How to Plan Your Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Tour in Cairns

Cairns, located in Northern Queensland, Australia, offers a variety of outdoor activities for travelers. One of the most popular tours departing from Cairns is the Great Barrier Reef snorkeling and diving tour. It’s no surprise that this natural wonder attracts thousands of tourists every year, as it offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you’re planning to explore the outer reef and marvel at the stunning biodiversity of marine life, this is a must-do activity during your trip to Cairns. In this article, we’ll outline everything you need to know about how to plan your Cairns Great Barrier Reef snorkeling and diving tour.

Choosing the Right Tour Operator

When it comes to choosing a tour operator, it’s essential to do your research and select a reputable company. We recommend checking reviews on websites like TripAdvisor or GetYourGuide to see how previous customers rated their experience. Additionally, look for operators that provide accredited guides and sustainable snorkeling and diving practices. One of the best tours available is offered by a third-party company and departs Cairns onboard a modern vessel with three sun decks, two indoor air-conditioned saloons, a spacious dive deck, and a sunken platform for easy water access.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes a full day of snorkeling and diving at two exclusive outer reef locations. You will have access to snorkeling and dive equipment, including masks, snorkels, fins, and flotation devices. The tour includes detailed snorkeling and diving briefings, and guided snorkeling tours. If you’re a certified diver, you can opt for scuba diving instead of snorkeling. The tour also includes prescriptive eyeglasses if necessary. In addition to these activities, the tour includes a comfortable cruise on a luxury catamaran, morning tea or coffee, a pre-packed delicious picnic lunch, hot freshwater showers, snacks and alcoholic beverages, all of which are served onboard.

The Experience

The tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the outer Great Barrier Reef’s stunning biodiversity, which includes a vast variety of colorful corals and marine life. During the tour, you’ll witness schools of fish, reef sharks, turtles, nudibranchs, and many other creatures found in the waters surrounding the Great Barrier Reef. The tour also offers ample opportunities to relax and soak up the beautiful scenery. You can enjoy the sunshine on one of the vessel’s many sun decks or unwind in the shade of one of the saloons.

Booking the Tour

To book the Great Barrier Reef snorkeling and diving tour, visit the following website here. Make sure to select the correct date and group size when booking.

Final Thoughts

The Great Barrier Reef snorkeling and diving tour in Cairns is an experience like no other. It’s an opportunity to explore one of the world’s natural wonders and see some of the most stunning marine life. Whether you’re a certified diver or prefer to snorkel, the tour caters to all levels of experience. With a reputable tour operator and thorough planning, you’re sure to have a fantastic time on this tour.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cairns

Cairns is a stunning city located in Queensland, Australia. This city is known for its tropical climate, beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and an array of attractions. If you are planning to visit Cairns, you may have several questions in mind. Here are some frequently asked questions about Cairns that may help you plan your trip better.

1. What is the best time to visit Cairns?

Cairns is a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit Cairns is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this period, you can enjoy sunny days with less rain, and the humidity is considerably lower. The average temperature during this period is around 26 degrees Celsius. If you are planning to visit during the warmer months of the year, which are November to April, be prepared for high humidity and frequent rain showers.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Cairns?

Cairns has several tourist attractions that cater to every type of traveler. Some of the top attractions in Cairns include:

• The Great Barrier Reef
• Daintree Rainforest
• Kuranda Scenic Railway
• Cairns Esplanade
• Palm Cove Beach
• Josephine Falls
• Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
• Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome
• Atherton Tablelands

3. What is the best way to get around Cairns?

Cairns has an excellent public transport system, including buses and trains. However, the most convenient way to get around Cairns is by renting a car. This gives you the flexibility to explore the city at your own pace and visit the attractions that interest you the most. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also readily available.

4. What is the currency used in Cairns?

The currency used in Cairns and the rest of Australia is the Australian dollar. You can exchange your currency at any bank, exchange office, or airport before arriving in Cairns. Most hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to carry a small amount of cash with you.

5. What is the local language spoken in Cairns?

The official language spoken in Cairns is English. However, due to its multicultural population, you may overhear several other languages being spoken in the city, including Chinese, Japanese, and Italian.

6. What is the weather like in Cairns?

Cairns has a tropical climate with two main seasons – the wet season (November to April) and the dry season (May to October). The wet season is characterized by high humidity, frequent rain, and the occasional tropical cyclone. The dry season, on the other hand, is sunny, with moderate temperatures and less rain.

7. Is Cairns safe for tourists?

Cairns is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any tourist destination, petty crime is not uncommon. It’s always a good idea to take basic precautions like not leaving your valuables unattended, being careful while traveling alone, and avoiding deserted areas.

