Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran

About this tour

Spend nine hours on the reef with Passions of Paradise, an award-winning operator running day trips from Cairns since the early 1990s. Their 80-foot catamaran reaches two outer reef locations where you can snorkel or dive among sea turtles, fish schools and coral formations. The crew picks your destination based on conditions that day. You'll eat a chef-prepared lunch onboard, with snorkel tuition and wetsuit hire included.

Highlights

• Two distinct outer reef sites selected for optimal conditions
• Snorkel with turtles, schools of tropical fish and live coral
• Hot and cold buffet lunch prepared aboard the catamaran
• Wetsuit hire, snorkel gear and marine naturalist briefing included
• High-speed modern catamaran departs Cairns at 8am daily
• Scuba diving available for certified divers (minimum age 12)
• All marine park fees covered in tour price

What to expect

Check in opens at 7am at Reef Fleet Terminal; departure is 8am sharp. The catamaran carries you to two locations where you'll have time to snorkel or dive depending on your certification. A marine naturalist talks through what you're seeing. Lunch is served mid-day—hot and cold options with tea and coffee on arrival. You'll spend most of the day in or near the water, so bring a good sunscreen and reapply often. The crew supplies wetsuits, masks (including prescription) and snorkels. Expect moderate physical activity getting in and out of the water and moving around the boat.

Good to know

Bring swimwear, towel, sunglasses and hat. Soft drinks and alcohol are available at the bar (cash and card accepted). Reef Fleet Terminal transfers aren't included—book separately or arrange your own. Scuba divers must wait 18 hours before flying. Check medical restrictions: asthma, diabetes, epilepsy and several medications require a dive medical certificate.