WHEN TO GO
Anytime of the year is great for visiting the Great Barrier Reef, in particular we love the months from October to December, when the weather is generally clear & fine, winds are low and visibility at its best.
A typical North Queensland tropical climate brings clear, fine days during our 'Winter' months (June - August), and hot and humid conditions during our 'Summer' months (December - February), with much of our annual rainfall falling between January - March. But don't worry if does happen to be raining on the day of your reef cruise, its more the wind and swell that determines the quality of your day, not so much the rain. In most cases the rain tends to draw towards the mountains, leaving the reef clear and fine of the day. Water temperatures are typically warm and comfortable year round, ranging from 23°C in the winter to 29°C in the summer.
LIVE WEATHER
View detailed forecast graphs here.
GETTING TO CAIRNS
Cairns is accessible from virtually anywhere in Australia by air. The Cairns International Airport services international and domestic airlines as well as general aviation and a number of helicopter operators. Domestic flights travel to Cairns from all over the country including all capital cities, regional Far North Queensland and tourist destinations such as Uluru (Ayers Rock). Carriers include Qantas, Jetstar, TigerAir, Virgin Australia. International airlines servicing the Cairns Airport include Air New Zealand, Air Niugini, Cathay Pacific, Silk Air.
REEF DEPARTURES
The Reef Fleet Terminal is the main departure point for all reef trips. Check-in is located at 1 Spence Street Cairns, which is just next to the Shangri-La Hotel at the Pier Marketplace. Some reef trips board directly onto the vessel, you will be advised this on booking, along with your boarding/check in time. Coach transfers from your accommodation can be arranged or we recommend taking a taxi.
For self drivers, Council parking is available outside The Pier, or you can park undercover at the Casino or The Pier for about $10 for the day. There is also all day parking at the outdoor carparks located near the Cruise Liner Terminal on Wharf Street, about two blocks away. Helicopter flights depart from the Cairns Esplanade.
WHEELCHAIR FRIENDLY REEF TRIPS
Below is some information on the most suitable trips to the Great Barrier Reef for wheelchair passengers. We recommend calling our office or emailing as much detail as possible in advance, so that we can reconmmend the best trip option to suit your individual requirments. There are occasions when certain vessels may not operate, so by providing us with as much information as possible, and reconfirming your booking within 24 hours will help us ensure that you have the best Great Barrier Reef experience ever!
Green Island
Green Island is accessible for wheelchairs, however not all transfer vessels are able to accommodate wheelchairs. Once on the island wide paved and timber pathways allow wheelchairs to move around the island and through the island facilities. There is also an eco boardwalk that takes you directly through the rainforest into the centre of the Island which is easily accessible. Disabled toilets are available on the island also.
Big Cat Cruises visits Green Island daily and has limited wheelchair facilities onboard. Passengers must have some mobility and/or the presence of a carer who can assist them. Depending on tides it may be necessary to embark/disembark from different levels on the boat. Toilets on the vessel are not wheelchair accessible. Coral viewing and glass bottom boat activities are subject to the weather and the extent of the passenger’s mobility and/or the presence of a carer who can assist. Big Cat Cruises are not able to accommodate electric wheelchairs on any of the vessels or coaches.
- Great Adventures Green Island