Explore the Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef with Reef Experience Tours

Welcome to Reef Experience, where the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef come alive!  Prepare to be mesmerized as you immerse yourself in an enchanting world beneath the surface.  Dive into crystal-clear waters and witness a breathtaking display of vibrant colours and abundant marine life.

Submerge yourself in the vivid hues of the coral gardens, where every rainbow shade is brought to life—Marvel at the intricate formations, like underwater castles sculpted by nature’s hands.  As you glide through this underwater wonderland, be greeted by a bustling tropical fish community, each flaunting its unique patterns and shades.  The Reef is a living palette of colour and beauty, from dazzling angelfish to graceful butterflyfish.

Venture deeper into the depths and encounter magnificent creatures that call the Great Barrier Reef their home.  Spot elegant sea turtles gracefully gliding through the water, their movements exuding grace and tranquillity.  The Reef is a thriving ecosystem, teeming with life and captivating sights at every turn.

Unforgettable Experiences for Every Adventurer Discover the Perfect tour for Your Dream Reef Experience.

At Reef Experience, we believe everyone should be able to create their dream Great Barrier Reef adventure.  That’s why we offer a range of tours, each designed to cater to different interests and preferences.  Whether you’re a seasoned diver, a snorkelling enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique and immersive experience, we have the perfect tour.

Our certified instructors will guide those seeking the ultimate diving adventure through various captivating dive sites.  Explore hidden caves and swim among stunning underwater walls adorned with colourful corals.  Witness the diversity of marine life up close, from schools of vibrant fish to graceful rays gracefully gliding by.  Every dive is a chance to discover new wonders and create memories that will last a lifetime.

If you prefer to stay near the surface, our snorkelling tours offer a serene and awe-inspiring encounter with the Reef.  Glide effortlessly through the pristine waters as you marvel at the kaleidoscope of colours beneath you.  Snorkel alongside much tropical fish.  Their playful antics bring joy and excitement to your experience.  Encounter the gentle giants of the sea, such as playful dolphins and majestic manta rays, as they navigate their natural habitat.

 

Unparalleled Comfort and Safety Experience Exceptional Service and Peace of Mind

At Reef Experience, safety is our utmost priority.  We equip our vessels with top-of-the-line safety equipment and ensure our crew undergoes rigorous training, so they are well-prepared to handle any situation that may arise.

Our professional and knowledgeable crew is passionate about the Reef and dedicated to making your adventure unforgettable.  They will guide you through every step, providing expert assistance and sharing their extensive knowledge of the Reef’s ecology.  Feel at ease as you embark on this extraordinary experience, knowing that you are in the hands of experienced professionals.

Onboard, you’ll find a range of amenities designed to enhance your comfort and enjoyment.  Lounge on spacious sundecks and soak up the warm Queensland sun, or relax in cozy lounges and recount the day’s adventures with fellow explorers.  Indulge in delicious catering.

Delicious meals

At Reef Experience, we understand that a well-fed adventurer is a happy adventurer.  That’s why we start with a delicious breakfast and include lunch and afternoon tea to provide the energy and nourishment you need to enjoy the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.

Vegetarian and other dietary options are available.

As you dine, take in the stunning views of the Great Barrier Reef from our spacious sundecks or cozy lounges.  Allow the beauty of your surroundings to enhance your dining experience, creating lasting memories of culinary indulgence and natural splendour.

When it comes to safety, we leave nothing to chance.  You can embark on your Reef exploration with complete peace of mind, knowing that we prioritize your safety at every journey step.

Conclusion

We strive to create an environment where you can explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef with complete confidence, knowing that your safety is our top priority.

Highlights

About your day at the Great Barrier Reef

  • Up to 6 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) Medical Conditions apply.
  • Glass Bottom Boat Tour (weather permitting)
  • 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

Itinerary

  • 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 scuba diving.
  • 10:30 – Glass Bottom Boat tour (approximately 20-minute tour)
  • 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

Included

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.

Glass bottom boat tours

are a great way to witness life beneath the waves comfortably and have it all explained by our marine experts.
(weather permitting)

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.

Optional Extras

  • 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

What to bring

  • 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.

How to get there

Reef Experience departs from
Cairns Marina: ‘A-Finger’ View map to Cairns Marlin Marina

Boarding commences at 7:30 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

Important Information

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.

Alternatively, you may like to consult your Doctor for a Dive Medical using the Australian Standard Forms ‘AS.4005.1

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.

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