• 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 25 passengers onboard.
• 2 hours of snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef around the gorgeous Upolu Reef
• Depart in the morning at 8.00am and return to Cairns at 12.30 midday.

Half day snorkel tour from Cairns. Depart in the morning and be back in Cairns by 12.30 midday. Snorkel the breath-taking Upolu Reef 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. 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 the 'Mad Max,' a fast and powerful vessel designed for an efficient and exciting trip to the reef. The 50-minute journey to Upolu Reef promises stunning views of the Coral Sea as you speed towards your snorkelling destination. With a small group of up to 25 guests, you’ll enjoy a more intimate and personalised Great Barrier Reef experience, away from the larger crowds.

Upon arrival at Upolu Reef, you’ll have two 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. Dive into the crystal-clear waters to discover vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish, and other unique marine life that call the Great Barrier Reef home.

The half day snorkelling tour wraps up with a return journey to Cairns, where you’ll arrive back at the Marlin Marina by 12:30 PM, leaving the rest of the day free for more exploration or relaxation in Cairns.

Features and Highlights

• Fast and Efficient Vessel: Travel aboard the 'Mad Max,' a 13.5-meter aluminium-hulled inflatable boat powered by twin 325 hp Suzuki engines, allowing for a swift journey to Upolu Reef. 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 25 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: Enjoy two hours of snorkelling at the vibrant Upolu Reef, 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 12:30 PM, making it a perfect option for those looking to enjoy a morning on the reef while leaving the afternoon free for other activities.

Itinerary: Cairns Half-Day Great Barrier Reef Tour

• 8:00 AM: Check-in at the Reef Adventure office inside the Pier Shopping Centre. You’ll board the 'Mad Max' and prepare for an exhilarating ride to Upolu Reef.
• 9:30 AM: After a 50-minute journey, arrive at Upolu Reef and enjoy morning tea on board. Get ready for two hours of snorkelling, with assistance from the crew and a safety briefing provided before you dive in.
• 11:30 AM: Depart Upolu Reef and begin the return trip to Cairns.
• 12:30 PM: Arrive back at Cairns Marlin Marina.

Snorkelling and Marine Life

Upolu Reef is one 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 promises 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.

Learn more on our Great Barrier Reef Blog.

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Cairns

Departure Time

• Morning Tour : 8:30am
• Afternoon Tour : 1.00pm

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

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Daily

Departs 08:30am Returns 12:30pm
Departs 1:00pm and Returns 5:00pm

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.
• Pregnant women are welcome onboard as long as they are cleared by their doctor.

• Swimmers
• Towel
• Hat
• Sunscreen
• Card for onboard purchases
• Sense of Adventure

This product is not suitable for infants between 0-3