Australia · CAIRNS TOURS

The 15 Best Cairns Tours & Reef Trips

244 tours  ·  from $11

Cairns exists to get you onto the reef and into the rainforest, usually on alternate days. The 15 below compare the reef boats, the Daintree runs and the Kuranda railway on price, departure time and how much of it is spent travelling.

Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns - First Reef Session: Saxon or Norman Reef
Cairns Tours, Cruises & Boat Tours, Great Barrier Reef Tours, Great Barrier Reef Tours in Cairns, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Snorkeling & Diving Trips, Snorkeling & Diving Trips in Cairns, Tour Reviews

Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns

1.Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 3,714 reviews · from $190Our pick

Sail from Cairns aboard Evolution to two Outer Reef sites, usually Saxon or Norman Reef and Hastings Reef. Snorkel with supplied gear, enjoy a barbecue lunch, and add an introductory scuba session or 10-minute helicopter flight. Marine staff including Indy, Phil, and Lourie help make the day approachable.

“Great experience with the operator. Went for scuba diving with family for the first time. Awesome. Highly recommended.”

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From Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Premium Catamaran - What the first reef stop is really like
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From Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Premium Catamaran

2.Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Premium Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 3,567 reviews · 9 hours · from $190

Cruise from Cairns on Passions of Paradise’s fast catamaran to two outer reef sites. Snorkel with crew support, try an introductory or certified scuba session at extra cost, enjoy a chef-prepared buffet, and hear marine talks from guides such as Lily and David.

“Incredible and an amazing experience with Passions of Paradise. If you ever have to do Scuba or Snorkelling, highly recommend Passions of Paradise. Everything starting from crew, to instructors, to diving sites, to food, to snacks, to washrooms, to space and to top it all - the fabulous big catamaran, you will be in good and safe hands with them. Top notch quality team and they will ensure that you will the best time of your time at Great Barrier Reef. Much Thank You to Simon (legend-1) and Roberto (legend-2) who were my guides and instructors and their communication was always a huge help while diving. Always kept the customers…”

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From Cairns: Self-Guided Kuranda Trip with Train and Skyrail - A smooth morning pickup from central Cairns
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From Cairns: Self-Guided Kuranda Trip with Train and Skyrail

3.Self-Guided Kuranda Trip with Train and Skyrail

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 3,392 reviews · 7 hours · from $127

Travel from central Cairns to Kuranda by historic railway, enjoy free time for markets, cafés, walking trails, and optional wildlife parks, then glide back over the rainforest on Skyrail. Drivers such as Viktor and Dean add local tips, while pickup and drop-off keep the day simple.

“We had a great day out. The pick up, tour explanation and collection at the end of the day were all very efficient and timely. The Kuranda train was amazing and the Sky-rail with stops was brilliant. We highly recommend this to any visitors to Cairns.”

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Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran - Two reef stops chosen for the day
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Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran

4.Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,564 reviews · from $192Top rated

Spend about nine hours aboard Passions of Paradise’s 25-meter catamaran, visiting two Outer Reef sites selected for the day’s conditions. Snorkel with guides such as Simon or Harry, try introductory scuba from age 12, enjoy a buffet lunch, and hear a marine biologist explain the reef.

“The Passion Crew were accommodating, courteous and lots of fun to be around. Harry was very patient with me as inexperienced snorkler”

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Cairns: Daintree Rainforest and Mossman Gorge Tour - The scenic road from Cairns to Port Douglas
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Cairns: Daintree Rainforest and Mossman Gorge Tour

5.Daintree Rainforest and Mossman Gorge Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 2,485 reviews · 11 hours · from $145

Travel from Cairns to Mossman Gorge, where a Kuku Yalanji Welcome to Country and Smoke Ceremony precedes a rainforest walk and optional swim. Continue to Cape Tribulation for lunch, a Daintree River wildlife cruise, and rainforest views. Guides such as Patrick, Lena, Michael, and Sambo add lively local detail.

“Very good trip. Well organised. Busy several stops and a hard working driver/guide. A memorable day”

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Cairns: Outer Edges of The Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight - From Cairns to Green Island in about 10 minutes
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Cairns: Outer Edges of The Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight

6.Outer Edges of The Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 2,376 reviews · from $151

Fly from Cairns over Green Island, Oyster Reef, Vlasoff Cay, Arlington Reef, and the Outer Barrier Reef. Your pilot guides you by headset from an air-conditioned fixed-wing plane, with every passenger getting a window seat. July and August can bring views of humpback whales.

