Great Barrier Reef: Guided Boat Tour from Cairns + Snorkelling + Lunch Tickets

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Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Tour

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Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Tour

The Ocean Freedom delivers a full day exploring two carefully selected sites on the Great Barrier Reef, giving you six hours of reef time across locations chosen for excellent visibility and thriving coral gardens. This eco-certified tour takes you to spots where you'll snorkel alongside colourful clownfish, graceful sea turtles and countless marine species whilst learning about the reef's delicate ecosystem from experienced marine interpreters.

The tour caters to all experience levels with in-water snorkelling tuition for beginners and glass-bottom boat tours for those preferring to stay dry. All snorkelling gear is provided, including lycra suits, wetsuits and flotation aids. Throughout the day, you'll enjoy a tropical buffet lunch featuring smoked salmon, prawns, chicken and fresh salads, with morning pastries and afternoon refreshments included.

What is Included

  • Six hours reef time at two Great Barrier Reef locations
  • All snorkelling equipment including suits and flotation aids
  • In-water snorkelling tuition for beginners
  • Glass-bottom boat tours with marine guide
  • Morning pastries and fresh fruit
  • Tropical buffet lunch with local produce
  • Afternoon refreshments including fruit, cheeses and breads
  • Expert marine interpreter guidance

Good to Know

The tour runs for a full day with six hours spent at reef locations. Arrive at the departure point 30 minutes before boarding time. You'll need to bring sunscreen, swimwear, a towel and hat, plus a camera for underwater photography. All guests must pay a mandatory AU$20 administrative and fuel levy at check-in.

Hotel transfers are not included, so arrange your own transport to the departure point. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase on board. The tour is suitable for all fitness levels, with options for both experienced snorkellers and complete beginners who receive in-water instruction from qualified crew members.

Cairns offers excellent access to Australia's marine wonders, and you might also consider exploring the region's rainforest attractions or taking day trips to nearby tropical destinations to complete your Queensland adventure.

Why you'll love it

  • Six hours across two reef sites selected for visibility and coral
  • Snorkel alongside clownfish, sea turtles and tropical marine life
  • Eco-certified tour with experienced marine interpreters on board
  • Lunch included as part of a full day departing from Cairns
  • Sites chosen for thriving coral gardens and diverse marine species
  • Learn about reef ecology from marine experts throughout the day

What's included

  • Snorkelling equipment including snorkel jacket, wetsuit/lycra suit, in-water tuition
  • Experienced crew
  • Danish pastries & fresh fruit, coffee, tea upon boarding
  • Large tropical lunch - smoked salmon, prawns, chicken, mixed meat, salads & bread
  • Informative Marine Interpreter led Glass Bottom Boat & Adventure Snorkel Tour
  • Fresh fruit, cheese and crackers, assorted breads on the cruise home
  • 2 reef destinations: Upolu Cay and Wonder Wall
  • Admin/fuel levy (AU$20 per person to be paid at check-in)
  • Soft drink, beer, and wine (available for purchase)
  • Hotel bus transfers

Good to know

Know before you go

Experience the Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef

Board the Ocean Freedom for a comprehensive full-day journey to the Great Barrier Reef, offering an exceptional opportunity to witness the vibrant marine life that calls this natural wonder home. This eco-certified tour provides six hours of direct reef time, immersing you in the diverse ecosystems across two distinct sites. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeller or a beginner, the professional crew ensures everyone finds adventure and comfort exploring the underwater world.

Two Unique Reef Destinations

Your day begins with a voyage to two handpicked locations on the Great Barrier Reef, selected for outstanding visibility and thriving coral gardens. Here, you’ll snorkel in the company of colorful clownfish, graceful sea turtles and countless species of marine life. The experienced marine interpreter will guide you through the reef’s intricate ecosystem, providing insights into the species you encounter and the importance of preserving this delicate habitat.

All-Inclusive Snorkeling & Expert Guidance

All snorkelling equipment is included with your ticket, including snug lycra or wetsuits and flotation aids. If you’re new to snorkelling or would like some tips, the crew offers in-water tuition, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. For those wishing to see the reef without entering the water, join the glass-bottom boat tour, where a knowledgeable guide highlights underwater marvels from above.

Cuisine and Comfort on Board

Throughout the day, enjoy a selection of refreshments and meals. Start the morning with pastries and fresh fruit as you set sail. Lunch features a tropical buffet with local produce, including smoked salmon, prawns, chicken, and a variety of salads and breads. On your journey back to Cairns, relax with fresh fruit, cheeses and breads, rounding out a day of exploration with comfort and style.

Eco-Friendly Adventure

This tour is accredited by Advanced Eco for its sustainable practices, ensuring your visit supports ongoing preservation efforts for the reef. The onboard experience combines education and enjoyment with minimal environmental impact. By choosing Ocean Freedom, you help protect one of the world’s greatest natural treasures while creating unforgettable memories.

Make the Most of Your Adventure

  • Spend quality time at both reef locations for photography, relaxation, and marine encounters

  • Engage with expert guides for optimal safety and insights

  • Customise your experience with options for beginners as well as seasoned snorkellers

  • Rest easy with all major meals, guidance, equipment and safety covered by your ticket

Book your Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Tour tickets now!

Visitor guidelines
  • Arrive at the departure point 30 minutes before boarding

  • Please bring sunscreen, swimwear and a change of clothes

  • All guests pay a mandatory AU$20 admin/fuel levy at check-in

  • Hotel bus transfers are not included and must be arranged separately

  • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages can be purchased on board

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation

Frequently asked

What should I bring on the Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Tour?

It's recommended to bring sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, a hat, and a camera. All snorkelling equipment is provided, and lunch is included.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, in-water snorkelling tuition is available for those new to snorkeling or needing a refresher.

Are hotel transfers included?

No, hotel bus transfers are not included. Guests must arrange their own transport to the departure point.

What costs are not covered in my ticket?

An AU$20 administrative and fuel levy is payable at check-in. Soft drinks and alcoholic drinks are extra.

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