Snorkel the reef in Cairns

How it usually goes

1. Check in at the Cairns terminal early in the morning.
2. Board a catamaran or boat for a 90-minute ride to the outer reef.
3. Attend a safety briefing and get fitted for a mask, snorkel, and wetsuit or lycra suit.
4. Jump into the warm water to explore the coral gardens with a guide or on your own.
5. Dry off, eat lunch on board, and visit a second reef site before heading back to Cairns.

What to bring

• Swimsuit
• Change of clothes
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Motion sickness pills
• Towel

Picking a good one

• Pick a boat that visits the outer reef instead of inner islands for better coral health and clearer water.
• Ask how many passengers the boat holds so you can avoid overcrowded tours.
• Check if they provide stinger suits, which protect against marine jellyfish during warmer months.
• Look for operators with advanced eco-certification to ensure they follow strict conservation rules.

Huginn’s tips

• Take motion sickness medicine at least 30 minutes before the boat leaves the dock.
• Practice using a mask and snorkel in a hotel pool if you feel nervous about breathing through a tube.
• Keep your feet up and do not touch the coral to protect the fragile reef ecosystem.