Set sail from Cairns to explore the coral reefs and tropical rainforest of Green Island, then dive into Cairns’ history, gardens, and waterfalls—all in one unforgettable day tour. Discover why this is the ultimate Great Barrier Reef and cultural adventure.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with a basic level of fitness able to walk short distances and spend time snorkeling or standing on the boat.
Wildlife
History
Cairns was established in 1876 as a port for the Hodgkinson goldfields and has since grown into a gateway for reef exploration and tropical rainforest tourism.
Conservation
Green Island is part of a Marine National Park, with strict regulations in place to protect coral reefs and marine life from human impact.
Cairns Discovery Tours
Cairns Discovery Tours is a Cairns, Queensland–based tour operator offering a wide range of reef, island, rainforest and city sightseeing experiences. The company arranges day tours to Green Island and Fitzroy Island, scenic helicopter flights to the Great Barrier Reef, Kuranda rail and Skyrail rainforest journeys, river cruises along Trinity Inlet, dinner cruises aboard the Spirit of Cairns, and admission-inclusive visits to attractions such as the Cairns Aquarium and the Turtle Hospital.
Tours include options with hotel transfers, glass‑bottom-boat cruises, snorkeling time on coral cays, self-guided and guided aquarium experiences, and combined city sightseeing featuring St. Monica’s Cathedral, the Cairns Museum and the Cairns Botanic Gardens. Guests can choose half‑day or full‑day itineraries, family-friendly reef excursions, small-group city tours, and specialty evening experiences such as the Cairns Aquarium by Night with dinner at Dundee’s Restaurant.
Cairns Discovery Tours operates from Cairns, providing convenient departures for cruise-ship passengers and hotel pick-ups for select tours. Signature highlights described in tour listings include the Kuranda Scenic Railway, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Barron Falls lookout stops, Green Island’s coral cay ecosystem, and aerial reef views on helicopter transfers.
Information on each trip—duration, inclusions, and meeting points—is supplied in the individual tour descriptions. This factual presentation helps visitors compare options and select the right Cairns day trip, whether seeking reef snorkeling, rainforest vistas, cultural city sights or a relaxed island cruise.
Location
Cairns, Queensland
Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef
Tours Offered
15 tours
From Green Island to Kuranda
Key Destinations
Reef & Rainforest
Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda
Trip Lengths
Half-day to Full-day
Options for every schedule
Secure a spot on Green Island, Kuranda, reef flights or a dinner cruise — check individual tour pages for availability and inclusions.
Book Early for Peak Season
Tours can fill up quickly during school holidays and summer months—reserve your spot well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect both yourself and the fragile marine environment by using sunscreen that doesn’t harm coral reefs.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
The Cairns City Sights portion involves light walking, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are recommended.
Carry Water and Snacks
While there is an afternoon tea included, packing water and light snacks for the island visit helps keep energy up during excursions.
Snorkeling Gear
Included in the tour but you can bring your own for a better fit and comfort underwater.
summer
Light Waterproof Jacket
Useful for sudden tropical showers common in Far North Queensland.
spring
Hat and Sunglasses
Essential for sun protection during boat transfers and island exploration.
summer
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the day in Cairns’ tropical climate.