• Enjoy 2 hours at Moore Reef Pontoon + 3 Hours at Fitzroy Island (including lunch) 
• Multi-level pontoon at Moore Reef complete with supersized sundeck and the only theme park style spaghetti waterslide on the Reef!
• Explore Fitzroy Island by self guided walking trails and visit Nudey Beach, go snorkelling from the island, or simply relax at the Island.
• Enjoy a range of inclusive activities at Moore Reef Pontoon - including Coral viewing tours in a glass bottom boat and semi-submersible tour plus underwater observatory.

This is the one and only Great Barrier Reef tour that takes you to Fitzroy Island and the outer Great Barrier Reef to spend the afternoon on a pontoon on the one day!

What to Expect

Experience the ultimate Great Barrier Reef tour with our Fitzroy Island and Sunlover Pontoon Combo Package. This all-in-one tour includes a morning visit to the Moore Reef Pontoon, followed by an afternoon exploring the natural beauty of Fitzroy Island. Ideal for all ages and activity levels, this Great Barrier Reef tour offers snorkelling, glass bottom boat tours, semi-submersible submarine rides, and more. Add optional helicopter rides for a unique aerial view of the reef.

Features and Highlights

Moore Reef Pontoon

• Departure and Arrival: Depart Cairns at 8:00 AM and arrive at Moore Reef Pontoon by 9:30 AM.
• Pontoon Activities: Enjoy two hours of fun with snorkelling, glass bottom boat tours, semi-submersible submarine rides, and the unique 30-meter spiral waterslide.
• Marine Life Encounters: Meet Wally, the friendly giant Maori Wrasse, and explore the vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life.
• Optional Extras: Enhance your Great Barrier Reef tour experience with guided snorkelling tours, Seawalker helmet dives, and 10-minute helicopter scenic flights.

Fitzroy Island

• Arrival and Lunch: Arrive at Fitzroy Island at 12:15 PM and enjoy lunch at the ocean view restaurant "Zephyr."
• Island Activities: Spend two hours exploring the island's beaches, hiking trails, and snorkelling spots. Visit the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre for an educational tour.
• Return to Cairns: Depart Fitzroy Island at 3:30 PM and arrive back in Cairns by 4:30 PM.

Fitzroy Island and Sunlover Pontoon Combo Package Itinerary

Cruise Both Ways

• 7:00 AM: Check-in opens
• 7:30 AM: Check-in closes
• 8:00 AM: Depart Cairns to Moore Reef Pontoon
• 9:30 AM: Arrive at Moore Reef Pontoon
• 11:30 AM: Depart Moore Reef
• 12:15 PM: Arrive at Fitzroy Island
• 12:30-1:30 PM: Lunch
• 1:30-3:30 PM: Island exploration
• 3:30 PM: Depart Fitzroy Island
• 4:30 PM: Arrive back in Cairns

Helicopter Fly/Cruise/Cruise Option

• 9:00 AM: Check-in
• 9:30 AM: Depart Cairns Marina Heliport
• 10:00 AM: Arrive at Moore Reef Pontoon
• 11:30 AM: Depart Moore Reef
• 12:15 PM: Arrive at Fitzroy Island
• 12:30-1:30 PM: Lunch
• 1:30-3:30 PM: Island exploration
• 3:30 PM: Depart Fitzroy Island
• 4:30 PM: Arrive back in Cairns

Helicopter Cruise/Fly Option

• 7:00 AM: Check-in opens
• 7:30 AM: Check-in closes
• 8:00 AM: Depart Cairns to Moore Reef Pontoon
• 9:30 AM: Arrive at Moore Reef Pontoon
• 11:15 AM: Depart Moore Reef
• 11:40 AM: Arrive back in Cairns

Moore Reef Pontoon Activities

• Snorkelling: Dive into the clear waters and explore the stunning coral formations and vibrant marine life.
• Glass Bottom Boat Tour: Ideal for non-swimmers, enjoy a guided tour of the reef without getting wet.
• Semi-Submersible Submarine Tour: Experience the reef from below the surface in air-conditioned comfort.
• Spaghetti Waterslide: Unique to our pontoon, this slide is a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Optional Extras: Enhance your visit with guided snorkelling tours, Seawalker helmet dives, and scenic helicopter flights.

