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Book Sunlover Cruises in Great Barrier ReefCrafted by Headout, a global experiences brand offering curated tours, tickets & experiences. Discover with ease, book with peace.
Aerial view of pontoon at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef with snorkelers in clear water.
Snorkelers exploring coral at Moore Reef with a cruise ship in the background, Great Barrier Reef.
Tourist sliding into ocean from Sunlover waterslide at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef cruise.
Woman observing fish through semisubmersible window during Moore Reef cruise, Great Barrier Reef.
Snorkeler with sea turtle at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef day cruise.
Tourists serving themselves at a buffet on Moore Reef Day Tour, Great Barrier Reef.
Tourists on a glass-bottom boat viewing Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef.
Tourists on Seawalker helmet dive at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef, observing coral and fish.
Family snorkeling at Moore Reef with Sunlover Cruises, Great Barrier Reef.
Tourists snorkeling at Moore Reef during Great Barrier Reef Day Tour, Australia.
Aerial view of pontoon at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef with snorkelers in clear water.
Day Trips
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Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Cruise with Pontoon Activities and Lunch by Sunlover

  • 8:45 to 9:45am: Check-in at Reef Fleet Terminal at Sunlover's desk
  • 9:30 to 10am: Boarding from Cairns
  • 10:15am: Depart Cairns
  • 12pm: Arrive at Moore Reef Pontoon
  • 3:45pm: Boarding catamaran
  • 4pm: Depart Fitzroy Island
  • 5:30pm: Arrive at Cairns Marlin Marina
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Check availability
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
8 hr. - 9 hr.
Meals included
  • 8:45 to 9:45am: Check-in at Reef Fleet Terminal at Sunlover's desk
  • 9:30 to 10am: Boarding from Cairns
  • 10:15am: Depart Cairns
  • 12pm: Arrive at Moore Reef Pontoon
  • 3:45pm: Boarding catamaran
  • 4pm: Depart Fitzroy Island
  • 5:30pm: Arrive at Cairns Marlin Marina

Inclusions #

  • Full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns

  • Access to Sunlover Moore Reef pontoon with 4 hours to spend

  • Snorkeling equipment and expert guidance

  • Buffet lunch with vegan, halal, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available (menu here)

  • 1-hour Snorkel Safari (if option selected)

  • Seawalker helmet dive (if option selected)

  • Access to Sunlover waterslide & sun deck

  • Semi-submersible tour

  • Glass bottom boat tour

  • Marine naturalist & fish feeding presentation

  • Underwater observatory

  • Onboard bar available (drinks at own cost)

What to bring

  • Bring along your swimwear, beach towel, sunscreen (SPF 30+), hat, sunglasses, and rash vest.

Accessibility

  • While this experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible, certain activities are not suitable for wheelchair users.

Additional information

  • Facilities: free Wi-Fi, freshwater showers, and changing rooms.
  • The semi-submersible tour is subject to weather conditions.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Cruise ship and pontoon near Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef, Australia, with snorkelers in clear water.
Tourists on pontoon enjoying Moore Reef views, Great Barrier Reef.
Tourists snorkeling at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef near a boat in clear blue waters.
Tourists enjoying buffet lunch on Fitzroy Island with Great Barrier Reef view.
Man sliding from boat into ocean water.
Tourist viewing marine life through semisubmersible windows at Moore Reef, Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
Tourists observing marine life through a glass bottom boat at Fitzroy Island, Great Barrier Reef.
Tourists sitting on rocks overlooking ocean and forest on Fitzroy Island trail.
Tourists walking along a sandy beach on Fitzroy Island, surrounded by lush greenery and ocean views.
Tourists receiving snorkeling gear on Fitzroy Island beach, Great Barrier Reef.
Day Trips
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Cairns to Fitzroy Island and Moore Reef Full-Day Cruise with Buffet Lunch by Sunlover

