Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Cruise | Reef Magic Cruises Highlights
-
Get up to 10% cash back per person when you book with us
-
Return catamaran trip from Cairns Marlin Marina to the Reef Magic Pontoon
-
Access to the newest and most technologically advanced pontoon on the Great Barrier Reef
-
All snorkelling equipment, including wetsuit + lycra suit use
-
Marine biologists to show the fully functioning scientific lab, presenting reef research + conservation work
-
Access to the large air-conditioned underwater observatory
-
Semi-submersible and glass-bottomed boat tour
-
Interactive commentary from marine biologists and cultural guide
-
Fish feeding and identification session with a marine biologist
-
Use of the sundeck, freshwater showers, and changing room
-
Gourmet hot and cold buffet lunch freshly prepared
-
Morning tea and afternoon tea, as well as tea, coffee and drinking water all day
What to Expect
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do we spend at the reef?
How long do we spend at the reef?
You will have 5 hours to explore the reef which is up to 2 hours longer than similar Outer Reef Cruises. You can snorkel in our sheltered coral lagoon, join a guided snorkel tour, try an Introductory Scuba Dive, climb aboard a spectacular Scenic Helicopter Flight, take a Semi-Submersible tour (twice if you like) enjoy lunch and still have time to relax on the sundeck with a cool drink! You have time to do as much or as little as you like without the rush. Most guests will have travelled a long way to visit the Great Barrier Reef and with so much to see and do it is not something you want to hurry.
Where is the Reef Magic pontoon located?
Where is the Reef Magic pontoon located?
The Reef Magic pontoon is located at a private Outer Reef location on the pristine north-eastern end of Moore Reef. Located approximately 45km offshore from Cairns this site is far enough from coastal rivers, streams, and sandy beaches to ensure clear ocean waters and maximum underwater visibility in a range of weather conditions.
So what is the reef like where we go? Is there noticeable bleaching or damage?
So what is the reef like where we go? Is there noticeable bleaching or damage?
The Reef Magic site is highly regarded as one of the best quality coral reef locations in the region. Recent independent research from Reef Check Australia has reported no noticeable bleaching on the Reef Magic site, high hard coral concentrations, and a site of excellent overall health. Tropical cyclones and storms, or higher than average summer temperatures can affect the extent of bleaching, but are a natural part of the reef life cycle.
Is the trip suitable for children and babies?
Is the trip suitable for children and babies?
Yes, it is suitable for all ages – including families with children and babies. Adult supervision is required at all times for children under 16 years of age and is not the responsibility of the operator. Floatation devices such as buoyancy vests and noodles are available. Snorkelling equipment, wet suits, and lycra suits are also available in children’s sizes. The pontoon features an infants' swimming enclosure and baby change facilities. There are no babysitting or child minding services on board, so parents are responsible for supervising their children at all times. Both the catamaran and the platform are pram-friendly with ramp access and wide aisles.
Children prices are available for ages 4 - 14 years
What is the minimum age to scuba dive?
What is the minimum age to scuba dive?
The minimum age to scuba dive is 12 years. A medical questionnaire must be completed and signed by a parent/guardian for divers under 18 years.
What do I need to bring?
What do I need to bring?
Hat, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, something to swim in, a towel, a dry change of clothes, cash or credit card for optional activities, and onboard purchases such as souvenirs, professional photos from our on-board photographer, or a drink from the bar.
Do you supply towels?
Do you supply towels?
Please bring one of your own from your hotel or accommodation. We do not have towels available on board.
Are there toilets, showers & changing rooms at the reef?
Are there toilets, showers & changing rooms at the reef?
There are toilets on the boat accessible at all times throughout the day. Fresh water rinse showers and changing rooms are on the pontoon. The catamaran has a wheelchair-accessible bathroom (shower & toilet) and even baby-change facilities.
Are there facilities for the disabled?
Are there facilities for the disabled?
There is ramp access from the wharf to the vessel and vessel to the Reef Magic pontoon. However, passengers are required to negotiate at least one set of stairs on the vessel depending on tides and loading position so the assistance of a carer is highly recommended.
The catamaran has wide aisles and a wheelchair-accessible toilet & shower. Access to the water, coral viewing vessels, underwater observatory, and sundeck all require stairs to be negotiated and would require a carer to be present if the customer can not walk unassisted.
The best idea is to give us a call and talk through the level of disability and we can suggest suitability or not.
How deep is the water?
How deep is the water?
The area directly off the snorkel platform opens into a clear, shallow snorkeling lagoon of only 4-5 meters, perfect for the beginner snorkeller. During low tide, the reef can often break the surface of the water.
The Reef Magic Outer Reef Wall is a renowned dive location by local dive enthusiasts and keen snorkelers and reaches depths of over 30m.
Are there facilities for the disabilities?
Are there facilities for the disabilities?
There is ramp access from the wharf to the vessel and vessel to the Reef Magic pontoon. However, passengers are required to negotiate at least one set of stairs on the vessel depending on tides and loading position so the assistance of a carer is highly recommended.
The Reef Magic II catamaran has wide aisles and a wheel chair accessible toilet & shower. Access to the water, coral viewing vessels, underwater observatory and sundeck all require stairs to be negotiated and would require a carer to be present if the customer can not walk unassisted.
The best idea is to give us a call and talk through the level of disability and we can suggest suitability or not.
Is Reef Magic an Accessible Tour?
Is Reef Magic an Accessible Tour?
Reef Magic, a leading provider of Great Barrier Reef tours, offers accessibility options for passengers with disabilities. The vessel and Marine World platform are equipped with ramp access, ensuring smooth boarding and disembarking. However, please note that passengers may need to negotiate at least one set of stairs on the vessel, depending on tides and loading position, making the assistance of a carer highly recommended for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Reef Magic II catamaran, known for its spacious interiors, features wide aisles and a wheelchair accessible toilet and shower for added convenience. However, access to the water, coral viewing vessels, underwater observatory, and sundeck may require navigating stairs, and a carer's presence is recommended if the customer cannot walk unassisted.
At Reef Magic, they strive to provide the best possible experience for all passengers, and their friendly staff are trained to offer assistance and support to guests with disabilities.
Reviews for Cairns to Great Barrier Reef Cruise | Reef Magic Cruises
81 reviews
Total review count and overall rating based on Backpackerdeals and Travello reviews.
We’d love to hear about your experience! Share your feedback with us, and get rewarded!
All Reviews
Policies
A Refundable Booking is available at checkout. This will provide 100% refund for one of the many reasons included via our terms - including adverse weather, sickness or delays with transport.
All customer cancellation & refund requests are also subject to our website’s own refund conditions.