From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
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.
Mr N Donaldson
AU

Mr

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 Pine

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 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 😊

Top things to do in Cairns

Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef: Your A to Z guide

Home to over 1,500 species of fish, technicolor coral gardens, and gentle sea turtles, the Great Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a bucket-list destination for most travelers! Our curated collection of Great Barrier Reef snorkeling tours from Cairns and Port Douglas offers unforgettable adventures for every traveler, from first-time snorkelers to seasoned underwater explorers. Keep reading to explore all the reasons you should be snorkeling on your visit, all your tour options, and things to keep in mind during your adventure.

Why snorkel the Great Barrier Reef?

Snorkelers enjoying the Great Barrier Reef Adventure Cruise in clear blue waters.

The unique ecosystem: Snorkeling here means entering the daily life of over 1,500 species of fish, each with their own little reef neighborhood.

Perfect conditions: The water temperature hovers at a perfect 23-29°C year-round (that's like a warm bath that never gets cold), and visibility often stretches beyond 30 meters; imagine looking across three football fields underwater.

More accessible than most: Unlike deep-sea diving destinations, the Great Barrier Reef's most vibrant sections lie in shallow, clear lagoons where you can reach out and observe giant clams that are older than your grandparents.

Colorful within reach: The reef builds itself upward toward sunlight, meaning the most colorful coral gardens often sit just 2-8 meters below the surface, a perfect snorkeling depth where every color pops like a kaleidoscope in crystal.

Compare snorkeling experiences at the Great Barrier Reef

Catamaran approaching Green Island pier on Full Day Reef Cruise, Australia.

Island + snorkel tours

Duration: Half-day or full-day

Price: From AU$97 per adult

Best for: Families, beginners, and anyone wanting a relaxed land–sea combo

Key highlights:

  • Snorkel straight off the beach or from a guided platform
  • Wander through lush island rainforests and relax on white-sand beaches
  • Add-ons like glass-bottom boat rides, semi-sub tours, and helmet diving

Recommended experiences

Book Cairns to Green Island Half Day Cruise

Book Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full Day Cruise

Book Port Douglas to Low Isles Island Cruise

Tourists on a glass bottom boat viewing coral and marine life at Great Barrier Reef near Cairns, Australia.

Pontoon + snorkel tours

Duration: Full-day

Price: From AU$189 per adult

Best for: First-time reef visitors, mixed-ability groups, and non-swimmers

Key highlights:

  • Floating platform on the Outer Reef with direct water access
  • Underwater observatory, semi-sub tours, and even waterslides
  • Optional guided snorkel safaris and beginner dives

Recommended experiences

Book Sunlover's Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise

Book Reef Magic's Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise

Red helicopter flying over the Great Barrier Reef's turquoise waters.

Scenic flight + snorkel tour

Duration: Half-day to full-day packages

Price: From AU$395 per adult

Best for: Special occasions, luxury seekers, and aerial photography fans

Key highlights:

  • Breathtaking bird’s-eye views over reef formations and coral cays
  • Combine helicopter or seaplane flights with premium snorkel time
  • Access to exclusive, less-crowded reef sites

Recommended experiences

Book Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Cruise with Heli-Flight

Understanding pricing

Our Great Barrier Reef snorkeling tours range from AU $97 to AU $315+ per person, with pricing that reflects differences in experience.

  • AU$97 to 150 range: Typically covers island-based tours (Green Island, Fitzroy Island) with basic inclusions. These prices reflect shorter travel distances and established infrastructure that allows operational efficiency.
  • AU$180 to 250 range: Outer reef experiences with premium inclusions. Higher pricing reflects longer travel times, fuel costs for reaching pristine locations, and enhanced onboard services.
  • AU$280 to 315+ range: Luxury catamaran experiences, helicopter combinations, or multi-day packages. Premium pricing covers exclusive site access, smaller group sizes, and enhanced service levels.

