From happy customers

Loved by 48 million+
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Cameron Nightingale
AU

Cameron

Australia
Jan 2026

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+2 more

Small group night tour with friendly informative host. Family loved it. Thoroughly recommended. Book ahead as a 'must do' when in Cairns!
Trenton wallace
AU

Trenton

Australia
Jan 2026

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Such a wonderful experience. Begins with friendly staff who explain the journey and tips about saving information about the animals. Inside the aquarium i was surprised to how many different animals there was. I was not expecting such a large variety. I seen fish and reptiles i have never seen before. Definitely going back in the future.
Rachel Grabowski
AU

Rachel

Australia
Jan 2026

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+1 more

Aquarium was clean, tidy & has been well maintained. Our two year olds were in and out quickly some more interactive activities for kids would've great
Mehdi Toumari
AU

Mehdi

Australia
Dec 2025

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+2 more

Loved it. Stunning views the whole way and Kuranda is a beautiful little village with a nice, relaxed vibe. The scenic train and Skyrail were both amazing and well organised. Definitely worth doing.
Petronio Caiga
AU

Petronio

Australia
Sep 2025

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+1 more

The Kuranda Skyrail & Scenic Train tour was unforgettable! Stunning rainforest views, smooth transfers, and a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. A must-do Cairns experience—highly recommended!
Chelsea O Marsh
AU

Chelsea

Australia
Sep 2025

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I really enjoyed my dah trip to Fitzroy island! The staff were lovely from start to finish, they were very helpful - sharing information about the island and the marine life. The island it self was lovely - my second time visiting and I'll definitely be back again.

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Great Barrier Reef glass bottom boat tours: See coral & marine life without getting wet

Set off from Cairns on a glass-bottom boat tour and explore the Great Barrier Reef without getting wet. Glide over colorful coral gardens, spot tropical fish and sea turtles, and enjoy live commentary from expert guides who bring the reef’s wonders to life. With shaded seating, clear underwater views, and easy access for all ages, it’s a comfortable and memorable way for families and non-swimmers to experience one of the world’s greatest natural treasures. Scroll down to learn about the different ticket options, things to know before booking a glass bottom boat tour, and more.

5 reasons to see the Great Barrier reef by a glass bottom boat tour

Tourists on a glass bottom boat viewing coral and fish at Great Barrier Reef near Cairns, Australia.
Person viewing coral reef through glass bottom boat on Great Barrier Reef cruise.
Guide explaining marine life on a glass bottom boat tour, Cairns to Great Barrier Reef.
People observing marine life from a semi-submersible at the Great Barrier Reef.
Catamaran approaching Green Island pier on Full Day Reef Cruise, Australia.
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See coral gardens up close

View colorful plate, brain, and staghorn corals through crystal-clear glass panels from the comfort of your seat.

No swimming or gear required

Perfect for non-swimmers, nervous travelers, or anyone who prefers a dry reef experience—no wetsuits, fins, or snorkeling gear needed.

Live marine commentary

Knowledgeable guides explain reef biology, fish species, coral reproduction, and the ecosystem’s fragility, making the tour educational.

Camera-ready views

Glass panels provide unobstructed photo opportunities—no waterproof cases required, perfect for casual photographers or social media shots.

Combine the tour with scenic island stops

Many tours include stops at islands like Green Island or Fitzroy Island, allowing passengers to enjoy short walks, beaches, or marine observatories.

Your glass bottom boat tour itinerary: What to expect on the day

Check-in & boarding

Arrive at your selected departure point in Cairns, check in, and board your glass-bottom boat. The crew will provide a brief safety and orientation session before departure.

Cruise to the reef or island

Relax as you travel over the Coral Sea, enjoying coastal views and scenic islands on the way to your reef destination. Onboard guides often introduce the reef’s ecosystem and marine life during the journey.

Glass bottom boat reef viewing

Step over the glass panels to see vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles in their natural habitat. Live commentary highlights key species, reef ecology, and conservation efforts.

Optional activities & upgrades

Many tours offer optional activities such as snorkeling, semi-submersible rides, short island walks, or lunch onboard. These extras let you tailor the day to your interests, whether you want a relaxed experience or a more interactive reef adventure.

Return to Cairns

Cruise back to the mainland, taking in the scenery one last time. Disembark at your original departure point, with time to continue exploring Cairns or relax after your reef experience.

Things to know before booking a Great Barrier Reef glass bottom boat tour

Departure points

  • Cairns: The main hub for reef tours, offering frequent departures and a wide selection of glass-bottom boat experiences.

Tour locations & island stops

  • Green Island

    :** A 45-minute scenic boat ride from Cairns, offering accessible and affordable island experiences with shallow coral gardens visible from the glass-bottom boat.

  • Fitzroy Island

    :** Located approximately 45 minutes from Cairns, this island features lush rainforests and clear blue waters, with opportunities to view vibrant marine life through the glass-bottom boat.

  • Moore Reef

    :** Accessible via a full-day tour, featuring a floating pontoon with direct water access and a glass-bottom boat tour showcasing rich marine biodiversity.

