Every day, dozens of boats leave the port for the Great Barrier Reef on scuba diving and snorkelling day trips.
For this service we recommend Silver Series. They aren't the cheapest but their facilities and equipment are first rate. The boats are new and equipped with technology that keeps movement of the craft to a minimum, avoiding seasickness. Onboard breakfast and lunch are delicious (you might be served sushi), and it's the only company that makes 3 stops in one day.
In addition the crew is very professional and vigilant of the safety of passengers at all times. They will give a mini class explaining what you'll see on the reef as well as some tips for how to swim underwater.
You'll stay at the reef for more or less 5 hours, though with the outgoing and return journeys the day trip takes up the entire day. The boat leaves the Port of Cairns at 8:30 am and returns at 4:30 pm. The boat trip itself is also nice.
Prices: includes trip to the reef, all diving equipment, breakfast and lunch buffet.
- 3 snorkelling stops: 210 AU$ (150€-110£)
- 1 dive + 2 snorkelling stops (certified divers): 265 AU$ (180€-130£)
- 2 dives + 1 snorkelling stop (certified divers): 285 AU$ (195€-145£)
- 3 dives (certified divers): 300 AU$ (205€-150£)
- Add 6,5 AU$ per person for environmental tax.
- Add 22 AU$ if you want to be picked up and dropped off at your hotel (it's worth it because of the convenience).
Other companies operating in Cairns:
We recommend making reservations in advance, as availability is not always guaranteed!
