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Moore Reef – Snorkeling, Diving & Reef Tours from Cairns

Located just 90 minutes by fast catamaran from Cairns, Moore Reef is an outer reef site that offers an ideal mix of healthy coral cover, shallow snorkel zones, and purpose-built reef pontoons that act like floating adventure hubs. Unlike inner reef patches closer to shore, Moore Reef offers clarity, biodiversity, and coral quality.

Why travelers choose Moore Reef

  • Unmatched accessibility from Cairns without compromising on reef quality

  • Floating pontoon facilities make it safe, comfortable, and beginner-friendly

  • Diverse coral and fish life visible just beneath the surface

  • Optional activities like semi-sub rides, intro dives, and glass-bottom boat tours

  • Perfect for families, solo travelers, and groups with mixed abilities

What you’ll experience at Moore Reef

Scuba diver exploring vibrant coral reef with diverse hard corals.
Sea turtles swimming over vibrant coral in the Great Barrier Reef.
Guide explaining marine life on a glass bottom boat tour, Cairns to Great Barrier Reef.
Tourists scuba diving at the Outer Great Barrier Reef near Cairns.
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Colorful shallow coral gardens

Step off the snorkel platform and you’re instantly surrounded by branching corals, giant clams, and swarms of tropical fish. Moore’s shallow coral outcrops make it a dream for both beginners and GoPro users.

High chance of turtle sightings

Green turtles and hawksbill turtles regularly glide through Moore’s lagoon zone. Morning and late-afternoon snorkels are highly recommended for close encounters.

Reef education for all ages

Guided snorkel tours offer hands-on learning about coral ecosystems, fish behaviour, and reef protection.

Activities for every comfort level

Whether you’re snorkeling for the first time, diving as a beginner, or simply viewing from the glass bottom boat or observatory, Moore Reef makes the reef accessible without pressure.

Local tips for visiting Moore Reef

  • Aim for the earliest departure for calmer waters and best light.

  • Bring a towel, dry bag, and reef-safe sunscreen (zinc-based, biodegradable).

  • Take seasickness tablets 30 minutes before boarding, even on calm days.

  • Join the guided snorkel session, and**** you’ll learn and see more.

  • Explore the semi-sub early when the**** crowd is less and visibility is better.

  • Ask about turtle hotspots—crew often know where they’ve been seen that day

Frequently asked questions about Moore Reef

Where is Moore Reef?

It’s located approximately 45km off the coast of Cairns, in the Outer Great Barrier Reef.

How long is the boat ride to Moore Reef?

About 90 minutes each way via high-speed catamaran.

Is it good for beginners or non-swimmers?

Yes. With pontoons, observatories, flotation gear, and guided help, it's perfect for all experience levels.

Will I see turtles or clownfish?

Very likely. Turtles are commonly spotted near the pontoon, and clownfish live in shallow coral beds near the snorkel area.

What if I don’t want to snorkel?

You can still enjoy the reef via semi-submarine tours, glass-bottom boat rides, and the underwater observatory.

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