Reef Experience, Great Barrier Reef Tours departing from Cairns daily, includes bus transfers, reef levies, wetsuit snorkelling, scuba diving, breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. Boarding for our Great Barrier Reef tours starts at 7:30 a.m. and returns at 4:30 p.m.
Reef Experience Cairns: Your Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure on the Great Barrier Reef? Look no further than Reef Experience Cairns, where we pride ourselves on being the best in the business. Our top priority is ensuring you, your friends, and your family enjoy exploring this natural wonder. Here’s what makes us stand out:
The Best Crew
Our crew is the best on the Great Barrier Reef. They are passionate, knowledgeable, and dedicated to making your experience exceptional.
Optimal Reef Locations
We carefully select the best spots daily based on weather and conditions so you can witness the Great Barrier Reef at its absolute best. The warm waters of the Coral Sea, combined with our spectacular dive sites, promise an unforgettable adventure for everyone.
Educational Opportunities
Learn about the reef from our onboard marine biologist. On your way to the Reef, they will talk to you about the creatures that inhabit our beautiful Great Barrier Reef. You can then join a guided snorkel tour for hands-on explanations. Our knowledgeable staff is here to answer all your questions.
Free Scuba Dive
You can try a ‘no experience necessary’ introductory scuba dive for your Great Barrier Reef day tour. You can dive with us if you’re over 12 and healthy. Scuba diving in Cairns is an incredible way to experience the reef, whether you’re an experienced diver or trying it for the first time.
Extraordinary Marine Life
The Great Barrier Reef is home to a diverse range of marine life, and scuba diving is the ultimate way to get up close and personal. You’ll feel like swimming alongside the fish, exploring reef ledges, and spotting turtles and lagoon rays.
Passionate Dive Team
Our dive team is passionate about creating lasting memories of the Great Barrier Reef for you. They are dedicated to ensuring your experience is unforgettable.
Reef Experience: Flexible Locations
Our captain decides which reef locations to visit based on weather conditions, ensuring your safety and the best possible experience.
Free Scuba/Introductory Dive
We offer one free scuba or resort dive for all passengers over 12 and medically fit to dive. This is a unique opportunity to explore the reef’s extraordinary inhabitants up close.
Introductory Diving
Even if you’re not a certified diver, you can experience an introductory scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef. Our expert crew will assist you throughout the process, and you can even opt for a second introductory dive for an additional fee.
Certified Diving
If you’re a certified diver (minimum: open water), you can enjoy a certified scuba dive with top-quality equipment provided, including a dive computer. You can dive with another passenger or take a guided dive with a crew member for a small fee.
Safety First with Reef Experience
We prioritise your well-being and adhere to Australia’s strict safety requirements for scuba diving. Please read our website’s important information regarding age restrictions and medical fitness before booking.
At Reef Experience, we’re committed to providing a fun, safe, and educational experience as you explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. Join us for an adventure of a lifetime!
The Great Barrier Reef is the largest living thing on Earth, and we look forward to showing you its amazing beauty.
How old is the Great Barrier Reef?
The Great Barrier Reef is 500,000 years old.
How many people work on the Great Barrier Reef?
Around sixty-nine thousand people work on the Great Barrier Reef.
How many people visit the Great Barrier Reef each year?
Around 2 million people visit Australia’s Great Barrier Reef each year.
What to look out for on the Great Barrier Reef
When Great Barrier Reef tours approach the outer barrier reef, there’s a delightful moment as they slow down to make the final turn and pick up the mooring lines. During this time, if you watch the boat’s rear, you may be in for a treat—spotting flying fish! These vibrant turquoise fish gracefully glide along the top of the water, a sight bound to bring a smile and add to the wonder of your reef adventure. Don’t forget to have your camera ready to capture this enchanting moment!
Reef Experience FAQ’s
How can I contact Reef Experience?
You can reach us through this website or our customer service hotline. Visit our Contact Us page for details.
What's included in the day tour package?
Our day tour includes snorkeling, guided snorkel tours, and the option for scuba diving. Check our Packages page for a complete list of inclusions.
Do I need scuba diving experience to join the tour?
