bottom Boat and Semi-sub can be organised on the day from the Island at an extra cost.

More Information

What to bring.

• Sunscreen and swimsuit
• Cash for purchases on board

What's Included

• Snorkelling tuition
• Use of top quality snorkelling gear including buoyancy vests
• Prescription masks (if required)
• Hire of wet / stinger suits
• Morning Tea, Buffet Lunch, Afternoon Tea
• Glass of wine on Sail Home

What's Extra

• $20 Reef Levy to pay on arrival
• Green Island Act...
• Glass Bottom Boat Tour - $30 Adult / $20 Child
• Semi-submersible experience - $35 Adult / $20 Child
• Scuba diving - Introductory / Certified (prebooking required)
• $23 Inner city return per person
• $34 Northern Beaches, as far as Palm Cove, return per person
• Refreshments
• Underwater cameras
• Hire of Wet / Stinger suits
• Merchandise

*Pricing subject to changes without notice.

Terms and Conditions

All information provided at any time by Cairns Tours and our affiliates is subject to these Terms & Conditions. This includes but is not limited to tour information, pricing, blog posts, travel advice, itinerary information and availability.

Your Responsibilities:

Please advise us before booking if any passengers are under 18 years old to ensure this is the appropriate trip. 

You must reconfirm all booked tours prior to travel as specified on your voucher. If applicable, notes such as dietary requirements, pick-up locations and additional fees should also be confirmed at this time. Reconfirmations cannot be actioned through Cairns Tours/Mr Travel and must be done so directly through the Service Operator as specified on each ticket.

It is your responsibility to notify us of ticket discrepancies. Please read through the details on your voucher thoroughly to ensure all details such as passenger names, ages and dates of travel on vouchers are correct.

It is the responsibility of all passengers travelling to advise both your travel agent at the time of booking and check-in agent before boarding of any medical conditions including food allergies you may suffer from.

You need to allow adequate time to check-in prior to the specified departure time. Please refer to the specific tour page for full check-in instructions.

Prices/Extra Costs:

All prices are stated in Australian dollars and include GST. The Service Operator reserves the right to alter prices and extra costs. Extra costs may include EMC fees, Stingersuit/Wetsuit Hire, Luggage Storage, Insurance, Linen Hire, National Park Fees, Fuel Levies, Dietary Fees, etc. Bonds may also apply.

We will also endeavour to communicate these extra costs with you at the time of booking, and on your ticket. However, it is your responsibility to confirm which (if any) additional costs apply with each Service Operator upon reconfirming your trip.

Travel Risk/Insurance:

It should be noted that adventure travel involves risk. Whilst we make every effort to safeguard clients, we cannot be responsible for personal injury or loss due to the actions of our clients which are beyond our control. We highly recommend that all clients have travel insurance covering illness, injury, loss or damage to personal belongings and not being able to travel on the confirmed date of departure. You should also ensure your travel insurance will cover special circumstances including weather events preventing guests from travelling to their tour departure destination and cancelled flights due to unforeseen circumstances. 

It should be noted that any transport you have booked (buses, flights and ferries) through Cairns Tours is non-refundable and non-transferable. It might be possible to change flights however do note this must be done directly with the flight operator and we are unable to offer any support with this. This may incur change fees or cancellation fees, it depends on the T+Cs of the flight operators themselves. As we acted as a booking agent for you, it is possible to liaise with the airline directly should there be any unexpected events and the airline is forced to cancel your flights. If there are any changes to your flight times or days, we will get notified and send this email directly to you in a reasonable time.

Merchant Fees:

Please be aware operators pass on credit card merchant fees so there is a non-refundable 1% surcharge for VISA and MASTERCARD card purchases.

Other: 

Terms and Conditions (including the Cancellation Policy) are subject to change. The most recent versions can be found online on the relevant product pages. 

All ticket/voucher reissues attract a $20 administration fee.

The Service Operator reserves the right to limit courtesy transfers to select local accommodations. Private residences or Airbnb properties may be asked to meet at the closest confirmed location. Failure to meet at the specified pick-up location may be treated as “No Show”, for which the Client Cancellation Policy applies. Not all tours offer transfers, please refer to the individual product to see if this is applicable to your tour.

Open Date Vouchers / Gift Certificate:

Shipping Costs are in addition to the ticket price and will be added at check-out. Shipping costs are non-refundable and do not makeup part of the ticket value. 