Best snorkeling spots on the Great Barrier Reef

Tourists enjoying a Full Day Green Island Reef Catamaran Cruise in Cairns, Australia, with a view of the clear blue ocean and lush green island
Snorkelers exploring vibrant coral and marine life at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
Tourists snorkelling in clear blue waters of Great Barrier Reef during full day cruise from Cairns.
Group of tourists enjoying the Full Day Fitzroy Island Adventure Tour from Cairns, exploring the vibrant coral reefs and lush greenery of the island
Catamaran cruise approaching Green Island, Great Barrier Reef, with semi-submarine tour option.
1/5

Green Island

Located just 27 km off Cairns, Green Island is perfect for beginners, with shallow waters and lifeguard-patrolled beaches. Snorkelers can explore coral gardens to see fish, sea turtles, and occasionally reef sharks.

Agincourt Reef

Situated on the Outer Reef, Agincourt Reef is renowned for its clear waters and diverse marine life. Snorkelers can see stunning coral formations, giant clams, and a variety of fish species.

Hastings Reef

Accessible via luxury cruises from Cairns, Hastings Reef has rich coral landscapes. You can enjoy guided tours and even opt for scenic helicopter flights to view the reef from above.

Fitzroy Island

Just a short ferry ride from Cairns, Fitzroy Island has fringing reefs with diverse coral species. Guided snorkel tours lead visitors through calm waters where they might encounter green sea turtles and colorful fish.

Lady Musgrave Island

Located in the southern part of the Great Barrier Reef, Lady Musgrave Island has a perfect lagoon for snorkeling. The area is rich in marine biodiversity, including turtles, manta rays, and various fish species.

What’s included on your snorkeling tour

Snorkeling Great Barrier Reef
  • Snorkeling gear: High-quality masks, snorkels, and fins are provided. Wetsuits or stinger suits are also available and highly recommended, especially during stinger season (typically November to May).
  • Expert guidance: Our experienced crew and marine naturalists will provide comprehensive safety briefings, offer snorkeling tips, and share fascinating insights into the reef's ecosystem.
  • Meals & refreshments: Most full-day tours include a delicious lunch (often a buffet), and many offer morning and afternoon tea with snacks. Water, tea, and coffee are typically complimentary throughout the day.
  • Safety equipment: Life vests, buoyancy aids, and trained first aid staff are always on board.
  • Optional upgrades: Enhance your experience with optional activities such as introductory scuba dives, guided snorkel tours, semi-submersible or glass-bottom boat rides, and photo packages.

Essential tips for snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef

Tourists preparing snorkeling gear on Fitzroy Island beach, Great Barrier Reef.

For beginners

Start in a pool or sheltered beach to get comfortable with your gear. Practice slow breathing through your snorkel and clearing your mask to build confidence.

  • Mask: Press to your face and inhale slightly, if it stays, it fits.
  • Snorkel: Secure but comfortable, no jaw strain.
  • Fins: Snug, not tight, to glide without rubbing.
  • Use buoyancy aids like vests or noodles to stay afloat easily. Move calmly to save energy and avoid scaring fish. If water gets in your mask, surface, breathe, and reset. There’s no rush.
Tourists snorkelling in clear blue waters of Great Barrier Reef during full day cruise from Cairns.

For intermediate snorkelers

Refine your skills for smoother, longer sessions.

  • Kick: Long, fluid kicks from the hips—think dolphin, not dog paddle.
  • Breath: Slow, steady breathing for relaxation and buoyancy control.
  • Plan: Swim into the current first for an easier return.
  • Duck dive: Bend at the waist, kick gently down, and equalize ears as you go.
  • Carry a fish ID card to turn your snorkel into a reef “treasure hunt” and learn more about what you see.
Tourists snorkeling in clear blue waters at Nusa Lembongan, Bali, with vibrant marine life.

