Cairns stands out as one of Australia’s top gateways to the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding islands, thanks to its vibrant waterfront and proximity to some of the world’s most famous marine sites. Whether you’re eager to snorkel over coral gardens, dive into crystal-clear waters, or enjoy a scenic helicopter flight, Cairns offers an impressive variety of boat tours and cruises that cater to different interests and budgets. We particularly love the Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Premium Catamaran, which combines luxury, eco-tourism, and the chance to see turtles and exotic corals in comfort.
For a balanced experience that includes both reef exploration and island relaxation, the Green Island & Great Barrier Reef Sailing Tour offers an intimate sailing adventure with only 25 guests. Its personalized approach and focus on marine naturalist-guided snorkeling make it stand out. Whether you’re on a budget or seeking a full-day tour with helicopter flights, Cairns has an option for everyone.
Quick Overview
Our list covers luxury day trips, snorkeling and diving cruises, sailing tours, scenic flights, and even overnight reef adventures. Expect options like the Outer and Coral Cay Snorkel and Dive Cruise that focus on exploring diverse reef sites, and Green Island Half-Day Cruises perfect for a quick escape. For those wanting a special experience, the Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Scenic Helicopter Flight combines underwater adventure with aerial views. Rounding out the list are evening cruises, overnight trips, and island-hopping options — all designed to suit different tastes and schedules.
1. From Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Premium Catamaran
At number 1, this 9-hour cruise on a high-performance catamaran visits two outer reef locations. The vessel is equipped with luxury touches, making it ideal for travelers who want comfort while exploring the reef. The tour includes snorkeling, swimming, or just relaxing onboard as you spot marine life like turtles and fish. A chef-prepared lunch with fresh tropical fruit keeps everyone energized, and the eco-friendly credentials (Eco Tourism and Climate Leader Certified) reflect a genuine care for the environment.
What makes this tour special is its focus on visiting diverse reef sites, giving you a broader view of the reef’s richness. The reviews, with a 4.8/5 rating from over 3,100 travelers, highlight its reliable quality and memorable experience. If you’re after a premium day on the reef with all the comforts, this cruise hits the mark.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a full, high-quality reef experience with excellent reviews and Eco Certification.
2. Cairns: Outer and Coral Cay Snorkel and Dive Cruise
Coming in at number 2, this 9-hour adventure takes you to two iconic reef sites: “Wonder Wall” and “Aquarium” on Upolu Reef. The luxurious, fast vessel takes you out quickly from Cairns, maximizing your reef time. This tour is renowned for its guided adventure drift snorkeling, allowing you to explore marine life with a passionate crew. You’ll likely see turtles, barracudas, or stingrays — typical reef residents.
The included smorgasbord lunch, with smoked salmon and prawns, is a highlight for many, and the tour’s green credentials (Ecotourism Green Travel Leader) appeal to environmentally conscious travelers. Reviews consistently praise the crew’s enthusiasm and the generous time spent in the water.
Bottom line: Great for snorkelers and divers who want to optimize reef time with knowledgeable guides and eco-friendly operators.
3. Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Cruise with Lunch
At number 3, this 9-hour snorkeling trip offers a relaxed yet comprehensive reef experience. It features indigenous welcome and storytelling, adding cultural depth to your visit. You’ll visit two reef sites, spend about 5 hours in the water, and have the option to upgrade to a scuba dive. The tour emphasizes learning the reef’s creation story with indigenous guides, enriching your understanding of this fragile ecosystem.
Rated 4.7/5 from 670 reviews, the tour is praised for its informative guides and flexible water activities. The included lunch is simple but satisfying, keeping you fueled for a full day of exploration. It’s ideal for travelers interested in both adventure and culture.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want reef snorkeling with an educational and cultural twist.
4. Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Scenic Helicopter Flight
Number 4 is for those who want a full-day reef experience combined with aerial views. The 35-meter superyacht takes you to two pristine outer reef locations, with options for snorkeling or scuba diving. The real highlight is the 10-minute scenic helicopter flight over the reef, offering breathtaking perspectives you won’t get from the water alone.
Returning with a glass of wine and cheese, you can reflect on the day’s underwater adventures. Rated 4.6/5 from 838 reviews, guests love the combination of luxury, adventure, and spectacular views. The tour’s premium features make it well-suited for travelers seeking a memorable, all-encompassing experience.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those wanting to see the reef from above and below, with a touch of luxury.
5. Cairns: Green Island & Great Barrier Reef Sailing Tour
Sitting at number 5, this 9-hour sailing tour on a 16-meter sailing boat is perfect for those craving a more intimate, eco-friendly adventure. With only 25 guests, it offers a personal atmosphere. You’ll snorkel at an exclusive reef site, guided by a marine naturalist, and have the option for a scuba experience tailored to your comfort level. Afterward, you can relax on Green Island’s lush beach or explore its tropical rainforest.
This tour is valued for its personalized, small-group experience, with reviews noting the friendly crew and beautiful scenery. The combination of reef and island makes it ideal for travelers who want variety in a single day.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who prefer a quieter, more personal reef adventure with island relaxation.
6. Cairns: Dinner Cruise Experience
Number 6 offers a 2.5-hour dinner cruise along Trinity Inlet, perfect for winding down after a day of exploring. The luxurious, air-conditioned vessel features large outdoor decks, and you’ll enjoy a hot and cold buffet with fresh seafood and local produce. A welcome glass of sparkling wine or beer sets a festive tone, and additional drinks are available for purchase.
Rated 4.5/5 from 295 reviews, guests appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to see Cairns from the water at sunset. It’s a great option for couples or anyone wanting a scenic, easy-going evening.