“Great experience. Unforgettable view from the plane. Special thanks to Daniel our pilot and Luke our guide, very friendly service from both of them. All in all absolutely recommendable.”

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Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge Small-Group from Port Douglas - Mossman Gorge sets the tone
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Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge Small-Group from Port Douglas

7.Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge Small-Group from Port Douglas

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,326 reviews · from $190

Spend about nine hours exploring Mossman Gorge, the Daintree River, Cape Tribulation, and Noah Valley with a guide such as Cam, Ash, Grant, or Randall. The small group, limited to 11 people, includes transport, meals, park fees, a wildlife cruise, and time for a rainforest swim.

“Ash is an amazing guide! He shared his deep knowledge of Daintree Rainforest, and its many flora and fauna. We saw a Cassowary, Boyd’s dragon, Crocodile, and red crabs.”

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River Cruise - Following the Dickson Inlet into crocodile country
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River Cruise

8.River Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,980 reviews · from $37

Spend about 90 minutes aboard Lady Douglas with skipper-led commentary through Dickson Inlet, the marina, and Port Douglas waterfront. Look for saltwater crocodiles, birds, crabs, mudskippers, and shipwrecks, then enjoy a drink and snack box while learning about local history.

“A pleasant cruise with an informative crew. Information delivered with a bit of dry humour. we didn't see any crocodiles as the weather wasn't appropriate, but it was still interesting.”

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Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, and Daintree Rainforest Day Trip - The Daintree River cruise searches for crocodiles
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Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, and Daintree Rainforest Day Trip

9.Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, and Daintree Rainforest Day Trip

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,961 reviews · from $164

Travel from Cairns in a small, air-conditioned coach to Mossman Gorge, the Daintree River, Cape Tribulation, Thornton’s Beach, and Dubuji Boardwalk. You’ll join a Kuku Yalanji Welcome to Country and smoke ceremony, cruise for crocodiles, eat lunch, and stop for local-fruit ice cream.

“We had a great time in this tour. Patrick was very knowledgeable about the area and a little rain did not deter him at all and I’m glad he convinced us to go out in the rain. I would definitely recommend this trip.”

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Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise - Moving to the Wonder Wall
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Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise

10.Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef Luxury Snorkel and Dive Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,895 reviews · from $181

From Cairns, you’ll spend about six hours at Upolu Cay and the Wonder Wall aboard a 65-foot catamaran. Marine guides lead snorkeling, glass-bottom viewing, and optional scuba sessions, with reef gear, wetsuits, lunch, snacks, and in-water help included.

“The fabulous crew hosted a fun outing, ensuring we saw sea life (turtles, clown fish, giant clams, and even a sting ray) and were kept safe the entire day. From kids to adults and first time snorklers to experienced divers - everyone enjoyed themselves onboard the Ocean Freedom!”

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Cairns: Fitzroy Island Full-Day Trip with Optional Extras - A national park covered in rainforest
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Cairns: Fitzroy Island Full-Day Trip with Optional Extras

11.Fitzroy Island Full-Day Trip with Optional Extras

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 1,668 reviews · 8 hours · from $67

Take a 45-minute fast ferry from Cairns to Fitzroy Island, then spend up to seven hours hiking rainforest trails, swimming, or viewing coral from a glass-bottom boat. Add snorkel gear or a picnic lunch to suit your day. The five main trails range from 30 minutes to three hours.

“Fitzroy island is a must visit. I had a better visibility of coral reef here. It was absolutely serene and beautiful. Would love to come back to the island.”

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Solar Whisper Daintree River Crocodile and Wildlife Cruise - One hour on the Daintree River
Cairns Tours, Cruises & Boat Tours, Daintree Rainforest Tours, Daintree Rainforest Tours in Cairns, Tour Reviews, Wildlife, Wildlife & Zoo Experiences, Wildlife & Zoo Experiences in Cairns

Solar Whisper Daintree River Crocodile and Wildlife Cruise

12.Solar Whisper Daintree River Crocodile and Wildlife Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,663 reviews · from $25Best value

Cruise the Daintree River near the ferry on Solar Whisper, a quiet solar-electric boat carrying up to 24 people. Your guide, often Mark or Dave, points out named crocodiles, birds, frogs, snakes, crabs, and fish, with tea and coffee included.