No, we offer introductory scuba diving experiences for beginners. Our expert crew will guide you, making it safe and enjoyable.
Are there age restrictions for scuba diving?
Yes, the minimum age for scuba diving is 12 years. Please review our Important Information page for details on age and medical restrictions.
Can non-swimmers participate in scuba diving?
Yes, even if you cannot swim, you can experience scuba diving with our assistance. Our crew is here to ensure your safety and enjoyment.
How are dive locations selected?
Our captain chooses the best reef locations daily based on weather conditions to provide the optimal diving and snorkeling experience.
Is there an additional charge for scuba diving?
We offer one free scuba or resort dive as part of the tour package. Additional dives may be available for an extra fee.
What safety measures are in place for scuba diving?
We prioritise safety and adhere to strict Australian scuba diving regulations. Please review our safety guidelines on our website.
How can I book a tour with Reef Experience Cairns?
You can easily book your tour through our website or by contacting our reservations team. Visit our booking page for more information.
If you have more questions or need further assistance, please get in touch with us. We’re here to make your Great Barrier Reef adventure unforgettable!
Up to 5 hours at two pristine Outer Great Barrier Reef Tour locations
Unlimited Snorkeling at morning and afternoon locations. All equipment, including wetsuit hire.
Scuba Diving (Certified Dive qualified OR Resort Dive no-experience necessary at the first reef location for everyone over age 12 and medically fit scuba) Reef Experience Medical Questionnaire
Pick up and Return to Cairns City Accommodation
Marine Biology Presentation
Breakfast consisting of barbecue bacon and egg rolls and also coffee, tea and fruit platters
Lunch delicious bbq with an assortment of fresh salads
Cheese, fruit platter and complimentary wine on the return journey
All dietary requirements catered for. (Vegetarian/gluten-free etc.: please advise upon booking).
All food is locally sourced where possible and prepared fresh by the onboard Chef.
FREE Crew assistance for non-confident snorkelers (flotation aids available). Friendly and professional crew are ready to jump with everyone who requires assistance to have fun and experience the reef’s magic!
Large Sun Deck with padded loungers and air-conditioned indoor areas
Reef tax, fuel levy and national park fees. Unlike other operators, mandatory levies for visiting the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park are included in this trip cost, so there won’t be extra charges on the day.
No hidden costs
07:30 – Board Reef Experience boat at the Cairns Marina ‘A-Finger’ for check-in
08:00 – Approximate departure and Safety Talk with snorkel briefing
08:30 – Marine Biology presentation,
09:00 – Scuba diving briefing
09:30 – Arrive at our first spectacular reef site, snorkel and/or scuba diving.
12:30 – Lunch
13:00 – Cruise to our second location to explore forests of coral, large sea fans and black coral trees in its shallow lagoons
15:00 – Depart the Great Barrier Reef
15:30 – Glass of wine, tropical fruits, cheese and biscuits
16:30 – Arrive back in Cairns
Shuttle Bus
For those staying in the Cairns Business District area, bus transfers to and from your accommodation to the boat are included on your day trip.
Breakfast
BBQ bacon and egg rolls are served.
Your dietary requirements will be met; please advise upon booking. All food is locally sourced and prepared fresh by our onboard chef.
Marine Biology Presentation
is a great way to learn about the marine life on the Great Barrier Reef from our resident onboard expert as you journey to your first reef destination.
Free scuba dive
All scuba dive equipment hire is included in your trip along with one free scuba dive (certified or resort dive)!*
Everybody over 12 can have a go who meets medical requirements. See the ‘Important Information’ page.
Lunch
Buffet style lunch is served with a wide variety of meal options with healthy salads on the side.
Your dietary requirements will be met; please advise upon booking. All food is locally sourced and prepared fresh by our onboard chef.
Snorkelling
Unlimited morning and afternoon snorkelling at two reef locations. Non-swimmer snorkel tours are also included throughout the day for those who require assistance in the water.
Wine, cheese and crackers
Enjoy a light snack with wine on the journey back to Cairns.
Refreshments
Tea and coffee are served throughout the day except when the boat is moving.
Sunscreen
A reef-friendly sunscreen is provided onboard free of charge.
