4.5(4,167)

All-Weather Great Barrier Reef Pontoon — Book Your Reef Day Today

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Aerial view of a pontoon at the Great Barrier Reef surrounded by vibrant coral formations.
























































From happy customers

Loved by 44 million+
Chelsea O Marsh
AU

Chelsea

Australia
Sep 2025
5/5

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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 fortescue
AU

Aimee

Australia
Aug 2025
5/5

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+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.
Catherine Brown
GB

Catherine

United Kingdom
Oct 2025
5/5
The most amazing day! Every part was bang on time. Fabulous staff - friendly, efficient and knowledgeable. Would most definitely recommend.
Bergeret stephane

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.
Narina Prodger
AU

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 😊
Denisse Herrera Zuniga
AU

Denisse

Australia
Nov 2025
5/5
The team is super friendly, the views were amazing, they show us beautiful places of the barrier reef, still feels like a dram how beautiful it is
Tamara Norden
AU

Tamara

Australia
Nov 2025
5/5
Cruise in and out was amazing, we saw Sea turtles mating on the cruise back. Glass bottom boat was incredible, a great view of the coral reef and creatures below. The snorkelling was amazing, I spotted a sea turtle in the area close to the jetty...I was able to capture an underwater picture of the sea turtle. Box lunch was fantastic, very big lunch which satisfied the hard earned appetite. Sunlover staff were very friendly and did an amazing job all day 👏 Entire day was well worth it, would do it again. Highly recommend.

Top things to do in Cairns

Great Barrier Reef pontoon tours are a popular way to explore Australia’s natural wonder. These floating platforms offer a stable base for snorkeling, diving, semi-submersible rides, and underwater observatories—all in one day. With buffet lunches, shaded decks, and family-friendly facilities, they suit every traveler. Read on to discover the top pontoon tours, inclusions, and tips for your reef day.

Why book a Pontoon Tour at the Great Barrier Reef?

Tourists snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef, wearing masks and life vests.

Ideal for families, first-timers, and mixed groups, pontoon tours offer comfort, safety, and flexibility. Spend about 4 hours at the reef, enjoy a buffet lunch, and explore at your own pace.

Here’s why pontoon tours work for everyone:

  • Stability and comfort
    Platforms don’t move like boats—ideal if you’re nervous about seasickness.
  • Activities for all levels
    Dive, snorkel, semi-sub, underwater observatory, or just sunbathe.
  • Non-swimmers welcome
    With floatation gear, lifeguards, and surface platforms, everyone can join.
  • Family-friendly setup
    Baby-changing areas, shaded seating, and child-sized gear available.
  • More time on the reef
    You dock right at the site, with minimal transition time.
Aerial view of pontoon at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef with snorkelers in clear water.
Tourists on a pontoon enjoying a cruise from Cairns to the Great Barrier Reef.
Tourists preparing for a dive on a Great Barrier Reef cruise.
Tourists in a semi-submersible boat viewing marine life at the Great Barrier Reef.
Guests enjoying buffet lunch on Cairns to Great Barrier Reef cruise.
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Full-day access to the Outer Reef

Board from Cairns or Port Douglas and head to pontoons anchored at sites like Agincourt Reef or Moore Reef. You’ll get 3–4 hours at the platform, surrounded by vibrant coral and marine life.

All-ages friendly setup

With shaded areas, toilets, kids’ gear, and lifeguards, pontoons are ideal for families. Even if you're not swimming, there’s plenty to see and do.

Snorkeling & diving zones

Dedicated areas for snorkelers and divers keep things organized. Intro dives, certified dives, and snorkeling sessions run continuously with expert supervision.

Underwater Observatory & Semi-Sub Rides

Not getting in the water? View the reef from below in comfort through glass panels or hop on a semi-submarine for a guided tour of the coral gardens.

