Reef Daytripper

Departure Times
Departure Point: D Finger at Marlin Marina Cairns
Pricing Options
Explore the protected reef environment guided by Reef Daytripper's professional and friendly crew!
- Learn about the complex marine life on the Great Barrier Reef
- Choose to snorkel or scuba dive and enjoy the thrill of sailing
- Get up and close with the stunning marine life that awaits in the coral reefs
- An eco-friendly tour with the lowest carbon footprint of any Cairns snorkelling 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 fun-filled sailing trip.
Highlights
- Small group size of just 20 guests
- Explore the protected reef world
- Eco-friendly tour
- Lowest carbon footprint of any Cairns snorkelling operator
- Locally owned and operated
- Swim up close with gorgeous marine life
- See tropical fish, colourful reefs, giant clams, and more
- All snorkel equipment included
- Informative reef education provided
- Complimentary guided snorkel tour provided
- Smorgasbord lunch and afternoon tea
Sample Itinerary
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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 in 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...
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Reef Sites
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Our destination, Upolu Reef, is a beautiful location situated on the edge of the Outer Barrier Reef that 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 snorkelling or diving experience in warm, clear, protected waters. A complime...
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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...
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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.