Outer Great Barrier Reef Tours: Book Your Day Trips

From happy customers

Loved by 44 million+

Chelsea

Australia

Sep 2025

5/5

‌

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.

Aimee

Australia

Aug 2025

5/5

‌

+2 more

We had a really lovely time visiting fitzroy Island yesterday. On our way back to cairns we sat on the upper sun deck with great views this only got bettter when we had an unexpected visitor join us 🐳🐋 The crew promptly turned the engines off and gave us an informative commentary on the humpback whales migration. This was such an unexpected treat not to mention a life long bucket list goal. All staff were friendly and professional. The boat was immaculately clean we will definitely be booking future adventures with this company and recommending to family and friends. Until next time.

Juan

Australia

Oct 2023

4/5

Excelente, we have a great time and the service oversam, thank you very much for every think you have organised, loved. Juan and Charo

Bergeret

Jul 2025

4/5

The glass-bottom boat trip, which although short, allowed us to get a little further out on the reef and get some explanations. This enabled us to see a turtle and clams in particular.

Australia

Oct 2023

4/5

The staff were great people and very helpful. I liked that the cost was an all included experience. My 7 year old son had the most fantastic time, just loves the reef, however he had concerns about the boat on the way out and the slapping of the water on the boat. He has been investigating boat disasters and thought we had been hit by a torpedo. 😂

Winston

Sep 2021

5/5

Had so much fun doing this. Me and my friends had planned on seeing this amazing landmark and the cruise was one of my favourite things about my experience.. Thoroughly enjoyed it

Narina

Australia

Aug 2025

5/5

Friendly staff, beautiful catamaran, not overcrowded and well organised tour. We had a great day on the reef and would highly recommend down under reef cruise by Headout 😊

Why visit the Outer Great Barrier Reef?

Snorkeler with a large fish at Great Barrier Reef during full day cruise.

Best visibility: Waters are deeper and clearer, ideal for snorkelers and photographers.
Healthier coral systems: Less tourist pressure means more vibrant coral formations and marine diversity.
More marine life: Outer reefs attract larger species like turtles, reef sharks, rays, and big schools of fish.
Full-day adventure: You’ll spend more time at the reef, often visiting multiple sites.
Great for divers and snorkelers: Certified dive and guided snorkel experiences available on most tours.

What to expect on an Outer Reef Tour

1/5

Fast travel to remote reefs

Most boats take 90 minutes to 2 hours to reach the Outer Reef. High-speed boats ensure a smooth ride with onboard comforts like air-con, sun decks, and marine briefings.

Spectacular reef systems

Dive or snorkel over drop-offs, bommies, and coral gardens teeming with fish. Visibility often exceeds 20 meters, especially between June and October.

Guided snorkel & dive options

Expert guides lead small groups through the best coral sections, pointing out camouflaged creatures and rare corals. Ideal for first-timers or anyone looking for a safer, richer reef experience.

Frequent marine encounters

You’ll likely spot turtles, reef sharks, parrotfish, giant clams, and maybe even a manta ray or two. These outer sections draw **a wider mix of reef species.

All-day comfort and service

Full-day tours typically include morning tea, a hearty buffet lunch, afternoon snacks, and optional add-ons like underwater photography or scuba upgrades.

Best places to snorkel in the Outer Great Barrier Reef

1/3

Norman Reef

Norman Reef, with crystal-clear water and excellent visibility, hosts vibrant marine life, colorful corals, and occasional green sea turtles. Its varying depths suit both beginners and confident swimmers.

Saxon Reef

Saxon Reef, between Norman and Hastings, is quieter but rewarding, with bommies, coral walls, and abundant fish. You may see anemonefish, giant clams, or a reef shark. Calm waters and healthy coral make it a great all-rounder.

North Hastings Reef

North Hastings has shallow lagoons and deeper drop-offs, ideal for snorkel tours. Spot parrotfish, sea cucumbers, and seasonal manta rays.

Tips for visiting the Outer Reef

Want to make the most of your Outer Reef trip? Here’s how to plan smarter:

Choose your season: Best visibility is between June and October when the water is clearest.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen: Protect the coral ecosystem. Look for zinc-based or biodegradable options.
Prepare for sun and sea: Bring a hat, towel, reusable water bottle, and motion sickness meds if needed.
Try a guided snorkel tour: It’s the best way to safely see more and learn about the reef ecosystem.
Book early in peak months: Popular tours sell out fast, especially from June to September.

Plan your visit to Outer Great Barrier Reef

Snorkeler swimming with a large fish at the Great Barrier Reef near Cairns.

Peak season (June – October): Clear skies, calm seas, and excellent visibility make this the ideal time for snorkeling. It’s also stinger-free, so no suits required.
Shoulder season (April – May, November): Fewer crowds and still-great weather. You’ll get good underwater conditions and better tour availability.
Wet season (December – March): Expect high humidity, tropical showers, and reduced visibility. Snorkeling is still possible, but trips are more weather-dependent.

