Book Cairns Cruise Tickets

Flexible Green Island day trip from Cairns for travelers who prefer freedom over fixed schedules.

• Everything you get: Return catamaran cruise, up to 5 hours island time, rainforest access, your choice of activities, and onboard amenities including a bar.
• Upgrades: Add a freshly-prepared buffet lunch, a guided snorkel tour for immersive exploration, or choose a glass-bottom boat or semi-sub tour to see the reef's wonders while staying completely dry.
• Why choose this: Enjoy maximum island time with the freedom to choose activities that suit your style, budget, and comfort level.

Inclusions

• Full-day cruise to Green Island

• Stay on Green Island for 5 hours with a self-guided walk on island trails

• Buffet lunch with vegan, halal, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available (menu here) (if selected)

• 30-minute semi-submarine tour for up to 27 guests (if option selected)

• 30-minute glass-bottom boat tour (if option selected)

• Snorkeling gear including mask, snorkel, fins, Lycra suits, and flotation vest (if option selected)

• Guided snorkel safari tour with marine biologist (if option selected)

• Snorkeling demonstration and reef presentation en route to Green Island

Quick reef getaway with snorkeling or glass bottom boat ride on a modern catamaran.

• Great for time-conscious travelers, cruise passengers, and budget adventurers who want a high-impact, half-day reef escape without the full-day commitment.
• Everything you get: Round-trip cruise aboard an air-conditioned catamaran, 2 hours and 15 minutes on Green Island with choice of snorkeling gear or glass-bottom boat tour, plus access to beaches and rainforest walks.
• Why choose this: A time-efficient and budget-friendly way with a streamlined itinerary that delivers essential marine Great Barrier Reef highlights.
• Upgrades: Opt to include a semi-submarine ride for a closer underwater reef perspective without getting wet.

Inclusions

• Half-day cruise to Green Island from Cairns

• Stay on Green Island for 2 hours

• Self-guided walk on the island

• Semi-submarine tour (if option selected)

• Snorkelling gear, Lycra suits, and flotation vest (if option selected)

• Glass-bottom boat tour (if option selected)

• Snorkeling demonstration and reef presentation en route to Green Island

Outer reef adventure: snorkelling, activities & lunch on a private luxury pontoon.

• Great for: Families with young kids and adventurers seeking ample water time, premium equipment, and a relaxed, locally owned experience with personalized service.
• Everything you get: A full-day tour on the newest pontoon at the outer reef, home to clearer water, with richer coral and marine life, plus a glass-bottom boat tour, tropical buffet lunch, and a marine biologist presentation.
• Why choose this: Fewer passengers mean extra space and personalized attention for an authentic reef tour with a knowledgeable Cairns‑based crew.
• Upgrades: You can add a 35-minute guided snorkeling tour or an introductory scuba diving session with expert instructors.

Inclusions

• Full-day tour to Reef Magic Pontoon from Cairns

• 5 hours at reef activity pontoon

• Snorkelling equipment with safety instructions

• Lycra suit and wetsuit

• Buffet lunch (menu here)

• Morning and afternoon tea

• Tea, coffee, and drinking water

• Guided snorkeling tour (if option selected)

• Introductory dive (if option selected)

• Glass-bottom boat and semi-submersible tour with commentary

• Fish feeding and Great Barrier Reef marine biology presentation

• Sundeck, fresh water showers, and changing rooms

• Underwater reef viewing observatory

• Infants’ safety swimming enclosure

Family day to Green Island for 2 adults + 2 kids with snorkelling or glass-bottom boat.

• Great for families and parents looking for a simple, flexible, full-day reef escape with onboard comfort and light snorkelling options.
• Everything you get: Cruise from Cairns to Green Island aboard a spacious catamaran. Spend over 5 hours exploring beaches and rainforest, with your choice of snorkelling gear to discover the reef or a glass-bottom boat tour to view marine life without getting wet.
• Why choose this: Give your family the freedom to explore the reef and island without overloading your day—plus the comfort of an air-conditioned base.
• Upgrades: Add a buffet lunch served onboard to keep the whole family fueled and happy.

Inclusions

• Family package: full-day cruise from Cairns to Green Island for 2 adults and 2 children

• Complimentary snorkelling gear or a glass-bottom boat tour (choose during checkout)

• Stay on Green Island for 5 hours

• Island rainforest walks

• Snorkeling demonstration and reef presentation en route to Green Island

• Use of Big Cat vessel during time at the island as an air-conditioned base

• Buffet lunch (if option selected)

2 exclusive reef sites aboard a luxury superyacht, for adventure seekers, certified divers, or first-time scuba divers.