Buffet lunch & refreshments

Enjoy a full onboard buffetoften with fresh seafood, salads, tropical fruit, and vegetarian options. Coffee, tea, and water are available throughout.

What’s included in a Pontoon Tour

Snorkeler with sea turtle at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef day cruise.
  • Round-trip cruise from Cairns
  • 4–5 hours of pontoon time anchored directly at a reef site
  • Snorkeling gear and floatation aids
  • Onboard buffet lunch and drinks
  • Access to underwater observatory and/or semi-sub
  • Intro or certified diving (optional add-ons)
  • Guides and lifeguards on deck

Tips for your Pontoon Reef day trip

Keep these pro tips in mind to get the most out of your Great Barrier Reef Pontoon tour:

  • Arrive early for best snorkel spots
    Some pontoons get busy. Getting in early means calmer waters and fewer people.
  • Pack a towel, reef-safe sunscreen & dry bag
    Essentials aren’t usually included, and lockers may be limited.
  • Non-swimmer? No problem
    Use floatation aids, stay near lifeguards, or watch from the underwater observatory.
  • Use waterproof cases for your phone
    Even if you’re just on deck, splashes happen, and you’ll want your camera ready.

Plan your Great Barrier Reef Pontoon Tours

Family snorkeling at Moore Reef with Sunlover Cruises, Great Barrier Reef.
  • Peak season (June–Oct): Dry and sunny with calm seas and top visibility—the busiest and priciest time on the reef.
    Shoulder season (Apr–May, Nov): Warm weather, fewer crowds, good visibility, and occasional deals. November brings coral spawning, briefly clouding the water.
    Wet season (Dec–Mar): Hot, humid, with afternoon showers and storms. Visibility varies, but the reef is quieter and seas warm—just note it’s also stinger season.
Cruise ship on the Great Barrier Reef with passengers enjoying the view.

After check-in, board a high-speed catamaran for a 90–120 minute ride across the Coral Sea to the Outer Reef. Staff provide safety briefings and snorkel tips en route. Many tours offer optional hotel transfers from Cairns or Northern Beaches—handy if you’d rather skip early parking.

Tourists discussing itinerary with guide on a cruise ship to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns.
  • Reserve in advance: Pontoons are popular, and spots can sell out quickly during school holidays and peak season. Booking early secures your date and any add-ons.
  • Bundle experiences: Extras like helicopter flights, semi-submersible tours, or introductory dives are often cheaper when booked with your pontoon package rather than on the day.
  • Check inclusions: Most tours provide snorkel gear, wetsuits or stinger suits, buffet lunch, and fresh water. Some premium options also include morning/afternoon tea, glass-bottom boat rides, and guided snorkel tours.
Woman applying sunscreen on arm at a sunny beach.
  • Swimwear and a light cover-up
  • Towel and a dry change of clothes for the return journey
  • Reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat (wide-brimmed is best on open decks)
  • Underwater camera or GoPro for photos (operators sometimes offer rentals if you don’t have your own)
  • Cash or card for onboard bar, souvenirs, or extra activities
  • Motion-sickness tablets if you’re prone to seasickness because the outer reef can be choppy on windy days

Frequently asked questions about Great Barrier Reef Pontoon Tours

What is a pontoon tour?

A pontoon is a large, anchored platform at the reef that acts as a base for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and relaxing.

Are pontoon tours good for kids or seniors?

Yes. With calm waters, shade, restrooms, and staff on hand, they’re ideal for families and accessible travel.

Can I snorkel if I can't swim?

Yes. Floatation aids are provided during tours.

What's the food situation?

Most tours include a buffet lunch. Some tours also include morning and afternoon tea with snacks as well.

Can I visit the reef without getting in the water?

Yes. Use the underwater observatory or take a semi-sub tour without ever needing to swim.

Read more

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Tourists on a glass-bottom boat tour at Fitzroy Island, viewing marine life.

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Catamaran docked at Green Island, surrounded by coral reef and turquoise waters.

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