Reef Levy
We include mandatory reef tax and fuel levies for visiting the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park in the trip cost, so there won’t be extra hidden charges on the day.
Underwater Digital Camera Hire
Snack Bar Purchases: Soft drinks, chocolate, chips, alcohol etc.
Marine Biologist Guided Snorkel Tour of the reef: Snorkel with an experienced Marine Biologist and learn about the marine life you see on an educational and interactive tour
Great Barrier Reef souvenirs – T-shirts, hats etc
Dive Guides for already qualified ‘Certified’ scuba divers (dive guides included for beginner divers)
Prescription Mask Hire if you require stronger lenses to see (contact lenses can be worn in most circumstances)
Bus transfers from accommodation outside of the Cairns Business Area
Second Scuba Dive at our beautiful afternoon reef location
Cash and/or credit card for purchases
Swimming Clothes
Towel
Hat
Sunglasses
Camera
Proof of qualification if you’re a Certified Diver
This is a barefoot tour. Once onboard, no one wears shoes.
Reef Experience departs from
Cairns Marina: ‘A-Finger’ View map
Boarding commences at7:30 am for check-in directly on the vessel ‘Reef Experience.’
Arrive back at Cairns Marina at approximately 4:30 pm
Where Can I Park?
Several parking stations throughout Cairns are within walking distance of the Marina. Click here to see where
Scuba diving Information
We have a passion for showing you Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, so please make sure you understand the scuba diving laws.
Queensland, Australia, has some of the strictest scuba diving rules globally and the safest scuba diving record. We are regulated by the Queensland Government Code of Practice and comply with all regulations, including medical as is the law.
To avoid disappointment on your day of travel, we strongly recommend that all of our passengers complete our dive medical questionnaire before booking as some medical conditions, age and/or medications may prevent you from scuba diving. It is always our mission to provide our passengers with the very best Great Barrier Reef experience. Reef Experience Medical Questionnaire
We are happy to help you with any questions you may have.
Please get in touch with our office on 07 4037 2700 or email us.
Flying after Scuba Diving
It would be best if you did not fly or go to altitude for at least 18 hours after a scuba dive for a single no decompression scuba dive. For multiple dives, you should not fly for 24 hours after your last dive.
If Skydiving or Hot Air Ballooning, you must wait 24 hours after your dive.
We recommend waiting a minimum of 24 hours whenever possible.
A minimum of 48 hours' notice is required to re-schedule or alter all or part of a reservation.
Any changes to the booking (date, names, etc) incur a $20 administration fee.
We must notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to ensure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during our standard business hours (9 am-5 pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent via email to [email protected]. Any emails received outside of these hours will be considered received the following day.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
20% cancellation fee 30 days or more prior to departure
50% cancellation fee if within 30 days prior to departure
100% cancellation fee within 14 days prior to departure
There will be no refund of any part of your tour costs should you fail to arrive at a scheduled tour departure time. Tour departures may not be delayed due to passenger circumstances - including events beyond your control, medical problems, airline delays, weather etc.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. No refund or compensation will be issued for unused equipment, prepaid/pre-booked courses and/or Scuba dives, or guides if you cannot complete the entire tour. Please see Scuba Diving – Important Information below.
Terms And Conditions
This website acts as a booking agent only for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavor to provide accurate information, we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning services.
Check-in: If you are Making your own way (no return transfers booked), please check-in and board at 7.30 am. Reef Experience is located on A Finger, at Cairns Marlin Marina.
Terms and Conditions:
Children’s prices are from 4 to 11 years of age. If booking as a certified diver, adult rates apply. Children 3 years of age and under can travel for free.
Open-Dated Ticket: In certain cases, Open-Dated tickets may be issued. These tickets are valid indefinitely but are non-refundable. Any fare increase must be paid at the time of rebooking. Once a customer accepts an Open-Dated ticket, the cancellation policy applicable to the original booking date will remain in effect.