• Everything you get: Round-trip superyacht transfers, scuba diving (introductory or certified), snorkeling gear, BBQ lunch, tea/coffee, wine, and expert guides.
• Why choose this: Perfect for exploring the Great Barrier Reef with diving and snorkeling options, gourmet dining, and premium amenities aboard a luxury vessel.

Inclusions

• Full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef from Reef Fleet Terminal

• Round-trip superyacht transfers from Cairns to 2 reef sites

• Introductory or certified diving course with licensed diving instructor

• 8-hour cruise with 5 hours on the reef

• Snorkeling equipment, masks, and lycra suits

• Guides/captains

• Chef-prepared BBQ lunch with vegan, halal, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available

• Tea and coffee

• 1 glass of wine and light snack on return journey

• Onboard bar available (additional drinks at own cost)

What to bring

• Bring along your sunscreen, swimmers, towel, change of clothes, refillable drink bottle, and cash or credit card for bar and souvenir purchases.

What's not allowed

• For the certified dives, you will need to produce your certification card. For intro dives, no experience is necessary.
• The experience is restricted for guests aged 12 and under.
• Note that the following is not allowed during this experience: large bags.
• Diving within 24 hours before your flight is not permitted.

Accessibility

• Divers over 65 must have medical clearance from a physician confirming they are fit to dive. Please be aware that certain medical conditions (e.g. asthma, heart disease, diabetes) and any prescription medications will require a letter or email from a doctor clearing you to dive. This clearance must state your full name, the doctor's name, and practice, and the clearance to dive for the specific medications/condition.
• Special dietary requirements should be confirmed directly with the activity provider.

Additional information

• This activity is dependent on the weather.
• All divers are required to complete an onboard medical questionnaire.

Flexible outer reef tour with your choice of snorkelling or diving and a tropical BBQ lunch.

• Everything you get: Round-trip transfers from Cairns, guided tours at two outer reef sites known for pristine coral and marine life, full snorkelling gear, and a tropical BBQ buffet lunch.
• Upgrades: Enhance your reef day with advanced dive gear, extended reef time, or add-on marine photography sessions.
• Why choose this: Explore clearer waters and richer marine life at outer reef sites, with live expert commentary, underwater adventures, and seamless Cairns transfers.

Inclusions

• Full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef

• Round-trip transfers from select hotels in Cairns

• Round-trip superyacht transfers from Cairns to 2 reef sites (North Hastings & Saxon or Norman)

• 8-hour cruise with 5 hours on the reef

• Snorkeling equipment, masks, and lycra suits

• Guides/captains

• Chef-prepared BBQ lunch with fish, prawns, steak, salads, breads (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free options available)

• Tea/coffee/mini-muffins

• 1 glass of wine and a light snack on the return journey

• Choice of snorkeling tour or introductory dive (based on option selected)

• Onboard bar available (additional drinks at own cost)

Snorkeling, a semi-submarine adventure, and guided island exploration.

• Best for families, beginners, and explorers wanting an intimate reef and island experience with diverse activities.
• What you'll do: Snorkel pristine reefs, join a snorkel safari, explore coral gardens on a semi-submarine, and walk the island with expert marine biologists.
• What you'll see: Vibrant coral gardens, colorful fish, sea turtles, giant clams, and mangroves teeming with birdlife—all in a protected reef setting.
• What's unique: Access Normanby Island exclusively, for an uncrowded, immersive experience in a breathtaking reef ecosystem.

Inclusions

• Return transfers from selected Cairns accommodation to Deeral Jetty

• Scenic 30-minute calm water cruise along the Mulgrave River

• Morning and afternoon tea, along with fresh water provided throughout the day

• Fresh tropical lunch (please inform of any special dietary requirements when booking)

• Up to 4 hours spent on Frankland Islands

Activities include:

• Reef semi-sub expedition

• Guided snorkel safari

• Guided island walk

• Kids' Treasure Hunt

• Unlimited beach snorkeling

• Snorkeling equipment and tuition

• Use of kayaks and paddleboards

• Snorkel Stars – kids' snorkeling tutorial and certificate

Enjoy full flexibility with round-trip ferry transfers for a self-paced Fitzroy Island day trip.

