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Fitzroy Island & Sunlover Great Barrier Reef Pontoon in a Day

Tour Code: 446

Departing: Cairns

Family Deal Save $165
  • Enjoy 2 hours at Moore Reef Pontoon + 3 Hours at Fitzroy Island (including lunch) 
  • Multi-level pontoon at Moore Reef complete with supersized sundeck and the only theme park style spaghetti waterslide on the Reef!
  • Explore Fitzroy Island by self guided walking trails and visit Nudey Beach, go snorkelling from the island, or simply relax at the Island.
  • Enjoy a range of inclusive activities at Moore Reef Pontoon - including Coral viewing tours in a glass bottom boat and semi-submersible tour plus underwater observatory.

Included In Price

  • Return catamaran cruise
  • Snorkelling equipment - Mask, snorkel, fins, buoyancy vest & lycra suit (Moore Reef & Fitzroy Isl)
  • Moore Reef Pontoon Only Inclusions: Full access to the Sunlover waterslide, Ocean pool enclosure for children, Glass bottom boat tour, Semi-submersible tour, Underwater observatory, Fish feeding presentations, Marine naturalist presentations
  • Premium buffet lunch in Zephyrs Restaurant on Fitzroy Island
  • Expert instruction
  • Self guided nature walks on Fitzroy Island

Experience the ultimate two in one Great Barrier Reef tour adventure with a full day exploring Moore Reef pontoon and a stop-over at Fitzroy Island. Enjoy exciting activities at Moore Reef before relaxing on Fitzroy Island with lunch.

What to Expect

Join us for the best Great Barrier Reef tour from Cairns with a full day of exploring the highly popular Moore Reef activity pontoon and a stop-over at Fitzroy Island. Enjoy a wide range of activities at Moore Reef and then relax on Fitzroy Island with a delicious lunch. This makes for a perfect non-swimmer Great Barrier Reef tour.

Features and Highlights

Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Tour

Moore Reef Pontoon Activities:
  • Begin your journey with a 1.5-hour catamaran cruise from Cairns Marlin Marina to the Sunlover pontoon at Moore Reef. This floating paradise is filled with activities for all ages. Kids can dive into the fun at the ocean pool or zoom down the epic 30-meter spiral slide into the tropical waters.
  • Explore the Great Barrier Reef with our semi-submersible, glass bottom boat tours, or visit the underwater observatory to witness the breathtaking marine life. Enhance your experience with a guided snorkel tour, Seawalker helmet dive, or a scenic helicopter flight for an aerial view of the reef.
Fitzroy Island Experience:
  • After enjoying the Moore Reef pontoon, head to Fitzroy Island for a relaxing afternoon. Enjoy lunch at the ocean view restaurant "Zephyr." You can snorkel directly off the beach or explore the island's 9 kilometres of walking trails with stunning views.

Great Barrier Reef Tour Itinerary

Check-In:
  • 7:30 AM: Check-in at the Cruise Boat Terminal, Port of Airlie.
Moore Reef Pontoon:
  • 8:00 AM: Depart for Moore Reef on a luxury catamaran.
  • Enjoy activities such as snorkelling, semi-submersible tours, and the underwater observatory.
  • Optional extras include guided snorkelling tours, Seawalker helmet dives, introductory and certified SCUBA dives, and scenic helicopter flights.
Fitzroy Island:
  • 1:30 PM: Depart for Fitzroy Island.
  • 2.5 hours at Fitzroy Island, including lunch at Zephyr restaurant.
  • Activities include snorkelling off the beach, relaxing at Nudey Beach, or exploring walking trails.
Return to Cairns:
  • 3:30 PM: Depart Fitzroy Island.
  • 4:30 PM: Arrive back at Cairns.

Moore Reef Pontoon Activities

Snorkelling:
  • Dive into the natural lagoon and explore the vibrant marine life and corals.
  • Two snorkel platforms with easy access to the water via stairs.
Semi-Submersible and Glass Bottom Boat Tours:
  • Discover the reef without getting wet.
  • Enjoy informative commentary during the tour.
Underwater Observatory:
  • Witness a natural fish tank and marine life interaction.
  • Participate in the fish feeding presentation.
Fun for Kids:
  • Enclosed ocean pool.
  • 30-meter waterslide.
Optional Extras:
  • Guided Snorkel Tour: Explore the reef with a marine naturalist.
  • Seawalker Helmet Dive: Experience underwater exploration without traditional diving gear.
  • SCUBA Diving: Introductory and certified dives available.
  • Scenic Helicopter Flight: Get an aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef.

