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Diving the Great Barrier Reef with Reef Daytripper - Cairns City

Diving the Great Barrier Reef with Reef Daytripper

Cairns Citymoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

9 hours total, ~4 hours in water

Fitness Level

Participants should have basic swimming skills and be comfortable in open water; moderate fitness recommended for diving.

Overview

Discover Upolu Reef’s vibrant marine life on a personalized snorkeling and diving trip with Reef Daytripper. Small groups, unlimited dive time, and expert guides make this Great Barrier Reef experience unforgettable.

Cairns City, Queensland

Reef Daytripper Snorkel and Scuba Dive

9 Hours • Great for Families and Friends • Up to 20 People

Water Activities

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Adventure Photos

Reef Daytripper Snorkel and Scuba Dive photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience the breathtaking Upolu Reef with a personalized tour that avoids the crowds. Enjoy nearly four hours of snorkeling or diving in warm, clear waters, guided by professionals who reveal the reef's vibrant marine life. With small group sizes and unlimited dive time, this adventure promises relaxation and unforgettable exploration.

Our destination, Upolu Reef, is a very beautiful location situated on the edge of the Outer Barrier Reef, and is teeming with a large variety of interesting marine life and a beautiful array of corals.

In the sheltered lagoon you will see a multitude of: giant clams, turtles, sea stars and reef fish. This offers a perfect snorkeling or diving experience in warm clear protected waters. A complementary snorkel guide is available, which offers a fun and informative addition to the day’s exploration.

All persons traveling aboard Reef Daytripper to the Great Barrier Reef marine park are subjected to a $15.00 levy. This charge is distributed accordingly: $6.50 EMC (Environmental Management Charge, $8.50 Port Authority, Administration, passenger levy and fuel charges)

Tour Hours

Check in - 7.30am Departs - 7.45am Returns - 4.30pm (approx.)

About

Avoid the crowds and experience The Great Barrier Reef the way nature intended. No other operator in this category can offer you this superb personalised service. Join us, and our fun loving crew, for an amazing day on the Great Barrier Reef.

With just under four hours at Upolu Reef we aim to visit two sites, allowing plenty of time to snorkel dive or just relax on the boat and soak up the sun!

You may join our guided snorkel tour, in which, our dive professionals will aim to enhance your snorkeling experience by pointing out and explaining the many different marine species that local the reef, along with some migratory animals such as turtles, sharks and rays.

We give the option for you sign up for SCUBA diving on the day. All tuition, equipment and a guide are included in the price and, we can accommodate both certified and introductory diving. We aim to offer you unlimited time for dives, which means we won’t rush you at any point. This gives you; ample time to relax, adjust to the underwater realm and explore the wonders of the reef at your leisure.

Please note that certified divers are required to provide proof of certification, and a medical questionnaire; must be successfully completed by all candidates prior to diving.

Enjoy a professionally prepared catered lunch in the sun along with teas and coffees.

Why choose the Reef Daytripper?

  • Small passenger numbers (20 max)

  • Up to 4 crew per 20 passengers

  • You are not a number!

  • Casual and informative reef education provided

  • Complementary guided snorkel tour provided

  • Dive guide provided at no extra charge

  • Plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery

  • Eco-friendly tour – lowest carbon foot print of any Cairns operator

  • Local owned and operated.

What to Bring

• Towel • Hat & Sunglasses • 50+ sunscreen • Travel calm (ginger tablets available on board) • Certification card (certified divers) • Money for any on board purchases • Warm clothing for the end of the day.

You are also welcome to bring your own equipment for diving and snorkeling if you prefer, though, equipment hire is price inclusive.

Adventure Tips

Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Use biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and the delicate coral ecosystem.

Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day

Even in water-based activities, dehydration is a risk; drink plenty of water before and after snorkeling or diving.

Arrive Early for Check-in

Check-in begins at 7:30am at Marlin Marina D-Finger; arriving early ensures a smooth boarding process.

Certified Divers Should Bring Certification

Proof of diving certification is mandatory for certified divers before participating in scuba activities.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Green sea turtles
  • Reef sharks

History

Upolu Reef is part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, established in 1975 to protect this globally significant marine ecosystem.

Conservation

Reef Daytripper operates with one of the lowest carbon footprints among Cairns reef tours and emphasizes reef-friendly practices to support long-term sustainability.

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Adventure Hotspots in Cairns City

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Reef-safe Sunscreen

Essential

Protect your skin and the reef with reef-friendly sunscreen rated SPF 50+.

summer specific

Snorkel Mask and Fins

Bring your own snorkel gear if preferred for a more personalized fit.

Light Wetsuit or Rash Guard

A wetsuit or rash guard helps maintain warmth during cooler months and offers sun protection.

fall|winter specific

Waterproof Camera

Capture underwater moments with a durable camera suited for snorkeling and diving.