A quick catamaran ride from Cairns delivers you to Green Island — a compact coral cay with snorkelable fringing reef, rainforest boardwalks and regular wildlife sightings. Spend 4–5 hours exploring underwater gardens by snorkel or glass-bottom boat, with transfers and optional lunch included.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The catamaran slips out of Cairns Harbour and the city’s high-rises shrink behind you; open sea takes over, a bright band of horizon and the promise of coral below. In roughly 45 minutes Green Island rises like a green ring on a blue sheet — a small coral cay with a fringe of beach and a pocket of littoral rainforest threaded by boardwalks.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours (including transfers)
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to move on a boat, board a catamaran and swim/snorkel at an intermediate level
Wildlife
History
Green Island is a coral cay formed on a reef platform; the surrounding waters are part of the Great Barrier Reef, a marine system long used by local Aboriginal peoples for food and cultural practice.
Conservation
Visits contribute an Environmental Management Charge; visitors should follow reef etiquette — no touching coral or feeding wildlife — to reduce human impact.
Reserve your spot on the Green Island Full Day Trip from Cairns with City Transfers today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
The island enforces reef protection; use biodegradable, reef‑safe sunscreen to protect coral and marine life.
Wear reef shoes or water shoes
Sharp coral and slippery rocks make water shoes useful for shallow entries and shore walks.
Consider a morning slot
Mornings often mean calmer seas and clearer visibility for snorkeling on the fringing reef.
Respect marine wildlife
Keep distance from turtles and rays; do not touch or stand on coral to avoid damage and fines.
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects both your skin and the reef's delicate corals from chemical damage.
summer
Mask, snorkel & fins (or rent on-island)
Personal gear fits better and improves your time observing fish and coral.
Water shoes
Protect feet from coral rubble and slippery surfaces during shore entries.
summer
Rash guard / stinger suit
Provides sun protection and stinger protection during the tropical stinger season.
summer