For advanced snorkelers

  • Fine-tune your technique for quiet, effortless movement.
  • Breath control: Inhale to rise, exhale to sink slightly.
  • Body position: Stay flat with arms tucked to reduce drag.
  • Free dives: Always snorkel with a buddy; never hyperventilate.
  • Currents: Use natural drift to save energy and enjoy the view.
  • Stay still near coral or cleaning stations and let marine life approach. Move slowly, stay low, and respect the reef for the best encounters.

General tips

  • Stay hydrated. Salt, sun, and swimming dehydrate you faster than you think.
  • Protect your skin and the reef. Use reef-safe sunscreen (zinc or mineral-based) and reapply often. A rash shirt adds extra sun protection.
  • Snorkel with a buddy. It’s safer and more fun.
  • Listen to your guides. Their briefings cover safety zones, currents, and cool spots to explore.
  • Respect the reef. Never touch or stand on coral. Don’t chase, feed, or harass marine life. Pack out what you pack in. Leave only bubbles.

Plan your Great Barrier Reef snorkelling trip

People relaxing on a boat in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia, surrounded by clear blue waters.
  • Peak season (June–August): Cooler days, low humidity, and crystal-clear waters make this prime time for visibility. Expect more visitors, but also your best chance to spot Humpback whales during their annual migration (June–October).
  • Shoulder season (May & September–October): Warm weather, calm seas, and fewer crowds. Excellent for general snorkeling, diving, and spotting Humpback whales early or late in the migration window.
  • Wet season (November–April): Warm water, higher humidity, and a chance of afternoon showers. All operators provide protective stinger suits. This is the season for unique encounters: turtle nesting and hatching (November–April) and the spectacular coral spawning (November–December).
Tourists on a pontoon during a full-day cruise from Cairns to the Great Barrier Reef.

Cairns departures: Wide range of reefs, from islands (Green, Fitzroy) to mid-shelf (Milln, Arlington) and outer reefs (Moore, Thetford). More boats, flexible departure times, and competitive pricing.

  • Best for: Families, first-timers, variety seekers.
  • Travel times: Green/Fitzroy: 45 min | Moore Reef: 90 min | Outer Reefs: 90–120 min

Port Douglas departures: Direct access to Agincourt Reef and outer shelf, with high visibility and pristine coral. Smaller groups, premium service, and marine biologist guides.

  • Best for: Couples, small groups, exclusivity.
  • Travel times: Low Isles: 30 min | Agincourt Reef: 60–90 min | Outer Reefs: 60–75 min
Diver encounters a large fish on the Great Barrier Reef Adventure Cruise.
  • Advance booking benefits: Popular tours, especially during peak season (May-September), frequently sell out. Advance booking ensures availability and often provides early-bird pricing.
  • Where to find deals: Look for family and group discount prompts on our booking pages. Many tours offer reduced rates for children, and some provide special family packages.
  • Premium bundles: Consider our island + outer reef bundles or Heli-flight combo tours for a comprehensive experience that often offers better value than booking individual components.
  • Instant booking: All our tours offer instant confirmation once booked online, making your planning seamless. Use our date picker for instant availability & booking to secure your spot.
Great Barrier Reef snorkeling and diving tour at Green Island, Cairns, Australia.

All snorkeling equipment is provided on your tour, but here are some personal items to enhance your experience:

  • Essential: Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+), hat, sunglasses
  • Comfort: Swimwear, towel, light jacket for boat travel
  • Photography: Underwater camera or GoPro with accessories
  • Extras: Cash for on-site upgrades or purchases, seasickness tablets (if required), waterproof bag for valuables, comfortable walking shoes, a change of dry clothes
  • Note: Prescription masks are available on request
Tourists snorkeling from a boat at Fitzroy Island, Australia.
  • Reef protection:
    • Do not touch or stand on coral: Corals are living organisms and extremely fragile.
    • Don’t collect shells or marine life: Leave everything as you found it.
    • Use only reef-safe sunscreen: Choose products with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients.
  • Safety:
    • Always follow crew instructions: They are there to ensure your safety and the protection of the reef.
    • Declare any medical conditions: Especially before participating in diving or snorkeling activities.
  • Waste: Dispose of all rubbish in bins on board: Never discard anything into the sea.
  • Wildlife: Observe marine life respectfully: Never chase, harass, touch, or feed animals. Maintain a respectful distance.

