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Inner vs. Outer Reef: A comparison guide to the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef stretches 2,300 km of marine wonder. With so many ways to explore—from island beaches to deep-sea pontoons—where do you start? This guide compares the Inner and Outer Reef, helping you pick the right experience, whether spotting turtles with toddlers or diving with potato cod.

What’s the real difference between the Inner and Outer Reef?

Group of tourists enjoying the Full Day Fitzroy Island Adventure Tour from Cairns, exploring the vibrant coral reefs and lush greenery of the island

Inner Reef

Close, calm, and island-based.

Inner Reef experiences focus on islands like Green and Fitzroy—45–60 minutes from Cairns. These fringing reefs lie close to shore, often sheltered by the islands.

  • Best for: Families, non-swimmers, first-time snorkelers, and anyone seeking a gentler, more flexible day
  • Access: Easy transfers via ferry; snorkel straight from the beach
  • Activities: Glass-bottom boat tours, rainforest hikes, kayaking, cafes, and shaded beach areas
  • Water clarity: Good, but may vary after rain due to coastal runoff (average 5–10m visibility)
  • Facilities: Island resorts offer change rooms, restaurants, shops, and shaded lounging spots
  • Bonus: Great for those prone to seasickness or traveling with kids

Perfect for a relaxed reef experience with dry-land options close to shore.

Aerial view of a boat near the Great Barrier Reef, Australia, for an Outer Reef Snorkel Adventure.

Outer Reef

Remote, rich, and reef-focused.

Outer Reef tours head 60–80km offshore to top sites like Moore, Agincourt, and Norman Reefs, offering full immersion in vibrant marine life.

  • Best for: Divers, confident snorkelers, marine life enthusiasts, and repeat visitors
  • Access: Fast catamarans (~90–120 minutes); most trips are pontoon-based
  • Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, underwater observatories, semi-submersibles, and optional helicopter flights
  • Water clarity: Typically excellent with consistent 15–20m+ visibility
  • Facilities: Spacious pontoons with buffets, shaded decks, dive platforms, hot showers, and licensed bars
  • Bonus: Better biodiversity, including the “Great Eight” marine icons and fewer crowds in the water

Ideal for those seeking scale, clear waters, and the reef’s most vibrant marine life.

10 things to consider while choosing between Inner Reef and Outer Reef tours

FactorGreen/Fitzroy Island (Inner Reef)Moore/Agincourt/Norman Reefs (Outer Reef)

Travel time

45 to 60 minutes

90 to 120 minutes

Price

AU$97–AU$150

AU$249–AU$325

Best for

Families, first-timers, non-swimmers

Divers, repeat snorkelers, and marine lovers

Marine life

Turtles, reef fish, fringing coral

Great 8 (including manta rays, giant clams) + deeper coral walls

Water conditions

Calm, 5–10m visibility

Clearer, 15–20m+ visibility

Crowding

Busier beaches

Pontoon spaces manage flow

Activities

Hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and island cafes

Diving, snorkeling, glass boats, and heli rides

Accessibility

Great for wheelchairs/strollers

Excellent pontoon facilities (some stairs)

Facilities

Resort cafes, lockers, and changing rooms

Buffet lunch, underwater observatories, bar

Weather risk

High (island refuge)

Moderate (wind can impact travel)

Best Inner Reef tours

Catamaran docked at Green Island with tourists preparing for a reef cruise.

Green Island day trip

From: AU$105 to AU$150

Best for: Families with young children, non-swimmers, and travelers looking for a relaxed reef experience with resort-style amenities.

Includes:

  • Snorkeling directly from the beach
  • Rainforest walks and island trails
  • Semi-submersible tours and glass-bottom boat rides
  • Optional helmet diving (Seawalker)
  • Access to cafes, shops, and shaded beaches

Recommended experiences:

​Book Cairns to Green Island Full Day Cruise

Book Green Island tours
Group enjoying a boat ride from Cairns to Fitzroy Island with lush hills and ocean views.