Schedules, vessels, dive locations, and itineraries are subject to change without prior notice due to unforeseen circumstances, with full consideration for your safety and enjoyment. We reserve the right to adjust tours, schedules, prices, and itineraries at any time without notice. We are not liable for any changes, cancellations, or delays, and we accept no responsibility for any loss, additional expenses, or out-of-pocket costs incurred as a result, whether caused directly or indirectly.
Neither this site nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, any loss, any damage, delays, deaths or personal injury.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase Comprehensive Travel Insurance that covers personal injury and the events, including but not limited to your cancellation for any reason and the cancellation or alteration to the scheduled itinerary for reasons involving weather or passenger, crew or vessel safety. Please read your insurance policy's wording carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. Please be aware that all travel insurance companies do not cover scuba diving and other in-water activities. In a medical emergency, any evacuation, vessel relocation, medical expenses, or other expenses are the passenger's financial responsibility.
The passenger acknowledges and consents to Reef Experience taking photographs or video recordings during the course of this activity/tour. The passenger acknowledges and consents to Reef Encounter receiving and using images of the passenger from third parties and using these images for marketing and promoting its services.
Please inform us of any special requirements 48 hours before your travel date, such as dietary requirements, allergies, mobility and disability issues. This can be done in the ‘Booking Message’ section of your online reservation or by contacting our friendly reservations team.Scuba Diving – Important Information:
All Certified Divers must present a valid Certification Card. Failure to present a Certification Card may result in the customer being unable to participate in scuba diving. They can enjoy snorkelling activities instead. No refunds would be offered.
Minimum age for Introductory Diving is 12 years old. Minimum age for certified diving and Open Water Course is 10 years old. All junior divers must either be accompanied by a certified parent or guardian or must dive with a dive professional at an additional charge. If the diver is under the age of 18 years, parental or guardian consent is required for that diver to undertake a dive. The parent or guardian should sign the medical declaration as witness.
Upon arriving at our vessel and before commencing any dive activities, all passengers must complete our liability forms. All information provided must be strictly accurate. If during the tour, it becomes apparent that a form has been incorrectly completed, either by omission or false statement, we reserve the right to prevent any customer from undertaking any scuba diving or snorkelling activities while on board our vessel. Any decision made in this regard will be at the absolute discretion of the Dive Crew aboard the vessel.
The dangers and risks associated with scuba diving in an open ocean environment under variable conditions apply to our tours. We reserve the right to prevent any customer from participating in scuba diving if we determine that they are physically or medically unsuitable to do so or if it is in the best interests of our crew or other scuba divers. Our crew are trained professionals, and it is up to their sole discretion who they take diving and/or snorkelling. No refunds would apply.
Please remember you must allow 24 hours from your last dive before flying.
Medical Conditions & Medications:
Queensland, Australia has some of the strictest scuba diving rules in the world but also the safest scuba diving record. We are regulated by the Queensland Government Code of Practice and comply with all rules including medical as is the law.
All passengers participating in any Scuba activities must complete a Medical Questionnaire. If you’ve answered yes to any questions or take any prescribed medication, you will need further medical clearance. This must be arranged prior to your day of departure.
Medication: DO NOT presume that by taking medication is controlling your medical conditions, and you should be fine to scuba dive, as it is the medication that can be the problem when scuba diving. Particularly prescribed medication may require a medical clearance.
The medical certification should be provided in English, preferably by a medical practitioner with experience in diving medicine, within 90 days prior to the scuba dive. The certificate must state that the person is medically fit to dive.
No refunds on uncompleted dives due to medical conditions and/or prescribed medications or change of mind.
If you do have any pre-existing/existing medical conditions or are taking any medication whatsoever and are not sure whether you will be deemed medically fit to Scuba Dive, please get in touch with our Office at 07 4037 2700 or email us at [email protected], we will be only too happy to help you if we can. Alternatively, the best thing to do is to consult your own Doctor for a medical clearance to scuba dive.
Peak Season Surcharge - To be paid onboard on the day of travel:
➢ A Surcharge of $100 per person applies to 25 December 2024 & 2025 – Christmas Day
➢ A Surcharge of $50 per person applies to the following days:
• 26 December 2024 – Boxing Day
• 18, 19, 20 & 21 April 2025 – Easter weekend
• 26 December 2025 – Boxing Day