Explore Green Island & Cairns: Ultimate Great Barrier Reef and City Sights Tour
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9–10 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended to comfortably enjoy snorkeling and walking tours with some standing periods on the boat and in Cairns.
Overview
Dive into a day of tropical adventure with a guided tour to Green Island's coral reefs and a cultural exploration of Cairns city. Experience snorkeling, rainforest ecosystems, stunning stained glass art, and lush gardens all in one seamless journey.
Green Island & Cairns City Sights Tour with Cairns hotel transfers
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 9.5-hour adventure to Green Island, a stunning coral Cay on the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy two hours of snorkeling or a glass-bottom boat tour, followed by a cultural exploration of Cairns, featuring St. Monica's Cathedral and the lush Botanic Gardens. A perfect blend of relaxation and discovery awaits!
Adult - $230.00 Child (4-14 yrs)- $137.00 Family 2A2C $666.00 Prices per person valid until 31st March 2025
Duration:
9.5 Hours 9am to 6.00pm Wednesday to Saturday
About Green Island
You will be collected from your hotel with Big Cat Cruises for your departure to Green Island
Green Island is a beautiful coral Cay on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Green Island is a Marine National Park uniquely rainforested and surrounded by white sandy beaches and magnificent coral reefs and abundant marine life.
Your visit allows you 2 hours at Green Island and included is the choice of snorkelling gear or a glass bottom boat tour. “Reef Rocket” is a modern comfortable air-conditioned highspeed catamaran with a relaxed atmosphere.
Travel time to Green Island is 45 minutes from Cairns. Passengers can take part in the many activities available or simply relax on the beach.
Our friendly crew will help you to organise your activities to make the most of your time on Green Island.
Lunch IS NOT INCLUDED, and we recommend an early lunch on the Island.
Depart Green Island at 12 noon and arrive at Cairns 12.45 pm
Cairns Discovery Tours will collect you in front of the Reef Fleet Terminal at 1.00 pm. You will see the vehicle parked
This afternoon you will discover our vibrant city's history and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage unique to the Far North with Cairns Discovery Tours.
One of the highlights is St. Monica's Cathedral featuring the World's largest themed stained glass windows. Cairns Botanic Gardens contains an amazing collection of tropical plants, including exotic herbs, spices, valuable timber trees, orchids, fruits, bromeliads, giant bamboo, and many other spectacular flowering plants.
Everything about this tour experience is designed to delight discerning travellers of all ages and interests.
Inclusions
Return Hotel Transfers 45-minute Cruise to Green Island aboard “Reef Rocket” a modern catamaran 2 hrs on Green Island, departs 9am, back in Cairns 12.45pm Choice of glass bottom boat tour or snorkel gear Lunch NOT included
Cairns City Sights Tour Pick up at the Reef Fleet Terminal 1.00 pm Air-conditioned coach Experienced local guide St Monica's Cathedral - World's largest-themed stained-glass windows Cairns City Museum Devonshire Afternoon Tea at Noa's local Cafe in the leafy suburb of Edge Hill Visit Cairns's spectacular lookout. Lower Barron Gorge National Park & Surprise Creek Falls Palm Cove Beach Return transfers are included to your chosen accommodation in Cairns and Northern Beaches.
Please note - Wheelie Walkers, wheelchairs and mobility scooters are not permitted as our vehicle is not equipped with a luggage area
Adventure Tips
Book Early for Best Seats
Reserve your spot well in advance, especially during peak season, to secure a comfy seat on the Reef Rocket catamaran.
Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect the marine ecosystem by using biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen when snorkeling around Green Island.
Bring Waterproof Camera
Capture the vibrant underwater world and island scenery with a waterproof camera or protective case for your device.
Prepare for Tropical Weather
Pack a light rain jacket or poncho as tropical showers are frequent, especially in summer months.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green Island sea turtles
- Great Barrier Reef parrotfish
History
Green Island is part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, protected since the 1930s, with its rainforest officially preserved as a national park since 1937.
Conservation
The tour operator emphasizes reef-safe practices including banning single-use plastics and promoting education about the reef’s delicate ecosystems to visitors.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cairns
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Snorkeling Mask and Fins
Essential for exploring the coral reefs and marine life up close at Green Island.
summer specific
Lightweight Rain Jacket
Useful to stay dry during unexpected tropical rain showers.
summer specific
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Needed for city sightseeing and walking the Botanic Gardens comfortably.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin without harming ocean coral ecosystems.
summer specific