Ocean Free 25 guest Great Barrier Reef & visit Green Island Tour

Traveling to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is a bucket-list goal for many, and choosing the right tour can make all the difference. The Ocean Free 25 guest sailing tour offers an intimate, personalized experience with a small group of just 25 guests, sailing on a beautiful 54-foot schooner from Cairns. This review explores what makes this tour special, what to expect, and whether it’s the right fit for your reef adventure.

Our highlights include the exclusive reef mooring, the expert crew known for their attentive service, and the chance to explore Green Island with options for snorkeling, relaxing, or visiting Marineland Melanesia. The main downside? The weather can influence the day’s activities, especially around snorkeling and sailing, but the crew’s flexibility often ensures a good experience regardless. This tour suits travelers who appreciate a more personal, relaxed ambiance, keen on snorkeling, marine life, and enjoying high-quality service in a smaller group.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: With a maximum of 25 guests, the tour offers a more intimate vibe and attentive crew.
• Expert Crew: Guides, boat skippers, and instructors are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and helpfulness.
• Quality Food & Drink: A large buffet lunch with seafood, plus morning/afternoon tea, and a complimentary glass of wine.
• Excellent Reef Access: The boat is moored directly at Pinnacle Reef, providing easier and quicker access to the reef than some larger tours.
• Balanced Schedule: About 5 hours at the reef with plenty of water activities, plus time on Green Island for relaxation or exploration.
• Great for Non-swimmers: The crew’s assistance makes this accessible for those less comfortable in water, with snorkeling tuition and support.

The Boat and Sailing Experience

The 54-foot schooner Ocean Free is a highlight in itself. Its classic, elegant design coupled with open-air decks immediately sets a relaxed, luxurious tone. Many reviews highlight the friendly and attentive crew, with some describing the sailing as “pure delight” — especially when the wind permits smooth, scenic sailing back and forth.

Travelers often mention that this vessel feels more personal than larger ships, handling fewer passengers (just 25 max) for a more relaxed, less crowded atmosphere. Skipper Mike and the crew, including deck and scuba helpers like Paul and Luke, are consistently praised for their helpfulness, safety-first attitude, and friendliness.

The Itinerary and Key Stops

Departure from Cairns

You’ll meet at the Cairns marina early in the morning, around 7:15 am. The process is straightforward: the vessel is near public transportation, and you’ll check in with a quick safety briefing before setting sail. We loved the way the crew engaged with passengers right from the start, assisting with sails and sharing stories about the reef and the boat.

Sailing to the Reef

The journey itself is part of the fun. Expect a 1 to 2-hour sail with plenty of opportunities for photos, enjoying the sea breeze, and chatting with fellow travelers. Many reviews emphasize how soothing and scenic this part is, with some saying it’s more enjoyable than larger, more commercial tours. Plus, the snacks and fresh muffins served aboard made the sailing even better.

The Reef Mooring at Pinnacle Reef

Once moored just offshore from Green Island, the boat provides direct access to the coral gardens. The crew usually assists with snorkeling gear, and some are in the water to help guide you around, pointing out marine life like tropical fish, turtles, and giant clams.

Reviewers like Debora and Syed mentioned feeling comfortable snorkeling thanks to the crew’s guidance, even for first-timers or non-swimmers. The reef site is described as a protected marine park, so the marine environment is vibrant and healthy. The underwater clarity and colorful fish make for excellent photos and memorable encounters.

Exploring Green Island

After the reef activities, a transfer by dinghy takes guests ashore at Green Island. The island itself offers a chance to stretch your legs, relax on white sandy beaches, or visit Marineland Melanesia — which many reviewers loved for its crocodile feeding and marine exhibits.

Some travelers, like Tracey, felt the island stop was a bit “not much to do,” but most appreciated the opportunity to sit back, sunbathe, or walk along the beach. The optional visit to Marineland is a quick, entertaining addition for an extra fee, as highlighted by reviewers who enjoyed seeing the crocodiles and learning regional facts.

