Great Barrier Reef Sustainable Scientific Cultural Snorkeling and Dive Tour with Lunch from Cairns
by Reef Magic Cruises
Overview
This eight-hour tour departs from Cairns and travels to Reef Magic, an activity platform located on the outer Great Barrier Reef. The platform is chosen for its clear water, healthy coral formations, and diverse marine life. Guests can snorkel using provided equipment, which includes a mask, fins, and a wetsuit or lycra suit. Those who prefer not to snorkel can explore the reef through a glass-bottom boat or an underwater observatory available on the platform. Marine biologists are present throughout the day to provide scientific talks about the reef’s wildlife and the importance of sustainable reef management. A hot and cold buffet lunch is served on the platform, along with morning and afternoon tea that includes coffee, tea, and filtered water. Optional activities such as scuba diving and helicopter flights are offered at an additional cost. The tour is suitable for all ages and swimming abilities, though scuba divers must meet certain medical and age requirements, including completing an on-board medical questionnaire and providing certification if already qualified. Transfers from Cairns or the Northern Beaches are not included. Guests are advised to bring a swimsuit, hat, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and payment methods for optional purchases. The tour also highlights cultural aspects related to the reef and its significance to the local Indigenous communities.
Highlights
What's included
What's not included
Itinerary
Outer Great Barrier Reef Pontoon
Depart Cairns on a fast catamaran for a 1.5-hour journey to the outer Great Barrier Reef. Upon arrival at the pontoon, explore the reef, home to over 1,500 fish species, 400 coral varieties, 200 bird species, and 20 reptile types. Options include snorkeling in the coral lagoon, scuba diving with certified or introductory sessions (no experience required), or participating in a guided snorkeling safari led by a marine biologist; diving and guided snorkeling are at own cost. Marine biologists present in the reef's only science laboratory and offer sessions identifying resident fish such as "Wally," the Maori wrasse. Marine life can also be viewed without getting wet by using the underwater observatory, glass-bottom boat, or semi-submersible reef viewer. Additional activities at extra charge include a helmet dive up to 3 meters deep or a scenic helicopter flight above the reef, or simply resting on the sundeck.
480 min
Meeting point
Please go directly to the vessel to check in.
End point
Please go directly to the vessel to check in.
Languages
Cancellation policy
- Cancel at least 24 hours before start for a full refund.
Additional info
More things to do in Cairns & the Tropical North
- Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise Aboard Ocean Freedom Catamaran
- Kuranda Koala Gardens General Entry Ticket in Cairns & the Tropical North
- Sunlover Great Barrier Reef 8-Hour Catamaran Cruise with Lunch and Snorkeling from Cairns
- Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Cruise with 10-Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight
- Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef 9-Hour Catamaran Cruise with Snorkeling and Diving from Cairns
- Cairns Evening Catamaran Sail with Buffet and Welcome Drink