Fitzroy Island Activities

Snorkelling:
  • Snorkel directly from the beach and see incredible marine life and sea turtles.
Walking Trails:
  • Explore 9 kilometres of trails through lush rainforest with breathtaking views.
Relaxation:
  • Enjoy the serene atmosphere on the sandy shores of Nudey Beach.

Optional Extras on Moore Reef Pontoon

Guided Snorkel Tour:
  • 30-minute tour with a marine naturalist.
  • See Giant Clams, Clown Fish, and Giant Blue Starfish.
  • Maximum of 6 guests per tour.
Sea Walker Helmet Dive:
  • No prior diving experience needed.
  • Briefing provided during the journey.
  • 20-minute underwater experience.

Optional Extras on Fitzroy Island

Turtle Talk:
  • Visit the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre.
  • Learn about local turtle species and their rehabilitation.
Kayak Tour:
  • 45-minute tour from the beach.
  • Includes briefing and instruction.
  • Suitable for swimmers with moderate fitness.
Nature Talk:
  • Guided walk to observe island vegetation.
  • Learn about native plants and wildlife.
Rainforest Walk:
  • 45-minute guided tour to the Secret Garden.
  • Explore rainforest flora and fauna.
  • Moderate fitness required.

Enjoy a full day of adventure and relaxation with our Great Barrier Reef and Fitzroy Island combo tour, perfect for all ages and activity levels.

Itinerary

​Cruise Both Ways

7:00 AM Check in Opens
7:30 AM Check in Closes
8:00 AM Depart Cairns to Moore Reef Pontoon
9:30 AM Arrive at Moore Reef Pontoon
2 Hours of Pontoon Fun
11:30 AM Reboard and Depart Moore Reef
12:15 PM Arrive at Fitzroy Island
12:30-1:30 PM Lunch
2 Hours of Island Fun
3:30 PM Depart Fitzroy Island
4.30 PM Arrive Back in Cairns

We also offer a Fly/ Cruise and Cruise/Fly options; these options offer you a longer Great Barrier Reef scenic helicopter flight.  See below modified itineraries:

Fly/Cruise/Cruise  Enjoy a later start of the day and a 
0900 - Check in
0930 - Depart Cairns Marina Heliport
1000 - Arrive at Moore Reef Pontoon
1000 - 1130 – 1.5 hours of Pontoon Fun
1130 - Reboard the boat and Depart Moore Reef
1215 - Arrive at Fitzroy Island
1230 - 1330 – Lunch (on the boat)
1330 -1530 – 2 hours of Island Fun
1530 - Depart Fitzroy Island
1630 - Arrive In Cairns Marina

Cruise/Fly  Enjoy an early return into Cairns

Please note the flight back to Cairns is from Moore Reef Pontoon, by selecting this option you will not get to visit Fitzroy Island.

7:00 AM Check in Opens
7:30 AM Check in Closes
8:00 AM Depart Cairns to Moore Reef Pontoon
9:30 AM Arrive at Moore Reef Pontoon
1.5 Hours of Pontoon Fun - (this may be shorter if the departure push back due to the weather event)
11:15 AM Depart Moore Reef
11:40 Arrive Back in Cairns

Moore Reef Pontoon

You have the option to discover the reef in your preferred way - whether it's snorkeling in the natural lagoon or staying dry with our semi-submersible and glass bottom boat tours. Explore the captivating underwater world at our underwater observatory, where you can witness the impressive natural fish tank and interact with marine life during our engaging fish feeding presentation. Younger guests can have a blast in our enclosed ocean pool or experience the excitement of spiraling down Sunlover's 30-meter waterslide into the tropical ocean. A trained lifeguard is always present at an elevated lifeguard station, and there are two snorkel platforms with easy access to the water via stairs for your convenience.

For those seeking an extra dose of adventure, you can enhance your experience with a guided snorkel tour, Seawalker helmet dive, introductory and certified SCUBA dives, or opt for a thrilling scenic helicopter flight.

Fitzroy Island

Fitzroy Island boasts 90% National Park land, featuring rainforest-clad mountains that lead down to rugged headlands, pristine coral beaches, and the tranquil waters of the Great Barrier Reef.

Guests have the option to snorkel directly from the beach and witness incredible marine life and sea turtles, or relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere on the sandy shores of the renowned Nudey Beach - acclaimed as Australia's top beach.

If you want to explore the land-based activities, explore 9 kilometers of walking trails winding through lush tropical rainforest, offering breathtaking vistas of Green Island from an elevation of 269 meters above sea level. 