• Great for independent travelers looking to plan their own reef adventures.
• Everything you get: A 55-minute ferry ride each way aboard a climate-controlled Sunlover catamaran with scenic coastal views. Includes round-trip transport, access to all public areas of Fitzroy Island, and the freedom to explore beaches and trails at your own pace.
• Why choose this: The most budget-friendly, build-your-own Fitzroy Island experience with no extras.
• Upgrades: Add snorkeling gear, a glass-bottom boat tour, or both for a customized island adventure.

Inclusions

• Round-trip ferry transfers from Cairns to Fitzroy Island

• Up to 2 hours to spend on the island

• Snorkel equipment hire (based on option selected)

• Glass-bottom boat tour (based on option selected)

See the Great Barrier Reef’s wonders without getting wet with a glass-bottom boat tour.

• Everything you get: Cruise aboard a spacious catamaran, snorkeling demonstration and reef presentation en route, 30-minute glass bottom boat tour with expert commentary, self-guided island walks, and up to 5 hours (full day) or 2 hours (half day) to explore Green Island’s beaches and boardwalks.
• Why choose this: This customizable tour is perfect for families, non-swimmers, and anyone seeking a laid-back adventure.
• Upgrades: Choose the full-day cruise for 5 hours on Green Island or the half-day cruise for a shorter 2-hour visit.

Inclusions

• Full or half-day cruise to Green Island (based on option selected)

• Stay on Green Island for 2 or 5 hours with a self-guided walk on island trails (based on option selected)

• 30-minute glass-bottom boat tour

• Snorkeling demonstration and reef presentation en route to Green Island

• Self-guided walk on island trails

Exclusions

• Optional activities such as snorkel gear hire, guided snorkel safari, semi-submarine tour

• Introductory and certified scuba dives

What to bring

• Bring a swimsuit, towel, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.
• Bring extra cash or a credit card for onboard purchases and optional activities.

What’s not allowed

• Electric wheelchairs are not permitted on vessels or coaches.
• Pets are not allowed, except for registered assistance animals.
• Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited on board.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair access is limited. Only standard wheelchairs are permitted; electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated on vessels or coaches.
• Bathrooms on the boat are not wheelchair accessible, but accessible facilities are available on Green Island.

Additional information

• Check-in starts at the Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises desk inside the Reef Fleet Terminal, Cairns. Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
• Boarding starts at 8:15am, with final boarding at 8:45am for a 9:00am departure.
• Return hotel transfers are not included but can be booked for an additional fee.
• Optional activities and meals must be prebooked for catering purposes.
• Scuba diving is only available for guests aged 12 and above, subject to a medical questionnaire. Guests under 18 require parental or guardian permission.
• Flotation vests are available for hire for non-swimmers and children.
• The experience is suitable for families with young children and non-swimmers.
• Please swim between the red and yellow flags on the beach for your safety.
• The tour operates in most weather conditions; in the event of severe weather, you will be contacted regarding changes or cancellations.

Arrive early for exclusive reef access, expert-led snorkeling, and small group comfort.

• Great for adventurous couples, families, and explorers seeking intimate reef experiences with personalized service.
• Everything you get: A 6-hour cruise aboard a schooner or catamaran with shaded decks, air-conditioned cabins, buffet lunch, morning tea, guided drift snorkel with a marine naturalist, optional diving, glass-bottom boat tour, fish feeding, and all gear provided.
• Why choose this: Enjoy an intimate group experience with a high crew-to-guest ratio that ensures safety, 2:1 intro dive sessions, expert insights, and a smorgasbord spread to top it off.

Inclusions

• Full-day cruise to Great Barrier Reef and Green Island cruise

• Small group cruise

• Round-trip transfers from Green Island

• 6 hours of reef time (Upolu Cay & Outer Edge Upolu Reef)

• Adventure drift snorkel tour with marine naturalist

• Glass-bottom boat tour

• Coffee/tea, Danish pastries, and fresh fruit on boarding

• Buffet lunch with salmon, prawns, meats, salads, breads

• Tropical afternoon tea – cheese platter / fresh fruit platter/cake platter

• Reef talk by a marine interpreter, fish feeding session

• Scuba diving demonstration, 2 guests per instructor

• Snorkeling fee and equipment

• All reef levies and fees

Exclusions

• Recreational area and environmental management charges

• Certified and non-certified diving experiences

• Round-trip bus transfers