About this experience
Embark on the Reef Magic Pontoon Tour for an unforgettable day on the Outer Great Barrier Reef. Start with a 90-minute cruise to the all-weather Marine World pontoon at Moore Reef. Explore vibrant marine life through snorkelling or dry-viewing activities. Experience the underwater world comfortably with included glass-bottom boat tours, semi-submersible rides, and an underwater observatory. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch and learn about the ecosystem from passionate marine biologists.
Why you'll love it
What's included
What's included
Not included
What to expect
Check-in at Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal
8:15 AMMake your way to the Cairns Marlin Jetty for check-in; boarding closes 15 minutes before departure.
Final boarding
8:45 AMAll passengers must be on board by this time.
Depart for the Outer Reef
9:00 AMSet off on a 90-minute cruise out to Moore Reef on the Outer Great Barrier Reef.
Arrive at the Marine World Pontoon
10:30 AMBegin your reef time — snorkel, join a glass-bottom boat tour, board the semi-submersible, and explore the underwater observatory at your own pace.
Buffet lunch on the pontoon
12:00 PMA freshly prepared buffet lunch is served on board; optional paid activities such as scuba diving and helicopter flights are also available during this time.
Depart Moore Reef
3:30 PMBegin the return cruise back to Cairns.
Arrive back in Cairns
5:00 PMDisembark at Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal — the tour concludes here.
Meeting point
Reef Fleet Terminal, Cairns QLD, Australia
Head to the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal (also known as Cairns Marlin Jetty) and check in from 8:15 AM. Have your mobile ticket ready to scan. Boarding closes at 8:30 AM — allow extra time for parking or transfers.
Open in Google MapsWhat to bring
- Swimmers
- Towel
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Change of clothes
- Extra cash or card for optional onboard purchases
Know before you go
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need to print my ticket?
No. A mobile ticket on your phone is accepted at check-in — no printing required.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day?
Tours are weather dependent. If conditions require it, the tour may be rescheduled or cancelled. You'll be notified as early as possible in that event.
I'm not a confident swimmer — can I still enjoy the reef?
Yes. The glass-bottom boat, semi-submersible, and underwater observatory all give you a clear view of the coral and marine life without entering the water.
Can children come on this tour?
Children aged 4 and over are welcome with a child ticket. Under-4s travel free. All under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Is scuba diving included in the ticket price?
No — scuba diving, helmet diving, and helicopter flights are optional extras available to book and pay for on the day.
Where exactly does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal (Cairns Marlin Jetty) in central Cairns. Check-in opens at 8:15 AM and boarding closes at 8:45 AM.
Free cancellation.Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start time are non-refundable.