Have you been daydreaming of getting away from your everyday routine and going on an adventure? Do you long for ocean air, clear skies, and exotic sights? The cure for that itch may just be a trip to beautiful Cairns, Australia for the vacation of a lifetime. The tropical city of Cairns is a premiere tourist destination because of its unparalleled natural beauty. Not only is it home to the Daintree Rainforest, but it also houses the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Don’t wait for your chance to get up close and personal with the world’s largest coral reef (which can be seen from space!) by booking a snorkeling tour in Cairns. Whether you reach your snorkeling destination by luxury cruise or helicopter ride, you’re guaranteed to have an experience that will create cherished memories for the rest of your life.

Here's all you need to know about snorkeling, one of the most exciting outdoor activities in Cairns.

What’s the most common type of snorkeling package in Cairns?

The most common type of snorkeling package in Cairns is a luxurious catamaran cruise to various diving locations within the Great Barrier Reef and Green Island. These packages include snorkeling and scuba diving briefs with trained and award-winning instructors, guided tours with marine biologists, catered meals, freshwater showers, and the cost of any necessary certifications.

Is snorkeling in Cairns safe?

If this is your first time snorkeling, you can rest assured that no matter which snorkeling adventure package you choose in Cairns, you will be in the capable hands of experts with years of experience. All of the latest safety precautions are strictly adhered to, and the staff is usually fluent in multiple languages in order to be able to solve any problem quickly and efficiently.

How long can I expect a snorkeling trip to last?

Most of the snorkeling and diving packages in Cairns are full day (approximately 8 hour) adventures which include a luxurious catamaran cruise, at least two different snorkeling and diving locations along the Great Barrier Reef, catered meals, guided tours, presentations by local experts, and time to relax. If you’re looking to shorten your adventure, you can take a helicopter to and from your diving location and skip the cruise that comes with most packages. There’s also a more comprehensive two-day option available.

What else is there to do on a snorkeling cruise in Cairns?

Scuba Diving

Snorkeling is great because of the wonderful panoramic views you’ll be able to take in, but if you’re really looking to sink your teeth into the magic of the Great Barrier Reef, take a scuba diving tour and swim through the gorgeous coral. Most tours offer both options interchangeably, so chances are you’ll be able to do both before your adventure is done!

Catered Meals and snacks

Snorkeling and scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef is bound to work up an appetite, and the snorkeling and diving cruise packages have you covered. In between exploring the reef’s natural wonders, enjoy an exquisite bbq seafood lunch. There will also be snacks throughout the day including coffee, tea, and water bottles.

Relax in the sun

On a luxury catamaran in the middle of the ocean under a warm sun and perfect temperatures, of course you’ll want to take some time to relax. Layout on a deck chair in the shade or in the sun until you’re ready to suit up and dive back into the water.

Presentations by experts

There will of course be guided snorkeling and diving tours of the exotic Great Barrier Reef locations you’ll be visiting, with local experts. On top of that, you’ll have briefings and presentations on board the cruise with certified dive trainers and marine biologists!

Glass bottom boat tour

Before you dive in for yourself, take a glass-bottom boat tour on your way to one of the various snorkeling and diving locations you’ll be visiting. As you take in the gorgeous underwater life from the comfort of a dry boat, learn from an expert guide about the magical ecosystem you’re about to jump into!

Helicopter ride

Some snorkeling and scuba diving cruise packages in Cairns offer the option to take a helicopter either one or both ways, meaning that should you choose to abandon the boat for a little while, you could be treated to a scenic 25-minute helicopter cruise of the Great Barrier Reef.

How much will a snorkeling trip in Cairns cost?

Options are available for anywhere between AUD 100 and AUD 500 (depending on the number of guests, amenities, and special combos), but expect to pay around AUD 200 for a full snorkeling experience.

This will buy you a magical day on the water and under the sun, the choice between diving and snorkeling with all the gear included, a hands-on instructor with years of experience, delicious catered meals and refreshments,

What will I be able to see while snorkeling in Cairns?

When you travel to the exotic diving locations around Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef including Normank, Saxon, and Hastings Reef. The locations are subject to change depending on weather and other factors, but whichever spots you end up going to, you’ll be able to get up close and personal to the marine wildlife indigenous to the area.

Beautiful fish, turtles, and even sharks will cross your path as you swim through the crystal clear waters, but don’t worry - your guide and all the crew staff have years of experience to make sure you’re never in any danger!

When is the best time to go snorkeling in Cairns?

The best time to go snorkeling or diving in Cairns is anywhere between June and October, which is actually Winter in Australia! This is peak tourist season for good reason; temperatures tend to stay steady between the low 60s and mid 80s (so not too hot but definitely not freezing) and it doesn’t rain nearly as much as it does during the rest of the year.

The waters are clear which makes this the perfect time to take in the beautiful sights in the Great Barrier Reef, plus you’ll be avoiding what the locals call “stinger season,” which means you won’t have to worry about avoiding jellyfish!

Snorkeling tours in Cairns