Top things to do in Cairns

Top 5 reasons you should go on a Green Island tour from Cairns

Catamaran approaching Green Island pier on Full Day Reef Cruise, Australia.

Shortest boat ride: Just 45 minutes by air-conditioned catamaran.

Unique environment: Only coral cay in the GBR with its own rainforest and boardwalk trails.

Family-friendly: Calm waters, beach access, stroller paths, and shaded picnic spots.

All-weather appeal: Semi-sub tours, Marineland Melanesia, and on-island cafes.

Flexible experiences: Full-day, half-day, and combo options with snorkel or semi-sub upgrades.

How to pick the right Green Island tour

  • Best for adventurers & expert swimmers: A full-day Green Island tour lets you snorkel straight off the beach, wander shaded rainforest trails, and soak in the island’s tropical calm. Add a guided snorkel safari, scuba dive, helmet dive, or a scenic helicopter flight for a big adventure in one compact day. Starting from AU$109.
  • Best for non-swimmers & families: Explore the reef aboard a glass-bottom boat or semi-submarine, perfect for guests with limited mobility. Tours also include shaded seating, accessible beach zones, and family-friendly amenities. Starting from AU$109.
  • Half-day tours: Approximately 4 hours, these are ideal for cruise passengers or travelers with limited time. From AU$109.
  • Full-day tours: Give you the flexibility to experience both marine life and rainforest walks at your own pace. From AU$109.

Meet your tour operators

  • Big Cat Cruises: A family-friendly, eco-certified operator offering flexible daily departures, snorkel gear, semi-sub tours, and combo experiences. From AU$109.
  • Ocean Freedom Sailing: A premium small-group sailing experience ideal for couples and snorkelers, with high-touch service. From AU$245.

Upgrade options to personalize your trip

  • Seawalker Helmet: Walk along the reef floor with a secure air helmet, no swimming required.
  • Scuba diving: Dive deeper with guided options for both beginners and certified divers.
  • Glass-bottom boat or semi-submarine rides: Explore vibrant reef life from the comfort of a dry seat.
  • Scenic flights: A 40‑minute standalone tour from AU$229, offering panoramic views of the reef. Snorkeling or cruising is only available when booked with a cruise package.

Your Green Island tour options explained

Tourists enjoying a Green Island cruise with a view of the lush coastline and clear blue waters.

Day tours

Price: From AU$97

Cruise to Green Island on a high-speed catamaran and spend your day your way. Snorkel, walk rainforest trails, or just relax on the beach.

  • Choose a half-day (approx. 4 hours) or full-day tour.
  • Return ferry transfers to  Cairns included.
  • Snorkel gear, glass-bottom boat rides, or semi-submarine tours are available as optional add-ons.
  • Great for families, non-swimmers, or those seeking flexibility.
  • Ideal if you want to explore at your own pace with plenty of upgrade options.

Recommended experience:

Cairns to Green Island: Outer Reef cruise and guided snorkel tour

Cruise ship near coral reefs on Great Barrier Reef, Cairns.

Flight tours

Price: From AU$229

Take off from Cairns Airport for a bird’s-eye view of the Great Barrier Reef, including Green Island, Arlington Reef, and Vlasoff Cay.

  • 40-minute scenic flight over coral formations and sand cays.
  • Incredible aerial views and photo ops from every window seat.
  • No water activities included, ideal for dry reef viewing.
  • Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
  • Whale, turtle, and ray sightings are possible in peak seasons.

Recommended experience:

Great Barrier Reef scenic flight

Things to do on your Green Island tour

Great Barrier Reef snorkeling and diving tour at Green Island, Cairns, Australia.

Snorkel from the beach

Snorkel right off Green Island’s sandy shoreline, perfect for beginners and families. Gear is included in most tours, with easy access near the jetty and main beach. Upgrade to a guided snorkel safari with a marine biologist for expert insight into the reef’s marine life.

Tourists enjoying a full-day cruise from Cairns to the Great Barrier Reef, exploring marine life through a glass-bottom boat and semi-submersible tours
Scuba divers exploring vibrant coral reef, Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
Tourists on a catamaran cruise in clear blue waters near Green Island Reef, Cairns, Australia.
Dubai Crocodile Park immersive aquarium setup with crocodiles swimming in clear water.

Your Green Island day: Sample itineraries to help plan your visit

Quick & scenic: Half-day itinerary

  • 9am: Depart from Cairns Marina with Great Adventures or Big Cat
  • 9:45am: Arrive and walk the rainforest boardwalk loop (20 mins)
  • 10:15am: Snorkel from the beach or take a glass-bottom boat ride
  • 11:30am: Grab a snack or enjoy a pre-packed picnic
  • 12:15pm: Return ferry to Cairns

Perfect for: Cruise passengers or travelers short on time

Book Green Island half-day tour

Snorkel & explore: Full-day adventure

  • 9am: Morning ferry from Cairns
  • 9:45am: Start with a guided snorkel safari (TGID 62674)
  • 11am: Relax on the beach or explore Marineland Melanesia
  • 12:30pm: Lunch at the island café or picnic in a shady spot
  • 2pm: Ride the semi-submarine or glass-bottom boat
  • 3:30pm: Optional rainforest walk or ice cream by the shore
  • 4:15pm: Return ferry to Cairns

