Have you ever dreamed of swimming above colourful coral gardens, meeting tropical fish or taking your very first breath underwater? Reef Experience makes that dream possible!

Reef Experience Cairns is a full-day Great Barrier Reef tour departing from Cairns, Queensland. This friendly, locally operated reef adventure visits two beautiful outer reef locations, giving you up to five hours to snorkel, discover fascinating marine life and enjoy Australia’s most famous natural wonder.

And here’s something special: one scuba dive is included in the tour price for eligible guests aged 12 and over, whether you are an experienced diver or trying scuba diving for the first time.

Your day also includes a delicious cooked breakfast, fresh buffet lunch, afternoon refreshments, snorkelling equipment and an informative marine biology presentation.

Discover the Great Barrier Reef with Friends

There’s something wonderful about spending a day on the reef with people who genuinely love what they do.

The Reef Experience crew enjoy sharing their knowledge, helping first-time snorkellers and making visitors feel welcome.

Never snorkelled before? Just ask for a hand. Friendly crew members can help you become familiar with your equipment and provide supervised assistance in the water when suitable.

Already love the ocean? Explore colourful coral gardens, watch tropical reef fish and discover beautiful underwater landscapes.

Visit Two Beautiful Outer Reef Locations

Reef Experience visits two outer Great Barrier Reef locations selected by the captain according to the day’s conditions.

Possible destinations include Norman Reef, Saxon Reef, Hastings Reef, Breaking Patches and Jorgensen Patch.

Enjoy the chance to discover different coral environments and marine life at each location.

Look for colourful parrotfish, graceful sea turtles, giant clams, butterflyfish and perhaps a friendly Maori wrasse.

Every visit offers something new to discover.

Would You Love to Try Scuba Diving?

Imagine taking your first breath underwater while exploring the magnificent Great Barrier Reef.

Reef Experience includes one introductory or certified scuba dive in its standard day-tour fare for guests who meet the age, medical and safety requirements.

If you’ve never dived before, professional instructors guide eligible introductory divers through the experience.

You don’t need previous scuba diving experience to try an introductory dive.

A Great Day Out from Cairns

Your adventure begins with a cooked breakfast as you cruise towards the reef.

Enjoy informative marine biology education, plenty of time exploring the underwater world, a fresh buffet lunch and refreshments on your return journey.

Whether you’re visiting Australia for the first time, travelling with family or looking for an exciting Cairns adventure, Reef Experience offers a memorable way to discover the Great Barrier Reef.

Reef Experience Frequently asked questions

Is Reef Experience suitable for first-time snorkellers?

Yes. Reef Experience welcomes beginners and offers snorkelling guidance and crew assistance. Guests with limited swimming ability should discuss their needs with the crew before entering the water. Participation depends on individual ability and safety conditions.

Is scuba diving really included in the Reef Experience tour price?

Yes. One introductory or certified scuba dive is included for eligible guests aged 12 and over. Medical, safety and other diving requirements apply.

Does Reef Experience include breakfast and lunch?

Yes. Guests enjoy a cooked breakfast, buffet lunch and afternoon refreshments. Advise the operator of dietary requirements when booking.

Which Great Barrier Reef locations does Reef Experience visit?

The captain chooses two suitable outer reef locations. Possible sites include Norman Reef, Saxon Reef, Hastings Reef, Breaking Patches and Jorgensen Patch.

Where does Reef Experience depart from?

Reef Experience departs from Berth 8, Finger A, Marlin Jetty, Cairns Marlin Marina. Check-in starts at 7:30 am, with departure at approximately 8:00 am.

Ready to make incredible holiday memories? Book your Reef Experience Great Barrier Reef day tour from Cairns and discover the magic beneath the surface!

Highlights

Tour highlights include snorkelling at two pristine Outer Reef sites, a FREE scuba dive (beginner or certified), all-inclusive meals and refreshments, Cairns City pick-ups, and engaging marine biologist presentations—making it Cairns’ best-value, all-inclusive reef adventure.

Itinerary

Reef Experience Sample itinerary

  • 7:30 Check-in at Reef Experience vessel (hotel shuttle available for CBD—conditions apply).
  • Tea/coffee & light breakfast on board.
  • 8:00am Depart Cairns. Safety brief and marine biologist talk. Gear fitting.
  • Morning reef stop: Snorkel vibrant coral gardens; certified or intro divers take their included dive with professional guides.
  • BBQ lunch on board while cruising to site two (weather-dependant).
  • Afternoon reef stop: Guided snorkel tour available; relax on the sundeck or jump in for more reef time.
  • Return cruise: Afternoon refresher served; back to Cairns ~4:30pm.

Included

What’s Included – Everything You Need for the Perfect Day

  • Breakfast on boarding – enjoy a delicious bacon & egg roll freshly made.
  • All snorkelling equipment – mask, fins, snorkel, and flotation aids included for all guests.
  • 1 x FREE scuba dive – choose between an introductory dive or a certified dive, with all gear and supervision provided.
  • Guided snorkel tours with friendly crew to help you discover the best reef spots.
  • Marine biologist presentation – learn about reef life, coral ecosystems, and conservation in a fun, interactive talk.
  • Tropical BBQ buffet lunch with fresh salads, meats, and vegetarian options served on board.
  • Afternoon refreshments – cheese, crackers and glass of wine for the return journey to Cairns.
  • Wetsuits or lycra suits (seasonal) provided for your comfort and sun protection.
  • Friendly, experienced crew offering personal assistance and safety supervision throughout the day.
  • All marine park fees included in your fare

Optional Extras

➕ Optional Extras on Reef Experience

  • Introductory Scuba Dive
  • Certified Scuba Diving
  • Underwater photography
  • Soft drinks / snacks onboard

What to bring

What to Bring

A little preparation helps you make the most of your day on the Great Barrier Reef. Here’s what we recommend bringing along:

  • Swimwear – wear it under your clothes for an easy start to the day.
  • Towel – for drying off between snorkels or dives.
  • Hat, sunglasses and reef-safe sunscreen – protect yourself from the tropical sun.
  • Change of clothes – something comfortable for the return cruise to Cairns.
  • Camera or GoPro – capture the incredible underwater colours and coral life.
  • Reusable water bottle – refill throughout the day and help us reduce waste.
  • Credit or debit card – for any onboard purchases or optional extras.
  • Dive certification card – required for certified divers.
  • Sense of adventure – you’re about to explore one of the world’s greatest natural wonders!

How to get there

Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tour, Reef Experience departs from

Cairns Marina: ‘A-Finger’ Number 8 View map to Cairns Marlin Marina

Boarding commences at 7:30 a.m. for check-in. The Reef Experience vessel arrived directly at Cairns Marina at approximately 4:30 p.m.

Where Can I Park?

Several parking stations throughout Cairns are within walking distance of the Marina.  Click here to see where

Important Information

⚠️ Important Information

  • Children under 12 may not be able to dive
  • Weather and sea conditions may affect itinerary
  • Medical conditions can restrict scuba diving
  • Stinger suits required during stinger season.

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G'day, I'm Matilda! Ask me anything about your trip. If I can't help, I'll pass you straight to our friendly team, who are here 7am to 9pm every day.
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