• Combine a day of fishing with a day of snorkelling, a day on the Great Barrier Reef the whole family/group will enjoy
• We have two charter boats in Cairns perfect for a combination of snorkelling and fishing on the Great Barrier Reef. Both are fitted with the latest technology in safety and fish finding as well as an undercover decking area.
• The best value private charter snorkelling tour in Cairns on a selection of two private charter boats.

Cairns private charter snorkelling and fishing in Cairns. Choose to do a bit of reef fishing just off the Cairns coast on Australia's Great Barrier Reef. Up to 14 guests perfect day out for family, friends and any other types of groups

What to Expect

There is no better way to experience the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns than on your own charter boat for the day, choose from a private charter snorkelling tour or add on some fishing to give you the opportunity to taste some of the best fish in the world the mighty reds of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

Meet your charter boat captain and crew on a 6:20 AM check-in at Cairns Marlin Marina (behind Shangri-La) for boarding one of our premium Cairns charter boats. The 6:30 AM departure kicks off your unforgettable day on Australia's Great Barrier Reef. After a 90-minute boat journey, you’ll arrive at your snorkelling destination and enjoy a brief introduction on how to use the snorkelling gear and or fishing rods from our expert crew.

The day includes a fully catered lunch, with options for upgrades upon request. Following your time on the water, you’ll depart the reef at around 2:00 PM and return to Cairns between 3:30–4:00 PM.

For those preferring a mix of activities on the reef, opt for our private charter snorkel tours perfect for those who want a bit of everything. After your morning at sea fishing enjoy an optional afternoon snorkelling in the pristine waters of the Great Barrier Reef—all though our exclusive private snorkelling tours Cairns.

Features and Highlights

Cairns Charter Boat Options:

We offer three premium Cairns charter boats: Serranidae can carry 1-16 passengers, the Aqua Cat can carry 1-14 passengers, and the Blue Whaler can carry 1-12 passengers. 

Onboard Amenities

All of our charter boats feature spacious undercover decking areas, seating for all passengers, full-size toilet facilities, a swim platform, and large refrigerated ice boxes to ensure your catch stays fresh for your evening meal. All necessary fishing gear is included, leaving you one less thing to worry about.

Cairns Private Charter Boat Tour Customisation:

After more than 15 years navigating the Great Barrier Reef, our family-owned business knows how to deliver the best private Great Barrier Reef tours Cairns. Our experienced crew works with you to tailor your snorkelling tour and fishing adventure to your group’s specific preferences—whether it's for corporate functions, birthdays, or just a friendly day out on the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns.

As its your private charter boat tour you will have the flexibility to adjust departure times and catering options to best suit your needs which can also make it handy for cruise ship passengers docking schedules.

Expert Support and Safety

No matter your snorkelling or fishing experience level, our crew is here to assist. From beginners to seasoned anglers, they provide tips and expert guidance throughout the trip. Safety is our number one priority, with our vessels fully equipped with modern safety features and navigational aids to ensure a smooth and worry-free experience.

Fishing Species

The Great Barrier Reef is home to a variety of fish species, including Coral Trout, Nannygai (Large & Small Mouth), Red Emperor, Trevally, and Spanish Mackerel. Depending on your luck, your catch might even end up as fresh sashimi during the day!

Practical Information

Attire: Comfortable, water-friendly footwear is recommended. Barefoot is acceptable but avoid heeled shoes. A long-sleeve shirt is recommended for sun protection.

What to Bring:

Essentials such as a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, towel, cash, and a camera.

Safety on Board: Our well-trained crew prioritises your safety, and our boats comply with the latest safety standards. Always follow crew instructions to ensure safe enjoyment for everyone aboard.

Dietary Requirements: We cater to all dietary requirements—just make sure to inform us at the time of booking.

Fishing & Snorkelling Seasonality

Reef fishing conditions in Cairns remain consistent year-round, although seasonal changes during the green season months of January to March may slow bottom fishing while pelagic species like Mackerel or Tuna become more active.

Our private great barrier reef tours Cairns ensure that your experience remains outstanding no matter when you visit.

Crocodile Safety

While saltwater and freshwater crocodiles are found in certain parts of Cairns, they're not present in our fishing or snorkelling locations, so you can enjoy peace of mind while aboard.

FAQs

• What types of shoes should I wear on a fishing charter?
• Comfortable water-resistant shoes are best. Barefoot is encouraged, but thongs and high heels are not permitted.
• Do I need to be an experienced angler?
• No prior experience is necessary. Our crew is ever ready to help beginners, while seasoned anglers can enjoy the thrill of deeper-sea fishing.
• What should I bring on board?
• We recommend bringing your hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, towel, camera, and cash while we provide everything you need for fishing. –
• How many people will be on the boat?** A private charter snorkelling tour can be organised for as few as one passenger if necessary. Our Cairns charter boats comfortably accommodate up to 12 or 14 guests.
• What are the best months for deep sea fishing in Cairns?
• Fisheries in Cairns are fairly stable year-round, though the summer months may have slightly slower bottom fishing due to warmer waters.
• Are there bathrooms on the boat?
• Yes, both vessels are equipped with large, fully functional bathroom facilities.

