Cairns & the Tropical North , Australia

Green Island Half-Day Trip from Cairns

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(179 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Explore the tropical paradise of Green Island on a half day trip from Cairns. Enjoy around two hours exploring the Great Barrier Reef island with plenty of time to snorkel. You can even take an optional semi-submersible submarine tour to get close to the reef without getting wet.

Available options

1pm Cruise + Glass Bottom Boat

Includes Glass Bottom Boat

1pmCruise + SemiSub + Snk Gear

Semi-submarine + Snorkel Gear: Semi-submarine tour is available while enjoying your time on Green Island<br/>PM Tour 1PM

1pm Cruise - Transfer Only

No other inclusions

9am Cruise - Transfers Only

No other inclusions

1pm Cruise + Snorkel Gear

1pm Cruise : Green Island roundtrip cruise; 2 hrs free time and use of snorkel gear.

9am Cruise + Glass Bottom Boat

Includes a Glass Bottom Boat

9amCruise + SemiSub + Snk Gear

Semi-submarine + Snorkel Gear: Semi-submarine tour is available while enjoying your time on Green Island<br/>AM Tour 9AM

9am Cruise + Snorkel Gear

9am Cruise Only: Green Island roundtrip cruise; 2 hrs free time and use of snorkel gear. NO hotel pickup included in this option

What's included

Glass bottom boat tour (if selected)

Semi-submersible tour (if selected)

Cruise transfers to and from Green Island by modern air-conditioned catamaran

Use of Snorkel Gear (if selected)

Detailed itinerary

This is where guests start their tour, at the Reef Fleet Terminal.

Spend time at Green Island either snorkelling or join a glass bottom boat tour

Stop 3

A picturesque coral cay situated only an hours boat ride from Cairns. Perfect place for a half day reef/island experience.

What's not included

Optional activities. (Can be booked locally, subject to availability. Payable directly on the day)

Food and drinks (available to purchase)

No transfer pick up/drop off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

98 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.1

81 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Wheelchair accessibility is available but limited. Passengers must have some mobility and/or the presence of a carer who can assist them.

Meeting point

Please call to reconfirm your booking prior to travel to receive your boarding pass. If you have not received your boarding pass, please meet directly at the Reef Fleet Terminal, 30 minutes prior to your departure time

Please arrive 30mins before your departure time

Important notes

- Please note: If you have selected the option with hotel pick up and drop off included, you must contact Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises on +61 7 4051 0444 at east 24 Hour(s) prior to your tour/activity date to verify your pick-up time and pick-up location. If you are not arriving within the specified timeframe, please contact Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises prior to your travels, or immediately upon arrival at your destination.
- A surcharge of AU$4 per adult andAU$2 per child is payable on check-in if pickup is required from hotels in Palm Cove, Clifton Beach, Trinity Beach, Yorkey’s Knob, Holloways Beach, Machans Beach, Lake Placid, Crystal Cascade and Redlynch.

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

About Cairns & the Tropical North

Cairns & the Tropical North is a vibrant region in Queensland, Australia, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and adventurous activities. It serves as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system, and the ancient Daintree Rainforest, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Top Attractions

Great Barrier Reef

The world's largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 km (1,430 miles). It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to thousands of marine species.

Nature Half-day to full-day tours Varies by tour and activity, typically $100-$300 AUD

Daintree Rainforest

One of the oldest rainforests in the world, with diverse wildlife, ancient trees, and scenic walking trails.

Nature Full-day trip Varies by tour and activity, typically $100-$200 AUD

Cairns Esplanade

A scenic waterfront area with a lagoon, walking paths, and picnic spots. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the tropical atmosphere.

Beach A few hours Free

Kuranda Scenic Railway

A historic railway line that offers stunning views of the Barron Gorge and surrounding rainforest. It's a popular day trip from Cairns.

Historical Half-day to full-day trip Railway ticket: $65-$130 AUD (depending on class and direction)

Fitzroy Island

A small island located about 45 minutes by ferry from Cairns. It offers beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and hiking opportunities.

Island Full-day trip Ferry ticket: $80-$120 AUD (including return), activities extra

Must-Try Local Dishes

Barramundi

A popular Australian fish, often grilled or fried, with a delicate and mild flavor.

Main dish Gluten-free, high in protein

Mangoes

Sweet and juicy tropical fruit, often enjoyed fresh or in smoothies and desserts.

Dessert/Fruit Vegan, gluten-free

Moreton Bay Bugs

A type of lobster found in the region, often served grilled or in seafood platters.

Seafood Gluten-free, high in protein

Iced VoVo

A classic Australian biscuit with a jam and coconut filling, often enjoyed with tea or coffee.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Skydiving White-water rafting Bungee jumping Zip-lining Parasailing Beach relaxation Spa and wellness treatments Yoga and meditation

Best Time to Visit

May to October (dry season)

This is the best time to visit Cairns & the Tropical North, with pleasant weather, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for outdoor activities, exploring the Great Barrier Reef, and visiting the rainforest.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (GMT+10:00) or AEDT (GMT+11:00) during daylight saving time (October to April)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cairns & the Tropical North is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of fake tour operators and always book through reputable companies
• Use metered taxis or ride-sharing services to avoid overcharging
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Cairns Airport • 4 km (2.5 miles) from city center

By train

Cairns Central Station

By bus

Cairns Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Sunbus network is the primary public transport system in Cairns, offering frequent and affordable services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cairns City Cairns Beaches Cairns Hinterland

Day trips

Port Douglas

70 km (43 miles) north of Cairns • Full-day trip

A charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.

Mission Beach

100 km (62 miles) north of Cairns • Full-day trip

A beautiful beach town known for its long sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and adventure activities like skydiving and white-water rafting.

Atherton Tablelands

100 km (62 miles) west of Cairns • Full-day trip

A lush and green region known for its waterfalls, lakes, and diverse wildlife. It's a great destination for nature lovers and those looking to escape the tropical heat.

Festivals

Cairns Festival • August to September Cairns Indigenous Art Fair • August Cairns Festival of Arts • Various dates throughout the year

Pro tips

Visit the Great Barrier Reef during the dry season (May to October) for the best visibility and weather conditions
Book tours and accommodations in advance during peak season (May to October) to avoid disappointment
Pack insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the tropical sun and insects
Hire a guide for rainforest walks and cultural experiences to gain a deeper understanding of the region's natural and cultural heritage
Try local specialties such as barramundi, mangoes, and Moreton Bay bugs for an authentic taste of the region