Frequently asked questions for snorkeling in Great Barrier Reef

How much does it cost to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef?

Prices typically range from AU97 for shorter tours to AU315 for full-day premium experiences or combo packages. Factors like duration, inclusions (meals, upgrades), and vessel type influence the costs.

Is snorkeling safe for beginners and children?

Yes! These tours prioritize safety. All vessels provide buoyancy aids, life vests, and expert crew. Many tours, especially those to Green Island or the Moore Reef pontoon, are specifically designed to be family-friendly with shallow, protected areas ideal for beginners and young children. Guided snorkel safaris are also available.

What’s included? Do I need to bring anything?

Generally, snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins), wetsuits/stinger suits, and expert guidance are included. Full-day tours usually provide lunch, and most offer morning/afternoon tea. You'll need to bring swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera.

Where are the best places to snorkel (Green Island vs Moore Reef vs Fitzroy)?
  • Green Island: Ideal for beginners and families, offering easy shore access to fringing reefs and a relaxed island vibe.
  • Moore Reef (Pontoon): Excellent for all ages and abilities, providing a stable platform with access to diverse outer reef sites, semi-submersible tours, and other activities.
  • Fitzroy Island: Offers more adventurous snorkeling directly from the beach on a continental island with stunning scenery and hiking trails.
  • Outer Reef tours (e.g., Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Lunch): Best for keen snorkelers looking to explore multiple pristine outer reef locations away from the crowds.
Are there half-day snorkeling options?

Yes, Fitzroy Island Half Day Cruises are available from Cairns, offering a shorter but equally rewarding island and snorkeling experience.

Can I snorkel if I can’t swim well?

While being a confident swimmer is an advantage, many tours cater to non-swimmers or weak swimmers. Buoyancy aids (noodles, life vests) are always provided, and options like glass-bottom boats, semi-submersibles, and underwater observatories on pontoons allow you to experience the reef without getting in the water.

What is the best time of year for snorkeling?

The Great Barrier Reef can be snorkeled year-round. The "dry season" (May to October) offers cooler temperatures, less humidity, and typically calmer seas. The "wet season" (November to April) is warmer with higher humidity and the chance of stingers (wetsuits/stinger suits are provided). Both seasons offer excellent visibility and marine life.

How do I compare Cairns and Port Douglas snorkeling tours?

Cairns generally offers a wider range of tours, including large pontoons and island trips, suitable for all budgets. Port Douglas tends to have more luxury and boutique catamaran cruises with smaller groups, often accessing slightly different reef sections like the Low Isles.

What marine life am I likely to see?

You could encounter an incredible array of marine life, including diverse hard and soft corals, anemonefish (Nemo!), parrotfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, giant clams, stingrays, reef sharks (harmless!), and majestic green sea turtles. If you're lucky, you might even spot dolphins or whales (in season, typically May-September).

Are tours accessible for non-swimmers or people with disabilities?

Many tours, particularly those utilizing large pontoons like the Moore Reef Pontoon, offer excellent accessibility for non-swimmers (with underwater observatories, semi-submersibles) and often have facilities for people with disabilities. It's best to contact us directly to discuss specific accessibility requirements so we can recommend the most suitable tour.

Cairns Tickets
Scan code
Download the Headout app

Get Help 24/7

We Accept
VISA
MASTERCARD
AMEX
PAYPAL
MAESTROCARD
APPLEPAY
GPAY
DISCOVER
DINERS
IDEAL
FPX