“Made a last minute booking for family to spend an afternoon in Port Douglas. The trip was just as described, perfect relaxing ride around the Daintree River. Even though it was in warm November and we were warned that the crocs may bRead more”

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Barron Gorge White Water Rafting from Cairns or Port Douglas - Foaming Fury and the safety briefing
Cairns Tours, Tour Reviews

Barron Gorge White Water Rafting from Cairns or Port Douglas

13.Barron Gorge White Water Rafting from Cairns or Port Douglas

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,596 reviews · from $91

Join Foaming Fury for a beginner-friendly half-day rafting trip through Barron Gorge National Park. Guides such as Lily, Jess, Tom, and Felix lead you through Grade II and III rapids, calm stretches, safety drills, and rainforest scenery. Pickup is available from Cairns or Port Douglas.

“I booked the tickets through Viator and the pick up spot was not listed anywhere. I had to reach out to the company to find out exactly where I was going to get picked up. The staff were very friendly and showed up early to the hotel next door (crystalbrook) to get us. Our van broke down on the way to the river. We had to wait for another bus to get us. We forgot to bring water and there was nothing to drink on the bus or at the river entrance. Make sure you bring water with you. Our guide Jana was great. She put us all at ease…”

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From Cairns: Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation 4WD Tour - The long drive along the Captain Cook Highway
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From Cairns: Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation 4WD Tour

14.Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation 4WD Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 1,521 reviews · 8 hours · from $162

Travel from Cairns, the Northern Beaches, or Port Douglas with an environmentalist guide such as AJ, Daniel, or Graeme. Expect a long but well-filled day of rainforest walks, a crocodile cruise, Cape Tribulation Beach, lunch, a freshwater swim, and unusual tropical ice cream.

“Fantastic trip. Our guide, Kel, was knowledgeable, friendly and fun. Each aspect of the trip was really interesting and enjoyable. Highly recommended”

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Cairns: Outer and Coral Cay Snorkel and Dive Cruise - The fast catamaran from Marlin Marina
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Cairns: Outer and Coral Cay Snorkel and Dive Cruise

15.Outer and Coral Cay Snorkel and Dive Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 1,467 reviews · 9 hours - 1 day · from $183

Join Ocean Free and Ocean Freedom from Cairns for a full reef day aboard a fast 20-meter catamaran. You will snorkel Wonder Wall and Upolu Cay, ride a glass-bottom boat, and enjoy guided outings with crew such as Paul, Tori, and Ollie, plus lunch, fruit, cheese, and cake.

“Great activity. The guides were simply amazing. So fun. Highly recommended it.”

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New in Cairns Tours

★ 5.0Night Walk in Cairns Botanic Gardens – Let’s Go BugginFrom $57153 reviews
★ 5.0Ultimate Great Barrier Reef and Rainforest 45-minute Helicopter TourFrom $45159 reviews
★ 5.0Paronella Park and Millaa Millaa Falls Full-day Tour from CairnsFrom $15747 reviews
★ 5.0Cairns City Sights and Surrounds TourFrom $82227 reviews
★ 4.0Port Douglas Sunday Markets Day TourFrom $10125 reviews
★ 5.0Full-day Tour at the Atherton Tablelands with Food TastingFrom $20430 reviews
★ 4.5Small-Group Afternoon Cairns City Tour with Harbour Dinner CruiseFrom $18532 reviews
★ 4.0Full Day Tour to Sunlover Cruises Moore Reef and Fitzroy IslandFrom $21131 reviews
★ 4.5Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Day Trip from Port DouglasFrom $19127 reviews
★ 4.5Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Day Trip from CairnsFrom $150228 reviews
★ 4.5Tandem Skydive Experience over Reef & RainforestFrom $25052 reviews
★ 5.0Cairns to Port Douglas ONE WAY Private Transfer 6 pax36 reviews
★ 4.5Private Helicopter Tour: Reef Island Snorkeling and Gourmet Picnic LunchFrom $83322 reviews
★ 5.0Blue Dive Private Guided Scuba Dive CairnsFrom $60634 reviews
★ 5.0Private Cape Tribulation & Mossman Gorge Day Tour26 reviews

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