- Barrier Reef Australia
- Things To Do
- Cairns Island Tour - Michaelmas Cay Cruise
- Barrier Reef Australia
- Things To Do
- Cairns Island Tour - Michaelmas Cay Cruise
Tour Code: 125
Prices From
au$213
Prices are AUD, per adult and include all levies fees and taxes.
Child:
au$111.50
Family: au$543.00
Be as active or relaxed as you like, the choice is yours!
Snorkel in the calm waters off Michaelmas Cay
Great for families and first-timers, you can snorkel straight off the beach into the calm, shallow waters of Michaelmas Cay. The fringing reef surrounding the Cay is rich with colourful and varied marine life and is renowned for its abundance of giant clams. Around 90 per cent of the Reef’s diversity is in the top four metres of the water.
View the coral reef from a semi-submarine
Hop on a semi-submersible submarine and get a fish-eye view of the stunning underwater scenery. This is a fabulous way to experience the beauty of the Reef whilst staying dry and is perfect for non-swimmers.
Dive the Reef
Experience what it’s like to breathe underwater on an introductory scuba dive (extra cost) in the shallow, calm waters off Michaelmas Cay. You'll receive a thorough briefing and participate in practice exercises before you commence your dive adventure. No experience is necessary and you’ll have an experienced dive instructor by your side the whole time.
Highlights
- Discover an amazing array of birdlife on Michaelmas Cay on the Great Barrier Reef
- Great for families and beginner snorkellers and divers
- Snorkel in the calm, shallow waters off the beach at Michaelmas Cay
- Stay dry and view the spectacular fringing reef and diverse marine life from a semi submarine
Perfect Selfie
- With the amazing array of birdlife and sea life and the pristine surroundings at Michaelmas Cay, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Snap yourself on the pristine beach or snorkelling with a friendly green sea turtle.
Share your selfie on our Facebook page and tag your best Instagram pics with #barrierreefaustralia for your chance to be featured.
Itinerary
Michaelmas Cay
Michaelmas Cay is a small, vegetated sand island surrounded by a spectacular fringing reef. It is located on the western tip of Michaelmas Reef 43km north-east of Cairns.
Heaven for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts
Declared a national park in 1975, Michaelmas Cay is an important bird sanctuary and home to over 23 species of seabirds. At the height of nesting and breeding season (during summer months) up to 20,000 birds have been observed. The Cay is also rich with a myriad of sea life including green sea turtles (which occasionally nest there), molluscs and hundreds of species of tropical reef fish including Humphead Maori Wrasse. The reef surrounding the Cay is known for its abundance of giant clams.
Snorkelling off Michaelmas Cay
Families and first-timers will love the easy access of snorkelling straight off the beach into the calm, shallow waters of Michaelmas Cay. The reef surrounding the Cay is rich with colourful and varied marine life and coral formations.
All your snorkelling equipment will be provided and a briefing will be given by your guide on how to use your equipment as well as tips on how to snorkel, to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable time in the water.
If you would like to learn more about the Reef, for an extra cost you can join a guided snorkel tour with a marine biologist.
Semi-submersible submarine coral viewing tour
If you prefer to stay dry, you can view the Reef from the comfort of an air-conditioned semi-submersible submarine. On this 30-minute tour, you'll descend approximately one metre below the water's surface and cruise with a fish-eye view of the Reef and its inhabitants. View pristine coral, colourful fish, giant clams and maybe even a sea turtle as you cruise through this amazing underwater world.
Introduction to scuba diving (optional activity – not included in tour price)
The shallow, calm waters off Michaelmas Cay offer a perfect environment for first-time divers. No experience is necessary and you’ll have an experienced dive instructor by your side throughout the dive.
After a briefing and some basic skills practice, you’ll be ready to commence your dive adventure amongst the stunning coral formations and colourful fish. At the completion of your first scuba dive, you’ll receive a certificate of recognition and wonderful memories to last a lifetime.
Included In Price
- Return cruise from Cairns
- Morning tea
- Delicious hot and cold buffet lunch, including seafood
- Fish feeding presentation
- Snorkelling equipment and instruction
- Buoyancy vests
- Marine biologist presentation
- Semi-submersible coral viewing tour with commentary
- Afternoon Tea
- Glass of complimentary sparkling wine with cheese and crackers on return journey
- Lycra suits
- Water
Tour Languages Offered
English
EnglishDeparts From
Cairns
Departure Time
8:30am departure
Departure Instructions
- If making own arrangements, please check in at 07:45am at Reef Fleet Terminal. 1 Spence St Cairns.
- Optional coach transfers available from Cairns, Cairns Beaches and Palm Cove accommodation.