Fitzroy Island day trip

From: AU$97 to AU$105

Best for: Nature lovers, budget-conscious travelers, and those who enjoy a more rugged, self-guided island experience.

Includes:

  • Hikes to the summit or the historic lighthouse
  • Snorkeling near turtle habitats and coral gardens
  • Access to Nudey Beach (voted Australia’s best beach)
  • Paddleboarding, kayaking, and optional glass-bottom boat tours
  • Island resort facilities and general store

Recommended experiences:

​Book Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full-Day Cruise with Snorkelling & Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

Book Fitzroy Island tours

Best Outer Reef tours

Tourists on Seawalker helmet dive at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef, observing coral and fish.

Moore Reef with Sunlover

From: AU$295

Best for: Families and mixed-age groups who want a full day of reef adventure, with options for every comfort level.

Includes:

  • Multi-level pontoon with snorkeling platforms
  • Underwater observatory and marine touch tank
  • Waterslide into a sheltered ocean pool
  • Optional scuba diving and helicopter scenic flights
  • Buffet lunch, showers, and shaded lounges

Recommended experiences:

​Book Cairns to Fitzroy Island and Moore Reef Full-Day Cruise

Cruise ship anchored on the Outer Great Barrier Reef with coral formations visible below.

Agincourt Reef with Calypso Cruises

From: $309 AUD

Best for: Visitors departing from Port Douglas, avid snorkelers and divers, and those seeking a premium Outer Reef experience with expert guidance.

Includes:

  • State-of-the-art pontoon at the edge of the continental shelf
  • Exceptional water clarity and “ribbon reef” topography
  • Helmet diving (Ocean Walker), guided snorkel tours, and semi-sub rides
  • Marine biologist presentations and optional heli tours
  • Hot showers, sun decks, and a gourmet buffet lunch

Recommended experiences:

​Book Port Douglas to Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Frequently asked questions about inner and outer reef tours

Is the outer reef worth the extra $100?

For many, yes. The extra cost usually means clearer water, richer biodiversity, healthier coral, and better pontoon facilities. If pristine conditions and an immersive reef experience matter most, the Outer Reef offers the best value.

Will I see more/better coral at the outer reef?

Generally, yes. Being farther from the coast, the Outer Reef usually has clearer water and more diverse, extensive coral. Inner reefs are beautiful, but the Outer Reef’s scale and variety are often more impressive.

Can non-swimmers enjoy the outer reef?

Absolutely! Many Outer Reef pontoon tours offer activities for non-swimmers, including underwater observatories, glass-bottom boats, semi-submersibles, and helmet diving. Pontoons also provide stable spots to relax and enjoy the views.

Is there food and shade on the pontoon?

Yes. Outer Reef pontoons are like floating resorts, with shaded areas, sun decks, showers, changing rooms, toilets, buffet meals, tea, and often licensed bars.

Which is better for young kids?

Inner reef islands like Green and Fitzroy are ideal for young kids, with short travel, calm shallow waters, beach entry for swimming/snorkeling, and land activities like playgrounds and walks. Outer reef pontoons suit families too but require longer travel.

Does it matter what month I go?

The Great Barrier Reef is a year-round destination.

  • Dry season (May-Oct): Cooler, less humid, calmer seas, excellent visibility—peak season.
  • Wet season (Nov-Apr): Warmer, humid, with afternoon showers. Coastal visibility may drop, but outer reefs stay clear. Stinger suits are recommended. Both seasons offer incredible experiences, but the dry season is often preferred for overall comfort.
Is the water rougher on outer reef trips?

Yes, outer reef trips can be rougher, especially in wind, though catamarans are comfortable. Seasick travelers should take precautions. Inner reef trips are generally calmer in sheltered waters.

Read more

Aerial view of Fitzroy Island's lush green hills and turquoise waters, Australia.

Fitzroy Island

Scuba diver swimming with sea turtle in Tanjung Benoa, Bali.

Scuba diving

Colorful fish swimming over coral reef in Blue Cave snorkeling tour.

Marine life

Snorkelers exploring coral at Moore Reef with a cruise ship in the background, Great Barrier Reef.

Moore Reef