Bottom line: Ideal for a romantic or laid-back dinner with scenic views of Cairns’ waterfront.
7. Cairns: Sunset River Cruise with Snack and Drinks
Number 7 is a 90-minute cruise on Trinity Inlet, offering a peaceful way to enjoy Cairns’ sunset. With a complimentary light refreshment and scenic views, it’s a favorite for those seeking a short, relaxing escape in the evening.
Rated 4.7/5 from 154 reviews, travelers love the informative commentary and photo opportunities. Perfect if you want a quick, scenic experience without leaving the city.
Bottom line: Great for a short, scenic evening cruise with relaxed vibes.
8. From Cairns: Half-Day Afternoon Cruise to Green Island
Number 8 is a 4-hour trip ideal for those who want a quick escape. The tour includes catamaran transport to Green Island, where you can snorkel, explore the rainforest, or relax on the beach. The glass-bottom boat offers easy reef viewing without getting wet.
Rated 4.3/5, this tour is perfect for travelers with limited time but wanting a taste of Green Island’s natural beauty. It balances activity and relaxation well.
Bottom line: Best for a short, flexible reef experience with island leisure.
9. Cairns: Great Barrier Reef and Fitzroy Island Boat Tour
Number 9 offers a full-day experience combining a visit to Moore Reef pontoon and Fitzroy Island. You’ll enjoy a buffet lunch and opportunities to snorkel, explore, and even use the waterslide on the reef. The self-guided nature walk on Fitzroy Island adds a light outdoor activity.
Rated 4.5/5, this tour is valued for its variety, making it suitable for families and active travelers alike. It offers a comprehensive look at reef and island ecosystems.
Bottom line: Excellent for those wanting to explore both reef and island in one day with relaxed options.
10. From Cairns: Green Island Half-Day Morning Cruise
Number 10 is an early start for travelers wanting to maximize reef time. This 4-hour cruise includes snorkeling and reef exploration on Green Island, along with time to relax or enjoy island amenities like the pool bar.
Rated 4.1/5, it’s a good choice if your schedule is tight but you still want reef adventures and island scenery.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who want a quick but complete reef and island experience.
11. From Cairns: Green Island Full-Day Cruise
Number 11 offers a 6-hour full-day visit to Green Island. It’s perfect for travelers wanting more time to snorkel, relax, or explore the island’s natural beauty, with options to see the reef from a glass bottom boat.
Rated 4.2/5, it balances leisure and activity, making it ideal for families or those wanting a leisurely day.
Bottom line: For travelers seeking an extended reef and island experience with flexible options.
12. Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Overnight Snorkeling Boat Trip
Number 12 offers an overnight stay on a reef boat, with full meals and snorkelling equipment. Additional highlights include sharks in the dark experience, adding excitement for adventurous travelers.
Rated 4.7/5 from 51 reviews, it’s perfect for those wanting a deeper dive into reef life without the rush of a day trip.
Bottom line: Ideal for serious snorkelers and reef enthusiasts wanting an immersive overnight trip.
13. Cairns: 2-Day Great Barrier Reef Dive and Snorkel Boat Trip
Number 13 caters to those wanting multi-day reef adventures. The small-group, boutique atmosphere allows exploration of 25 moorings at 9 reefs over two days, with options for diving or snorkeling.
Rated 4.6/5, this tour offers intimate reef exploration and the chance to meet fellow travelers with similar interests.
Bottom line: Best for dedicated reef lovers seeking a relaxed, multi-day experience.
14. Green Island Fly & Cruise Package
Number 14 combines a scenic flight with a full-day cruise, offering perhaps the most comprehensive island experience. The 40-minute Reef Hopper flight provides aerial views of Green Island and Arlington Reef, followed by a cruise with buffet lunch and optional glass-bottom or snorkeling activities.
Rated 4.3/5, this tour appeals to travelers wanting a bird’s-eye view before exploring the reef and island.
Bottom line: For those wanting a premium, all-in-one experience with scenic flight and full-day cruise.
15. Cairns: Sightseeing River Boat Safari with Soft Drinks
Rounding out our list at number 15, this 75-minute river cruise offers a relaxed way to see Cairns’ mangrove-lined shores and wildlife. With informative commentary and scenic photography opportunities, it’s a gentle introduction to the city’s waterfront.
Rated 4.5/5, it’s perfect for travelers looking for a short, easy, and scenic activity in the city center.
Bottom line: Best for a quick, scenic overview of Cairns’ river environment.
How to Choose Your Cairns Boat Tour
Choosing the right boat tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re after a luxurious, full-day reef experience, the Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Premium Catamaran offers a high-end, eco-friendly day. For small group, intimate reef adventures, the Green Island & Reef Sailing Tour provides a personalized touch. Budget travelers might prefer shorter Green Island half-day cruises, while those seeking a scenic flight combined with reef exploration should consider the Fly & Cruise Package.
Timing also influences your choice. For example, the overnight reef trip is best for dedicated snorkelers with multiple days, while sunset and dinner cruises suit those wanting a relaxed evening. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the overnight or multi-day reef trips.
Final Thoughts
Cairns offers a wide range of boat tours and cruises that cater to all preferences, from quick island visits to multi-day reef adventures. If you’re seeking luxury and comfort, the Premium Catamaran Reef Cruise is hard to beat. For a more personalized experience, the sailing tours excel, especially on smaller vessels.
Don’t forget to book early, especially if you want to secure a spot on the popular overnight trips or helicopter-inclusive tours. Whatever your style, Cairns’s marine adventures promise unforgettable memories—so get ready to explore the world’s largest coral reef system in style.