Ocean Free & Ocean Freedom - Cairns Premier Great Barrier Reef & Island Tours

Last updated February 2026

Ocean Free and Ocean Freedom operate Great Barrier Reef tours from Cairns Marina, offering full-day excursions to outer reef locations and tropical islands. These tour boats provide snorkeling, diving opportunities, and glass-bottom boat viewing of the reef ecosystem, departing daily from the central Cairns waterfront. The tours typically include visits to multiple reef sites, with marine biologist presentations and all snorkeling equipment provided. Tours run year-round with different seasonal highlights, from optimal visibility in winter months to marine turtle nesting activity in summer. **What to Bring** Sunscreen SPF 50+, reef-safe if possible. Hat and sunglasses. Swimwear and towel. Seasickness tablets if prone to motion sickness. Underwater camera or waterproof phone case. Light jacket for air-conditioned boat areas. **Best Age Range** Best for ages 8 and up due to the full-day duration and open ocean conditions. Strong swimmers aged 10+ get the most from snorkeling activities, while younger children may prefer the glass-bottom boat viewing and island beach time. **Good to Know** Tours depart early morning around 8:30am and return late afternoon. Bookings essential, especially during peak season May to October. Lunch and refreshments included on full-day tours. Marina parking available but fills quickly - consider walking from city accommodation. Weather dependent with occasional cancellations during rough seas. **Nearby** Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is a 5-minute walk for post-tour swimming and relaxation. Cairns Aquarium on the waterfront showcases local marine life if weather prevents reef tours. **Tips From Other Parents** Book morning tours rather than afternoon - calmer seas and better visibility early in the day. Pack motion sickness tablets even if kids don't usually get seasick, as outer reef waters can be choppy. Bring rash shirts for sun protection while snorkeling, as reef reflection intensifies UV exposure.