Full Day Tour to Sunlover Cruises Moore Reef and Fitzroy Island

Full Day Tour to Sunlover Cruises Moore Reef and Fitzroy Island

Planning a day at the Great Barrier Reef can feel overwhelming with so many options—and so much to see. Luckily, this full-day trip from Cairns combines two top experiences into one seamless adventure: exploring Moore Reef’s vibrant coral gardens and relaxing on Fitzroy Island’s pristine beaches. For around $200 per person, you get nearly nine hours of guided activities, with plenty of chances to snorkel, gaze at marine life through glass-bottom boats, and unwind under the sun.

What we love about this tour are the well-organized schedule and the variety of activities included. Whether you’re a snorkel enthusiast or just looking for a scenic escape, the spacious pontoon at Moore Reef offers clear, calm waters ideal for swimming and exploring. Plus, the free time on Fitzroy Island provides a welcome break from the underwater world, with options to relax at Zephyrs restaurant with a buffet lunch or wander self-guided trails through lush national park scenery.

A small caveat is that the tour’s timing can be tight, especially if you’re interested in additional activities like helicopter flights or guided kayak tours, which cost extra. Also, the onboard amenities lean towards a practical setup—no WiFi and some items at a premium—so come prepared. This trip suits adventurous travelers eager to see the reef and enjoy some downtime on an island, especially those who appreciate well-organized tours with a variety of inclusions and the chance to enjoy the natural beauty of Australia’s tropical north.

Key Points

• Two experiences in one day: Combines Moore Reef’s marine wonderland with Fitzroy Island’s relaxed beaches.
• All-included activities: Snorkeling gear, semi-submarine, glass-bottom boat, water slide, and buffet lunch.
• Excellent reviews for guides and crew: Friendly, helpful staff make the day more enjoyable.
• Limited free time on the reef: Most of your time is scheduled, so plan your activities accordingly.
• Good value for the price: Multiple activities and scenic stops, with positive comments on overall experience.
• Weather-dependent: A perfect day depends on clear skies; rain or thunderstorms can impact the tour.

An In-Depth Look at the Full Day Experience

Starting Early for a Full Day of Adventure

The day begins early at Cairns, with check-in starting at 7:00 am at the Reef Fleet Terminal. The tour departs promptly at 8:00 am aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned catamaran. The vessel is designed for a smooth ride out to Moore Reef, roughly a 1.5-hour journey, giving you time to settle in and enjoy coffee or tea while the crew welcomes you onboard.

The Moore Reef Pontoon: Underwater Wonderland

Arriving at Moore Reef around 9:30 am, you’re greeted by a spacious pontoon loaded with activities. This floating platform is the main highlight, offering a variety of ways to explore marine life. The standard inclusions—snorkeling gear, a semi-submarine tour (subject to conditions), a glass-bottom boat, and a waterslide—cater to all comfort levels and ages.

Many travelers rave about the clarity of the water and the vibrant coral reefs visible from the semi-sub and glass-bottom boats. As quoted, “My wife and I had an absolutely unforgettable experience,” and “the snorkel was fabulous with lots of fish and coral to see.” The underwater observatory is another perk, allowing those without gear to enjoy the colorful reef from above.

The Reef Experience: What’s Included and What’s Not

While snorkeling gear is provided, some reviews note that additional activities like helmet dives or guided snorkels** cost extra. Guided tours and photography services are optional and also paid separately. The reef’s environment is breathtaking, but the timing of 2.5 hours can feel short if you’re eager to linger. Still, most visitors find this enough time to see a good variety of marine life.

Lunch and Relaxation on Fitzroy Island

At around 12:45 pm, the boat departs Moore Reef to arrive at Fitzroy Island. Here, you’ll find ample time—about three hours—to kick back or explore. The buffet lunch at Zephyrs restaurant is a highlight, especially since it offers overlooking Welcome Bay, giving you a scenic meal with a view. Reviewers mention the food is good but note that vegetarian options are limited, a point to consider if you have dietary preferences.

