Green Island Fly & Cruise Package

Green Island Fly & Cruise Package Review

Planning a trip to Cairns and eager to see the Great Barrier Reef in a way that combines aerial vistas and underwater adventures? This Green Island Fly & Cruise Package promises an experience that hits all the high notes—literally, with its scenic flight, and figuratively, with its variety of activities on Green Island. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed itineraries give us plenty of insight into what makes it a compelling choice for travelers craving authentic reef exploration with a touch of sky-high excitement.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the 40-minute scenic flight offers a rare bird’s-eye perspective of the reef, including Green Island, Palm Cove, and Arlington Reef. Next, the full-day cruise on Reef Rocket by Big Cat delivers plenty of snorkeling, glass-bottom boat views, and leisurely walks with fish feeding—perfect for divers and non-swimmers alike. Lastly, the convenient courtesy bus transfers make logistics smooth and stress-free.

However, one consideration is that return transfers aren’t included in the base price, which means you might need to book an extra if you’re staying outside Cairns or want a door-to-door experience. But overall, this tour is best suited for travelers who value stunning aerial views combined with a relaxed, activity-packed day on the reef.

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Key Points

• Spectacular aerial views of the reef and Green Island from a guaranteed window seat airplane.
• Comprehensive full-day cruise with buffet lunch, snorkeling, glass-bottom boat, and fish feeding.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off via courtesy bus transfers to Cairns.
• Expert pilot commentary enriches the scenic flight with insights into the region.
• Balanced activities suitable for both adventure seekers and those preferring a more relaxed day.
• Good value for money considering the combination of flights, transfers, and activities.

An Introduction to What You Can Expect

This Green Island Fly & Cruise Package is designed to give a full picture of the reef’s beauty—both from the sky and underwater. It’s a perfect mix of adventure and leisure, starting with an exhilarating scenic flight that lasts about 40 minutes. The high-wing aircraft used ensures everyone has a guaranteed window seat, a detail that frequent reviewers appreciate because it maximizes the view without the hassle of seat battles. During the flight, the pilot provides informative commentary, pointing out Green Island, Arlington Reef, and Palm Cove, which enhances the experience even before arriving at the island.

Post-flight, courtesy buses whisk you from Cairns Airport to the Reef Terminal. The transfer is smooth and efficient, allowing you to settle into the full-day cruise comfortably. This cruise on Reef Rocket, operated by Big Cat, is packed with options. You’ll enjoy a buffet lunch—a real highlight for many reviewers who mention how “everything was perfect, including the buffet lunch”—and have the chance to explore Green Island at your own pace.

On Green Island, your options include snorkeling, glass-bottom boat coral viewing, and fish feeding. Reviewers have mentioned that the activities are well-organized, and the use of the vessel as an air-conditioned base during the day makes it easy to switch between options without hassle. This flexibility means you can simply relax or actively explore, depending on your mood.

The Scenic Flight: A View You Won’t Forget

Starting the day with a scenic flight provides a perspective on the reef that’s hard to beat. The 40-minute flight departs from Cairns Airport, and every reviewer notes that the high-wing aircraft offers excellent visibility. The fact that everyone gets a window seat is a big plus, especially for those who want to photograph or simply marvel at the vastness of the reef from above.

The pilot commentary adds to the magic, with knowledgeable guides pointing out highlights like Arlington Reef and Palm Cove, giving context to what you’ll see. The views from above reveal the sprawling coral formations, patch reefs, and turquoise waters, making it clear why this region is so celebrated. Several reviews mention how “the flight was fantastic” and how the “views from both sides of the plane” are equally stunning, ensuring everyone gets a good shot.

This part of the experience is particularly valuable because it provides a macro view of the reef’s layout—something you might not fully grasp from snorkeling alone. It’s an excellent way for first-timers to appreciate the scale of the reef and understand its diverse ecosystems.

The Full-Day Cruise: Exploring Green Island

After the flight, the full-day cruise is where the bulk of your reef adventure unfolds. The Reef Rocket vessel is well-equipped, with air-conditioned indoor spaces and outdoor decks—reviewers consistently comment on how comfortable and efficient the boat is. The buffet lunch receives praise for being varied and plentiful, satisfying even the most ravenous explorers. For those who love marine life, the glass-bottom boat tour is a highlight, offering a window into the vibrant coral gardens without even getting wet.

For snorkelers, equipment hire is included, with some reviewers noting that the experience exceeded expectations. One reviewer mentioned that they saw small sharks, turtles, and a huge variety of fish, making the underwater world come alive in a truly memorable way. The fish feeding sessions are often described as fun and interactive, providing a chance to get up close with the aquatic critters in a controlled, safe environment.