  • Optional excursions to Green Island or Fitzroy Island for beach walks, short hikes, or marine observatories.

  • Semi-submersible rides, snorkeling, or Seawalker helmet dives can be added for a more immersive reef experience.

Tour duration

  • Glass bottom boat tour: Typically lasts around 70 minutes, providing ample time to observe the reef's vibrant coral and marine life through the boat's clear panels.

  • Full-day tours: Combine the glass-bottom boat experience with additional activities such as snorkeling, semi-submersible rides, and island exploration, lasting approximately 8 to 9 hours.

Accessibility

  • Boats are accessible for seniors, children, and non-swimmers, with stable decks and handrails for safety.

Your guide to choosing the right glass bottom boat tour

Half-day glass bottom boat tours

  • Price: AUD $97
  • Duration: 2.5–4.5 hours
  • What’s included: Return ferry from Cairns, 2+ hours on Fitzroy Island, choice of snorkeling or glass-bottom boat tour, rainforest walks, and access to the air-conditioned base on the vessel.
  • Perfect for: Anyone seeking a quick, easy, and accessible reef experience without getting wet, and travellers with limited time who still want to see vibrant coral and marine life up close.

Recommended experience

  • Cairns to Fitzroy Island Half Day Cruise

Full-day glass bottom boat tours

  • Price: AUD $97–395
  • Duration: 7–9 hours
  • What’s included: Return ferry from Cairns, full-day access to Fitzroy Island or Moore Reef, choice of snorkeling or glass-bottom boat tour, guided commentary from marine experts, rainforest walks, use of shaded/air-conditioned areas, and lunch (on selected tours). Optional add-ons include both snorkeling and glass-bottom boat, or extra pontoon activities at Moore Reef.
  • Perfect for: Travellers who want to combine sightseeing, wildlife spotting, and optional snorkeling for a complete Great Barrier Reef experience.

Recommended experience

  • Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full Day Cruise with Activity Upgrades
  • Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Full Day Cruise with Scenic Heli-Flight and Lunch

Marine life you’ll see during your glass bottom boat tour

Hawksbill turtle swimming underwater in clear blue ocean.

Hawksbill turtles

Known for their distinctive beaks, they feed on sponges and are frequently seen in coral crevices.

Shark swimming at Clearwater Aquarium exhibit.
Blue-spotted stingray swimming over coral reef in clear ocean water.
Humphead Wrasse swimming with fish, Great Barrier Reef, Whitsundays.
Two clownfish nestled in purple sea anemone, Great Barrier Reef.

Plan your glass bottom boat tour

Glass bottom boat near Fitzroy Island, Australia, with lush greenery and clear blue water.
  • Duration: Approximately 2.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on the specific tour and location.

  • Departure: Tours typically depart from Cairns, with check-in required 15 minutes prior to departure.

  • Return: Guests are usually back in Cairns by mid-afternoon, allowing time for other activities.

Tourists on a glass bottom boat viewing marine life during Fitzroy Island tour from Cairns.
  • Vessel boarding: Upon arrival at the marina, guests board a spacious, fully equipped vessel ready for the glass-bottom boat experience.
Applying sunscreen on arm under clear Sydney sky.
  • Comfortable clothing: Dress in light, breathable clothing suitable for a day on the water.
  • Sun protection: Apply reef-safe sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and bring a hat to protect against the sun.
  • Camera: Bring an underwater camera or GoPro to capture the vibrant marine life.
  • Motion sickness remedies: If you're prone to seasickness, consider taking motion sickness tablets before boarding.
  • Small backpack or dry bag: Keep valuables and personal items safe and organized.
People observing fish through windows at an underwater observatory, Great Barrier Reef.
  • Health & fitness: Guests should be in good health; pregnant women or those with heart/respiratory issues should consult a doctor.
  • Punctuality: Arrive on time for check-in and boarding to ensure a smooth departure.
  • Safety briefing: Attend the mandatory safety briefing provided by the crew before the tour begins.
  • Marine life interaction: Do not feed, touch, or disturb fish, corals, or other marine life to protect the ecosystem.
  • No smoking or alcohol: Smoking and alcohol consumption are prohibited during the tour and onboard the vessel.
  • Children supervision: Children must be supervised at all times, especially near the glass viewing panels or if optional snorkeling is included.
People relaxing on a pebble beach at Fitzroy Island, surrounded by lush greenery and clear water.
  • Choose the right tour: Pick a half-day or full-day option depending on your schedule and energy levels. Full-day tours often include optional snorkeling or island stops.
  • Choose your seat strategically: Sitting over the middle panels often gives the clearest underwater view and the least motion from waves.
  • Plan optional add-ons: Consider combining your tour with snorkeling, semi-submersible rides, or island walks to enrich your experience.
  • Check the reef map: Ask guides where specific marine life like turtles, rays, or coral types are often seen to focus your viewing.
  • Bring a notebook or marine field guide: For kids or marine enthusiasts, jot down species you spot for a fun learning experience.

Read more

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Frequently asked questions about Glass Bottom Tours

You can book online through our website, choosing from half-day or full-day options, with optional add-ons like snorkeling or island visits.