Best Great Barrier Reef Trips For Non-Swimmers
Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to swim to see the Great Barrier Reef. Cairns offers numerous activities for non-swimmers to enjoy the stunning coral gardens and marine life that many people dream of ticking off their bucket list. Options range from glass-bottom boats and semi-submersible tours, to helmet dives, scenic flights and guided snorkel tours.
Regardless of your swimming ability or aversion to swimming in the ocean, this guide lists the best tours for experiencing the reef from Cairns or Port Douglas.
Can you still see the Great Barrier Reef if you can't swim?
Yes, you can see the Great Barrier Reef even if you can't swim! Thousands of people visit Cairns from all over the world every month, including from culture's where it's not a priority or never had the opportunity to learn how to swim. It's actually more common than you might think and almost every reef tour caters to those visitors.
Flotation devices can be provided on request and the friendly crew will conduct a snorkel gear briefing demonstration prior to arrival at the first reef site. If you're worried about safety while snorkelling, don't be. Qualified lifeguards stand watch from the deck, keeping an eye out for anyone in need of help.
Is it safe to snorkel if you can't swim?
Snorkelling isn't just reserved for those who know how to swim, with the right precautions and support it can be safe for non-swimmers as well. Below is some helpful suggestions for how to remain safe while snorkelling.
- Buoyancy vests or flotation devices like belts and noodles will keep you afloat and help you feel more secure in the water.
- Guided snorkeling tours where a professional can assist and ensure your safety often provide a briefing and in-water support for non-swimmers.
- Start in shallow waters off the beach where you can stand, if necessary. This can help build your confidence in the water. Green, Fitzroy, Frankland Islands and Michaelmas Cay are great places to start.
- Swim close to the boat if you are doing an outer reef trip where entrance is off the back deck into deep water so you can call out to staff if you need help.
Best Great Barrier Reef Trips For Non-Swimmers From Cairns
| Reef Activity Pontoons | Description | Inclusions | Extras |
| Great Adventures | 3 hours on secure and stable reef platform |
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| Reef Magic | 5 hours on secure and stable pontoon |
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| Sunlover | 4 hours at secure and stable activity pontoon |
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| Outer Reef Day Tours | Description | Inclusions | Extras |
| Ocean Freedom | 6 hours at Upolu Reef and Cay, great for beginners, high staff to pax ratio. |
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| Ocean Free | Only 25 pax, sailing vessel, eco friendly tour, great for beginners, high staff to pax ratio. |
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| Passions of Paradise | Visit 2 outer reef sites on a stable cruising catamaran |
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| Silverswift | Visit 3 outer reef locations, low pax numbers |
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| Tusa Reef Tours | Visit 2 outer reef locations, only 40 pax per trip, high staff to guest ratio. |
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| Island Day Tours | Description | Inclusions | Extras |
| Green Island | Snorkel from a lifeguarded beach, shallow waters, self-guided |
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| Fitzroy Island | Snorkel from the beach, shallow waters, self-guided |
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| Frankland Islands | Unique island experience, river cruise, only boat to visit the island |
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| Michaelmas Cay |
Sand cay, good chance to see turtles, shallow waters |
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Best Great Barrier Reef Trips For Non-Swimmers From Port Douglas
| Reef Activity Pontoons | Description | Inclusions | Extras |
| Quicksilver | Stable pontoon at Agincourt Reef, caters to all abilities, wheelchair friendly |
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| Outer Reef Day Tours | Description | Inclusions | Extras |
| Silversonic | Visit 3 reef sites, low pax numbers |
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| Island Day Tours | Description | Inclusions | Extras |
| Wavedancer Low Isles |
Shallow waters, full day tour, spacious sailing vessel |
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| Calypso Low Isles |
Low pax numbers only 23, Shallow waters, Half day tour |
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