Additional activities such as self-guided walks on Green Island allow for a relaxed exploration of the lush island scenery, including beaches and walking trails. Many travelers appreciated the laid-back vibe, with some noting that the island feels almost like a tropical paradise, perfect for unwinding after the excitement of the flight and snorkeling.

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Authentic Reviews: Real Insights from Travelers

Multiple reviews emphasize how knowledgeable guides made the experience even better. One reviewer praised Pilot Caroline for her friendly attitude and insightful commentary, while another complimented the well-organized transfers between the plane and boat, which minimized waiting time.

A traveler from the UK shared that “the flight was fantastic” and all six passengers had excellent views. Others pointed out how “everything was immaculately planned and smoothly executed”, making the day seamless from start to finish. The value for money is often highlighted, especially when compared to separate bookings for flights, snorkel gear, and island transfers.

While most reviews are glowing, one note of consideration is that snorkeling might not meet everyone’s expectations—some mentioned the option of booking guided tours for a more curated experience, which can be an optional extra. That said, the self-guided activities proved enjoyable for many, especially given the variety of marine life seen during snorkels and fish feeding.

Transportation & Timing: Making It Work Smoothly

The courtesy bus transfers are a huge plus, especially for those staying in Cairns, as they eliminate the hassle of organizing transport. The timing of the flight and cruise is usually coordinated to maximize your reef time, and reviews confirm that the entire process from airline to island is efficient.

The total duration of approximately 9.5 hours makes this a full-day commitment, but many find it well worth the investment. You’ll start with the flight early in the morning, giving you plenty of time afterward for the cruise, lunch, and snorkeling before heading back to Cairns. Keep in mind that return transfers are an extra, so if you’re staying outside Cairns or want a direct return, it’s worth booking ahead.

Pricing & Overall Value

At $283 per person, this package offers a comprehensive experience—combining scenic flight, transfers, a full-day cruise, buffet lunch, and activities. When you consider the cost of separate activities—such as a helicopter ride or a standalone reef trip—the package stacks up as excellent value.

Reviewers consistently mention the good balance of activities versus price, especially appreciating the high quality of the flight and cruise. For travelers wanting to see the reef from two different perspectives and enjoy a relaxing day with included meals and activities, this Fly & Cruise combo provides a well-rounded, memorable experience.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This Green Island Fly & Cruise Package stands out as a balanced, value-packed way to experience the Great Barrier Reef. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine spectacular aerial views with underwater exploration in a single day, without the hassle of organizing multiple bookings. The expert guides and smooth logistics help make the day flow seamlessly, leaving you free to enjoy the stunning sights and marine life.

If you’re looking for a full, immersive day that captures the reef’s beauty from above and below, this tour delivers. It’s especially great for those new to reef tourism or anyone who appreciates comfortable, well-organized activities with plenty of photo opportunities.

For seasoned snorkelers or divers, it’s an excellent way to get a panoramic overview before plunging into the underwater world, all while enjoying the comforts of a high-quality cruise. If your aim is to tick off the reef, see fantastic views, and relax in the process, this package offers a compelling, trusted choice.

FAQ

Is the flight weather-dependent?
Yes, all flights are subject to pilot discretion, weather conditions, aircraft availability, and air traffic control. If weather cancels your flight, GSL Aviation will attempt to reschedule or provide a full refund.

Are there guaranteed window seats on the aircraft?
Yes, every passenger is assured a window seat, which is especially appreciated by those eager to capture photos or simply enjoy the views.

What activities are included on Green Island?
You can enjoy snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, fish feeding, and self-guided walks. Snorkeling gear is available for hire, and the vessel serves as a comfortable base during your time on the island.

How long is the entire experience?
The tour lasts approximately 9.5 hours, starting with the flight, followed by transfers, the cruise, and return to Cairns.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is part of the cruise, with reviewers describing it as varied and satisfying.

Can I book a transfer to my accommodation?
Return transfers are not included in the base price but can be booked separately with Big Cat on the day of travel.

What if I don’t want to snorkel?
You can opt for the glass-bottom boat tour instead, or simply enjoy the island’s walkways and fish feeding activities. The cruise vessel also provides a comfortable base for relaxing on the day.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children under 3 travel free if on a paying adult’s lap. Many reviews mention family-friendly activities and the appeal of the reef for all ages.

This tour offers a thoughtful blend of adventure, comfort, and impressive views, making it a top choice for anyone eager to see the Great Barrier Reef from every angle.

You can check availability for your dates here: