AUSTRALIA · DESTINATION
Australia's standouts.
The 15 most popular great barrier reef & cairns tours in Australia right now, with prices, run times and what each day actually involves.
Snorkel (or scuba) on a Cairns superyacht to two outer Great Barrier Reef sites. Includes BBQ lunch, gear, and optional helicopter.
“Very well organized. Weather wasn’t ideal but the crew made the most of it and we got to enjoy the experience.”
Cairns outer-reef cruise with a luxury catamaran: two reef stops, guided snorkeling, chef lunch, snacks, and eco talks for $190.
“Fab, Crewe were amazing , so helpful, so friendly , so knowledgeable”
Kuranda by train and Skyrail: World Heritage rainforest views, markets and wildlife in the village, plus Barron Falls.
“I took the Kuranda Scenic train twice in 2 days. The 2nd time on the train, I saw more of the scenery and appreciate the ride even more.”
Fly 40 minutes over the outer Great Barrier Reef from Cairns. See Green Island and reefs from a window seat with pilot commentary.
“It’s just worth! And as they say it’s a lifetime experience! I was so amazed by the view and they do take long and good turns around the coral reef.”
Full-day Outer Reef catamaran from Cairns with two reef stops, guided snorkeling or scuba gear and tuition, buffet lunch and reef talks.
“Fantastic experience which was very well organised by super friendly crew and a delicious lunch. The snorkelling was phenomenal.”
Cairns to Daintree and Mossman Gorge in one big day: Indigenous ceremony, rainforest walk, croc cruise, Cape Tribulation, and lunch included.
“John was fantastic and so incredibly full of knowledge. So much packed into the day but wasn’t too much! Incredible day would highly recommend”
Small-group Daintree day tour from Port Douglas with Mossman Gorge walk, river wildlife cruise, Cape Tribulation beach, and lunch included.
“Great trip with a great guide. Wonderful mix of history, nature and fun. A great introduction to the rainforest.”
Airlie Beach rafting plus snorkel at Hook & Border, Hill Inlet lookout, and Whitehaven Beach with eco-certified guides and stinger-suit options.
“Tori and Max were exceptional—truly made the experience unforgettable. The full tour was superb from start to finish. They were friendly, personable, and highly professional, and their knowledge of the islands was impressive, with plenty of interesting facts shared along the way. Hill Inlet was absolutely fabulous, and both snorkelling spots were quiet and stunning.…”
Luxury catamaran from Cairns to Wonder Wall and Upolu Cay with glass-bottom coral tour, guided drift snorkel, and optional scuba.
“We had a great time even with bad weather! Lunch was great and the crew was very helpful and knowledgeable.”
Fly from Airlie Beach over Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet and Heart Reef with hotel pickup, guaranteed window seats, and pilot commentary. 70 min.
“It was pretty. Great organisation. Maybe a lil bit unlucky that we got cloud right above the reef and couldn’t get the full potential of it. So have in mind booking the cleanest sky day possible.”
Fitzroy Island day trip from Cairns with a fast roundtrip ferry, up to 7 hours ashore, rainforest hikes, and optional snorkeling extras.
“Fitzroy island is a must visit. I had a better visibility of coral reef here. It was absolutely serene and beautiful. Would love to come back to the island.”
Half-day white-water rafting on the Barron River with Grade II–III rapids, beginner coaching, and Cairns or Port Douglas pickup.
“The booking process was convoluted - I was accidentally charged in US dollars instead of AUD over the phone. However, once we got to the venue, it was fantastic. Our guide, Jacob, was brilliant - he was full of enthusiasm, rafting knowledge and made the experience thoroughly enjoyable for the family.”
Cairns Great Barrier Reef day trip: guided snorkelling at two exclusive sites, full meals, hot showers, and optional intro scuba.
“We had a great time on the trip, the staff were so lovely and helpful if you were nervous. The boat ride was lovely and smooth and the lunch was great selection of buffet and tea and coffee all day. Would definitely recommend and would go with them again. Had a great time see all…”
4WD day trip from Cairns to Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation: crocodile river cruise, rainforest swim, beach views, and ice cream.
“thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Daintree Rainforest. Our guide, Daniel, was very well informed and kept us entertained all throughout the day. He was brilliant and a highlight of the trip. The day was well-run and thought through and the lunch was very tasty as well. Highly recommend this tour and this company.”
Cairns day cruise to Upolu Reef and Coral Cay for snorkel, optional scuba, glass-bottom viewing, guided drift, and a big reef lunch.
“I had a great diving time with ocean freedom. Ollie is a very nice diving instructor. He’s patient and attentive to detail. I felt safe and well taken care of throughout the dives. The staff were also great! They made the whole experience so enjoyable.”