E-Vouchers incur no shipping fees. You have 5 years to use the value of the voucher. Seasonal Price Rises will apply if travelling out the current seasons pricing. Vouchers can be exchanged for free up to the full value of the voucher excluding credit card fees and charges.

Cancellations

Client Cancellations:

All cancellations forfeit 25% of the recommended retail price (RRP) - not the discounted/sale price. No shows or client cancellations made within 24 hours of departure forfeit 100% of the total ticket price. 

Cairns Tours is 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 standard business hours (9am-5pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider.

Transfers between tours can be made at the suppliers' discretion, however, it should be noted that supplier fees may apply. Tour transfers also incur a $20 administration fee. 

It is compulsory that all cancellation requests are in writing and sent via email to: [email protected]. Cancellations attempted via online chat or phone will not be actioned.

Supplier Cancellations:

The Service Operator reserves the right to alter prices, alter itineraries, apply a fuel surcharge, cancel departures, arrange alternative transport and vary itineraries and services if necessary.

All departures and itineraries are subject to weather. Tours may be changed or cancelled for any reason at the discretion of the Service Operator. If the Service Operator has to cancel the trip or activity (prior to departure) and we cannot offer a suitable alternative, then a refund will be given minus a 20% administration fee and any associated card fees. We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance, especially during the wet season.

All add-on activities (including but not limited to scuba diving, stand-up paddleboarding, helmet diving, guided snorkel tours, banana boat rides and waterslides) are subject to availability and price changing, and may not be available during your tour without notice. Guests are not eligible for refunds on the grounds of non-operating extra activities.

In the unlikely event of your trip being cancelled or stood down, all guest communication is required to go through our Online Store via telephone or email.  While there is a Travel Shop retail outlet located in Cairns, please be aware that they operate as a separate entity and are unable to access reservations made by the Cairns Tours/Mr Travel online department.

All refunds are in Australian Dollars and must be made to the card of payment. Cairns Tours/Mr Travel is not liable for exchange rate fluctuations or fees, or any other merchant/bank fees associated with domestic and/or international transactions.

Where a full refund is applicable, there is the option to transfer the whole cost of the tour to another tour or “Credit” to avoid the administration fee. A transfer fee of $20 will apply.

You will be emailed confirmation once the refund has been processed. Once the refund has been processed, it may still take time for the banks to clear the amount. Please allow 7-10 business days for the funds to clear into Australian accounts and up to 21 business days for international accounts.

Accountability/Misconduct:

All Service Operators have the right to provide client feedback and to cancel bookings based off of feedback from other Service Operators. 

Please enjoy your travel experience in a kind and responsible manner.

Cairns Tours/Mr Travel will treat this as any normal client cancellation and therefore the cancellation fees stated in the Client Cancellation Policy will apply.

Information & Advice:

All information, advice or pricing provided by Cairns Tours and our affiliates, or through any of our team, is subject to change. Cairns Tours articles and products are provided online for general information purposes only and are intended as guides. Any advice interpreted from information on the website (including but not limited to financial, immigration, employment and tax information) is not specialist advice and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional instruction. Cairns Tours does not guarantee that any information provided is up-to-date or accurate. Please obtain professional advice before actioning any advice, including but not limited to tax, immigration, employment, travel restrictions and finances.

Thank you for booking with our East-Coast travel experts here at Cairns Tours/ Mr Travel. If you would like any further advice, assistance in arranging accommodation, transfers or additional tours please  get in touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Check in starts at 7:15 am at the Ocean Free/Ocean Freedom desk inside the Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence St Cairns. The Ocean Free boat is located at A Finger, Cairns Marlin Marina. Boarding begins at 7:30am for an 8am departure.

It takes about 2 hours to get to Pinnacle Reef, just 1 km from Green Island.

Ocean Free offers three different types of salads and breads, but can also order a vegetarian meal for you on request. If you have any other dietary concerns or preferences, you can order vegan, vegetarian, lactose free, and gluten free for no extra cost – but you must pre-order at least 24 hours prior to the date of travel. Please let our reservations team know when you book.

If you are prone to seasickness, please take preventative medication about 20 minutes prior to boarding the boat. It will help you to have a much more enjoyable day. The crew will look after you at all times. You can also be taken across to Green Island which will help being on solid land.

