Reef Daytripper
Departure Times
Pricing Options
You will explore the protected reef environment guided by Reef Daytripper's professional and friendly crew!
- Have fun while you learn about the complex marine relationships that exist only on the Great Barrier Reef
- Choose to snorkel or scuba dive and enjoy the thrill of sailing on the Great Barrier Reef
- See anemone clownfish, cruise over colourful reefs, and be prepared to be amazed by the giant clams - this tour allows you to get up and close with the stunning marine life that awaits below!
- Eco-friendly tour – lowest carbon footprint of any Cairns snorkeling operator
The Reef Daytripper is known to be the best 'back to nature' experience in Cairns where you can explore the Great Barrier Reef and swim up close to the beautiful coral formations and exotic marine species. Sail to the picturesque Upolu Reef on our charming catamaran for a relaxing yet funfilled sailing trip.
Features
- Small group size - Just 20 guests!
- Explore the protected reef world
- Eco-friendly tour – lowest carbon footprint of any Cairns snorkeling operator
- Local owned and operated
- Swim up close to clownfish and other awesome marine animals!
- See the giant clams and their beautiful colours
- Make unforgettable memories
- All snorkel equipment included
- Casual and informative reef education provided
- Complimentary guided snorkel tour provided
- Smorgasbord lunch
- Afternoon Tea
This is your chance to see the beautiful marine life of the Great Barrier Reef!
Sample Itinerary
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 complimentary snorkel guide is available, which offers a fun and informative addition to the day’s exploration.
Snorkelling
We offer informative snorkel tours, as well as all your snorkel equipment, so you can enjoy your snorkelling adventure in the best way possible! You can see the amazing fish life and coral gardens that lie below through the crystal clear waters of Upolu Reef, getting a good look into the world-famous and World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef.
Scuba diving
Both introductory and certified divers are welcome to join this fun sailing tour on the Great Barrier Reef! Divers can look forward to one dive during the day, where you will get to explore the reef at length. All your gear and tuition is included, ensuring you will have everything you need for an amazing underwater experience. We aim for you to dive for as long as you want, with no rush to come back to the surface! You can look forward to seeing the reef in the best way possible, seeing it up close and immersing yourself into the seascape!
Sailing
Avoids the crowds and join a small-group sailing tour to Upolu Reef in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Sit back and relax as you skim along the surface of the bright blue water, relaxing in the bow nets, or enjoying the rights from the spacious decks. Adventurous guests can even help the crew out and learn a thing or two about sailing as you make your way out, getting a feel for the sails and winches! This is one of the best ways to experience the reef as you feel the power of the wind move you along as you coast over colourful reefs and clear waters.
Important Information
- Please note divers may be subject to a medical questionnaire before they are able to dive. Please click here for more diving information and to read the medical questionnaire. Certified divers are required to provide proof of certification and a medical questionnaire. Must be successfully completed by all candidates prior to diving. Dive age is 12+
More Information
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What To Bring
- Towel
- Hat & Sunglasses
- 50+ sunscreen
- Travel calm
- 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.
What's Included
- Coffee or tea on arrival
- Snorkelling equipment (mask, fins & snorkel)
- Guided snorkel tour
- Tropical style buffet lunc...
Read More
What To Bring
- Towel
- Hat & Sunglasses
- 50+ sunscreen
- Travel calm
- 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.
What's Included
- Coffee or tea on arrival
- Snorkelling equipment (mask, fins & snorkel)
- Guided snorkel tour
- Tropical style buffet lunch
- Complimentary fruit platter, selection of cheeses & crackers
- A complimentary glass of wine
- Reef education and introduction
- A dive professional for all dive upgrades
What's Extra
Transfers to and from Cairns city accommodation, Intro Dives and Certified Dives and wetsuits. Certified or introductory dive (for fare types including dives only).
Please note divers may be subject to a medical questionnaire before they are able to dive. Please click here for more diving information and to read the medical questionnaire.