  • 7 to 7:30am: Check-in at Reef Fleet Terminal at Sunlover's desk
  • 7:15 to 7:45am: Boarding from Cairns
  • 8am: Depart Cairns
  • 9:30am: Arrive at Moore Reef Pontoon
  • 12pm: Depart Moore Reef Pontoon
  • 12:45pm to 1pm: Arrive at Fitzroy Island, head straight for lunch (open till 1:30pm)
  • 3:15pm: Boarding from Fitzroy Island
  • 3:30pm: Depart Fitzroy Island
  • 4:30pm: Arrive at Cairns Marlin Marina
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Check availability
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
9 hr. 30 min.
Guided tour
Meals included
  • 7 to 7:30am: Check-in at Reef Fleet Terminal at Sunlover's desk
  • 7:15 to 7:45am: Boarding from Cairns
  • 8am: Depart Cairns
  • 9:30am: Arrive at Moore Reef Pontoon
  • 12pm: Depart Moore Reef Pontoon
  • 12:45pm to 1pm: Arrive at Fitzroy Island, head straight for lunch (open till 1:30pm)
  • 3:15pm: Boarding from Fitzroy Island
  • 3:30pm: Depart Fitzroy Island
  • 4:30pm: Arrive at Cairns Marlin Marina

Inclusions #

  • Full-day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef and Fitzroy Island from Cairns

  • Snorkeling equipment and expert guidance at Moore Reef

  • Premium buffet lunch with vegan, halal, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available (menu here)

  • Onboard amenities: Air-conditioned lounges, sun deck, Sunlover waterslide, freshwater showers, change rooms, licensed bar, and snorkel assistance station

  • Access to reef platform activities: semi-submersible and glass-bottom boat tours, underwater observatory, and marine presentation with fish feeding

  • Self-guided walk on Fitzroy Island National Park trails

  • 1-hour Snorkel Safari (if option selected)

  • Seawalker helmet dive (if option selected)

  • Turtle Rehabilitation Center talk (if option selected)

  • Onboard bar available (additional drinks at own cost)

  • The semi-submersible tour is subject to weather conditions.
  • The seawalker helmet dive is a suitable activity for non-swimmers.
  • The kayak tour requires guests to be able to swim and have moderate fitness capabilities.
  • This experience is pram/stroller accessible but not wheelchair accessible.
  • The snorkel safari is not suitable for non-swimmers.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Fitzroy Island ferry docked at lush green island, Cairns day trip.
Snorkeler exploring coral reef on Fitzroy Island day trip from Cairns.
Tourists observing marine life through a glass bottom boat at Fitzroy Island, Great Barrier Reef.
Fitzroy Island beach with clear water and lush greenery, Cairns day trip.
Lunch by the beach on Fitzroy Island with tropical drinks and scenic ocean view.
Tourist receiving snorkeling gear on Fitzroy Island beach, Cairns day trip.
Snorkelers exploring clear waters near rocky shore on Fitzroy Island tour.
Visitor overlooking ocean view from Fitzroy Island trail.
Glass bottom boat near Fitzroy Island, Australia, with lush greenery and clear blue water.
Fitzroy Island pier with tour boat, clear waters, and lush greenery, Cairns day trip.
Day Trips
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Sunlover: Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full-Day Cruise with Snorkel, Glass Bottom Boat Tour & Lunch

Pocket-friendly full-day island escape with snorkelling, reef viewing, and lunch for an easy yet immersive reef adventure.

  • Everything you get: Return ferry transfers from Cairns, over 5 hours on Fitzroy Island, full snorkelling gear, a glass-bottom boat tour with expert commentary, a buffet lunch at Zephyrs Restaurant, and free time for rainforest walks or beach lounging.
  • Why choose this: It’s the most convenient way to tick off reef snorkelling, guided reef viewing, and a resort-style lunch in one value-packed itinerary.
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Check availability
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
8 hr. 30 min.
Guided tour
Transfers available
Pickup available

Pocket-friendly full-day island escape with snorkelling, reef viewing, and lunch for an easy yet immersive reef adventure.

  • Everything you get: Return ferry transfers from Cairns, over 5 hours on Fitzroy Island, full snorkelling gear, a glass-bottom boat tour with expert commentary, a buffet lunch at Zephyrs Restaurant, and free time for rainforest walks or beach lounging.
  • Why choose this: It’s the most convenient way to tick off reef snorkelling, guided reef viewing, and a resort-style lunch in one value-packed itinerary.

Inclusions #

  • Full-day tour to the Great Barrier Reef & Fitzroy Island with ferry transfers from Cairns

  • Snorkel gear including mask, fins, Lycra suit, and flotation vest

  • Guided glass-bottom boat tour

  • Tropical lunch box with vegan, halal, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available (menu here)

  • Up to 4.5 hours for island self-exploration

  • 8:45 to 9:45am: Check-in at Reef Fleet Terminal at Sunlover's desk
  • 9:30 to 10am: Boarding from Cairns
  • 10:15am: Depart Cairns
  • 11am to 11:15am: Arrive at Fitzroy Island
  • 3:15pm: Boarding from Fitzroy Island
  • 3:30pm: Depart Fitzroy Island
  • 4:30pm: Arrive at Cairns Marlin Marina
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

From happy customers

Loved by 48 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5
Mahita Manish Ajmera

Mahita

Feb 2026
Snorkelling and the friendly guides
Omer Faruk Bulut

Omer

Dec 2025
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review-image
The crew was amazing and spectacular service. Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef is something everyone in the world needs to experience. The moment you put your head underneath the water, you fall in love.
Mehdi Toumari

Mehdi

Dec 2025
Loved it. Very well organised team and always smiling staff. Lots of activities for people who love the ocean – glass-bottom boat, submarine, and snorkeling. Snorkeling was the best part for us. We’ve done snorkeling in many countries, but this was next level. The reef was extraordinary with so many beautiful fish. Totally worth the price.
Seon young lee

Seon

Jan 2026
Soly Y

Soly

Sep 2025

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Sunlover cruises: Your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef 

If you’re dreaming of exploring the Great Barrier Reef in comfort and style, Sunlover Reef Cruises delivers. From Cairns, join high-speed, air-conditioned catamarans to the specially built pontoon at Moore Reef—just 90 minutes from shore. Whether you’re snorkelling, diving, stepping aboard a glass-bottom boat, or simply relaxing on the sun deck, there’s something for every age and ability. With over 30 years’ experience, eco-certified operations, and family-friendly fun built in, Sunlover creates unforgettable reef adventures for all.

Why choose Sunlover cruises?

Tourists observing marine life through a glass bottom boat at Fitzroy Island, Great Barrier Reef.
Snorkelers exploring clear waters near rocky shore on Fitzroy Island tour.
Snorkeler exploring coral reef on Fitzroy Island day trip from Cairns.
Glass bottom boat near Fitzroy Island, Australia, with lush greenery and clear blue water.
Tourist receiving snorkeling gear on Fitzroy Island beach, Cairns day trip.
Fitzroy Island pier with tour boat, clear waters, and lush greenery, Cairns day trip.
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Spacious, high-speed catamarans

Travel to the outer reef aboard Sunlover’s air-conditioned, purpose-built catamarans designed for smooth cruising. Each vessel features comfortable seating, large viewing windows, and outdoor decks so you can enjoy panoramic views of the Coral Sea on your way to the reef.

Exclusive Moore Reef pontoon

Spend your time at Sunlover’s world-class Moore Reef Marine Base, a floating platform packed with activities. From snorkelling in crystal-clear lagoons to relaxing on sun decks, this pontoon serves as your base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef in comfort and safety.

Experiences for every traveller

Whether you snorkel, dive, or simply want to stay dry and enjoy the view, Sunlover offers snorkelling gear, glass-bottom boat tours, semi-submersible rides and an underwater observatory, and even a 30-metre waterslide for extra fun.

Eco-certified & sustainable

Sunlover cruises has been Ecotourism-certified for over two decades, operating with a strong focus on reef conservation. The company promotes reef-safe sunscreen use, avoids single-use plastics, and supports marine education programs for visitors.

Family-friendly facilities

Perfect for families, the pontoon features safe snorkelling zones, shaded rest areas, change rooms, and a kids’ swimming enclosure. Onboard marine naturalists guide little explorers through touch-tank sessions and coral-viewing experiences.

Trusted local operator with 30+ years’ experience

Proudly Australian-owned and based in Cairns, Sunlover has been delivering unforgettable Great Barrier Reef adventures since 1991. With expert crews, marine biologists, and a reputation for safety and fun, you’re in great hands every step of the way.

Pick the perfect Sunlover cruise for you

Full-Day Moore Reef Cruise

  • Price: AUD $295
  • Duration: ~7 hours
  • What’s included: Board the high-speed catamaran from Cairns and enjoy a scenic journey to Moore Reef. Spend around 4 hours on the Sunlover Pontoon with options to snorkel, dive, or explore via glass-bottom boat and semi-submersible coral viewing. Buffet lunch, guided marine commentary, and fun activities like a 30-meter waterslide make it perfect for the whole family.
  • Best for: Families, first-time reef visitors, and travellers seeking a full-day reef adventure with multiple activities.

Recommended experience

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

Full-day reef & island combo

  • Price: AUD $124.89 - $295
  • Duration: 9 hours
  • What’s included: Combine the Moore Reef experience with Fitzroy Island. Enjoy reef activities on the pontoon and then spend time on the island walking the rainforest trails, relaxing on the beach, or exploring the island’s marine observatory. Optional snorkel safari ensures a comfortable, full-day adventure.
  • Best for: Travellers who want a complete Great Barrier Reef adventure that combines reef exploration with a relaxed island experience.

Recommended experience

​Cairns to Fitzroy Island and Moore Reef Full-Day Cruise with Buffet Lunch by Sunlover

What you’ll see from your Sunlover cruise

Green sea turtle swimming near a school of fish at Lady Elliot Island, Great Barrier Reef.

Hawksbill turtles

Recognizable by their pointed beaks, these turtles graze on sponges and are often spotted tucked among coral formations.

Black tip reef shark swimming in clear tropical waters with fish nearby.
Blue-spotted stingray swimming over coral reef in clear ocean water.
Snorkeler swimming with a large fish at the Great Barrier Reef near Cairns.
Two clownfish nestled in purple sea anemone, Great Barrier Reef.

Know before you go on a Sunlover cruise

Person checking time on wristwatch.

  • Duration: Approximately 8 hours, including around 4 hours at Moore Reef pontoon.

  • Departure: Tours depart from Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, with check-in 15–30 minutes before departure.

  • Return: Guests usually return to Cairns by late afternoon, leaving time for other activities.

People snorkelling near a pontoon at the Great Barrier Reef.
  • Vessel boarding: Upon arrival at the marina, guests board high-speed catamarans equipped with air-conditioned lounges, shaded decks, and spacious seating.
  • Pontoon facilities: At Moore Reef, enjoy glass-bottom boat tours, semi-submersibles, a waterslide, an ocean pool, and guided marine presentations.
Woman applying sunscreen on arm at a sunny beach.

  • Comfortable clothing: Light, breathable attire suitable for a full day on the water.

  • Sun protection: Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.

  • Swimwear & towel: For snorkeling or using the pontoon pool and waterslide.

  • Camera/GoPro: Capture colorful coral, tropical fish, and marine life.

  • Motion sickness remedies: Recommended for sensitive travelers.

  • Small backpack/dry bag: Keep valuables safe and organized.

  • Water bottle: Refillable, to stay hydrated throughout the day.

  • Health & fitness: Guests should be in good health; consult a doctor if pregnant or with heart/respiratory conditions.

  • Punctuality: Arrive on time for check-in to ensure smooth boarding.

  • Safety briefing: Attend the mandatory safety session before leaving Cairns.

  • Marine life: Do not feed, touch, or disturb coral or fish.

  • Smoking & alcohol: Prohibited onboard and at the pontoon.

  • Children: Must be supervised at all times, especially near glass-bottom panels or optional snorkeling areas.

Father and son giving thumbs up while snorkeling in clear ocean water.

  • Pick the right activities: Snorkel, take the semi-submersible, or use the waterslide depending on your comfort level.

  • Best viewing: Position yourself above the middle of the glass-bottom panels for the clearest reef views.

  • Timing matters: Arrive early to grab the best spots on deck or at the glass-bottom panels, especially for photography or snorkeling prep.

  • Marine spotting strategy: Ask guides about where turtles, rays, or rare fish have been seen that day, they track sightings daily.

  • Family focus: Kids enjoy waterslides, snorkel zones, and semi-submersible rides—plan your time so you can rotate between activities safely.

Read More

Fitzroy Island

Pontoon Tours

Moore Reef

Best Time to Visit

Frequently asked questions about Sunlover cruises

Yes, Sunlover Reef Cruises operates daily services to Moore Reef and Fitzroy Island, 365 days a year. Weather conditions may occasionally affect operations, but such instances are rare.