Meet the Crew

With over 15 years of expertise guiding tours on the Great Barrier Reef, our crew consists of passionate fishing and snorkelling experts:

Looking for the best value private charter boat in Cairns for a snorkelling tour that can combine some fishing is right here. Our private boat charters cater to it all. Whether it’s reef fishing Cairns, private snorkelling tours Cairns, or a private Great Barrier Reef tour, your perfect trip awaits.

• Peter – Senior Skipper: Prefers Saddle Tail Snapper and enjoys deep?water fishing, always recommending you relax and savour the day.
• Deano & Connor – Deck Crew: Known as the best deckys on the East Coast, they specialize in targeting Reef Jacks around coral bommies (and believe cold beer can never be too cold!).
• Beck – Administration/Marketing: Passionate about the reef, he loves seeing your photos and hearing about your catches, especially Red Emperor.

This comprehensive Cairns private charter experience combines fishing Cairns with top?rated private snorkelling tours in Cairns and is recognized as one of the best private charter snorkelling Cairns options. Whether you choose our fishing adventure, the combined fishing and snorkelling tour, or the twilight cruise, you are guaranteed an exceptional day on the Great Barrier Reef.

Cairns Sunset Cruises

For guests seeking a relaxing end to their day, the two-hour twilight sunset cruise is also available. Enjoy dinner (BBQ Chicken Tacos, salads, and drink options) and watch breathtaking sunsets as you cruise along Cairns' scenic inlets and waterways.

See all Cairns charter boats and Port Douglas charter boats for snorkel tours and a spot of fishing on the Great Barrier Reef.

For luxury yacht charters speak to the crew at YOTSPACE.

Learn more about the Great Barrier Reef on our blog.

Private Fishing Boat Charter from Cairns

There is no better way to make the most of your Tropical North Queensland fishing trip than chartering the whole boat for yourself.

We depart from Cairns Marina.

• Check-in at the Cairns Marlin Marina (behind Shangri-La), D Finger at 6:20am, departure/return times can be altered for private charters but we do need to return by 4.30 pm at the latest
• Depart for the reef, travel time is 90 minutes minimum
• Once we find our destination, we will give a short briefing on reef fishing technique
• Lunch on the boat around midday
• Depart the reef for the trip home around 2pm.
• Return between 3:30-4:00pm
• Have your catch cooked at one of our local restaurants (needs to be pre-organised, please advise at time of booking)

Trust our crew, with over 15 years experience they know the best sand cays and coral reefs for snorkelling and fishing on the Great Barrier Reef.

With a full day boat charter, you have total exclusive use of the entire fishing boat and the opportunity to tailor your day to suit your group’s needs.

This might involve a flexible departure time and the optional inclusion of upgrading to a swank catering package.(BYO alcohol in cans only)

A day fishing on the Great Barrier Reef is a good option for corporate business functions, Christmas parties, birthdays or for wedding group holidays.

We can cater for up to 14 guests.

This is a full-on nine-hour day private fishing charter that will have you reeling in some fantastic table fish to take home. 

Twilight/Sunset Cruise

Duration: 2 hours

5.00pm check in for 5.30pm departure, arrives back to Cairns Marina by 7:30pm

A private twilight charter aboard one of our vessels is a great idea for corporate functions, birthdays, Christmas party’s or any time you want to get a group of friends together and enjoy the calm inlets & waterways of Cairns as the sun sets.

Have exclusive use of the whole boat, the cruise can be tailored to your requirements with catering packages and upgrades available on request.

Inclusions:

• Up to 18 guests
• Dinner and drinks (non-alcoholic) included
• Menu includes: BBQ Chicken Taco's, Salads & Condiments

Optional Extra - Catering upgrades available including Seafood Platter, avaolable upon request.

Note: BYO Alcohol

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Cairns

Departure Time

• Day charter: 6.30am - Return 4.30pm latest
• Sunset charter: 5.30pm - Returns 7.30pm

Departure Instructions

• Day charter: check-in 6.20am at the Cairns Marlin Marina (behind Shangri-La), D Finger for a 6:30am departure
• Sunset charter: check-in 5.00pm at the Cairns Marlin Marina (behind Shangri-La), D Finger for a 5.30pm departure

Destinations

• Great Barrier Reef
• Sunset Twilight Cruise: Cairns Inlet

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Daily

Not available Christmas Day and Boxing Day

Duration

Day charter: 9 hours approx
Sunset charter: 2 hours

Available for Purchase / Hire

• Seafood Upgrade: $40 per person
• Breakfast Egg, Bacon & Cheese Roll: $12 per person
• Merchandise: caps, T-shirts, stubby coolers
• Sunset Twilight Cruise: catering upgrades available including Seafood Platter

Fitness Level Required

Low, Medium

• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Camera
• Towel
• Cash for beer, soft drinks or merchandise
• Alcohol (no glass, light & mid strength only)

• Kids from the age of 7 and up are more than welcome on board the Cairns Reef Fishing fleet and to have a go at getting a big catch.
• Please contact us if you have younger children travelling with you.
• Children must be supervised at all times.