Great Barrier Reef Day Tour From Airlie Beach

Ticket Costs

This all-inclusive outer reef day trip includes:

• Snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins, floatation vests)
• Morning tea, buffet-style lunch, and afternoon snacks
• A licensed, knowledgeable crew
• National park fees and reef levies

Prices generally start at$299 AUD per adult. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase on board (18+ only). Children must be strong swimmers and confident in open water — this tour is best suited for ages 12 and up.

Overview

If you’re dreaming of snorkelling the world-famous Great Barrier Reef without the crowds of Cairns or the chaos of big boats, this Outer Reef Snorkel Adventure from Airlie Beach is the trip for you. Imagine jumping off the back of a high-speed catamaran into a coral wonderland, where turtles cruise by and giant clams rest beneath shimmering schools of fish.

With two hand-picked snorkelling spots on the outer reef, you’ll explore vibrant underwater ecosystems teeming with colour and life. This small-group eco-tour is perfect for adventurous travellers, marine-life lovers, and anyone keen to see the reef up close — without needing a scuba licence. Plus, with gourmet lunch and plenty of time in the water, it’s one of the best ways to make the most of a day in the Whitsundays.

Key Details

• Tour duration: 8 hours
• Group size: Max 40 guests
• Ages: Recommended for ages 12+
• Fitness level: Moderate – guests must be comfortable swimming in open water
• Meals: Buffet lunch, plus morning and afternoon snacks
• Facilities: Toilets on board
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible; however, snorkelling requires mobility
• Extras: Alcoholic beverages available for purchase
• Safety note: Non-swimmers may not be allowed in the water due to outer reef conditions. Consider the Thundercat tour for calmer snorkelling options closer to shore.

Itinerary

The day kicks off bright and early at Coral Sea Marina, where you’ll meet your Red Cat Adventures crew — decked out in their signature red shirts — and board your sleek catamaran for a high-speed ride to the outer reef. Morning tea is served as you cruise past the stunning Whitsunday Islands, soaking up the salty air and blue-on-blue views.

By 9:45 AM, you’re anchored at your first snorkelling site on the Great Barrier Reef. After a quick safety briefing, it’s time to slide into the water and explore. Float above bommies and coral gardens as your guides point out unique species — from fluorescent parrotfish to elusive reef sharks.

Next up: site number two. While you snorkel and snap pics of clownfish and turtles, the crew lays out a delicious buffet lunch on board. Eat with a view of the reef before diving back in for more snorkelling, or simply chill on deck and take in the serenity.

Around 2:00 PM, the catamaran begins the scenic journey back to Airlie Beach, arriving around 4:00 PM with sun-kissed cheeks and unforgettable memories.

Reviews

Travellers can’t stop raving about this tour — and for good reason. Guests love the enthusiastic, knowledgeable crew who go above and beyond to make everyone feel safe and included. Snorkelling is the clear highlight, with many lucky enough to swim alongside turtles, giant clams, and clouds of tropical fish.

The boat gets praise for its speed and comfort, while the food and crew hospitality round out a flawless day on the water. Even on choppy days, people say the experience is still magical — thanks to the well-chosen snorkel sites and positive vibes onboard.

What to Bring

• Swimmers and a towel (you’ll be in and out of the water all day)
• Reef-safe sunscreen (apply before boarding)
• A hat and sunnies (bonus points for a strap — it gets breezy)
• Long-sleeved rashie or sunshirt for extra UV protection
• Reusable water bottle
• GoPro or waterproof camera if you want to capture your snorkelling adventures
• Light jacket or windbreaker for the ride home
• Thongs are fine — no need for shoes on board

Top 5 Reasons to Book This Tour

• Snorkel the legendary Outer Great Barrier Reef – Dive into two pristine reef sites hand-picked for their coral and marine life.
• See turtles, rays, and vibrant coral up close – It’s a real-life aquarium out there, with something new around every bommie.
• High-speed catamaran = more time in the water – Get there faster and snorkel longer.
• Friendly, expert crew that genuinely care – From snorkel tips to marine facts, they’re absolute legends.
• Delicious lunch and snacks included – Fuel up between snorkels with a fresh buffet and sweet treats.