More Water Activities or Relaxation

Depending on your preference, you can spend additional time snorkeling or trying optional diving, which many reviewers recommend. The crew provides snorkel tuition and assistance, making it accessible even if it’s your first time in the water. Some travelers took advantage of this, describing it as “so worth it,” with crew members like Maddy mentoring them through underwater experiences.

Return Journey to Cairns

The sail back is described as relaxing, with many enjoying a complimentary glass of wine and tropical afternoon tea. The scenery from the boat offers a different perspective, with some reviewers noting the beautiful ocean views and gentle sea breeze making the return trip a highlight.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $189.16 per person offers impressive value considering the itinerary. It includes:

• Sailing cruise to Green Island and the Reef
• Environmental and port fees
• A large buffet lunch featuring seafood, salads, and chicken
• Morning and afternoon tea
• A glass of wine on the return cruise
• Snorkeling gear, tuition, and crew assistance
• Transfers to/from the schooner
• Reef talk by a marine interpreter
• Fish feed and exclusive reef site access

Extras like additional dives or Marineland visits are optional and require pre-booking or an extra fee. Keep in mind, hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to make your own way to the marina.

The Experience in Practice

The small group size allows for a more personalized day. Travelers frequently mention how helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable the crew are—often giving detailed reef information and guiding snorkelers step-by-step. This personalized attention, combined with the convenience of mooring close to the reef, makes this tour stand out.

Water and Weather Considerations

Reviews reflect a good level of flexibility from the crew, who operate in various weather conditions. Some guests mentioned sailing in less-than-ideal weather, but still having a fantastic time thanks to the crew’s professionalism. Seasickness is less of a concern thanks to the vessel’s open design and the option to take motion sickness medication.

Suitable for Different Travelers

The tour’s accessibility for non-swimmers, thanks to crew assistance and snorkeling tutorials, makes it great for beginners or those unsure about the water. The relaxed pace, quality food, and scenic sailing appeal to those wanting a more refined, less rushed reef experience.

This sailing tour is ideal for travelers who value personalized service and a small-group atmosphere. It’s perfect if you want to enjoy snorkeling with help from skilled guides, appreciate good food and wine, and prefer a more relaxed, scenic sailing experience. If your priority is quick access to the reef without the crowds, and you love a touch of luxury in an outdoor setting, this tour ticks all the boxes.

However, those seeking extensive diving or beach-only days might find the itinerary somewhat limiting. Weather can influence the day’s activities, so flexible travelers who check the forecast beforehand will benefit most.

• Book early, especially in peak seasons, as this small-group tour fills quickly.
• Arrive at the marina on time; the tour departs promptly at 7:15 am.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water-resistant camera gear for the best photos.
• If prone to seasickness, consider taking medication 20 minutes before boarding.
• Wear comfortable clothing suitable for sunbathing, swimming, or exploring the island.
• Remember, diving requires filling out a medical questionnaire on board, and some medical conditions may prevent diving.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, travelers need to make their own way to the Cairns marina, which is centrally located and accessible by public transport.

Can I snorkel if I’m a beginner?
Absolutely. The crew provides snorkeling tuition and helps you gear up. They are known for their helpfulness and patience, making it accessible for first-timers.

Is there an age limit for the tour?
The tour is suitable for all ages, but participants should have moderate physical fitness and be comfortable moving around a boat and transferring onto tenders.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in most weather conditions. If canceled due to severe weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are additional dives available?
Yes, certified or introductory dives are possible but must be pre-booked and are subject to medical questionnaires and medical conditions.

What’s the food like?
A large buffet lunch with seafood, salads, chicken, and more is served midday. Morning and afternoon teas are also included, with a glass of wine on the return journey.

The Ocean Free 25 guest sailing tour combines the intimacy of a small-group experience with the adventure of exploring the Great Barrier Reef. Its focus on attentive crew service, convenient reef access, and quality food makes it a standout choice for travelers seeking a relaxed yet enriching day. Perfect for those who appreciate a touch of luxury, personalized attention, and a genuine connection to the marine environment.

Whether you’re snorkeling for the first time or looking for a peaceful sailing adventure, this tour offers a balanced mix that’s likely to create lasting memories. Just remember to check the weather forecast and book early to secure your spot on this highly-rated reef experience.