Optional Extras on Outer Reef Pontoon

Guided Snorkel Tour :

Join our knowledgeable marine naturalist for a 30-minute guided tour, where you'll discover the vibrant reef and its extraordinary marine inhabitants. Highlights include encounters with the world's largest Bi-Valve, the Giant Clam, colorful Clown Fish nestled in their Anemone Coral homes, and the impressive Giant Blue Starfish (Linkia Sp), among others.

Each snorkel tour accommodates a maximum of 6 guests. Children are welcome under parental discretion.

The experience spans 35 minutes in total, beginning with a 5-minute briefing and instruction session led by your guide, followed by 30 minutes of snorkeling. Please note that actual snorkel time may vary depending on swimmer capabilities and prevailing conditions.

Specific time allocations will be arranged on the day of your excursion.

Sea Walker Helmet Dive :

Seawalker offers an accessible introduction to the thrill of underwater exploration, designed for those with no prior diving experience. Unlike traditional scuba diving, Seawalker allows you to breathe naturally through your nose and mouth, just as you would above water. It provides a unique opportunity to marvel at the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef while staying completely dry.

Each Seawalker session is led by an instructor with a maximum of six participants.

Key details:

  • Briefings are provided during the journey to Moore Reef, lasting approximately 10 minutes.
  • Specific time slots for Seawalker activities are communicated to passengers in advance.
  • Participants should gather at the designated dive section of the pontoon at the scheduled time, where all necessary equipment will be provided.
  • The Seawalker experience takes place on a platform beneath the pontoon, not on the ocean floor.
  • Estimated time spent underwater is up to 20 minutes.

Optional Extras on Fitzroy Island

Turtle Talk :

Immerse yourself in the rainforest with a picturesque beach view and add a Turtle Talk to your Fitzroy Island experience! Take a leisurely 500-meter walk to visit the island headquarters of the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, where dedicated volunteers nurse sick and injured turtles back to health.

During the tour, your knowledgeable guide will deliver an engaging presentation on the various turtle species found in the area and discuss common threats that lead to their care. The ultimate goal is to rehabilitate these turtles for eventual release back into their natural habitat. All proceeds from ticket sales are reinvested into the rehabilitation efforts.

Schedule:

  • 2:30 PM: Departure from the lobby
  • 2:40 PM: Turtle Talk begins
  • 3:05 PM: Conclusion of the talk
  • 3:15 PM: Return for boarding

Note: No minimum age required. Children under 12 years old will need a parent or legal guardian present on the tour with them.

Kayak Tour :

Embark on an exhilarating kayak tour right from the beach—an exciting addition to your Fitzroy Island adventure! This 45-minute experience begins with a comprehensive briefing and instruction session to familiarize you with kayak operation. Your tour leader will assign either double or single kayaks and provide buoyancy vests for safety.

Paddle through the stunning island landscapes, admiring the views and refining your kayaking skills. Participants must be capable swimmers with moderate fitness levels to join.

Two Sessions Daily:

Session A:

  • 1:30 PM: Meet at FISH (ready to go)
  • 1:35 PM: Briefing
  • 1:45 PM: In-water skills session
  • 1:55 PM: Tour commences
  • 2:15 PM: Conclusion

Session B:

  • 2:30 PM: Meet at FISH (ready to go)
  • 2:35 PM: Briefing
  • 2:45 PM: In-water skills session
  • 2:55 PM: Tour commences
  • 3:15 PM: Conclusion

Note: Minimum age 5 years. Children under 12 years old will need a parent or legal guardian present on the tour with them. Kayak tour is not suitable for non swimmers.

Nature Talk :

Take a leisurely stroll starting from the end of the Jetty and concluding beyond Foxys Bar and Grill, an enjoyable addition to your time on Fitzroy Island! This guided Nature Talk provides an opportunity to closely observe the island's remarkable vegetation.

Led by an enthusiastic tour leader, you'll gain insights into the unique rainforest landscapes and its inhabitants. Discover the diverse wildlife that inhabits Fitzroy Island and learn about historical uses of the native plants. This tour is suitable for all ages, offering a low-intensity experience ideal for both nature enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Schedule:

  • 1:30 PM: Departure from the lobby
  • 1:50 PM: Tour concludes at Foxys

Note: No minimum age required. Children under 12 years old will need a parent or legal guardian present on the tour with them.

Rainforest Walk (Available from 1st of August):

Discover more of Fitzroy Island with a guided tour to the Secret Garden, enhancing your adventure with an immersive nature experience!