While there are small black and white tipped reef sharks that live out on the reef, they are very timid creatures. They pose absolutely no threat to humans and we count ourselves very lucky when we are able to see them!

Yes, you can! Ocean Free has a range of buoyancy vests and aids available for you to use. There are also snorkel stations in the water for you to hold on to when you need to. If you are still in need of assistance, a member of staff can come in the water with you until you feel more confident. Ocean Free will have a crew member on watch at all times, keeping an eye on all snorkelers, swimmers and divers ready to offer help if necessary.

Yes! Anyone who is in general good health can experience an introductory scuba dive. In fact, diving is easier than snorkelling when taken by Ocean Free’s experienced instructors. There are certain medical conditions that may prevent you from diving, such as asthma, epilepsy and heart conditions. All divers must complete a dive medical questionnaire onboard the boat. Speak to your doctor if you have any concerns. Ocean Free offers a guaranteed 1:3 ratio of instructor to divers, but most do a 1:2 ratio and even 1:1 for those needing extra attention. Most other boats offer a 1:4 ratio.

Ocean Free prides itself in giving you a great sailing experience. You can even assist with the hoisting of the sails and steering the boat! You’ll motor sail out to Green Island, simply because there is a schedule to run, ensuring you experience a full 4.5 hours on the reef. On the way home the crew are a bit more flexible with the return time and turn the engines off to truly sail back to Cairns!

Yes there is. The whole aft (back) section of the boat is under a canopy. In the summer a small forward canopy is also put up. There is also plenty of shade on Green Island.

Transfers are available for an additional cost. Return transfers from Cairns City are $18 p/p, and return transfers from the Outer Suburbs and Northern Beaches are $24 p/p. This needs to be pre-booked at least 24 hours prior to your date of travel.

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Outstanding Orlando Boat Tours (2024)

Orlando boat tours are a fantastic activity in Central Florida, no matter the type of boating adventure you choose.

Some of the suggestions below are full-day tours, and others take mere hours. But all are a great way to spend your time in order to enjoy the Sunshine State’s beautiful scenery. And that could mean a wild ride in the Everglades or sailing sunset cruises on one of the Orlando area's attractive lakes.

We are sharing the best Orlando boat tours – private and group options – including scenic pontoon boat tours, airboat rides, kayaking, canoeing, sunset sails, and even boat rentals at Walt Disney World.

Disclosure: This post has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase at no cost to you. We recommend experiences, hotels, products, and services we use and support. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

• Book a sunset sailing tour in Orlando . It's our favorite type of boat tour, and Florida sunsets often show off for an audience!
• Pin the image in this box or flip this post to Flipboard to save it for later.
• See what to bring for Orlando boat tours so you are prepared to deal with the Florida bugs!

Orlando Airboat Rides 

One of the things Florida is most known for is its famous airboat tours. Sign up for this fun adventure whether you’re in Fort Lauderdale or Miami, within Everglades National Park, or Orlando on Shingle Creek, on the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. 

You won’t soon forget an exciting airboat ride when you visit the Orlando area, with a chance to see Bald Eagles and other endemic tropical birds, alligators, and crocodiles (maybe even a baby alligator). 

Airboat rides are particularly popular amongst nature lovers. These special boats allow you to glide on the unique marshes and swampland of the Central Florida area. We thoroughly enjoyed our Florida airboat experience. 

Sign up for a 90-minute fun and educational Orlando airboat tour to encounter the real Florida with experienced captains. Alternatively, secure your spot for a 1-hour sunset airboat tour and hope for one of Florida’s famous colorful sunsets. 

Most airboat tours take place rain or shine. Just in case, we recommend traveling to Florida with a poncho or thin raincoat of some sort. Be sure to check in for your tour at least 30 minutes before the experience. 

Orlando Boat Tour on an Airboat with Transportation

This tour includes pick up and drop off in Central Florida (including designated Disney World and Universal hotels), a BBQ lunch, a printed photo, and admission to their animal rescue Wildlife Park, where you can see birds, big cats, and reptiles. 

The entire experience – from transportation to the boat ride – lasts around 7 hours, including the drive to and from the Everglades area. The Florida Everglades are approximately 45 minutes to an hour's drive each way from Orlando. Choose from a 30-minute or 60-minute airboat ride when you book your experience . 

