• Let us transport you to spectacular Great Barrier Reef snorkelling site just off Cairns for a half day tour of marine wonders.
• Small group snorkel tour - only 27 passengers onboard.
• 1.5 hours of snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef around the gorgeous Upolu Reef or Breaking Patches.
• We offer 3 departure times: 8.00am, 10.00am and 1.00pm

Half day snorkel tour from Cairns. Departs three times daily from Cairns. Snorkel the breath-taking Upolu Reef or Breaking Patches off Cairns.

What to Expect

Prepare for a thrilling half-day snorkel tour as you journey to the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, specifically to the stunning Upolu Reef or Breaking Patches. Departing from Cairns, this reef tour offers the opportunity to snorkel in one of the world’s most renowned marine environments, with expert guidance to enhance your experience.

Your adventure begins at the Cairns Marlin Marina, where you'll board one of our fast vessels for an exciting trip to the Reef. The 50-minute journey to Upolu Reef or Breaking Patches promises stunning views of the Coral Sea as you speed towards your snorkelling destination. With a small group of up to 27 guests, you’ll enjoy a more intimate and personalised Great Barrier Reef experience, away from the larger crowds.

Upon arrival at Upolu Reef or Breaking Patches, you’ll have 1.5 hours to explore the underwater wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeller or trying it for the first time, our crew is on hand to assist with gear and provide a snorkelling briefing to ensure your safety and enjoyment. Jump into the crystal-clear waters to discover vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish, and other unique marine life that call the Great Barrier Reef home.

This half day snorkelling tour leaves you time to fit more into your day to explore or relax in Cairns.

Features and Highlights

• Fast and Efficient Vessels: Travel aboard one of our fast vessels powered by twin 325 hp Suzuki engines, allowing for a swift journey to Upolu Reef or Breaking Patches. This half-day snorkel tour is perfect for those looking to maximise their time at the Great Barrier Reef without a full-day commitment.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 27 guests, this tour ensures a more personalised and uncrowded reef experience, giving you more space and freedom to explore the reef at your own pace.
• Guided Snorkelling at Upolu Reef or Breaking Patches: Enjoy 1.5 hours of snorkelling at the vibrant Upolu Reef or Breaking Patches, where you’ll encounter colourful coral formations and diverse marine life. Our experienced boat crew will provide a snorkelling briefing and assist with any gear to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable time in the water.
• Morning Tea on Board: Refreshments, including tea and delicious lamingtons, are provided, and drinks are available for purchase, keeping you energised for your Great Barrier Reef exploration.
• Quick Return to Cairns: This half-day snorkel tour returns you to Cairns by 12.00PM, 2.00PM or 5.00PM depending on the option you select.

Itinerary: Cairns Half-Day Great Barrier Reef Tour

• 7.30AM, 9.30AM & 12.30PM: Please meet at the Reef Adventure office located inside the Pier Shopping Centre 30 minutes prior to departure. Board one of our fast vessels and prepare for a thrilling ride to the Reef.
• 8.00AM, 10.00AM & 1.00PM: Departure
• 9.00AM, 11.00AM & 2.00PM: Enjoy morning/afternoon tea on board with drinks available for purchase. After a 50 minute journey, arrive at the Reef. Spend 1.5 hours exploring the reefs, with crew assistance for gear and a free snorkelling briefing to ensure your safety and enjoyment
• 11.00AM, 1.00PM & 4.00PM: Depart the Great Barrier Reef and return to Cairns.
• 12.00PM, 2.00PM & 5.00PM: Disembark at Cairns Marlin Marina

Snorkelling and Marine Life

Upolu Reef or Breaking Patches are some of the Great Barrier Reef’s most beautiful sections, offering snorkellers the chance to explore a rich underwater world filled with vibrant coral formations and marine species. Known for its crystal-clear waters and thriving biodiversity, this reef is home to tropical fish, sea turtles, and a wide variety of corals. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeller or new to the activity, Upolu Reef or Breaking Patches offer an unforgettable experience of Australia’s incredible marine ecosystem.

This half-day snorkelling tour from Cairns is ideal for those who want to experience the magic of the Great Barrier Reef in a short amount of time while still enjoying a personalised, small-group experience.

See all half day Great Barrier Reef tours from Cairns and Port Douglas.

See all full day snorkelling tours in Whitsundays, Townsville, Cairns & Port Douglas.

Learn more on our Great Barrier Reef Blog.

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Cairns

Departure Time

• Morning Tour - Check in 7.30am - Departs 8.00am - Returns 12.00pm
• Mid Morning Tour - Check in 9:30 - Departs 10:00am - Returns 2:00pm
• Afternoon Tour - Check in 12.30pm - Departs 1.00pm - Returns 5.00pm

Departure Instructions

Please meet at the Reef Adventure office located inside the Pier Shopping Centre 30 minutes prior to departure.

Destinations

• Great Barrier Reef
• Upolu Reef
• Breaking Patches

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Daily

Duration

4 Hours

Fitness Level Required

Medium

Restrictions

• A moderate level of fitness and mobility is required to enjoy the Reef Adventures product, particularly surrounding the entry and exit into the vessel at the Great Barrier Reef. Travellers who have had recent surgical procedures have back issues/problems or that have respiratory or heart conditions should reconsider their participation in the Reef Adventures product.
• Children under 6 years old or guests over 65 are not permitted.
• Pregnant women are welcome onboard as long as they are cleared by their doctor.

• Swimmers
• Towel
• Hat
• Sunscreen
• Credit card for onboard purchases
• Sense of Adventure

This product is not suitable for infants between 0-5