Ocean Free 25 guest Great Barrier Reef & visit Green Island Tour
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
With only a maximum of 25 passengers this makes our Great Barrier Reef & Green Island tour very guest focussed! .In fact we are the only sail, reef and tropical island experience in Cairns catering for such a low guest number . Swim, snorkel or dive straight off the boat onto an exclusive magnificent GBR site - no crowds. The boat is moored just 1Km off Green Island - a highly protected Marine Park zone. From Cairns, sail to this reef site and Green Island in style on a two-mast schooner and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch on board. After snorkelling off the boat take a tender transfer to explore the beauty of Green Island, see the rainforest or laze on the white sandy beaches.
Available options
Tour + Two Certified Dives
Two Certified Dives: Some medical conditions and medication may preclude you from diving. Please contact supplier.
Tour + One Introductory Dive
One Introductory Dive: Some medical conditions and medication may preclude you from diving. Please contact supplier.
Tour + Two Introductory Dives
Two Introductory Dives: Some medical conditions and medication may preclude you from diving. Please contact supplier.
Tour + One Certified Dive
One Certified Dive: Some medical conditions and medication may preclude you from diving. Please contact supplier.
Snorkel Family Pack (2ad+2ch)
Snorkel Only Family Pack: Green Island & Reef, Sailing Cruise Family Pack from Cairns including snorkeling (2 adults + 2 children 4- 14 years)
Tour Snorkelling
Green Island Sailing Cruise from Cairns including snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef
What's included
Large smorgasbord lunch with seafood
Fish Feed
Reef talk by a marine interpreter
Complimentary glass of wine on the return sail to Cairns
Environmental Management Charge / Port / Ram fees
Sailing cruise to Green Island & the Great Barrier Reef
Exclusive reef site
Snorkeling equipment (snorkel, marks, flippers, buoyancy vests)
Transfers to/from the schooner to Green Island
Coffee and/or Tea
Morning and Afternoon tea
Snorkeling tuition, tours and in-water crew assistance if required
Detailed itinerary
1
These are the two most personal Great Barrier Reef tours in Cairns.
Sail on Ocean Free - our 16M classical sailing schooner for this extremely personal Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour.
Sail, snorkel , dive (optional extra) - reef and beach all in one day with only a small group of up to 25 guests - pure bliss!
2
Stop 2
Admire the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef on this very personal day tour .Ocean Free sails to its exclusive Great Barrier Reef mooring just 1 km off Green Island.
Step straight off the boat and see a coral garden teeming with colourful reef-fish and marine life on this highly protected Marine Park zone of the Great Barrier Reef. Only our guests snorkel this site making it a very personal experience! Turtles and large schools of fish a common site amongst the coral "bommies" (outcrops) that rise form about 10-12M up to just under 1M under the surface making it an ideal area for great snorkelling
Spend the morning snorkelling & / or SCUBA diving (optional extra) over an incredible reef system and view the most unique and colourful marine life under the guidance of our very attentive crew.
Afterwards hop back on board your vessel for a scrumptious large smorgasbord lunch after which you can hop into the tender as the skipper takes you to Green Island beach - your 2nd site to explore!
3
Stop 3
Guests can visit this island as part of their Ocean Free Green Island & Great Barrier Reef sailing tour with only a maximum of 25 guests .
They have a choice of spending the rest of the afternoon on the island until last pick-up or return to main vessel after an hour, if preferring to do more snorkelling .
Ocean Free actually moors on an exclusive private reef 1Km off the island where guests can split their time between snorkelling and diving (optional extra) just off the boat on this exclusive Great Barrier Reef site and going to the island in the tender to explore or just relax on the tropical beach . Guests have 4 and 1/2 hrs to experience the reef and island . Typically our guests chose to spend 1-2 hrs on the island . On the island guests can enjoy an interpretative walk across the island , relax on the beach and visit Marineland Melanesia (small fee to enter here)
4
Marineland Melanesia is an optional experience when visiting Green Island. For a small fee you can enter this attraction to see crocodiles, turtles, artefacts and facts for around the region
5
Stop 5
Choose to spend an hour on the island and return back to the main vessel for more snorkeling or optional diving on this exclusive Green marine Park zone of the Great Barrier Reef
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Only Pre-book diving if no medical conditions/taking medication - some may preclude you from diving
Optional diving - x 1-2 Certified / x 1-2 Intro dives possible on day .10-12m depth .
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
215 reviews
5★
199
4★
13
3★
2
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
431 reviews
5★
398
4★
24
3★
5
2★
1
1★
3
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A maximum of 25 people ensures a unique and personalized experience
Please note: All DIVERS will be required to complete a medical questionnaire on board prior to diving. Please only book the diving options if you have no medical conditions nor taking medication as some conditions/medication preclude you from diving
Tour requires you to be stable and mobile enough to move around a moving vessel and to transfer from main vessel onto tender and back
Guests come from many countries and many only have a small opportunity to visit the reef. The vessel will operate in all weather conditions (apart from gale force and severe weather warnings) and has extra procedures to make the day the best possible. If you are concerned about the weather, please visit www.bom.gov.au cairns coastal report - it will give you a 4 day forecast. 10-20 knots is a normal good day. Date of travel can be changed subject to availability and also full refund if cancelling with minimum 24hrs notice. Our vessels are open air with good boat movement so less likely to suffer seasickness than some other closed vessels however, if prone to motion sickness we recommend taking travel sickness tablets 20 minutes before boarding the vessel.
If intending to take part in diving all divers (whether certified or introductory diver) will be required to fill out a diving medical questionnaire on board. If diving is an important option for you, please advise if you have any medical issues (past or present) or taking any medications so we can advise if any QLD diving medical clearance is required. Some medical conditions and medication may preclude you from diving. It is imperative for your safety that you answer the questions on the form truthfully.
Meeting point
Enter the Reef Fleet Terminal and look for Ocean Free & Ocean Freedom desk. From the side entrance enter and look right. If entering from the entrance facing the sea look straight ahead on the right . Check-in is from 7.15 am at this desk .
Important notes
On day of tour - Check-in with your voucher details at the Ocean Free & Ocean Freedom counter inside the Reef Fleet Terminal located at 1 Spence Street, Cairns. Check-in commences at 7:15am. Boarding the boat from 7:30am on A Finger - just in front of the Reef Fleet Terminal. Please ensure ALL adults travelling have completed their Pre-Boarding Waivers prior to check-in.
Please note All Child Fares (including family packages) will require proof of age at check in.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
