Reef Experience Great Barrier Reef

from $260 AUD

Embark on an Unforgettable Adventure with Reef Experience

Snorkel and Dive the Great Barrier Reef Day Trip


Step aboard the high-speed catamaran Reef Experience for an incredible day snorkelling and diving two stunning Outer Great Barrier Reef locations. Discover the breathtaking beauty of one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders — above and below the surface.

All-Inclusive. All Abilities. All Welcome.


Reef Experience is Cairns’ only all-inclusive Great Barrier Reef day tour, offering something for everyone — including a FREE introductory or certified scuba dive!

Whether you’re a confident swimmer, a first-time snorkeler, or even if you’ve never been in the ocean before, our friendly, professional crew is here to make your day fun, safe, and unforgettable.

For Experienced Swimmers & Snorkelers: Let the crew guide you to vibrant coral gardens and secret spots teeming with marine life. They know where to find turtles, rays, and the reef’s most colorful residents.

First Time in the Water or Can’t Swim? No worries! The team will personally assist you in and out of the water, help you feel comfortable with your gear, and introduce you to the magic of the reef — and some of its friendliest fish!

Top Deck Club

Experience the Great Barrier Reef in VIP Style with the Top Deck Club
Discover why our Top Deck Club is the ultimate way to explore Australia’s Great Barrier Reef — where first-class service meets unforgettable adventure.

Step into the exclusive Captain’s Wheelhouse Top Deck Lounge and enjoy a day of premium comfort, private seating, and personalised attention as we cruise to two stunning outer reef locations.

Your Day, Tailored to You
In addition to all the inclusions of our standard day tour, Top Deck Club guests are treated to their own personal valet — an SSI Dive Professional who will look after you both onboard and in the water.

From the moment you step aboard, your valet provides a seamless, high-end experience:

  • Personalised snorkeling tour
  • Private guided introductory or certified scuba dive
  • Priority service and attention throughout the day

Luxury, Adventure, and Exceptional Service — All in One Day
Whether you’re diving into vibrant coral gardens or sipping champagne on the top deck, the Top Deck Club delivers an unmatched level of comfort, care, and connection to the reef.


Inclusions

  • Up to 5 hours at two pristine Outer Great Barrier Reef Tour locations
  • Unlimited Snorkelling at morning and afternoon locations. All equipment INCLUDING wetsuit hire or stinger suit
  • FREE Scuba Dive (Certified Dive qualified OR Resort Dive no-experience necessary at the first reef location for everyone over the age 12 and medically fit to scuba dive)
  • Pick up and Return to Cairns City Accommodations
  • Marine Biology Presentation
  • Breakfast consisting of barbecue bacon & egg rolls, coffee, tea and fruit platters
  • Delicious Buffet BBQ lunch with an assortment of fresh salads
  • Cheese & fruit platter & complimentary wine on the return journey
  • Reef tax, fuel levy and national park fees.

Optional Extras

  • 2nd Introductory dive $70pp
  • 2nd Certified dive $50pp
  • Guide (for certified divers) $15pp per dive
  • Marine Biologist guided snorkel tour $40pp
  • Professional photos & underwater cameras for hire – Prices fixed by Scubabo onboard
  • Prescription Mask hire $10pp
  • Drinks, snacks, cameras, souvenirs, T-Shirts etc.

Pricing Tables

Pricing valid until March 31st 2026
Option Cost
Adult $260.00
Child (4-11) $175.00
Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) $695.00
Top Deck Club Adult $410.00
Top Deck Club Child $225.00
Top Deck Club Family $1,195.00
PEAK SEASON SURCHARGE payable onboard the day of travel: A Surcharge of $100 per person applies to 25 December 2025 – Christmas Day and A Surcharge of $50 per person applies to the following days: 18, 19, 20 & 21 April 2025 – Easter • 26 December 2025 – Boxing Day

Full Itinerary

All times are approximate and may vary slightly depending on weather and conditions.

07:30 – Check-In & Board Reef Experience
Join us at the Marlin Jetty, Cairns, where our friendly crew will welcome you aboard.
Shuttle transfers available

08:00 – Depart Marlin Jetty
We set sail for the spectacular Outer Great Barrier Reef. Relax on the sundeck or enjoy the exclusive Top Deck Club lounge as we cruise to your first reef location.

08:30 – Breakfast is Served
Start your day with a BBQ bacon & egg roll, tea, coffee, and fresh tropical fruit.
Then enjoy a fun and informative Marine Biology Presentation, followed by a snorkel and dive briefing to help you feel confident and ready to explore.

09:30 – Arrive at First Reef Site
Jump in and explore a vibrant underwater world filled with tropical fish, giant clams, and colorful coral gardens.
Snorkel, dive, or relax on board while soaking in the reef’s beauty.

12:30 – Tropical Buffet Lunch
Refuel with a freshly prepared buffet offering a delicious variety of hot and cold dishes, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.

13:00 – Arrive at Second Reef Site
Enjoy more time in the water or on the boat. Explore shallow lagoons teeming with coral forests, sea fans, and fascinating marine life.
Whether it’s your second dive or a relaxed snorkel, the adventure continues.

15:00 – Depart the Great Barrier Reef
Say farewell to the reef as we begin our journey back to Cairns.

15:30 – Afternoon Refreshments
Unwind with a glass of wine, tropical fruit platter, and a selection of cheese and crackers — the perfect way to reflect on a magical day.


16:30 – Return to Cairns
We arrive back at the Marlin Jetty with memories to last a lifetime.
Group photo opportunities available onboard.

Important Notes

  • All activities are optional – do as much or as little as you like!
  • Scuba diving is subject to medical conditions and a minimum age of 12 years.
  • Top Deck Club guests enjoy additional perks including personal valet, reserved lounge seating, and a private dive/snorkel guide.

What to Bring:

  • Hat & sunscreen (SPF 30+)
  • Sun protective clothing, like a t-shirt or rash vest
  • Swimming costume
  • Beach towel
  • Cash for drinks at the bar (soft drinks, beer, wine)
  • Credit card for on-board shopping and optional adventures

FAQ

Yes. If you’re not sure whether you would like to go scuba diving while onboard Reef Experience, you can add your scuba dive later. Just talk to our staff on board and they can assist you. *Please note that age, health and medical restrictions apply for scuba diving in Australia
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation and medical cover for all intended activities. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. In a medical emergency, any evacuation, vessel relocation, medical or other expenses are the financial responsibility of that passenger. Please be aware that scuba diving and other in-water activities are not covered by all travel insurance companies. We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance and scuba dive insurance.
If you have any special requirements it is important to inform the Reef Experience team prior to travel.
Approximately 90 minutes to get to our first location.

Need help planning your Australian diving holiday?

Planning your Australian dive holiday and feeling unsure where to begin? Reach out to us! Our knowledge and services encompass a wide array of Australia’s most sought-after scuba diving destinations and marine encounters. Whether you’re interested in dive courses, liveaboard expeditions, or day tours, we’ve got you covered. We’re your go-to experts for personalised dive travel in Australia!

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