Perfect for: Active travelers, families with older kids, or marine life lovers

Book Green Island tour with snorkelling and lunch

For non-swimmers and relaxation

  • 9am: Depart via Big Cat ferry with semi-sub option (TGID 26480)
  • 10am: Visit Marineland crocodile park (tickets included in most day tours)
  • 11:30am: Glass-bottom boat cruise over vibrant reef patches
  • 12:30pm: Leisurely lunch with a sea view
  • 2pm: Optional marine biologist talk or beach stroll
  • 3:45pm: Ferry back to Cairns

Perfect for: Seniors, non-swimmers, and accessibility-conscious travelers

Book Green Island tour for family of 4

Plan your visit to Green Island

Tourists enjoying a Full Day Green Island Reef Catamaran Cruise in Cairns, Australia, with a view of the clear blue ocean and lush green island

Green Island is open year-round. May–October offers the clearest skies and calmest seas (22–29°C). Stinger season (November–April): operators supply stinger suits.

  • Peak: June–August (cool, dry)
  • Shoulder: May, September–October (ideal, quieter)
  • Wet: November–April (warm, occasional showers)

Wildlife guide:

  • Whales: June–October (seen on catamarans)
  • Turtle nesting/hatching: November–April
  • Coral spawning: November–December
  • All Green Island tours depart from Cairns Marlin Marina, located next to the Reef Fleet Terminal. Check-in typically closes 30–45 minutes before your ferry departure.
  • Paid parking is available at the Pier Shopping Complex (~AU$1.60/hour).
  • Travel time to Green Island: approx. 45 minutes by catamaran.
  • Check your tour confirmation for departure times and boarding details.
Florence skyline with the Duomo and snow-capped mountains in February.
  • Most tour packages include snorkel gear and flotation devices, but bringing a few extras will enhance your day.
  • Essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+), swimwear, towel, hat, sunglasses
  • Comfort: Light jacket for boat travel, change of clothes, comfortable shoes
  • Extras: Waterproof bag, seasickness tablets, cash for food or upgrades
  • Photography: GoPro or waterproof camera for underwater shots
  • Note: Prescription masks are available on request
Modern washroom facilities with sinks and mirrors in a tourist attraction.
  • Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal offers restrooms, ticket counters, cafes, and nearby paid parking.
  • Calm water zones, suitable for young children.
  • Stroller-friendly paths and shaded beach areas.
  • On the island:
    • Cafés, freshwater showers, toilets, lockers, shaded seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible boardwalks and restrooms
    • Snorkel hire stations and first aid
    • Marineland Melanesia attraction (entry ticket sold separately on-site)
Woman applying sunscreen on a beach in Bali, Indonesia.
  • Arrive early: Check in at Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal 30–45 minutes before departure to avoid boarding delays.
  • Pack essentials: Bring swimwear, a towel, a change of clothes, a waterproof bag, and some cash for upgrades or lockers.
  • Snorkel smart: Head to the western side near the jetty for vibrant coral and fewer crowds. Stick to marked areas and avoid standing on coral.
  • Choose reef-safe sunscreen: Only zinc or titanium-based sunscreens are allowed to help protect marine life.
  • Hydrate and stay shaded: Bring a refillable water bottle, hat, and light cover, shade is limited during peak sun hours.
  • Respect marine life: Don’t touch, chase, or feed reef animals. Keep a safe distance when snorkeling or diving.

More things to do in Great Barrier Reef

Frequently asked questions about Green Island

What are the cheapest Green Island tours?

Half‑day ferry transfers start from around AU$109, proving to be among the most affordable reef day trips from Cairns. Combo deals and family packages can offer even better value.

Book Green Island half-day tour

Is Green Island or Fitzroy Island better?

Green Island (≈ 45 min by catamaran) offers healthier coral, more snorkel activity options, flat rainforest walks, and island amenities tailored for families and beginners. Fitzroy Island offers rugged terrain, scenic hikes, and a larger island vibe, ideal for hikers and turtle enthusiasts.

Is the water calm enough for kids to snorkel?

Green Island features shallow, sheltered reef waters just off the beach, offering a safe snorkelling environment for children and first-timers. Most day tours include snorkel gear and buoyancy aids.

Is snorkel gear included?

Most half- and full-day tour packages include snorkel masks, fins, and safety briefings. Always confirm during booking if your tour includes upgrades or equipment.

Is Green Island wheelchair accessible?

Green Island is widely regarded as the most accessible reef destination near Cairns, with ferry boarding, island boardwalks, restrooms, and viewing areas adapted for guests with mobility needs.

Can I stay overnight on Green Island?

Yes, Green Island Resort offers luxury accommodation, though most tours are for day visits. Bookings should be made separately if you plan to stay overnight.

Do I need a stinger suit?

During the jellyfish season (November–April), stinger suits are mandatory for coral reef access and provided for free on most tour packages.

Can I cancel or reschedule my cruise?

Most cruises offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. To reschedule your cruise, you may need to contact the cruise operator.

Are there souvenir shops on Green Island?

Yes, you can shop for gifts, clothing, and local crafts at the island’s souvenir stores.

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