8. What should I pack for a trip to Cairns?

Packing for Cairns largely depends on the time of the year you are visiting. If you are visiting during the dry season, pack light clothes for warm weather, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat. If you are coming during the wet season, be sure to pack waterproof shoes and a waterproof jacket.

9. Where can I find the best food in Cairns?

Cairns offers a wide variety of dining options, from local seafood to international cuisine. Some of the best places to find great food in Cairns include:

• The Pier Restaurant
• Ochre Restaurant & Bar
• Prawn Star
• Barbados Port Douglas
• Green Ant Cantina
• The Lillipad Cafe
• Raw Prawn

10. What types of accommodations are available in Cairns?

Cairns has a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels and resorts. Some of the popular accommodations in Cairns include:

• Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina, Cairns
• Hilton Cairns
• Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
• Cairns Central YHA
• Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort
• Rileys Hotel Cairns
• The Abbott Boutique Hotel

Book Your Tour Now

Cairns is undoubtedly one of the best destinations in Australia for nature lovers, foodies, and adventure enthusiasts. It’s a stunning city with an array of attractions that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, exploring the Great Barrier Reef, or hiking through the Daintree Rainforest, Cairns offers something for everyone. With the information provided in this FAQ, you should have a better understanding of what to expect when planning your trip to Cairns.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cairns

Cairns, located on the northeastern coast of Queensland, Australia, is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. This tropical city offers a wide range of activities and attractions for travelers to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in exploring the Great Barrier Reef or hiking through the lush rainforest, there is something for everyone in Cairns. In this guide, we will take a closer look at some of the top things to do in Cairns, as well as offer tips and suggestions for making the most of your time in this beautiful city.

1. Visit the Great Barrier Reef

No trip to Cairns would be complete without a visit to the Great Barrier Reef. This stunning natural wonder is one of the most iconic destinations in Australia and attracts millions of visitors each year. There are a few different ways to explore the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns. One popular option is to take a snorkeling or diving tour. These tours typically take you out to the reef on a boat and allow you to explore the colorful coral and wildlife up close. If you’re not a fan of getting wet, you can still experience the Great Barrier Reef from above by taking a scenic helicopter or seaplane tour. This will give you a bird’s eye view of the reef and its stunning surroundings.

2. Explore the Daintree Rainforest

Another must-see destination in Cairns is the Daintree Rainforest. This ancient rainforest is one of the oldest and most diverse ecosystems on the planet, and is home to a wide range of unique flora and fauna. There are plenty of guided tours available that will take you deep into the heart of the Daintree, allowing you to experience the beauty and serenity of this incredible natural wonder. Highlights of a Daintree tour may include a river cruise, a visit to Mossman Gorge, and a chance to spot rare wildlife such as the elusive cassowary.

3. Take a Scenic Train Journey

For a more relaxed but equally beautiful experience in Cairns, visitors can take a scenic train ride through rainforest to the charming village of Kuranda. The journey begins from Cairns and takes about an hour and a half, with stunning views throughout the ride. Once you reach Kuranda, there is plenty to see and do, including exploring the Kuranda Markets, getting up close with native wildlife at the Kuranda Koala Gardens, or simply enjoying a leisurely lunch at one of the many cafes and restaurants.

4. Hit the Beaches

Cairns is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia, and spending a day soaking up the sun is a must. The most popular beach in Cairns is undoubtedly Palm Cove, with its white-sand shores and tranquil waters. Other beaches in the area that are worth checking out include Trinity Beach, Yorkeys Knob, and Clifton Beach. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a place to do some water sports, there is a beach in Cairns that will fit the bill.

5. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

For a unique and educational experience in Cairns, visitors can check out the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. This park offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the rich history and culture of the Aboriginal people through interactive displays, performances, and workshops. Highlights of a visit to Tjapukai may include trying your hand at traditional arts and crafts, learning about bush medicine, or watching a mesmerizing fire-making demonstration.

6. Enjoy the Nightlife

Cairns is a city that knows how to have fun, and the nightlife scene here is no exception. There are plenty of bars and nightclubs where visitors can dance the night away, as well as a range of live music venues featuring local and international acts. Some popular nightlife spots in Cairns include The Woolshed, Gilligan’s, and The Reef Casino. No matter what your taste in music or atmosphere, there is sure to be a spot in Cairns that will suit your style.

Book Your Tour Now

Cairns is a city that offers something for everyone, from natural wonders to cultural experiences to exciting nightlife. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your visit. But by following this guide and taking the time to explore all that Cairns has to offer, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time in this beautiful part of Australia.