Orlando Sailing Tours 

How about enjoying Orlando’s lakes with wind power? Sailing tours are the perfect way to glide on the water. And a sunset sail is incredibly romantic, to boot! 

Private Morning Sail 

Set sail on a 2-hour private sailing tour, starting at 10:00 am. Adventure awaits on Lake Fairview for up to four guests. 

This area is just north of College Park near downtown Orlando and 15 minutes from Orlando’s Lieu Gardens. Don’t forget to bring towels if you want, though water is provided (and lakes are calm anyway, so you shouldn’t really get wet!).

Advanced reservations are required.

Private Lake Sunset Sail 

Sail on Lake Fairview, approximately 10 minutes from downtown Orlando, 30-35 minutes from the Disney theme parks (including the Disney Springs area), and 25 minutes from Universal. 

This 2-hour private Orlando boat tour can fit up to four people, and they allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages onboard. We recommend bringing a bottle of wine or champagne! 

We recommend bringing along a wine tumbler set for your sailboat adventure! 

Kayaking Tours

Connect with nature from the comfort of a kayak and get in some exercise too. Orlando boat tour options for kayaking are plentiful. 

Kayak with Manatees

Head 45 minutes north of Orlando for your chance to kayak with manatees! These cute and friendly mammals are famous in the Sunshine State, where they come to enjoy the warm water for the winter. 

Whether you’re a novice kayaking trying it for the first time, or an experienced pro, this tour is for you if you want to see a plethora of wildlife. 

Check out this popular tour with 5-star reviews

Glass Bottom Boat Kayak Tours

If you want to see the fish below the water’s surface without snorkeling, sign up for a glass-bottom kayak tour. See through the bottom of the boat on this Orlando boat tour and have the chance to view the colorful fish and marine plant life beneath you. 

Try a Rock Springs guided kayak eco-tour as you glide on the crystal-clear water for two hours. You’ll learn about the local ecosystem, stop for photos, and have the opportunity to swim in the springs. Opt to jump into the water from a rope swing for a thrill during this adventure. 

You can also opt for a sunset tour in a glass-bottom kayak . Paddle through the Winter Park Chain of Lakes and canals in a peaceful setting. Your knowledgeable guide will point out interesting nature homes along the way and share some history of the area. You’ll also be able to stop for photos where you like! 

This tour is likely to sell out: Reserve Now

Winter Park Evening Clear Kayak Glow in the Dark Tour

If you want to add a fun element to your kayaking adventure, sign up for a Winter Park kayak tour at night with a glow-in-the-dark kayak. The boats are illuminated with nighttime lighting!

They will surely be a good photo opp and fun outing as the lights make the water beneath you glow. 

Another great option is this Neon Night Glow Paddleboard or Clear Kayak experience on Lake Ivanhoe.

This unique boat tour allows you to see Orlando’s skyline at night as you paddle along with the help of your guides, the moonlight, and the colorful lights beneath your kayak or paddleboard.  

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

One of our favorite Orlando boat tours is in Winter Park. It was established in the 1930s, decades before Walt Disney World opened in Lake Buena Vista.

This pontoon boat tour starts near the well-known Park Avenue area. Set out on your scenic cruise from Lake Osceola to the Winter Park Chain of Lakes as your guide takes you through the manmade canals.

Sail past stunning homes in Winter Park, where you will have breathtaking views of the opulent private homes in the area (which is one of the reasons we enjoy the boat tour).

You will have a chance to see wonderful some of Florida’s beautiful birds, like Blue Herons and large cranes, as you travel on several lakes. 

Each boat holds a maximum of 18 passengers. Be sure to bring cash or a check to buy your tickets because credit cards are not accepted. We advise purchasing tickets in the morning on weekends, even if you plan on going later in the day. It’s a very popular tour, and tickets often sell out quickly. 

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is closed on Christmas Day. Otherwise, tours leave daily on the hour, starting at 10:00 am. The last tour is at 4:00 pm. 

Day Trip Boat Tours from Orlando

While the Orlando boat tours listed above are within 30 minutes, on average, from Orlando, it’s worth mentioning there are more boat tour options nearby within a 2-hour drive. Here are some additional Central Florida boat tour options. 

Mount Dora Lake Tours

One of our favorite destinations from Central Florida is 45 minutes north: the quaint town of Mount Dora . There’s so much to see and do there in the afternoon or morning; a boat tour is the best way to extend your trip to a whole day. 

