Great Barrier Reef Scuba Diving Tours

Great Barrier Reef scuba diving tours: Explore coral reefs & swim with turtles

Set off from Cairns for an unforgettable scuba diving adventure at the Great Barrier Reef. Swim through vibrant coral gardens, meet exotic marine species like turtles and reef sharks, and explore world-renowned dive sites under the guidance of certified instructors. Scroll down to discover the best dive spots, what marine life you’ll encounter, and tips to make your adventure truly unforgettable.

5 reasons to make Great Barrier Reef your next diving destination

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Iconic dive sites

Explore world-famous locations like Agincourt Reef, Flynn Reef, and Norman Reef, each offering unique underwater landscapes, vibrant coral gardens, and dramatic drop-offs.

Convenient access

Depart directly from Cairns for full-day or multi-day tours with hotel transfers included, making it easy and hassle-free.

Expert-guided tours

Certified instructors and guides ensure safety, share local knowledge, and help you get the most out of your underwater adventure.

Incredible marine life

Home to 1,500+ fish species, 400 types of coral, and rare creatures like the pygmy goby, showcasing the reef’s incredible diversity.

Year-round accessibility

With favorable weather conditions and water temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C, the Great Barrier Reef is a year-round diving destination.

Everything you get on your Great Barrier Reef diving experience

Children preparing snorkeling gear on Outer Great Barrier Reef trip from Cairns.

Price: AU$265 - AU$395
Duration: 8- 8.5 hours
What’s included: Round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns, all scuba diving equipment (mask, fins, wetsuit, tank), certified guides and instructors, safety briefings, optional snorkeling for non-divers, visits to top dive sites like Agincourt Reef and Norman Reef, scenic helicopter flight on select tours, and lunch with drinks onboard.
Transfers: Round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns.
Best for: Travelers looking for a full-day, all-inclusive Great Barrier Reef adventure—swim with turtles and reef sharks, explore vibrant corals, and enjoy a deeper, more interactive reef experience than other tours.

Top diving sites at Great Barrier Reef

Agincourt Reef

Located at the northern end of the Great Barrier Reef, Agincourt Reef is famous for crystal-clear waters, dramatic coral walls, and abundant marine life including reef sharks, turtles, and tropical fish.

Flynn Reef

Known for sloping coral gardens and wall dives, Flynn Reef is home to sea turtles, moray eels, cuttlefish, and reef sharks.

Norman Reef

A favorite among certified divers, Norman Reef features spectacular coral gardens, manta rays, and an array of exotic marine species, perfect for both day dives and multi-dive adventures.

Saxon Reef

Located between Norman and Hastings Reefs, Saxon Reef features calm lagoons ideal for snorkeling and the famous Twin Peaks coral 'mountains' where deeper dives offer encounters with reef sharks, trevally, large cod, and moray eels.

North Hastings Reef

A classic outer reef site with vibrant coral gardens, large schools of fish, and opportunities to spot turtles and reef sharks. Ideal for both beginner and certified divers.

Plan your diving tour

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

Duration: Approximately 8 hours, including hotel transfers.
Departure: Hotel pickups start around 7:15–8:30am from Cairns.
Return: Guests are typically back at their hotels by 3:30–4.30pm.

Hotel transfers: Round-trip transfers from Cairns hotels are included in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles.
Yacht transfers: Upon arrival at the marina, guests board a spacious, fully equipped dive vessel ready for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Beach essentials for snorkeling including a hat, towel, sunglasses, flip-flops, and sunscreen.

Swimwear and towel: Comfortable swimwear for diving or snorkeling and a towel for drying off.
Sunscreen and sunglasses: Reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and sunglasses for post-dive relaxation.
Underwater camera or GoPro: Capture vibrant corals, marine life, and unforgettable moments underwater.
Certification card (for certified divers): PADI or equivalent card required for certified dives; beginners can join guided intro dives.
Motion sickness remedies: If you’re prone to seasickness, take tablets before boarding.

