Cairns: Green Island, Snorkelling and Glass-Bottom Boat

When it comes to experiencing the Great Barrier Reef, Green Island is often top of the list for travelers seeking a mix of marine adventure, stunning scenery, and tropical relaxation. This tour, offered by Great Adventures Reef & Island Cruises, provides a well-rounded day that combines wildlife, water activities, and a touch of rainforest exploration. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed descriptions, reviews, and itinerary outline paint an inviting picture of what you can expect.

What we love about this tour is its flexibility—you can snorkel directly from the beach, take a captivating glass-bottom boat ride, or explore the lush rainforest at your own pace. The well-equipped facilities like the pool bar and food outlets make it easy to unwind and enjoy the tropical vibe. One thing to keep in mind is that some reviews mention scheduling mishaps or weather-related issues, so it’s wise to stay flexible and check the weather forecast before heading out. This experience seems best suited for those wanting a bit of everything: marine life, scenic views, and a relaxed island atmosphere.

Key Points

• Diverse Activities: Options include snorkelling, glass-bottom boat tours, rainforest walks, and relaxing poolside.
• Convenient Facilities: The island offers a pool bar, dive shop, restaurants, and food outlets.
• Flexible Timing: Tours depart multiple times, allowing for a tailored day.
• Authentic Marine Encounters: Expect to see vibrant coral gardens, sea turtles, stingrays, and Nemo.
• Weather Considerations: Some reviews mention weather impacts; plan with flexibility.
• Additional Activities: Scuba, kayaking, offshore snorkelling, and scenic flights are available as extras.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

The journey begins with a pickup and check-in at the Reef Fleet Terminal in Cairns, located conveniently on Spence Street. Departures are available at 8:30 am and 10:30 am, giving you options depending on how early you like to start your day. The boat ride itself lasts roughly 45-50 minutes, during which you can settle into the scenic cruise and perhaps catch some morning sun.

Arrival at Green Island

Upon arrival around 9:15 am or 11:15 am, depending on your departure, you’re greeted by the island’s inviting white sandy beaches and lush greenery. The island’s vegetation includes over 120 native plant species, and it boasts a history dating back some 6,000 years—meaning there’s plenty of natural beauty and stories to explore.

Snorkelling and Marine Life

One of the main highlights of this tour is snorkelling. You can rent gear and head straight to the beach to snorkel among coral gardens teeming with marine life. The reviews confirm that snorkelers often see turtles, stingrays, and even Nemo. However, one reviewer pointed out that guided snorkelling could improve, as exploring on your own can make finding specific coral formations or marine creatures a bit tricky.

Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

For those who prefer to stay dry but still want to see the underwater world, the glass-bottom boat tour is a fantastic option. It offers views of coral reefs and marine life without getting wet. The guide on the boat provides interesting commentary, making it both an educational and relaxing experience. Several guests praised the boat, noting the beautiful views and the ease of observing marine life from the comfort of the boat.

More Great Tours Nearby

Rainforest Walks

If nature is your thing, you’ll enjoy a self-guided walk through the island’s rainforest. It’s a leisurely way to appreciate the island’s diverse flora and fauna, with some reviews mentioning the chance to spot native birds and plant species. This part of the tour is ideal for those wanting a slower pace and some quiet nature time.

Poolside Relaxation and Dining

Later in the day, you might find yourself lounging by the pool with a cool drink from the pool bar, a favorite feature among visitors. The island’s facilities include a dive shop, restaurant, and snack outlets, offering options for a substantial lunch or just a refreshing refreshment. Many reviewers highlight the quality and variety of food available, making it easy to set yourself up for the rest of your day.

Optional Activities and Extra Experiences

While the base tour includes snorkelling and the glass-bottom boat, the island’s offerings extend further. You can opt for scuba diving, offshore snorkels, kayaking, or even a scenic helicopter flight. These extras come at additional costs but are worth considering if you want to maximize your time on the reef.

Departure and Return

The afternoon departures at 2:30 pm and 4:30 pm give you ample time to relax or squeeze in a quick activity before heading back to Cairns. The boat trip back usually takes around 45 minutes, providing a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transport and Check-in:
Check-in is at the Great Adventures counter inside the Reef Fleet Terminal 30 minutes before departure. Arriving early helps avoid any last-minute rush and ensures you get your boarding passes smoothly.

What to Bring:
Pack essentials such as a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and plenty of sunscreen. Water shoes may be helpful for walking on the beach or rocky areas, though they’re not explicitly mentioned.

Duration:
The tour lasts between 5 to 9 hours, depending on your chosen departure time and optional activities. This makes it suitable for a half-day escape or a longer, more leisurely island day.

Weather and Cancellation:
Weather can impact the experience, especially for snorkeling, so it’s worth checking the forecast. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing some peace of mind if plans change.

Cost and Value:
While pricing isn’t specified here, reviews suggest that the value lies in the variety of activities and facilities included. The combination of reef views, rainforest walks, and relaxation makes it a good investment for most travelers.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer from Ireland shared that the boat with the glass floor and guide were highlights, though they noted that snorkeling could benefit from guided assistance. Conversely, a traveler from Poland appreciated the scenic views and the underwater scenery from the glass-bottom boat, even mentioning the absence of coral reefs near the island but being satisfied with the overall experience.

However, not all experiences were smooth; a disappointed guest from Australia recounted a weather-affected trip where heavy rain and wind caused evacuation, and their refund process was less than stellar. This highlights the importance of weather planning and the potential for last-minute changes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a flexible, all-in-one day on Green Island—perfect for first-timers or those short on time. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers eager to snorkel, view marine life from a boat, or simply unwind by the pool. If your goal is a relaxed day with options for adventure, this tour offers a good balance.

Those craving deep diving or extensive reef exploration might find the included activities somewhat limited but can opt for extras like scuba or helicopter flights for a more immersive experience. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, with rainforest walks providing a peaceful contrast to the marine activities.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Green Island tour balances convenience, scenery, and variety, making it a solid choice for a day trip from Cairns. The inclusion of both snorkelling and glass-bottom boat options means there’s something for all, whether you prefer splashing around in the water or observing from above.

The facilities, including the pool bar and dining options, ensure comfort and ease, especially if you want a low-stress day. While weather can occasionally disrupt plans—something to watch out for—the overall experience is flexible and rewarding, especially when guided by knowledgeable staff.

If you’re after a taste of the reef, a chance to walk through rainforest, and a relaxing day soaking up the tropical vibe, this tour ticks most boxes without breaking the bank. Just remember to check the forecast, bring your essentials, and keep an open mind for those unpredictable weather days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour depart from Cairns?
The tour departs at 8:30 am and 10:30 am from the Reef Fleet Terminal, giving you options based on your preferred start time.

How long is the boat ride to Green Island?
The boat ride lasts approximately 45 to 50 minutes, offering scenic views along the way.

What activities are included in the basic package?
You can enjoy snorkelling from the beach, a glass-bottom boat tour, rainforest walks, and relaxing by the pool with food and drinks.

Can I snorkel without a guide?
Yes, snorkelling gear is included, and you can explore on your own from the beach. However, some reviews suggest guided snorkelling could enhance the experience.

Are there options for additional activities?
Absolutely. Extra experiences like scuba diving, offshore snorkelling, kayaking, or scenic helicopter flights are available at additional cost.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and water shoes if you like. Drones are not permitted on the island.

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Green Island, blending marine exploration with rainforest tranquillity and ample facilities. Whether you’re after vibrant coral reefs, peaceful walks, or poolside lounging, it’s a trip designed to cater to a range of desires.

You can check availability for your dates here: