Sunlover Cruises | Moore Reef & Island Tours

Q: Does Sunlover operate to the reef every day?

Yes, Sunlover Reef Cruises operates daily services to <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="vzKz3FJs" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="6893131af23d959bbe7f59e2" text="Moore Reef " uid="www.cairnstickets.com.great-barrier-reef.moore-reef" />and <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="qPFtveHa" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="67ed369870b6441ab5913d80" text="Fitzroy Island" uid="www.cairnstickets.com.great-barrier-reef.fitzroy-island-tours" />, 365 days a year. Weather conditions may occasionally affect operations, but such instances are rare.

Q: What is the minimum age for Seawalker and scuba diving?

The minimum age for both Seawalker and <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="MSKtkLTr" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="6863bdac00469e81a9a0b9d6" text="scuba diving" uid="www.cairnstickets.com.great-barrier-reef.scuba-diving-tours" /> is 12 years

Why choose Sunlover cruises?

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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

Fitzroy Island ferry docked at lush green island, Cairns day trip.

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

Fitzroy Island beach with clear water and lush greenery, Cairns day trip.

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

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.

Fitzroy Island

Cruise Whitsundays boat docked at pontoon, Great Barrier Reef.

Pontoon Tours

Moore Reef

Best Time to Visit

Frequently asked questions about Sunlover cruises

Does Sunlover operate to the reef every day?

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.

Can non-swimmers enjoy the reef experience?

Absolutely! Sunlover offers several activities suitable for non-swimmers, including glass-bottom boat tours, semi-submersible rides, underwater observatories, and Seawalker helmet diving. These activities allow guests to experience the reef without getting wet.

What is the minimum age for Seawalker and scuba diving?

The minimum age for both Seawalker and scuba diving is 12 years

Are there any medical requirements for diving activities?

Yes, all participants must complete a medical questionnaire on board. A history of asthma, heart conditions, or other medical issues may require medical clearance from a doctor before participating.

Can children join the cruise?

Yes, children are welcome, but they must be supervised at all times, especially around glass-bottom viewing panels or during optional snorkeling.

Family-friendly reef adventure with fun water attractions and interactive marine experiences.

Everything you get: Fast catamaran to Moore Reef pontoon, guided snorkeling, glass-bottom boat and semi-submersible tours, an underwater observatory, 30m spiral waterslide, buffet lunch, and marine life touch-tank displays.
Upgrades: Enhance your adventure with activities such as introductory scuba diving, the Seawalker helmet dive.
Why choose this: The unbeatable combination of waterslide action, a variety of pontoon activities, and affordability, making it perfect for a fun‑filled family day out.

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)

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

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.

Full‑day cruise with island and reef access, pontoon activities, and lunch, perfect for families and nature lovers.

Everything you get: Premium catamaran ride to Moore Reef Pontoon with guided snorkelling, a 30m spiral waterslide, a glass‑bottom boat tour, a buffet lunch, and access to multiple activities.
Upgrades: Add a guided snorkel safari, Turtle Rehabilitation Centre tour, or Seawalker helmet dive for a customized experience.
Why choose this: See two reef locations in one day, with spacious, family‑friendly pontoon access and engaging marine presentations.

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)

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

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.

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.

Family-friendly reef adventure with fun water attractions and interactive marine experiences.

Everything you get: Fast catamaran to Moore Reef pontoon, guided snorkeling, glass-bottom boat and semi-submersible tours, an underwater observatory, 30m spiral waterslide, buffet lunch, and marine life touch-tank displays.
Upgrades: Enhance your adventure with activities such as introductory scuba diving, the Seawalker helmet dive.
Why choose this: The unbeatable combination of waterslide action, a variety of pontoon activities, and affordability, making it perfect for a fun‑filled family day out.

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)

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

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.

Full‑day cruise with island and reef access, pontoon activities, and lunch, perfect for families and nature lovers.

Everything you get: Premium catamaran ride to Moore Reef Pontoon with guided snorkelling, a 30m spiral waterslide, a glass‑bottom boat tour, a buffet lunch, and access to multiple activities.
Upgrades: Add a guided snorkel safari, Turtle Rehabilitation Centre tour, or Seawalker helmet dive for a customized experience.
Why choose this: See two reef locations in one day, with spacious, family‑friendly pontoon access and engaging marine presentations.

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)

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

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.

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.

Day Trips

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

Family-friendly reef adventure with fun water attractions and interactive marine experiences.

Everything you get: Fast catamaran to Moore Reef pontoon, guided snorkeling, glass-bottom boat and semi-submersible tours, an underwater observatory, 30m spiral waterslide, buffet lunch, and marine life touch-tank displays.
Upgrades: Enhance your adventure with activities such as introductory scuba diving, the Seawalker helmet dive.
Why choose this: The unbeatable combination of waterslide action, a variety of pontoon activities, and affordability, making it perfect for a fun‑filled family day out.

‌

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. - 9 hr.

Meals included

Day Trips

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

Full‑day cruise with island and reef access, pontoon activities, and lunch, perfect for families and nature lovers.

Everything you get: Premium catamaran ride to Moore Reef Pontoon with guided snorkelling, a 30m spiral waterslide, a glass‑bottom boat tour, a buffet lunch, and access to multiple activities.
Upgrades: Add a guided snorkel safari, Turtle Rehabilitation Centre tour, or Seawalker helmet dive for a customized experience.
Why choose this: See two reef locations in one day, with spacious, family‑friendly pontoon access and engaging marine presentations.

‌

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.

9 hr. 30 min.

Meals included

Day Trips

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.

‌

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

Book Sunlover Cruises in Great Barrier Reef

From happy customers

Sunlover cruises: Your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef

Why choose Sunlover cruises?

Spacious, high-speed catamarans

Exclusive Moore Reef pontoon

Experiences for every traveller

Eco-certified & sustainable

Family-friendly facilities

Trusted local operator with 30+ years’ experience

Pick the perfect Sunlover cruise for you

Full-Day Moore Reef Cruise

Full-day reef & island combo

What you’ll see from your Sunlover cruise

Hawksbill turtles

Know before you go on a Sunlover cruise

Read More

Fitzroy Island

Pontoon Tours

Moore Reef

Best Time to Visit

Frequently asked questions about Sunlover cruises

What to bring

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

Accessibility

Additional information

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

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

Sunlover: Cairns to Fitzroy Island Full-Day Cruise with Snorkel, Glass Bottom Boat Tour & Lunch