Fitzroy Island Activities

• Snorkelling and Swimming: Enjoy the fringing coral reefs and clear waters.
• Hiking: Explore the island’s walking tracks, including the summit and lighthouse treks.
• Turtle Rehabilitation Centre: Learn about the conservation efforts and meet the turtles being rehabilitated.
• Relaxation: Unwind on the beach or enjoy a meal at Foxy’s Bar.

Optional Extras on Fitzroy Island

• Turtle Talk: Learn about the local turtle species and conservation efforts.
• Kayak Tour: Explore the island’s waters on a guided kayak adventure.
• Nature Talk: Discover the island’s unique flora and fauna on a guided walk.
• Rainforest Walk: Immerse yourself in the island’s rainforest with a guided tour to the Secret Garden.

Enjoy a full day of adventure and relaxation on this comprehensive tour of the Great Barrier Reef and Fitzroy Island. Book now for an unforgettable experience!

Famous fish encounters are made here every day with Wally the photo bombing giant Maori Wrasse fish who is like a playful puppy and all of his other friends.

If you do not wish to do it all in a day then enjoy Moore Reef Pontoon and Fitzroy Island over two separate days - view here: Sunlover Pontoon & Fitzroy Island - 2-Day Reef & Fitzroy Island

Or just one or the other: Moore Reef Pontoon only, Fitzroy Island only

Itinerary

​Cruise Both Ways

• 7:00 AM Check in Opens
• 7:30 AM Check in Closes
• 8:00 AM Depart Cairns to Moore Reef Pontoon
• 9:30 AM Arrive at Moore Reef Pontoon
• 2 Hours of Pontoon Fun
• 11:30 AM Reboard and Depart Moore Reef
• 12:15 PM Arrive at Fitzroy Island
• 12:30-1:30 PM Lunch
• 2 Hours of Island Fun
• 3:30 PM Depart Fitzroy Island
• 4.30 PM Arrive Back in Cairns

We also offer a Fly/Cruise/Cruise and Cruise/Fly options; these options offer you a longer Great Barrier Reef scenic helicopter flight.

See below modified itineraries:

Fly/Cruise/Cruise

Enjoy a later start of the day and a 

• 0900 - Check in
• 0930 - Depart Cairns Marina Heliport
• 1000 - Arrive at Moore Reef Pontoon
• 1000 - 1130 – 1.5 hours of Pontoon Fun
• 1130 - Reboard the boat and Depart Moore Reef
• 1215 - Arrive at Fitzroy Island
• 1230 - 1330 – Lunch (on the boat)
• 1330 -1530 – 2 hours of Island Fun
• 1530 - Depart Fitzroy Island
• 1630 - Arrive In Cairns Marina

Cruise/Fly

Enjoy an early return into Cairns

Please note the flight back to Cairns is from Moore Reef Pontoon, by selecting this option you will not get to visit Fitzroy Island.

• 7:00 AM Check in Opens
• 7:30 AM Check in Closes
• 8:00 AM Depart Cairns to Moore Reef Pontoon
• 9:30 AM Arrive at Moore Reef Pontoon
• 1.5 Hours of Pontoon Fun - (this may be shorter if the departure push back due to the weather event)
• 11:15 AM Depart Moore Reef
• 11:40 Arrive Back in Cairns

 

Moore Reef Pontoon - Great Barrier Reef Tour - 2 Hours

Our air-conditioned boat departs from Cairns Marlin Marina at 8.00am and reaches Moore Reef pontoon in a 1.5-hour journey.

Our pontoon is perfectly positioned and fully equipped. Guests of all ages will enjoy our facilities.

Younger guests can enjoy fun-filled moments in our enclosed ocean pool or experience the thrill of swirling down Sunlover’s 30-metre spiral waterslide into the tropical ocean pool.

Looking to stay dry?

Try our semi-submersible, glass-bottom boat tours or underwater observatory, where you can marvel at the most impressive natural fish tank to ensure that visitors of all ages and abilities can fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the reef, with its vibrant coral, fascinating marine life, including turtles, and more. 