Guests relaxing on cruise ship deck overlooking the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.

Departure from Cairns: Most full-day snorkeling tours to Norman, Saxon, and Hastings reefs leave from Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, with a 90-minute high-speed catamaran ride.

Snorkelers giving OK sign near boat at Outer Great Barrier Reef, Cairns trip.

Advance booking benefits: Outer reef tours fill up fast, especially in peak season. Booking early secures your spot, gives you better tour choices.

Woman applying sunscreen on arm at a sunny beach.

Reef-safe sunscreen
Swimsuit and towel
Light cover-up or rash guard
Motion sickness tablets (if you’re prone)
Waterproof camera or phone case
ID and booking confirmation (digital is fine)

Frequently asked questions about Outer Great Barrier Reef Tours

What is the Outer Great Barrier Reef?

It’s the section of the reef system located farther offshore, which is less disturbed, more biodiverse, and known for excellent visibility.

How far is the Outer Reef from Cairns?

About 60–90 minutes by boat, depending on the reef site and operator.

Is it safe for first-timers?

Yes. Most tours cater to all levels with safety briefings, life vests, and expert supervision.

What’s the best time to go?

Clearer water and calm seas usually occur from May to October.

Are diving and snorkeling both available?

Yes! Most tours offer both, along with guided reef talks and optional upgrades.

Can I bring my kids?

Yes. Many tours are family-friendly and include shaded areas, kids’ gear, and calm snorkel zones.

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

Tip: Keep an eye out for the world's largest coral reef, which can be best observed from the spacious sundeck.
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
Certain medical conditions like asthma, epilepsy, high blood pressure, or specific medications may exclude individuals from diving.
Safety is a priority, so the diving experience is restricted for children under 12 years.
A medical questionnaire must be completed and signed by a parent/guardian for divers under 18 years.
After diving, intervals of 12-24 hours are recommended prior to flying depending on the depths of dives and accrued dive time.
Helicopters for scenic flights have maximum weight limits to ensure safety. Here’s a quick guide: 3-seat: 240 kg (529 lbs), 4-seat: 320 kg (705 lbs), and 6-seat: 490 kg (1,080 lbs).

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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)

Tip: Try to take some time out to visit the rusty market between Sheridan and Grafton Street, which comes to life from Friday to Sunday and offers visitors a wide variety of exotic fruits and vegetables.
This activity is dependent on the weather.
All divers are required to complete an onboard medical questionnaire.
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.
The experience is restricted for guests aged 12 and under.
Diving within 24 hours before your flight is not permitted.
For the certified dives, you will need to produce your certification card. For intro dives, no experience is necessary.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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

Tip: Keep an eye out for the world's largest coral reef, which can be best observed from the spacious sundeck.
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
Certain medical conditions like asthma, epilepsy, high blood pressure, or specific medications may exclude individuals from diving.
Safety is a priority, so the diving experience is restricted for children under 12 years.
A medical questionnaire must be completed and signed by a parent/guardian for divers under 18 years.
After diving, intervals of 12-24 hours are recommended prior to flying depending on the depths of dives and accrued dive time.
Helicopters for scenic flights have maximum weight limits to ensure safety. Here’s a quick guide: 3-seat: 240 kg (529 lbs), 4-seat: 320 kg (705 lbs), and 6-seat: 490 kg (1,080 lbs).

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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)

Tip: Try to take some time out to visit the rusty market between Sheridan and Grafton Street, which comes to life from Friday to Sunday and offers visitors a wide variety of exotic fruits and vegetables.
This activity is dependent on the weather.
All divers are required to complete an onboard medical questionnaire.
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.
The experience is restricted for guests aged 12 and under.
Diving within 24 hours before your flight is not permitted.
For the certified dives, you will need to produce your certification card. For intro dives, no experience is necessary.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Sightseeing Cruises

NaN

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Pontoon Activities and Lunch by Reef Magic

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.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

8 hr. - 9 hr.

Meals included

Sightseeing Cruises

NEW

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Lunch

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.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

8 hr. - 8 hr. 30 min.

Transfers included

Meals included

Explore the Outer Great Barrier Reef: Book Your Tour Today

From happy customers

Top things to do in Cairns

Day trip to the Outer Great Barrier Reef

Why visit the Outer Great Barrier Reef?

What to expect on an Outer Reef Tour

Fast travel to remote reefs

Spectacular reef systems

Guided snorkel & dive options

Frequent marine encounters

All-day comfort and service

What’s included in Outer Reef Tours

Best places to snorkel in the Outer Great Barrier Reef

Norman Reef

Saxon Reef

North Hastings Reef

Tips for visiting the Outer Reef

Plan your visit to Outer Great Barrier Reef

Frequently asked questions about Outer Great Barrier Reef Tours

Read More

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Explore the Outer Great Barrier Reef: Book Your Tour Today

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Pontoon Activities and Lunch by Reef Magic

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Lunch