Instructor guiding tourists on diving equipment during Outer Great Barrier Reef cruise, Australia.

Health & fitness: Guests should be in good health; pregnant women or those with heart/respiratory issues should consult a doctor.
Diving certification: Certified divers must bring their card; beginners can participate in supervised intro dives.
Punctuality & safety: Arrive on time for hotel pickup and attend the mandatory safety briefing before diving.
Designated zones: Stay within the areas marked for snorkeling and diving to protect marine life.
No feeding or touching: Do not feed, touch, or disturb fish, corals, or other marine life.
No smoking or alcohol: Prohibited during the tour and onboard the yacht.

Key tips for diving at Great Barrier Reef

Choose the right dive option: Beginners should opt for introductory dives with certified instructors. Certified divers can access deeper sites like Agincourt or Norman Reef. Know your skill level to maximize safety and enjoyment.
Maintain neutral buoyancy: Controlling your buoyancy prevents accidental contact with delicate corals, keeps you safe, and allows better viewing of marine life.
Monitor air supply & depth: Regularly check your tank pressure and depth gauge. Ascend slowly, follow your guide, and never push beyond your comfort or certification limits.
Plan your surface intervals: Use breaks wisely between dives to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the next dive. Avoid strenuous activity immediately after diving.
Observe dive fags & markers: These indicate safe swimming zones and guide boats. Always respect them to avoid accidents and protect marine life.

Frequently asked questions about Great Barrier Reef scuba diving tours

Do I need to be certified to dive the Great Barrier Reef?

No. Many tours offer supervised intro dives with no certification required.

How deep are the dives?

Intro dives are 5–10 meters; certified dives may reach 18–30 meters depending on experience.

What marine life can I expect to see?

Expect to see marine life such as clownfish, parrotfish, sea turtles, rays, reef sharks, and vibrant corals.

Is lunch included?

Yes, most tours offer full buffet lunch plus snacks and drinks onboard.

What if I’ve never dived before?

You’ll be given full instruction and guided underwater every step of the way.

What are the dive durations?

Each dive typically lasts 30–50 minutes, depending on the site and your air supply. Most tours include 1–2 dives per day.

What equipment is provided?

All essential scuba gear is provided: mask, fins, snorkel, wetsuit, tank, and weights. Certified divers should bring their PADI or equivalent certification card.

Can I do multiple dives in one day?

Yes! Tours often include two dives with a surface interval in between, allowing rest and hydration.

What happens in bad weather?

Tours monitor conditions closely. If weather prevents diving, operators may reschedule, offer snorkeling, or provide refunds/credits depending on policy.

Is there a weight or age limit?

Intro dives typically have a minimum age of 12. Weight limits may apply for safety; check with the operator before booking.

How crowded are the dive sites?

Outer reef sites are usually less crowded than inner reef areas, but numbers depend on the tour operator and group size.

How should I prepare physically?

Being in reasonable health is important. Avoid heavy meals or alcohol before diving and stay well-hydrated.

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.

Luxury reef tour on a 35‑metre superyacht with a heli-flight and gourmet BBQ lunch.

Everything you get: Full-day premium cruise aboard a superyacht, guided snorkelling/diving at two reef stops, 10‑minute heli-flight, gourmet BBQ lunch with wine, and upscale onboard amenities.
Upgrades: Choose between a guided snorkeling tour or an introductory dive with expert instructions.
Why choose this: A lavish blend of luxury, sky-high reef views, and an all‑inclusive experience that sets a new standard for reef adventures.

Inclusions

Full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns Terminal
Round-trip superyacht transfers from Cairns to 2 reef sites (North Hastings & Saxon or Norman)
8-hour cruise with 5 hours on the reef
10-minute scenic flight from Hastings 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 light snack on return journey
Choice of snorkeling tour or introductory dive (based on option selected)
Onboard bar available (additional drinks at own cost)

7:15am to 7.45am: Check-in at the Reef Fleet Terminal - 1
8.00am: Evolution departs Cairns for the first reef location
11:30am: Enjoy a BBQ buffet lunch onboard
1:00pm: Evolution arrives at the second reef location where you will take to the sky for your scenic helicopter flight
3:00pm: Evolution departs for Cairns
4:30pm: Evolution arrives back in Cairns

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

See the Great Barrier Reef’s wonders without getting wet with a glass-bottom boat tour.

