ACTIVITY GUIDE
There are many ways to explore the world's largest coral reef. You don't have to be a fan of snorkelling, or even get wet to experience the myriad of colours and fascinating marinelife in this underwater world. Cairns is the ultimate destination for reef experiences, with so many activities available for young, old, swimmers & non-swimmers, everyone can have the opportunity to appreciate this precious natural wonder.
Choose your perspective!
Whether it's on the water, underwater, from the air or keeping your feet firmly secured on dry land, here's 17 different ways you can view the Great Barrier Reef!
FROM THE AIR
- Scenic Heli Flight
Take to the sky on an ultimate reef scenic heli flight. This has got to be one of the most exhilarating ways to experience the colour and grandeur of the Great Barrier Reef! Enjoy the thrill of taking off and having a birds eye view of turquoise reefs, with the chance to spot marinelife in their natural habitat below. There are a variety of heli options to choose from, whether its a 30 minute scenic flight, a fly/cruise option, visiting a secluded sandy cay or adding a 10 minute breathtaking flight to your reef cruise.
- Reef Scenic Flight
A 30 minute Reef Scenic Flight with Daintree Air is the perfect way for you to gain an appreciation of the immensity of the Great Barrier Reef. Step aboard this high wing, single engine aircraft where every passenger will have a window seat. Designed specifically for low level scenic flying, you will see up to 140 kilometres of the Outer Barrier Reef as well as many inner islands, reefs and sand cays. At certain times of the year pods of whales are often spotted in the vicinity of Green Island.
- Parasail
Green Island Scenic Parasailing will offer you a thrilling experience where you can take to the sky and enjoy a bird’s eye view of Green Island and the surrounding reef system. This safe, fun and exhilarating experience allows the journey to be shared, as the unique parasailing chair seats 2 passengers side-by-side. It does not require you to wear bathers as you won’t get wet.
ON THE WATER
- Snorkel
Not every one wants to dive and, to be honest, snorkelling is the best and easiest way to see the reef because 90% of it’s diversity occurs within 4 metres of the surface. It doesn't take long to get the hand of it and for beginners a crew member is usually on hand to offer tuition on gear use and snorkeling techniques. Snorkelling offers all swimmers, regardless of their skill level, the opportunity to see this diverse eco-system up close. A selection of buoyancy aids (foam noodles, life jackets and wetsuits) allows you to float effortlessly over rich, colourful coral gardens, and snorkel guides are usually available to guide you through the natural maze of beautiful coral and fishes and point out all the 'cool stuff'.
- Glass Bottom Boat
Explore the wonders of the reef from the comfort of a glass bottom boat tour. Hovering over beautiful coral gardens, giant clams and schools of colourful reef fish, a glass bottom boat is ideal for kids, non-swimmers and for those who are wanting to learn more about the reef. Tours usually last around 30 minutes with a running commentary by a marine biologist. Most pontoon and island experiences offer the option of taking a glass bottom boat tour.
- Sea Bob
Experience one of the most exciting and adrenaline-packed ways to see the Great Barrier Reef on SEABOB! The SEABOB is an electric powered jet that helps you manoeuvre while you're snorkelling. Choose from a 30 or 60 minute SEABOB experience on Fitzroy Island where you can explore the fringing reef effortlessly.Easy to use, all equipment is supplied including full body wetsuit.