Pickup Locations
- Cairns
- Cairns Northern Beaches
- Palm Cove
Destinations
Michaelmas Cay
Months of Operation
January - December
Days of Operation
Daily
Does not operate on Christmas Day
Duration
8.5 hours experience with 4 hours on the Reef
What to Bring
- Camera
- Towel
- Hat
- Swimming costume
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Cash/Credit Card for onboard purchases.
Available for Purchase / Hire
- Introductory scuba diving (pre-booking recommended)
- Coach transfers from accommodation
Fitness Level Required
Low
Restrictions
Scuba Diving – minimum age 12
IN-WATER RESTRICTIONS
Scuba Diving Restrictions
- Certain medical conditions and medications may preclude some people from scuba diving.
- Participation is subject to a medical questionnaire completed on board with the tour operator
- Minimum age for scuba diving is 12 years.
- Flying after scuba diving: A wait of 12 hours is recommended but preferably 24 hours, if doing multiple dives, before ascending to an altitude of 300 metres or greater.
Read more about Diving Safety on the Great Barrier Reef.
Child Policy
- 0-3 years are free of charge
- 4-14 years inclusive, child rate applies
- Family Fare: 2 Adults and 2 Children
Cancellation Policy
All cancellations must be in writing. Please note that all cancellations will incur an administration fee. Please see our terms and conditions for details prior to booking.
- Cancellations made between 12 midday and 5.00pm on the day prior to travel incur a 50% cancellation fee.
- Cancellations made after 5.00pm on the day prior to travel incur a 100% cancellation fee.
Additional Information
- Diving activities subject to medical questionnaire.
- Recommended wait of 12 hours but preferably 24 hours, if doing multiple dives, before ascending to an altitude of 300 metres or greater.
- Snorkelling can be a strenuous activity. Please use caution and inform our crew of any medical conditions.
Eco Certifications
Customer Reviews
fernando m
Reviewed on October 27, 2018
Yes, a lot
SHIRLEY G
Reviewed on September 20, 2016
Loved our trip - staff & organisation on the trip, fantastic
Response From Barrier Reef Australia
Hi Shirley, thanks for your feedback. Ocean Spirit is a beautiful vessel and The Tour Specialists are pleased you experienced the fantastic service and experience at Michaelmas Cay this vessel is so well known for.
Hugh M
Reviewed on June 16, 2016
Well organized friendly service
Response From Barrier Reef Australia
The Ocean Spirit Crew are a great team to visit the Great Barrier Reef with and the Tour Specialists are pleased you enjoyed your day on the Great Barrier Reef & Michaelmas Cay.
Be as active or relaxed as you like, the choice is yours!
Snorkel in the calm waters off Michaelmas Cay
Great for families and first-timers, you can snorkel straight off the beach into the calm, shallow waters of Michaelmas Cay. The fringing reef surrounding the Cay is rich with colourful and varied marine life and is renowned for its abundance of giant clams. Around 90 per cent of the Reef’s diversity is in the top four metres of the water.
View the coral reef from a semi-submarine
Hop on a semi-submersible submarine and get a fish-eye view of the stunning underwater scenery. This is a fabulous way to experience the beauty of the Reef whilst staying dry and is perfect for non-swimmers.
Dive the Reef
Experience what it’s like to breathe underwater on an introductory scuba dive (extra cost) in the shallow, calm waters off Michaelmas Cay. You'll receive a thorough briefing and participate in practice exercises before you commence your dive adventure. No experience is necessary and you’ll have an experienced dive instructor by your side the whole time.
Highlights
- Discover an amazing array of birdlife on Michaelmas Cay on the Great Barrier Reef
- Great for families and beginner snorkellers and divers
- Snorkel in the calm, shallow waters off the beach at Michaelmas Cay
- Stay dry and view the spectacular fringing reef and diverse marine life from a semi submarine
Perfect Selfie
- With the amazing array of birdlife and sea life and the pristine surroundings at Michaelmas Cay, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Snap yourself on the pristine beach or snorkelling with a friendly green sea turtle.
Share your selfie on our Facebook page and tag your best Instagram pics with #barrierreefaustralia for your chance to be featured.
Itinerary
Michaelmas Cay
Michaelmas Cay is a small, vegetated sand island surrounded by a spectacular fringing reef. It is located on the western tip of Michaelmas Reef 43km north-east of Cairns.
Heaven for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts
Declared a national park in 1975, Michaelmas Cay is an important bird sanctuary and home to over 23 species of seabirds. At the height of nesting and breeding season (during summer months) up to 20,000 birds have been observed. The Cay is also rich with a myriad of sea life including green sea turtles (which occasionally nest there), molluscs and hundreds of species of tropical reef fish including Humphead Maori Wrasse. The reef surrounding the Cay is known for its abundance of giant clams.
Snorkelling off Michaelmas Cay
Families and first-timers will love the easy access of snorkelling straight off the beach into the calm, shallow waters of Michaelmas Cay. The reef surrounding the Cay is rich with colourful and varied marine life and coral formations.