Terms and Conditions
Please note: Minimum age for diving is 12 years. Second dive subject to availability. All divers must complete a medical questionnaire on board before diving. Certain medical conditions may prohibit diving in accordance with the law. All trips are subject to weather tidal conditions. All prices and times quoted are subject to change without notice. Trips may be cancelled at the discretion of operator.
It should be noted that adventure travel involves risk. Whilst we make every effort to safeguard clients, we cannot be responsible for personal injury or loss due to actions of our clients which are beyond our control.
We recommend that all clients have travel insurance covering illness, injury, loss or damage to personal belongings and not being able to travel
on the confirmed date of departure. Please be aware operators pass on credit card merchant fees so there is a non-refundable 1.5% surcharge for VISA and MASTERCARD purchases.
Open Date Vouchers / Gift Certificate:
Shipping Costs are in addition to the ticket price and will be added at check-out. Shipping costs are non-refundable and do not makeup part of the ticket value.
E-Vouchers incur no shipping fees.
You have 5 years to use the value of the voucher. Seasonal Price Rises will apply if travelling out the current seasons pricing. Vouchers can be exchanged for free up to the full value of the voucher excluding credit card fees and charges.
Cancellations
All client cancellations forfeit 25% of total ticket price and all client cancellations made less than 14 days prior to departure will result in complete forfeiture of the full price of the trip.
If the company has to cancel the trip (prior to departure) and we cannot offer a suitable alternative, then a refund will be given minus card fees.
We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance, especially during the wet season.
Thank you for booking with Mr Travel. If you would like any advice or assistance in arranging accommodation, transfers or additional tours, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the boat depart from and what time?
Check in for Reef Daytripper starts at 7:30am on the boat from D Finger, Cairns Marlin Marina. Departure is at 7:45am.
Which reef does this boat visit?
Up to 2 sites inside the Upolu Reef depending on time and weather.
How long does it take to get out to the reef?
The journey out to Upolu Reef takes approximately 1 hour to get to the first reef spot.
What if I get sea sick?
If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s advisable to take something around 20 minutes prior to boarding the boat. As Reef Daytripper is a catamaran, it’s a smoother and more stable vessel compared to monohulls. But please note that most sea sick tablets are a preventative and will not help if you are already feeling nauseous. So best take it before the trip if you are concerned.
Are special dietary requirements catered for?
If you have any food allergies or special dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, etc. Reef Daytripper can arrange this with the catering provider. You are also welcome to bring your own snacks if you prefer.
Are transfers included?
Transfers are available for an additional cost. Return transfers from Cairns City are $20 p/p, and return transfers from the Outer Suburbs and Northern Beaches are $35 p/p. This must be pre-booked at least 24 hours prior to your date of travel.
I’ve heard there are deadly jellyfish in Cairns, should I be worried about being stung?
There are 2 main types of dangerous jellyfish in Tropical North Queensland waters. The Box Jellyfish is coastal dwelling and is rarely seen on the reef. They breed in estuaries and live their life on the shoreline mostly away from the reef. The Irukandji Jellyfish is also predominantly a coastal dweller but is occasionally found on the reef. Stinger Season in Cairns runs from November until May, but you can still enjoy snorkelling the reef by wearing a stinger suit. Reef Daytripper provides these onboard to ensure you can enjoy the reef all year round!
What about sharks or crocodiles?
If you’re lucky, you may see a little white or black tip reef shark cruising the reef, but rest assured they are super timid and will swim away if you get near. It’s actually a good sign of a healthy marine ecosystem if you do see one! Crocodiles prefer to hang around the murky waters of rivers, lakes and swamps. So the water is too clear for them further out and is a long distance for them to swim, making it extremely rare to see them on the Great Barrier Reef.
What temperature is the water?
Cairns is located in Tropical North Queensland, so the water temperature is very pleasant all year round. Approximate average water temperatures throughout the year are: December-February 29C or 83F March-May 25C or 76F June-August 22C or 72F September-November 25C or 76F
Is breakfast included?
Reef Daytripper does not offer a breakfast option, however, tea and coffee are available on arrival. Only lunch is included with the tour, and a glass of bubbly on the way home. You are also welcome to bring along your own snacks.