Take a 2-hour pontoon boat tour with a departure point at the historic hotel, the Lakeside Inn. Enjoy your leisurely cruise around Lake Dora and The Harris Chain of Lakes, including the famed Dora Canal.

The all-weather 25’ boats can cruise rain or shine thanks to their retractable clear covers for the sides of the boat. Choose from one of two daytime tours, or their third option to cruise during sunset. 

Clearwater Beach with Dolphin Encounter Cruise

This 12-hour full-day tour begins with pick-up at 7:30 am. You’ll head west of Orlando to the popular Florida destination (Clearwater Beach), where you will take a cruise to encounter bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. 

While this means that you aren’t guaranteed to spot dolphins, your tour guide will do his or her very best to find them. You may see these beautiful mammals up close by the boat or further in the distance if they appear in the ocean. Part of the fun is the anticipation. 

A one-hour dolphin tour boat ride is sandwiched between hours of free time on a Gulf Coast beach. For only $10 more, you can purchase a wristband for the boat ride that allows you to have unlimited beer, wine, and vodka punch. 

Pickup and drop off are included at one of three major locations of your choice (Disney areas included). This means that all you have to do is sign up for the tour and be at that location for pick-up time. 

Choose from the three pick-up locations listed below:

• Walt Disney World area, on Epcot Resorts Blvd. (northern area of the parks) 
• Walt Disney World area, at Maingate Lakeside Resort in Kissimmee (area of the Disney World theme parks that is further south) 
• International Drive (close to Universal) at Senor Frogs

Clear Canoe Boat Tour Near Orlando at Silver Springs

This clear canoe boat tour is approximately halfway between Orlando and Gainesville at Silver Springs. The drive is approximately an hour and 45 minutes from downtown Orlando. 

You’ll do a self-guided tour after the kayak company representative meets you and gives you a laminated map and some brief instructions. Paddle near Cypress Trees and see turtles, ducks, birds, and a chance to see manatees during the winter season, when they swim to Florida’s warm waters.

Dan and I often like to explore an area freely, on our own. Maybe you’re the same way! If so, this is a great tour for you in the Orlando area, as long as you can rent a car to get to the meeting point or take a taxi/Uber or Lyft there. 

Orlando Boat Tours at Walt Disney World

Did you know that you can rent motorized boats at Disney World? It’s one of the best things to do at Walt Disney World, besides the parks. 

Rent a Sun Tracker® Pontoon boat by the half-hour for up to 10 people. You can also opt to kayak or canoe from Fort Wilderness by the hour. 

One of the most singular boat tours in Orlando, or perhaps anywhere, is an Amphicar boat tour. Be a passenger and the envy of all onlookers in a cool convertible car that drives right into the water. This experience is available at Disney Springs restaurant, The Boathouse.

Lastly, you can book a specialty cruise to see the fireworks. You don’t even have to be a hotel guest to do so! Snacks and soft drinks are included in a memorable cruise on a 25’ boat. 

You can also request ​​for a festive banner and/or balloons to be set up on the boat, which is included in the cost (request at the time of booking). It’s a great thing to do for you and your partner or up to 10 guests total, whether a proposal, anniversary treat, or family reunion. 

What to Bring for Orlando Boat Tours

Florida's heat can be brutal, depending on the time of year. No matter the month, you definitely need to protect your skin from the sun. The sun in FL is strong, year-round. 

Be sure to pack the following if you’ll be on the water in sunny Florida: 

• Refillable water bottle (the ice will stay intact for hours in the MiiR bottle, our favorite insulated wide-mouth bottle) 
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• SPF lip balm
• Eco-friendly bathing suit 
• Rash guard 

Conclusion for Best Orlando Boat Tours

Whether you want to captain a boat yourself, row your way through Florida’s waters in a kayak, see gators on an educational airboat ride, or go on a romantic sailboat cruise around one of Central Florida’s lakes, an Orlando boat is a wonderful Florida activity. 

It will connect you with nature, get you out in fresh air, and allow your body to absorb vitamin D in the Florida sunshine. Sign up for an Orlando boat tour and explore this southern state in a unique and adventurous way. 

Read this next:

• 40 Awesome Things Florida is Known For
• 30 Things to Do at Walt Disney World Besides the Parks
• Kennedy Space Center Tickets: Helpful Info for a Successful Visit

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