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Destination guide

Cairns & Great Barrier Reef

Tropical gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, minke whales, and rainforest-to-reef adventures

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Overview

Tropical gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, minke whales, and rainforest-to-reef adventures

Cairns is the easiest launch point for Great Barrier Reef day boats and liveaboards. Inner reefs like Norman, Milln, and Flynn are reached in 60 km class runs, while overnight trips push north to the Ribbon Reefs and the Cod Hole. Conditions range from protected bommies to blue water drifts. Expect warm water most of the year, a wet season with summer rain, and a dry, sunny winter. From June to July, licensed operators offer in-water encounters with dwarf minke whales under strict codes. On land, rainforest boardwalks, waterfalls, and Indigenous culture round out the trip.

What makes Cairns special

  • Direct access to day boats for inner reefs and fast transfers to islands like Fitzroy and Green.
  • Seasonal expeditions to the Ribbon Reefs with chances for dwarf minke whales.
  • Year-round warm water and a long snorkel season, with stinger suit use recommended in warmer months.

How the reef here works

  • Inner reefs off Cairns feature coral bommies, plate gardens, and walls from 5 m to 30 m.
  • Outer reefs and Ribbons offer clearer water, bigger pelagic life, and iconic sites like the Cod Hole.

Park rules that matter

  • The marine park uses colored zones. Green zones are no-take and strictly enforced. Carry a zoning map and follow operator guidance.

Trip styles

  • Day boats for snorkel and intro dives.
  • Certified diver charters with 2 to 3 dives per day.
  • Liveaboards for Ribbon Reefs and special minke whale itineraries.

Highlights

Don't miss while you're here

Field notes from guides and contributors on what stands out immediately.

Ribbon Reefs liveaboard

Aim for a 3 to 4 night trip to reach the Cod Hole and iconic walls.

Green or Fitzroy Island day

Snorkel straight from the beach with lifeguard cover in season.

Night dive on an inner reef

See hunting trevally, crustaceans, and coral polyps feeding.