For those who want even more adventure, why not add a guided-snorkel tour, a Seawalker helmet dive or a 10-minute helicopter reef scenic flight to your day.

For a bit of fun we even have a Spaghetti Style Waterslide, the only one of its kind on the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns, that will have you splashing directly into the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef.

This interactive activity platform also has two large dedicated dive platforms which makes getting in and out of the water quick and easy so you can enjoy snorkelling and exploring the reef at your own pace throughout the day. 

After two hours spent on the pontoon we are now off to beautiful Fitzroy Island.

Things To Do - State-of-the-art Pontoon at Moore Reef

The state-of-the-art, multi-level interactive pontoon at Moore Reef offers a super-sized sundeck to relax on.

And kids (big and small) will love the theme park style Spaghetti Waterslide, the only one of its kind on the Reef, that will have you splashing directly into the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef.

This spaghetti slide has made this the most popular Great Barrier Reef tour for families.

The pontoon also has two large dive platforms which make getting in and out of the water quick and easy so you can enjoy snorkelling and exploring the reef at your own pace throughout the day. 

Get straight into some snorkelling action, relax on the sundeck or enjoy some of the free activities such as the glass bottom boat rides, the semi-submersible submarine tours, pay regular visits to the underwater observatory to watch the under the under water world, listen to the informative fish feeding presentation, watch the kids enjoy the purpose built kids pool  and the waterslide. 

Snorkel on the Outer Great Barrier Reef

Snorkel amongst stunning coral formations and tropical rainbow-coloured fish that are unlike anything you’ve ever encountered. 

Take it easy as you float above the beautiful Moore Reef, or hold your breath and plunge deep to get a closer look at the magic of a giant purple clam, or clownfish darting in and out of a flowing sea anemone. Sea turtles and blacktip reef sharks are also a common site amongst the coral bommies.

It's here you will meet the famous Wally a giant sized Maori Wrasse fish that has such beautiful colours and a very cheeky playful personality to go with it.

He just loves to be in all your photos and to swim along with you and have a play. 

You will find lots of other fish are also as friendly like Wally such as the Parrot fish who also will not leave you alone as they are always looking for a bite to eat or to play. 

Bet you are thinking this is crazy fish do not have a brain, nor do they play, but our famous fish on the Great Barrier reef will change your minds forever!     

Glass Bottom Boat tour

The glass bottom boat tour is custom-made for learning more about the reef from a Marine Expert who drives you around the coral reefs and explains everything that you will see thru the glass at the bottom of the boat.

This is perfect for those who prefer not to get wet, aren’t strong swimmers, or are simply feeling a little waterlogged after snorkelling. 

No less detailed or impressive than a diving birds-eye view, you’ll view the stunning underwater world through the bottom of the boat, like looking through a looking glass.

View cabbage-shaped coral flowers; watch as sparkling yellow and blue parrotfish appear benath you. 

There will likely be more marine life than you can count, and you'll find out fascinating information from an onboard marine biologist about each species you spot.

Semi-Submersible Submarine Tour

Located one metre under the water's surface, the specially designed semi-submersible submarine tour will propel you in dry comfort to view all the coral formations and bommies around Moore Reef.

Enjoy thirty minutes of up-close coral reef and colourful marine life sights in air-conditioned comfort.

As part of the onboard submarine tour package, you'll also enjoy an interactive marine presentation, which you can listen to as you gaze through the windows at some of the Reef's rare marine species. 

Guided Snorkel Tour - Moore Reef Optional Extra

Join our guided Great Barrier Reef snorkel tour, where a marine expert guides you on a personal 35-minute snorkelling tour of the reef, exploring areas not accessible by others and highlighting brilliant corals and fascinating marine life in a small group of up to six guests.

Learn about the Great Barrier Reef marine ecosystem on this guided tour suitable for all abilities, including those who need assistance in the water.

Spot Nemo the clownfish, giant clams, rare species of fish and coral, sea turtles and much more.

