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The Outer Great Barrier Reef is one of the best places in the world to see colorful corals, tropical fish, sea turtles, and more. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s the perfect spot for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Whether you want to snorkel, try scuba diving, or enjoy the views from the boat, here's what to expect on your trip.
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.
Dive or snorkel over drop-offs, bommies, and coral gardens teeming with fish. Visibility often exceeds 20 meters, especially between June and October.
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.
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.
Full-day tours typically include morning tea, a hearty buffet lunch, afternoon snacks, and optional add-ons like underwater photography or scuba upgrades.
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, 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 has shallow lagoons and deeper drop-offs, ideal for snorkel tours. Spot parrotfish, sea cucumbers, and seasonal manta rays.
Want to make the most of your Outer Reef trip? Here’s how to plan smarter:
It’s the section of the reef system located farther offshore, which is less disturbed, more biodiverse, and known for excellent visibility.
About 60–90 minutes by boat, depending on the reef site and operator.
Yes. Most tours cater to all levels with safety briefings, life vests, and expert supervision.
Clearer water and calm seas usually occur from May to October.
Yes! Most tours offer both, along with guided reef talks and optional upgrades.
Yes. Many tours are family-friendly and include shaded areas, kids’ gear, and calm snorkel zones.
See the Great Barrier Reef’s wonders without getting wet with a glass-bottom boat tour.
Inclusions
Full or half-day cruise to Green Island (based on option selected)
Stay on Green Island for 2 or 5 hours with a self-guided walk on island trails (based on option selected)
30-minute glass-bottom boat tour
Snorkeling demonstration and reef presentation en route to Green Island
Self-guided walk on island trails
Exclusions
Flexible outer reef tour with your choice of snorkelling or diving and a tropical BBQ lunch.
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)
2 exclusive reef sites aboard a luxury superyacht, for adventure seekers, certified divers, or first-time scuba divers.
Inclusions
Full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef from Reef Fleet Terminal
Round-trip superyacht transfers from Cairns to 2 reef sites
Introductory or certified diving course with licensed diving instructor
8-hour cruise with 5 hours on the reef
Snorkeling equipment, masks, and lycra suits
Guides/captains
Chef-prepared BBQ lunch with vegan, halal, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available
Tea and coffee
1 glass of wine and light snack on return journey
Onboard bar available (additional drinks at own cost)
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