Once nourished, you can stroll the island’s self-guided trails through lush rainforest, relax on quiet beaches, or take advantage of optional activities like kayaking, guided rainforest tours, or visiting the turtle rehabilitation centre—each available at an additional cost.

The Return Journey and Overall Pacing

The boat departs Fitzroy Island at 3:30 pm for the return trip, arriving back in Cairns by 4:30 pm. The overall schedule is tight enough to fit in both reef and island in one day, but some travelers note that lunch is hurried, and there’s limited time to explore Fitzroy fully. Still, the flexibility to relax and enjoy the scenery without rushing is a plus.

Honest Feedback from Past Travelers

Multiple reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable crew, with many saying they felt well taken care of throughout the day. “Abi the snorkeling instructor was great,” one reviewer notes, emphasizing the professional approach. The clean, spacious pontoon and good value for money are common themes, with many calling it a “fantastic day out” and “definitely worth the money.”

A few suggestions for improvement include the semi-submarine’s visibility issues due to dirty windows and the shorter time on the reef compared to the island. Some also mention that everything onboard is at a premium—snacks, drinks, or camera gear—so packing accordingly will enhance your experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early for check-in to ensure a smooth start.
• Bring your own reef essentials if you want longer or guided snorkeling, as extras are paid.
• Prepare for the weather: It can be hot and humid, so hats, sunscreen, and water are essential.
• Book optional activities in advance if interested; they’re not included in the main price.
• Be ready for a busy schedule: Expect a full day with minimal downtime.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a comprehensive day in the tropics without the hassle of organizing multiple tours. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors eager to see the reef’s highlights and enjoy some downtime on Fitzroy Island. If you value friendly guides, well-organized activities, and a balance of adventure and relaxation, this tour is a strong choice.

However, if you’re after a more in-depth reef experience or want to spend more time snorkeling or on Fitzroy Island, you might find this tour a bit rushed. It’s best suited for those who appreciate organized convenience paired with scenic beauty.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For around $200, this tour packs a lot into a single day—reef exploration, island leisure, and scenic views—delivered with helpful, friendly staff. It’s a great way to tick off multiple must-see destinations in the Cairns area without booking separate trips, saving money and time.

The strengths lie in the diverse activities and the quality of the crew, ensuring you feel supported whether you’re snorkeling, enjoying the buffet, or relaxing on Fitzroy’s beaches. The main consideration is the schedule, which might feel a bit compressed for those wanting to linger longer in one spot.

This tour offers excellent value for those eager to experience the Great Barrier Reef and a tropical island in one satisfying day, especially if you’re not looking for a deep dive into one activity but rather a taste of the best the region has to offer.

FAQ

Is there an age restriction for this tour?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, but the minimum age for Seawalker Helmet dive is 12 years old, with some medical conditions applying.

How long do we spend at Moore Reef?
You’ll have approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes on the reef platform, which includes snorkeling, semi-submarine, and glass-bottom boat activities.

What’s included in the reef experience?
Snorkeling gear, glass-bottom boat, semi-submarine (subject to wind), waterslide, underwater observatory, and ocean pool are part of the standard package.

Can I do additional activities?
Yes, but extras such as guided snorkel tours, helmet dives, helicopter flights, kayak tours, and professional photos are available at extra costs.

What about food and drinks?
A buffet lunch is included, with coffee and tea available. Snacks and additional drinks can be purchased onboard at the bar.

How is the weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. Clear skies make for the best experience; thunderstorms or rain can lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

Is WiFi available onboard?
No, the boat does not offer WiFi, so plan accordingly—come prepared for a tech-free day if needed.

Whether you’re after colorful coral, playful fish, or a relaxing island escape, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Cairns’ tropical treasures. Combining convenience with variety, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to see the reef and unwind in one go.