Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Townsville or Magnetic Island

Townsville , Australia

Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Townsville or Magnetic Island

Active

(99 reviews)

10h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join a professional crew aboard a custom-built vessel for snorkeling, an introductory diving with an experienced instructor, or two certified dives in the UNESCO-listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. This day trip takes you from Townsville or Magnetic Island to the Central Section of the Great Barrier Reef, where you get the chance to see reef fish, sea turtles, stingrays, reef sharks and more up close. Snorkel equipment is included.

Available options

Snorkel Townsville

Check-in at Breakwater Marina at 7am for approx. 7:30am departure. Includes snorkeling equipment

Certified Dive Townsville

Check-in at Breakwater Marina at 7am for approx. 7:30am departure. Includes two certified dives with all diving equipment

What's included

Demonstrations and instructions on snorkeling techniques

Use of Snorkel equipment (mask, snorkel, fins and full-length suit)

Reef Ecology talks to enhance your experience

Use of Floating Devices for Novice (pool noodles, life rings, vests with air)

Lunch

All Fees and Taxes

Iced water, cordial, tea and coffee throughout the day

Departs from Townsville and Magnetic Island

Transport to the Central Section of the Great Barrier Reef

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Snorkel Guide

Dive Guide - compulsory for divers with less than 10 logged dives

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

17 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

82 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 6 years for Snorkelling and 12 for Discover Scuba Diving

Certified divers must present proof of certification to crew on board on the day

Introductory divers MUST fill out a basic medical form prior to their dive. Some existing medical conditions may not allow you to dive

Please wear your swimwear and bring a towel, hat, sunscreen and camera

Heights, weights and shoe sizes MUST be advised at time of booking

Meeting point

Townsville: Fuel Wharf Breakwater Marina, located at the end of Mariners Drive off the Strand past G-Finger at 7:00AM OR
Magnetic Island: Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal, Magnetic Island at 7:50AM.

Important notes

Townsville Meeting Point at 7am: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CptHsbsC3aiF3Egt8

Magnetic Island Meeting Point at 7:50am: https://goo.gl/maps/mT51fqdceqF2

IMPORTANT: Please advise your pick up location (Townsville or Magnetic Island) and your shoe size, send this information to info@adrenalindive.com.au ASAP.
Certified Diver also need to provide their certification level, number of logged dives and date of last dive ASAP. Appreciate it.

IMPORTANT: Check In:

You will receive a trip status confirmation via text or email from Adrenalin Snorkel & Dive at 4 pm the day prior to your scheduled trip. A trip is only confirmed when the weather conditions are safe enough to travel and minimum passenger numbers have been met.

Please check your emails at 4:30 pm the afternoon prior to departure if you do not receive a confirmation via text or email please check your junk mail. If you still have not received a confirmation by 4:30 pm you MUST call Adrenalin Snorkel & Dive’s office on: (07) 4724 0600 before 5:15 pm.

Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive Cancellation/ Rescheduling Policy:

Day Trip: 20% cancellation fee applies with 48 hrs – 14 days’ notice
100% cancellation fee applies with less than 48 hrs notice
Reschedule fee of 20% applies

About Townsville

Townsville is a vibrant coastal city in northern Queensland, known for its tropical climate, stunning beaches, and rich marine life. It serves as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Reef HQ Aquarium

The world's largest living coral reef aquarium, offering a unique glimpse into the Great Barrier Reef.

Museum 2-3 hours AUD 30-40

Magnetic Island

A beautiful island just a short ferry ride from Townsville, known for its beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife.

Nature Full day AUD 50-100 (ferry and activities)

Castle Hill

A prominent landmark in Townsville offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding coastline.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

The Strand

A beautiful beachfront promenade with a lagoon pool, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Beach 2-3 hours Free

Billabong Sanctuary

A wildlife sanctuary offering close encounters with Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, and wombats.

Nature 2-3 hours AUD 30-40

Must-Try Local Dishes

Barramundi

A popular Australian fish, often grilled or fried and served with tropical fruits and vegetables.

Main Gluten-free, can be prepared without dairy.

Mango Chicken

A tropical dish featuring chicken cooked with fresh mangoes, creating a sweet and savory flavor.

Main Gluten-free, can be prepared without dairy.

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh tropical fruits.

Dessert Gluten-free, contains dairy and eggs.

Popular Activities

Snorkeling and diving in the Great Barrier Reef Hiking in the Atherton Tablelands Skydiving at Mission Beach Beachcombing at The Strand Picnicking in the Riverway Lagoon Spa treatments at local resorts Visiting the Museum of Tropical Queensland Exploring the historic buildings of Townsville

Best Time to Visit

May to October (dry season)

This is the best time to visit Townsville with pleasant weather and minimal rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (GMT+10) / AEDT (GMT+11 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Townsville is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid using them at night
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Townsville Airport • 6 km from city center

By train

Townsville Station

By bus

Townsville Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Sunbus is the primary public transport provider in Townsville, with a comprehensive network of routes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Townsville City The Strand North Ward Aitkenvale Mundingburra

Day trips

Magnetic Island

8 km from Townsville • Full day

A beautiful island offering beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife encounters.

Palm Island

65 km from Townsville • Full day

A beautiful island with stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and a rich indigenous culture.

Charters Towers

130 km from Townsville • Full day

A historic gold mining town with beautifully preserved Victorian architecture and a rich history.

Festivals

Townsville Cultural Festival • July Townsville Arts Festival • August Townsville Race Week • July

Pro tips

Visit the Museum of Tropical Queensland and Reef HQ Aquarium for a comprehensive understanding of the region's natural history and marine life.
Take a day trip to Magnetic Island for stunning beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife encounters.
Explore the historic buildings and landmarks of Townsville, such as the Customs House and the Townsville Town Hall.
Enjoy the local seafood, particularly barramundi and prawns, at one of the many waterfront restaurants.
Take advantage of the city's outdoor lifestyle by swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking in the nearby waters.