Everything you get: Cruise aboard a spacious catamaran, snorkeling demonstration and reef presentation en route, 30-minute glass bottom boat tour with expert commentary, self-guided island walks, and up to 5 hours (full day) or 2 hours (half day) to explore Green Island’s beaches and boardwalks.
Why choose this: This customizable tour is perfect for families, non-swimmers, and anyone seeking a laid-back adventure.
Upgrades: Choose the full-day cruise for 5 hours on Green Island or the half-day cruise for a shorter 2-hour visit.

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

Optional activities such as snorkel gear hire, guided snorkel safari, semi-submarine tour

Introductory and certified scuba dives

What to bring

Bring a swimsuit, towel, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.
Bring extra cash or a credit card for onboard purchases and optional activities.

What’s not allowed

Electric wheelchairs are not permitted on vessels or coaches.
Pets are not allowed, except for registered assistance animals.
Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited on board.

Accessibility

Wheelchair access is limited. Only standard wheelchairs are permitted; electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated on vessels or coaches.
Bathrooms on the boat are not wheelchair accessible, but accessible facilities are available on Green Island.

Additional information

Check-in starts at the Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises desk inside the Reef Fleet Terminal, Cairns. Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
Boarding starts at 8:15am, with final boarding at 8:45am for a 9:00am departure.
Return hotel transfers are not included but can be booked for an additional fee.
Optional activities and meals must be prebooked for catering purposes.
Scuba diving is only available for guests aged 12 and above, subject to a medical questionnaire. Guests under 18 require parental or guardian permission.
Flotation vests are available for hire for non-swimmers and children.
The experience is suitable for families with young children and non-swimmers.
Please swim between the red and yellow flags on the beach for your safety.
The tour operates in most weather conditions; in the event of severe weather, you will be contacted regarding changes or cancellations.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

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.

Luxury reef tour on a 35‑metre superyacht with a heli-flight and gourmet BBQ lunch.

Everything you get: Full-day premium cruise aboard a superyacht, guided snorkelling/diving at two reef stops, 10‑minute heli-flight, gourmet BBQ lunch with wine, and upscale onboard amenities.
Upgrades: Choose between a guided snorkeling tour or an introductory dive with expert instructions.
Why choose this: A lavish blend of luxury, sky-high reef views, and an all‑inclusive experience that sets a new standard for reef adventures.

Inclusions

Full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns Terminal
Round-trip superyacht transfers from Cairns to 2 reef sites (North Hastings & Saxon or Norman)
8-hour cruise with 5 hours on the reef
10-minute scenic flight from Hastings 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 light snack on return journey
Choice of snorkeling tour or introductory dive (based on option selected)
Onboard bar available (additional drinks at own cost)

7:15am to 7.45am: Check-in at the Reef Fleet Terminal - 1
8.00am: Evolution departs Cairns for the first reef location
11:30am: Enjoy a BBQ buffet lunch onboard
1:00pm: Evolution arrives at the second reef location where you will take to the sky for your scenic helicopter flight
3:00pm: Evolution departs for Cairns
4:30pm: Evolution arrives back in Cairns

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

See the Great Barrier Reef’s wonders without getting wet with a glass-bottom boat tour.

Everything you get: Cruise aboard a spacious catamaran, snorkeling demonstration and reef presentation en route, 30-minute glass bottom boat tour with expert commentary, self-guided island walks, and up to 5 hours (full day) or 2 hours (half day) to explore Green Island’s beaches and boardwalks.
Why choose this: This customizable tour is perfect for families, non-swimmers, and anyone seeking a laid-back adventure.
Upgrades: Choose the full-day cruise for 5 hours on Green Island or the half-day cruise for a shorter 2-hour visit.

