Plan Your Reef Tour

Plan your Reef Tour Everything you need to know before you go

Plan a reef tour, planning a trip to the Great Barrier Reef is one of the most exciting things you’ll ever do. With crystal-clear waters, colourful coral gardens, marine life galore, and unforgettable tours from Cairns and Port Douglas — there’s an experience for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeller, seasoned diver, family with kids, or luxury traveller, this guide will help you make the most of your reef adventure.

✅ Quick Tips to Start Planning

  • Choose your base: Cairns or Port Douglas are the two most popular gateways to the reef.
  • Decide how long to stay: Day tours, overnight trips, and multi-day liveaboards are all available.
  • Pick your reef style: Outer reef pontoons, island visits, glass-bottom boats, intro dives, Top Deck Club and more.
  • Know your travel dates: The reef is beautiful all year round, but the best visibility is during the dry season (May to November).
  • Book early in peak seasons (school holidays, Easter, winter escapes).

🛥️ Types of Reef Tours

🟩 Day Trips

Perfect for travellers short on time. Snorkel or dive at world-class sites and be back in town by sunset.

🟩 Island Adventures

Explore Green Island or Fitzroy Island with half or full-day options, ideal for families or first-time visitors.
👉 Explore Island Tours »

🟩 Liveaboard Cruises

Spend 1–7 nights at sea on dedicated dive boats or floating reef hotels like Reef Encounter.
👉 Stay on the Reef »

🟩 Scenic Flights

See the reef from above — Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach, and coral cays are all breathtaking from the sky.
👉 Book a Helicopter Tour »

🐠 Who Is This For?

👨‍👩‍👧 Families

Snorkelling, semi-submersibles and island beaches offer fun for all ages.
👉 Family-Friendly Reef Tours »

👩‍❤️‍👨 Couples

Romantic sunset sails, private Top Deck packages, and stargazing from liveaboards.
👉 See Romantic Tours »

🧗‍♂️ Adventure Seekers

Certified dive tours, intro dives, night diving, and Coral Sea expeditions await.
👉 Go Deeper »

📋 What to Pack

  • Swimmers, towel, hat & reef-safe sunscreen
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Motion sickness tablets if needed
  • Underwater camera or GoPro

  • Warm jumper for the boat ride back
    👉 Download Packing List PDF »

🌞 Plan Your Trip tour Travel Smart & Stay Safe

✔️ Apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding
✔️ Drink plenty of water — especially after snorkelling or diving
✔️ Follow your guide’s safety briefing at all times
✔️ Swim between the flags on island beaches
✔️ Respect the reef — don’t touch or stand on coral

👉 Visit the Reef Safety Hub »

💬 Frequently Asked Questions to plan your reef tour

Do I need to know how to swim?
Not necessarily! Many tours offer flotation devices, glass-bottom boats, and guided snorkel assistance.

Can I try diving with no experience?
Yes — introductory dives are available on most outer reef tours with full instruction and supervision.

What’s the best time of year to visit?
May to November offers dry skies, calm seas and excellent visibility, but the reef is a year-round destination.

Is it suitable for children?
Absolutely. Many tours cater specifically to families, with child-sized snorkel gear, pontoons, and shaded areas.

Will I see turtles or Nemo?
Most likely! Green sea turtles, clownfish, and giant Maori wrasse are frequently spotted on reef tours.

✅ Ready to Start Your Reef Journey?

Whether you’re dreaming of a luxury overnight escape or a quick day trip, the Great Barrier Reef offers unforgettable moments at every turn.

👉 Browse Reef Tours from Cairns »
👉 Explore Liveaboard Adventures »
👉 Contact Us for Help Planning Your Trip »

Cairns Day Trips