Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Tours

Heading off for a trip to Cairns, Australia? If snorkeling or diving are on your to-do list this trip, then you’ve chosen the perfect destination. Located in the Coral Sea, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on the planet, and as such, it is a must-see destination. There are plenty of options for snorkeling and diving tours in Cairns, so let’s dive into some of the best ones.

1. Explore Group Diving or Snorkeling Tours

The easiest and most well-known way to explore the Great Barrier Reef is to join a group tour. These group diving or snorkeling tours are run by certified guides who will take you to the best spots of the reef. Group tours are typically more affordable than private tours. They’re also a great way to meet other people who love exploring the water. The only downside to group tours is that you might have to share the spot with a large number of people, which could tweak the experience. That’s why it’s important to pick the right group tour.
One of the best group tour companies in Cairns is Reefmagnet. Reefmagnet offers 8 full-day trips for diving, snorkeling, or glass-bottomed boat viewing. Not only are their guides highly certified and experienced, but they also only take up to a maximum of 17 passengers per boat every day in order to ensure a comfortable experience for all. Reefmagnet also offer different packages for scuba diving, depending on where you want to dive and what you want to see, making it super flexible for your diving needs.

2. Try a Liveaboard Tour

Liveaboard tours are a great option if you’re more experienced with snorkeling and diving and want a more exclusive experience. Liveaboard tours are multi-day trips that combine accommodation with diving or snorkeling throughout your stay on the reef. Liveaboard tours are wonderful if you want to explore more of the reef than a one-day tour can get you to.
Reach Out Dive Travel is great option for booking a liveaboard tour. They offer 4 and 6-day tour packages that are perfectly designed for those who want an immersive experience exploring different parts of the reef. Their boats use twin-hull design for greater stability on their tours and all have air-conditioned and heated cabins for your comfort. During your stay, you will get professionally-prepared meals, full day snorkel & dive sites and exploration of remote islands within the area, making this an unforgettable experience of a lifetime

3.Book a Luxury Private Tour

If you prefer a more personalized experience, there are plenty of luxury private tours that can provide a greater level of privacy when snorkeling or diving at the Great Barrier Reef. These private tours are more on the costly side, but they guarantee that you’ll get to explore the most exclusive parts of the reef in comfort and luxury while having your own guide accompany you each day to provide tips and make sure your safety comes first.
Astute Travel Solutions offers luxurious private tours at an unbeatable price, considering what they offer. You will be accompanied by their dive masters and boat crew for the entire duration of your stay onboard their boats, meaning you will be able to fully customize your experience at any point in time with the utmost safety assurance from their team. Their boats are luxurious and highly equipped for comfort, making it the perfect spot for enjoying your days swimming and exploring in serenity.

Overall, Cairns is bursting with amazing options for snorkeling and diving trips to explore the wonderous Great Barrier Reef, from luxury private tours with an extreme level of exclusivity, to liveaboard tours with accommodation included, or large groups tours that are cheaper but more filled with people. With so many options at hand, we’re sure you’ll find the perfect tour that fits your needs and budget! And remember it’s super easy, just book your adventure now through Get Your Guide.

Insider’s Guide to Cairns: Beyond the Great Barrier Reef Tours

Cairns is a vibrant tropical city that has something for everyone, including the world-famous Great Barrier Reef. However, there is so much more to this city than just snorkeling and diving tours. As a local, I want to share with you some hidden gems, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your visit unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While the Great Barrier Reef is a must-visit, there are other underrated attractions worth exploring in Cairns. Head over to the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon – a large, man-made swimming pool by the ocean that is perfect for all ages. Take a stroll through the Flecker Botanic Gardens and discover the vibrant colors and lush foliage of the tropical flora. For a more unique experience, visit the Cairns Night Market and discover an array of unusual and exotic goods.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine

Cairns has a rich food culture that is heavily influenced by its tropical surroundings. From fresh seafood to exotic fruits, there is something for everyone. For an authentic local experience, head to Rusty’s Markets on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, and discover a variety of fresh produce from local farmers. If you want to try some traditional Aboriginal cuisine, Tjapukai Cultural Park offers an interactive cultural dining experience. Finally, why not dine by the beach at Ochre Restaurant and experience the flavors of Australia with their award-winning Australian-inspired cuisine.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions and Festivals

Cairns is home to various cultural experiences, festivals, and events throughout the year that are worth attending. Between July and August, travelers can witness the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair that showcases the creativity and cultural art of the Indigenous people of Queensland. The Chinese New Year Festival usually falls around January or February, featuring vibrant lion dances, firecrackers, and traditional Chinese food. Finally, the Cairns Festival in August is a month-long celebration of local arts, music, and performances.

Local History: Captivating Stories

Cairns has a rich history that is often overlooked by tourists. One fascinating aspect is the city’s connection to World War II, from an attack on a Japanese submarine that sunk the HMAS Patricia Cam in 1943 to the Naval Oil Storage tanks at Trinity Inlet, which were built to store oil to supply the Allies in the Pacific. Another captivating aspect of Cairns’ history is the renowned storyteller, Pegleg. He walked the streets of Cairns for more than three decades and was known for his outrageous tales and eccentric clothing.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

If you want to experience Cairns like a local, go on a scenic drive to explore nearby hidden waterfalls like Crystal Cascades. Take a hike through the tropical rainforest and marvel at the views of the stunning Barron Gorge and Falls. If you’re an adrenaline seeker, try bungee jumping or skydiving with the best views of Cairns from above. Finally, for a unique experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the Atherton Tablelands at sunrise, and admire the sweeping views of the North Queensland landscape.

Conclusion

Beyond the Great Barrier Reef tours, Cairns has so much to offer its visitors. From captivating history and storytelling to cultural experiences, dining spots, local attractions, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, Cairns has an abundance of activities to keep any visitor occupied. We hope this insider’s guide helps you to explore Cairns like a true local and make the most of your visit to this amazing city.