Seawalker Helmet Dive - Moore Reef Optional Extra

 

Don’t miss out on the incredible opportunity to walk the sea floor and explore the mesmerising underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef without even getting your hair wet!

Our fully escorted Seawalker helmet dive allows you to descend 3.5 meters below sea level and walk along our underwater platform surrounded by breathtaking reef fish.

Our experienced PADI dive instructors ensure your safety and enjoyment throughout the entire journey.

Guests must be over 12 years of age to participate, and we even have a skilled photographer available to capture your unforgettable underwater adventure.

Seawalker helmet diving requires you to answer a medical questionnaire - view sample form here: Seawalker and Scuba Doo Medical.

All guests must review the medical checklist prior to booking.

10-Minute Helicopter Reef Scenic Flight - Moore Reef Optional Extra

To complete your Great Barrier Reef experience and see it from above, add on an unforgettable 10-minute helicopter ride over the reef.

Flights depart from our floating helipad at Moore Reef.

Enjoy a mesmerising 10-minute flight and marvel at the Great Barrier Reef views from the air, providing you with a chance to spot manta rays, turtles, and other marine life.

Capture a memory of a lifetime as you witness the magnificence of this world wonder. 

Fitzroy Island - 2 Hours

Once we arrive at Fitzroy Isalnd lunch will be served from at the ocean view restaurant "Zephyr" giving another 2 hours after that to enjoy the island.

With rugged, diverse landscapes, pristine beaches and a surrounding fringing coral reef, there's something for everyone to enjoy on Fitzroy Island.

You'll have two hours on Fitzroy island to explore the sites and be as active or relaxed as you like.

Discover unique wildlife and flora and soak up the incredible views as you hike along the island's many walking tracks; snorkel straight off the beach into the fringing coral reef and discover a world of diverse, colourful marine life and coral formations; or simply lie back on the white sand beach. 

After an amazing two hours on Fitzroy Island, it's time to hop back on the boat and cruise back to Cairns. 

See all the pontoon tours on the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns. 

Optional Extras on Fitzroy Island

Turtle Talk:

Experience the beauty of the rainforest and breathtaking beach views at Fitzroy Island, enhanced by a Turtle Talk—an integral part of your island adventure! Embark on a leisurely 500-meter stroll to the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, situated at the heart of the island. Here, passionate volunteers dedicate themselves to nurturing and healing sick and injured turtles.

Your tour includes an informative session led by a knowledgeable guide who will enlighten you about the diverse turtle species inhabiting the region. Learn about the challenges these turtles face and the efforts taken to ensure their well-being and eventual return to their natural environment.

All proceeds from ticket sales contribute directly to the rehabilitation programs, supporting the ongoing care and release of these majestic creatures.

Schedule:

2:30 PM: Departure from the lobby
2:40 PM: Turtle Talk begins
3:05 PM: Conclusion of the talk
3:15 PM: Return for boarding

Note: No minimum age required. Children under 12 years old will need a parent or legal guardian present on the tour with them.

Kayak Tour:

Set off on an invigorating kayak expedition directly from the beach—a thrilling enhancement to your Fitzroy Island escapade! This 45-minute journey commences with a thorough briefing and instructional session to acquaint you with kayak handling. Your tour guide will allocate either single or double kayaks and furnish buoyancy vests to ensure safety throughout the adventure.

Navigate through the picturesque island scenery, soaking in the vistas while honing your paddling techniques. Participants should possess moderate fitness levels and be proficient swimmers to partake in this exhilarating experience.

Two Sessions Daily:

Session A:

1:30 PM: Meet at FISH (ready to go)
1:35 PM: Briefing
1:45 PM: In-water skills session
1:55 PM: Tour commences
2:15 PM: Conclusion

Session B:

2:30 PM: Meet at FISH (ready to go)
2:35 PM: Briefing
2:45 PM: In-water skills session
2:55 PM: Tour commences
3:15 PM: Conclusion

Note: Minimum age 5 years. Children under 12 years old will need a parent or legal guardian present on the tour with them. Kayak tour is not suitable for non swimmers.