This 45-minute excursion takes you along a 1km return track into the rainforest, where our knowledgeable guide will unveil fascinating facts about this unique ecosystem. As you walk beneath the rainforest canopy, you'll be enchanted by the stillness and tranquility of this pristine environment. The Secret Garden hosts a rich diversity of flora and fauna, all thriving in harmony.

The trail covers uneven terrain totaling 1km, making moderate fitness advisable.

Two Sessions Daily:

Session A:

  • 1:30 PM: Meet at Secret Garden for briefing and welcome
  • 1:35 PM: Departure
  • 1:50 PM: Arrival at Secret Garden
  • 2:00 PM: Departure from Secret Garden
  • 2:15 PM: Return to Foxys, conclusion

Session B:

  • 2:30 PM: Meet at Secret Garden for briefing and welcome
  • 2:35 PM: Departure
  • 2:50 PM: Arrival at Secret Garden
  • 3:00 PM: Departure from Secret Garden
  • 3:15 PM: Return

Note: Minimum age 5 years. Children under 12 years old will need a parent or legal guardian present on the tour with them.

Tour Languages Offered
  • Chinese
  • English
  • Japanese
Departs From

Cairns

Departure Time

8.00am departure from Cairns Marlin Marina

Departure Instructions

Check in at the Reef Fleet Terminal

Destinations
  • Fitzroy Island
  • Great Barrier Reef
  • Moore Reef on the Great Barrier Reef
Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Daily

Operates on a flexible schedule - Mainly Tuesday, Wednesdays & Saturday. Additional operating days may be added.

Duration

9 hours
2 hours on Moore Reef pontoon & 2 hours on Fitzroy Island

Available for Purchase / Hire
  • Seawalker helmet dive at Moore Reef
  • Guided snorkel tour at Moore Reef
  • 10 minute helicopter reef scenic flight at Moore Reef - Infants age 3 will be charged the child price for any helicopter component booked, this charge will be added to your booking total
  • Guided rainforest walk on Fitzroy Island
  • Guided nature walk on Fitzroy Island
  • Turtle Talk on Fitzroy Island
  • Kayak tour on Fitzroy Island
Fitness Level Required

Medium, Active

Restrictions

Scuba Diving – minimum age 12

IN-WATER RESTRICTIONS

Scuba Diving, Scuba Doo and Helmet Diving Restrictions

  • Certain medical conditions and medications may preclude some people from scuba diving and helmet diving/scuba doo.
  • Participation is subject to medical questionnaires completed on board with the tour operator.
  • Minimum age for scuba diving and helmet diving/scuba doo is 12 years.
  • Flying after scuba diving: a wait of 12 hours is recommended after one dive, 18 hour after 2 dives and at least 24 hours after multiple dives, before ascending to an altitude of 300 metres or greater.

Intro Dive Medical Advanced Dive Medical Seawalker Medical

Read more about Diving Safety on the Great Barrier Reef.

Eco Certifications
Certified Tourism
Ecotourism Certified
  • Hat
  • Towel
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+ water resistant)
  • Swimming costume
  • Cash ($AUD) or Credit Card (VISA, MasterCard) for any onboard purchases
  • Camera (charged)
  • Reef Shoes are highly recommended for Fitzroy Island

  • Family Fare: 2 Adults and 2 Children
  • Infants travel free under the age of four
  • Parents can take prams, strollers and capsules on boat
  • Children 3 years and under travel with Sunlover for free, however, they must be included in your booking. It’s vital for us to have an accurate record of every person travelling with us, no matter their age.
  • Infants age 3 will be charged the child price for any helicopter component booked, this charge will be added to your booking total

All cancellations must be in writing.

We understand things may change, so we have made cancellations very easy.

In every instance we always recommend you purchase travel insurance for life’s last-minute hiccups.

Please see our terms and conditions for details prior to booking.

Operators policy:

  • Cancellation notice of 48 hours is required for a refund claim and 24-48 hours, for a 50% refund claim. No refund applies if booking is cancelled inside 24 hours, this includes no-shows.

Fitzroy Island & Sunlover Great Barrier Reef Pontoon in a Day

Tour Code: 446

Departing: Cairns

Family Deal Save $165

From

au$285.00

Prices are AUD, per adult and include all levies fees and taxes.

Child: au$165.00
Family: au$735.00

Tour Code: 446

From

au$285.00

16 yrs & over

4 - 15 yrs

0 - 3 yrs

Ages of Children
(Discounts May Apply)
Phone
1300 761 612
WhatsApp
+61 427 074 745
Phone
1300 761 612
WhatsApp
+61 427 074 745

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