All your snorkelling equipment will be provided and a briefing will be given by your guide on how to use your equipment as well as tips on how to snorkel, to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable time in the water.
If you would like to learn more about the Reef, for an extra cost you can join a guided snorkel tour with a marine biologist.
Semi-submersible submarine coral viewing tour
If you prefer to stay dry, you can view the Reef from the comfort of an air-conditioned semi-submersible submarine. On this 30-minute tour, you'll descend approximately one metre below the water's surface and cruise with a fish-eye view of the Reef and its inhabitants. View pristine coral, colourful fish, giant clams and maybe even a sea turtle as you cruise through this amazing underwater world.
Introduction to scuba diving (optional activity – not included in tour price)
The shallow, calm waters off Michaelmas Cay offer a perfect environment for first-time divers. No experience is necessary and you’ll have an experienced dive instructor by your side throughout the dive.
After a briefing and some basic skills practice, you’ll be ready to commence your dive adventure amongst the stunning coral formations and colourful fish. At the completion of your first scuba dive, you’ll receive a certificate of recognition and wonderful memories to last a lifetime.
Included In Price
- Return cruise from Cairns
- Morning tea
- Delicious hot and cold buffet lunch, including seafood
- Fish feeding presentation
- Snorkelling equipment and instruction
- Buoyancy vests
- Marine biologist presentation
- Semi-submersible coral viewing tour with commentary
- Afternoon Tea
- Glass of complimentary sparkling wine with cheese and crackers on return journey
- Lycra suits
- Water
Tour Languages Offered
- English
Departs From
Cairns
Departure Time
8:30am departure
Departure Instructions
- If making own arrangements, please check in at 07:45am at Reef Fleet Terminal. 1 Spence St Cairns.
- Optional coach transfers available from Cairns, Cairns Beaches and Palm Cove accommodation.
Pickup Locations
- Cairns
- Cairns Northern Beaches
- Palm Cove
Destinations
Michaelmas Cay
Months of Operation
January - December
Days of Operation
Daily
Does not operate on Christmas Day
Duration
8.5 hours experience with 4 hours on the Reef
What to Bring
- Camera
- Towel
- Hat
- Swimming costume
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Cash/Credit Card for onboard purchases.
Available for Purchase / Hire
- Introductory scuba diving (pre-booking recommended)
- Coach transfers from accommodation
Fitness Level Required
Low
Restrictions
Scuba Diving – minimum age 12
IN-WATER RESTRICTIONS
Scuba Diving Restrictions
- Certain medical conditions and medications may preclude some people from scuba diving.
- Participation is subject to a medical questionnaire completed on board with the tour operator
- Minimum age for scuba diving is 12 years.
- Flying after scuba diving: A wait of 12 hours is recommended but preferably 24 hours, if doing multiple dives, before ascending to an altitude of 300 metres or greater.
Read more about Diving Safety on the Great Barrier Reef.
Child Policy
- 0-3 years are free of charge
- 4-14 years inclusive, child rate applies
- Family Fare: 2 Adults and 2 Children
Cancellation Policy
All cancellations must be in writing. Please note that all cancellations will incur an administration fee. Please see our terms and conditions for details prior to booking.
- Cancellations made between 12 midday and 5.00pm on the day prior to travel incur a 50% cancellation fee.
- Cancellations made after 5.00pm on the day prior to travel incur a 100% cancellation fee.
Additional Information
- Diving activities subject to medical questionnaire.
- Recommended wait of 12 hours but preferably 24 hours, if doing multiple dives, before ascending to an altitude of 300 metres or greater.
- Snorkelling can be a strenuous activity. Please use caution and inform our crew of any medical conditions.
Eco Certifications
Customer Reviews
fernando m
Reviewed on October 27, 2018
Yes, a lot
SHIRLEY G
Reviewed on September 20, 2016
Loved our trip - staff & organisation on the trip, fantastic
Response From Barrier Reef Australia
Hi Shirley, thanks for your feedback. Ocean Spirit is a beautiful vessel and The Tour Specialists are pleased you experienced the fantastic service and experience at Michaelmas Cay this vessel is so well known for.
Hugh M
Reviewed on June 16, 2016
Well organized friendly service
Response From Barrier Reef Australia
The Ocean Spirit Crew are a great team to visit the Great Barrier Reef with and the Tour Specialists are pleased you enjoyed your day on the Great Barrier Reef & Michaelmas Cay.
Tour Code: 125
Prices From
au$213
Prices are AUD, per adult and include all levies fees and taxes.
Child:
au$111.50
Family: au$543.00
Why Book With Barrier Reef Australia?
- Best Prices Guaranteed
- 7 Day Support
- Great Barrier Reef Experts
- Personalised Experiences