Nature Talk:

Enjoy a leisurely walk beginning from the Jetty's end and extending past Foxys Bar and Grill—an enriching complement to your visit on Fitzroy Island! Join our guided Nature Talk for a chance to explore the island's fascinating vegetation up close.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, you'll delve into the distinctive rainforest terrain and its inhabitants. Encounter diverse wildlife native to Fitzroy Island and uncover the historical uses of indigenous plants. This tour caters to all ages, providing a gentle exploration suitable for both nature enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike.

Schedule:

1:30 PM: Departure from the lobby
1:50 PM: Tour concludes at Foxys

Note: No minimum age required. Children under 12 years old will need a parent or legal guardian present on the tour with them.

Rainforest Walk:

Explore deeper into Fitzroy Island with a guided journey to the Secret Garden, enriching your adventure with an immersive nature experience!

Embark on a 45-minute excursion along a 1km return track into the rainforest, led by our expert guide who will unveil intriguing insights about this unique ecosystem. Wander beneath the lush rainforest canopy, immersing yourself in the serene ambiance of this pristine environment. The Secret Garden is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, thriving in perfect harmony.

Please note, the trail covers uneven terrain totaling 1km, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended for participants.

Two Sessions Daily:

Session A:

1:30 PM: Meet at Secret Garden for briefing and welcome
1:35 PM: Departure
1:50 PM: Arrival at Secret Garden
2:00 PM: Departure from Secret Garden
2:15 PM: Return to Foxys, conclusion

Session B:

2:30 PM: Meet at Secret Garden for briefing and welcome
2:35 PM: Departure
2:50 PM: Arrival at Secret Garden
3:00 PM: Departure from Secret Garden
3:15 PM: Return

Note: Minimum age 5 years. Children under 12 years old will need a parent or legal guardian present on the tour with them.

Tour Languages Offered

• Chinese
• English
• Japanese

Departs From

Cairns

Departure Time

8.00am departure from Cairns Marlin Marina

Departure Instructions

Check in at the Reef Fleet Terminal

Destinations

• Fitzroy Island
• Great Barrier Reef
• Moore Reef on the Great Barrier Reef

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Daily

Operates on a flexible schedule - Mainly Tuesday, Wednesdays & Saturday. Additional operating days may be added.

Duration

9 hours
2 hours on Moore Reef pontoon & 2 hours on Fitzroy Island

Available for Purchase / Hire

• Seawalker helmet dive at Moore Reef
• Guided snorkel tour at Moore Reef
• 10 minute helicopter reef scenic flight at Moore Reef - Infants age 3 will be charged the child price for any helicopter component booked, this charge will be added to your booking total
• Guided rainforest walk on Fitzroy Island
• Guided nature walk on Fitzroy Island
• Turtle Talk on Fitzroy Island
• Kayak tour on Fitzroy Island

Fitness Level Required

Medium, Active

Restrictions

Scuba Diving – minimum age 12

IN-WATER RESTRICTIONS

Scuba Diving, Scuba Doo and Helmet Diving Restrictions

• Certain medical conditions and medications may preclude some people from scuba diving and helmet diving/scuba doo.
• Participation is subject to medical questionnaires completed on board with the tour operator.
• Minimum age for scuba diving and helmet diving/scuba doo is 12 years.
• Flying after scuba diving: a wait of 12 hours is recommended after one dive, 18 hour after 2 dives and at least 24 hours after multiple dives, before ascending to an altitude of 300 metres or greater.

Read more about Diving Safety on the Great Barrier Reef.

Eco Certifications

• Hat
• Towel
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+ water resistant)
• Swimming costume
• Cash ($AUD) or Credit Card (VISA, MasterCard) for any onboard purchases
• Camera (charged)
• Reef Shoes are highly recommended for Fitzroy Island

• Family Fare: 2 Adults and 2 Children
• Infants travel free under the age of four
• Parents can take prams, strollers and capsules on boat
• Children 3 years and under travel with Sunlover for free, however, they must be included in your booking. It’s vital for us to have an accurate record of every person travelling with us, no matter their age.
• Infants age 3 will be charged the child price for any helicopter component booked, this charge will be added to your booking total