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

Optional activities such as snorkel gear hire, guided snorkel safari, semi-submarine tour

Introductory and certified scuba dives

What to bring

Bring a swimsuit, towel, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.
Bring extra cash or a credit card for onboard purchases and optional activities.

What’s not allowed

Electric wheelchairs are not permitted on vessels or coaches.
Pets are not allowed, except for registered assistance animals.
Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited on board.

Accessibility

Wheelchair access is limited. Only standard wheelchairs are permitted; electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated on vessels or coaches.
Bathrooms on the boat are not wheelchair accessible, but accessible facilities are available on Green Island.

Additional information

Check-in starts at the Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises desk inside the Reef Fleet Terminal, Cairns. Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
Boarding starts at 8:15am, with final boarding at 8:45am for a 9:00am departure.
Return hotel transfers are not included but can be booked for an additional fee.
Optional activities and meals must be prebooked for catering purposes.
Scuba diving is only available for guests aged 12 and above, subject to a medical questionnaire. Guests under 18 require parental or guardian permission.
Flotation vests are available for hire for non-swimmers and children.
The experience is suitable for families with young children and non-swimmers.
Please swim between the red and yellow flags on the beach for your safety.
The tour operates in most weather conditions; in the event of severe weather, you will be contacted regarding changes or cancellations.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Sightseeing Cruises

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

Sightseeing Cruises

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Full Day Cruise with Scenic Heli-Flight and Lunch

Luxury reef tour on a 35‑metre superyacht with a heli-flight and gourmet BBQ lunch.

Everything you get: Full-day premium cruise aboard a superyacht, guided snorkelling/diving at two reef stops, 10‑minute heli-flight, gourmet BBQ lunch with wine, and upscale onboard amenities.
Upgrades: Choose between a guided snorkeling tour or an introductory dive with expert instructions.
Why choose this: A lavish blend of luxury, sky-high reef views, and an all‑inclusive experience that sets a new standard for reef adventures.

‌

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. 30 min.

Transfers included

Meals included

Sightseeing Cruises

Cairns to Green Island Full/Half-Day Cruise with Glass Bottom Boat Tour

See the Great Barrier Reef’s wonders without getting wet with a glass-bottom boat tour.

Everything you get: Cruise aboard a spacious catamaran, snorkeling demonstration and reef presentation en route, 30-minute glass bottom boat tour with expert commentary, self-guided island walks, and up to 5 hours (full day) or 2 hours (half day) to explore Green Island’s beaches and boardwalks.
Why choose this: This customizable tour is perfect for families, non-swimmers, and anyone seeking a laid-back adventure.
Upgrades: Choose the full-day cruise for 5 hours on Green Island or the half-day cruise for a shorter 2-hour visit.

‌

Check availability

Book now, pay later

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

4 hr. - 8 hr.

Great Barrier Reef Scuba Diving Tours from Cairns

Great Barrier Reef scuba diving tours: Explore coral reefs & swim with turtles

5 reasons to make Great Barrier Reef your next diving destination

Iconic dive sites

Convenient access

Expert-guided tours

Incredible marine life

Year-round accessibility

Everything you get on your Great Barrier Reef diving experience

Top diving sites at Great Barrier Reef

Agincourt Reef

Flynn Reef

Norman Reef

Saxon Reef

North Hastings Reef

Marine life you’ll see during your dive

Sea turtles

Plan your diving tour

Key tips for diving at Great Barrier Reef

Frequently asked questions about Great Barrier Reef scuba diving tours

Read more

Outer Great Barrier Reef Tours

Green Island Cruises

Pontoon Tours

Port Douglas

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Lunch

Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Full Day Cruise with Scenic Heli-Flight and Lunch

Cairns to Green Island Full/Half-Day Cruise with Glass Bottom Boat Tour