Port Douglas Reef Tour: Snorkel, dive & submarine in one day
Choose your own way to explore the reef: snorkel, dive, or stay dry
You board a catamaran in Port Douglas, spend ninety minutes crossing to Agincourt Reef, then get 3.5 hours to snorkel, watch the submarine tour, or try an introductory dive: all with gear, lunch, and a marine biologist on hand. No experience needed, and you can change your date for free if your plans shift.
Options for this experience
2 optionsStep-by-step itinerary
Snorkel and explore Agincourt Reef
- Depart from Port Douglas by catamaran
- Attend snorkeling demonstration
- Arrive at Agincourt Reef pontoon
- Snorkel independently or join guided tour
- Explore reef via semi-submersible submarine
- Try introductory scuba or helmet dive
- Enjoy buffet lunch on pontoon
- Return to Port Douglas by catamaran
- Agincourt Reefs
- Great Barrier Reef 4h
What’s included
Your day includes the catamaran ride from Port Douglas to Agincourt Reef, a snorkeling demonstration and marine biologist talk on the way out, 3.5 hours at the reef with access to snorkeling equipment, fins, lycra suit and buoyancy vest, the semi-submersible submarine tour with commentary, the underwater observatory, optional guided snorkeling or introductory diving (if you choose), buffet lunch, morning and afternoon tea, and the Environmental Management Charge.
Times
- Every day 10:00
Before you book
Operated by The Quicksilver Group
Prices and times updated today
Traveler reviews
The experience
Most reef trips assume you know what you're doing. This one doesn't. The catamaran leaves Port Douglas at a set time, and ninety minutes later you're moored at Agincourt Reef on the Outer Great Barrier Reef. The permanent pontoon means you step onto solid ground, not a rocking boat. A marine biologist runs through the snorkeling basics during the ride, so by the time you hit the water, you've already seen what to expect. No surprises, no panic.
Once you're there, the reef is yours to explore at whatever pace works. Some people grab fins and a snorkel and go straight in. Others watch the fish feeding from the underwater observatory first, or take the semi-submersible submarine for a guided tour through the coral gardens without getting wet at all. If you want to try scuba diving, there's an introductory dive with an instructor, or the Ocean Walker Helmet Dive if you'd rather keep your face dry but still go deeper. The staff on the pontoon know who's doing what and keep an eye on everyone.
You've got about 3.5 hours at the reef, which is enough time to do one or two things properly instead of rushing through five. The buffet lunch happens on the boat, and they hand out lycra suits and buoyancy vests so you're not fighting the water. A lot of first-time visitors to the Great Barrier Reef worry they'll feel lost or out of place. This setup takes that off the table. You're with a group, but you're not herded.
The whole day is built around people who've never done this before. If you're nervous about diving, you don't have to book it in advance. You can decide when you get there. If the weather shifts or you need to change your date, the operator lets you reschedule at no extra cost once you're in Cairns. That flexibility matters when you're traveling and plans slip.
Is this one for you?Right for first-time reef visitors or non-swimmers who want to see the Great Barrier Reef without committing to diving or snorkeling alone. The 3.5 hours at the reef gives you time to try one activity properly instead of rushing, and the pontoon setup means you're never far from help or a dry place to rest.
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Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 14 years); Infant (under 4): free.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
How long is the boat ride to the reef?
Ninety minutes each way on a high-speed catamaran from Port Douglas to Agincourt Reef.
Do I have to snorkel or dive?
No. You can snorkel, take the semi-submersible submarine tour, try an introductory scuba dive, or use the underwater observatory. All are options, not requirements.
What if I've never snorkeled before?
A marine biologist gives a snorkeling demonstration on the boat ride out, and staff on the pontoon show you how to use the equipment. Guided snorkeling tours with a qualified instructor are also available.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is served on the boat. Morning and afternoon tea are also included.
Can I change my booking date?
Yes. Once you're in Cairns, you can reschedule at no additional cost directly with the operator.
What's included in the price?
Buffet lunch, snorkeling equipment, lycra suit, buoyancy vest, semi-submarine tour, marine biologist talk, underwater observatory access, morning and afternoon tea, and the Environmental Management Charge.
Is it suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes. The semi-submersible submarine lets you see the reef without entering the water, and buoyancy vests are provided for anyone in the water.
What's the minimum age for diving?
Twelve years old. Maximum age is 70. Diving within 48 hours of flying is not recommended, and you'll need to complete a health questionnaire before diving.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
The pontoon at the reef is fully wheelchair accessible, but coach transfers to the boat are not. All areas on the pontoon and boat are accessible.
Port Douglas Reef Tour: Snorkel, dive & submarine in one day
8h · EN
from AU$ 338 per person
≈ US$ 241 in your currency
Next, you choose your date and number of travelers and see the final price.