great barrier reef tours big cat
Located just 15 nautical miles off Cairns and amidst the stunning World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, Green Island is a beautiful coral cay which enjoys world acclaim as a tropical paradise on Australia's Great Barrier Reef. Green Island’s marine life includes endless varieties of colourful fish, turtles, giant clams, shells, starfish, sea anemones and much more.
The Vessels "Big Cat" and "Reef Rocket" are modern air-conditioned catamarans offering the ultimate in comfort and features spacious and luxurious interior cabins as well as the outside decks to enjoy the warm tropical climate.
On boarding, passengers settle in for the leisurely journey to Green Island and their Great Barrier Reef experience. Snorkelling gear is given to those participating in this activity and en route to Green Island there is a snorkelling and safety demonstration, as well as an informative presentation on how passengers can make the most of their day at Green Island.
Passengers are also given details about where to be for meeting their various activities, Activities on offer include commentated coral viewing tours in the glass bottom boat and semi-submersible submarine featuring a lively fish feeding display and you don’t even get your hair wet. For the more adventurous you can participate in an introductory dive (for those with no experience) or an Oceanwalker helmet dive where you can explore the ocean floor without getting your hair wet and while safely holding on to a line. Qualified divers can participate in a certified dive on the outer edge of the Green Island reef. Or you can simply relax on the sandy white beaches and snorkel straight off the beach at your leisure or participate in a supervised and informative snorkelling trip.
Upon arrival at Green Island the Big Cat remains at the Green Island jetty for the duration of the day for all passengers to come aboard and take comfort in the air-conditioned cabin. A delicious buffet lunch is served aboard Big Cat for those who have chosen this option and a licensed bar offers refreshments throughout the day.
Passengers may visit Green Island Resort where you can browse through the shops and make use of the facilities including entry into the resort pool, fresh water showers, change rooms and restrooms. Passengers can also participate in a self guided island walk along Green Island’s National Park walking tracks, and the resort’s Beach Hire offers the hire of canoes, surf skis, sailboards, shade umbrellas, beach lounge chairs and more.
While on the island you should visit Marineland Melanasia, a place where the largest crocodile in captivity is held (with a few girlfriends) and the magnificent giant turtles which are being rehabilitated. The turtles just love the Great Barrier Reef waters and tropical islands; they are perfect for nesting and the Coral Sea is abundant with their favourite foods.
Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises offers full- and half-day reef cruises departing daily from Cairns daily at 9am, 11am and 1pm.
Additional Information
Included in price:
- High speed catamaran transfers to Green Island
- Choice of snorkelling gear or glass bottom boat tour ($10 extra if you choose to do both)
- Snorkelling demonstration and reef presentation en route to Green Island
- Entry to resort pool
- Self guided island walk
Optional extras able to be purchased or hired:
- Buffet Lunch
- Semi-submarine coral view tour
- Introductory dive (no experience necessary, subject to medical questionnaire)
- One certified dive
- Two certified dives
- Oceanwalker helmet diving
- Supervised snorkelling trips
- Tandem parasailing
- Marineland Melanesia
- Helicopter scenic flights (subject to availability — ask us on booking)
For diving, medical, height and age restrictions apply; must be 12 to 70 years.
What to bring:
Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, towel, shirt to swim in (slip, slop, slap) cash or credit card for snorkel deposit, cash for drinks and snacks. Film, sunscreen and souvenirs available for sale on board. Snorkelling deposit: $30 "Refundable Deposit" is required for the hire of snorkelling gear — cash or credit card imprint.
Fitness level required:
Low
Disabled access:
No
Child policies:
- Child Fare 4-14 years inclusive
- Infants 3 and under travel free
- Family Fare: 2 Adults and 2 Children (not applicable with other discounts)
- All prices are in Australian dollars and include GST
- Package upgrades are available on board
The Tour Specialists tip
Everyone loves a day trip to Green Island; it’s just perfect for all age groups from babies to grandmas and grandpas. Lots to do and see, plenty of shade, swimming pool, shops and restaurants. We highly recommend you spend a lazy day on this gorgeous little island. We love it as locals and love to spend the whole weekend over here as a little getaway.
Make sure you go and see the huge crocodile and turtles; you will love it.
