Cairns: Ocean Spirit Great Barrier Reef Full Day Tour

If you’re considering a trip to the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns, the Ocean Spirit tour by Great Adventures Reef & Island Cruises offers a full day of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. While we haven’t done this particular tour ourselves, the impressive 4.8-star rating from over 130 reviews suggests it’s a solid choice for most travelers eager to explore the reef with some added comforts.

What we particularly like about this experience is the chance to sail on a spacious 32-meter catamaran—it’s not just a boat ride; it’s part of the journey’s charm. Plus, the marine biologist presentations and the variety of ways to see the reef—from snorkeling to semi-sub cruises—really enrich the day. The minor consideration? The full-day format means a long, busy day, so if you’re sensitive to travel fatigue or have limited stamina, plan accordingly.

This tour suits those who appreciate a combination of sailing, wildlife, and wildlife education, especially if you love being on the water and want to see the reef in a relaxed, well-organized setting. Families, couples, adventurers, and even solo explorers can find value here, especially if comfort and educational content are priorities for you.

Key Points

• Spacious Sailing Experience: The 32-meter catamaran offers both sailing and motor cruising depending on weather, making for a versatile day on the water.
• Protected Island Visit: Michaelmas Cay is a limited access National Park, ensuring a peaceful, less-crowded environment with incredible birdlife and marine habitats.
• Diverse Reef Activities: Options include snorkeling straight from the beach, semi-sub tours with commentary, and introductory scuba dives—perfect for different interests and comfort levels.
• Quality Food and Drinks: A hot and cold buffet, morning and afternoon teas, plus complimentary sparkling wine on the way back—these add to the overall value and experience.
• Expert-led Engagement: Marine biologist presentations and guided snorkels help you learn about the reef’s ecosystem, adding depth to the day’s adventure.
• Positive Reviews: Consistently praised for friendly staff, good organization, and the quality of the reef viewing, making it a dependable choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of What to Expect

Departure and Check-in

Your day begins at the Reef Fleet Terminal in Cairns, where an early morning safety briefing and welcome refreshments set the tone. The check-in process is straightforward, with the Ocean Spirit counter conveniently located inside the terminal. Expect to spend about 30 minutes here before heading to the boat. The crew is known for being friendly and helpful, which reassures first-timers or nervous travelers.

The Catamaran Cruise – Setting Sail

Once aboard, you’ll notice the spacious decks and the mix of sailing and motor cruising, depending on conditions. The journey out to Michaelmas Cay takes about two hours, during which you’ll get stunning views of the coastline and open water. Many reviews mention how comfortable and well-organized the boat is, with plenty of space to relax, take photos, or just enjoy the sea breeze.

Michaelmas Cay – The Heart of the Reef Experience

The highlight of the tour is the four hours spent at Michaelmas Cay, a protected seabird sanctuary surrounded by shallow, coral-filled waters perfect for snorkeling. Thanks to the beach buggy boat transfer, you can hop easily between the boat and the island. The cay is a wildlife haven—birdwatchers will love the diverse seabird population, and snorkelers will appreciate the clear, shallow waters teeming with fish and corals.

From reviews, a common theme is the excellent quality of the reef viewing and the friendliness of the staff. As one guest put it, “The destination and snorkelling was even better than expected,” which is a good sign of the quality of the reef itself.

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Reef Exploration: Snorkeling, Semi-Sub, and Scuba

You’ll have plenty of ways to explore. Snorkeling directly from the beach is straightforward and accessible, with gear provided. The semi-submersible vessel offers a diver’s view of the coral formations and marine life without getting wet, which is great if you’re less confident in the water. For the more adventurous, there’s the option to do an introductory scuba dive—note the age restriction of 12+ and some health considerations.

Many reviews emphasize how well the staff manages these activities, making sure everyone feels comfortable. For example, guests mention the “fish feeding presentation,” which adds a fun, interactive element to the day.

Lunch and Refreshments

A significant part of the tour’s appeal is the buffet lunch, which includes hot and cold options, with prawns being a popular highlight. Morning and afternoon teas keep you energized, and the overall catering is praised for being better than similar tours. The inclusion of wine, cheese, and biscuits during the return sail adds a touch of elegance to the day, and many visitors enjoy unwinding with a glass of sparkling wine while enjoying the sail back.

Return Journey and Wrap-up

The return trip usually takes about two hours, during which the crew creates a relaxed atmosphere—many reviews mention the friendly, helpful staff—culminating in the complimentary sparkling wine experience under the sails. It’s a fitting way to wind down after a full day of exploring.

What Do People Love About This Tour?

Reviewers consistently mention the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, who go out of their way to make sure everyone has a good time. The reef itself, of course, is a star—bright, vibrant, and full of marine life. One guest commented on seeing multiple turtles, which makes snorkelers especially happy.

Many guests note the high-quality catering, often comparing it favorably to other tours. The spacious boat, with plenty of amenities and facilities, is another recurring positive. The semi-submarine is a standout for those who prefer viewing without getting wet, and the marine biologist presentations add educational value that many find worthwhile.

What Could Be Better?

A few guests point out small organizational hiccups, like the ticket distribution issue with the submarine. While these are minor, they remind us that with large groups, some management hiccups can happen. Also, since it’s an 8.5-hour tour, it’s a fairly long day—if you’re prone to fatigue or not comfortable on boats, be prepared for a busy, sometimes tiring experience.

The Value of the Tour

Considering the price includes a full day’s worth of activities, a buffet lunch, drinks, and educational content, many reviewers agree it’s good value. The fact that it takes you to a protected, less-crowded part of the reef adds to the sense of exclusivity and preservation. For travelers wanting a comprehensive experience that balances adventure, comfort, and learning, this tour delivers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is well-suited for those who prioritize comfort and educational content, and who enjoy being on the water for an extended period. It’s a good fit for snorkelers, wildlife lovers, and anyone wanting a relaxing yet engaging day at the reef. Families with older children (12+) interested in beginner scuba or snorkeling will find it particularly appealing.

If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized day with friendly guides, good food, and beautiful views, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember it’s a full day—plan accordingly for energy and sun protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any prior experience to snorkel or scuba dive?
Snorkeling is suitable for most levels, and the tour provides equipment. The scuba dive is beginner-friendly but requires participants to be at least 12 years old and in good health.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. It’s also good to have a water-resistant bag for your valuables.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The review mentions the use of beach buggies for transfer, which helps, but it’s best to check specific accessibility options with the provider directly.

How long is the total trip?
It lasts approximately 8.5 hours, including check-in, sailing, activity time, and return.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Reserve now, pay later options are available for flexibility.

What is the boat like?
The boat is described as spacious, clean, and comfortable, with plenty of deck space to relax during the cruise.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Drones are not allowed on this tour. The tour guides are English-speaking, and the activities are tailored to fit a wide range of interests.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a full day of reef exploration with quality amenities and educational content in a relaxed setting, the Cairns Ocean Spirit tour is a strong pick. The combination of sailing comfort, protected island environment, and diverse reef activities makes it a versatile option. Expect friendly staff, tasty food, and plenty of opportunities to see marine life.

While it’s a long day, many reviewers say the experience is worth every minute, especially if you love learning about the reef and enjoying the ocean breeze. For travelers who value a well-run, friendly, and informative trip, this tour offers a memorable way to experience the iconic Great Barrier Reef.

Hope this helps you decide! The reef truly is a spectacular sight, and with the right tour, it can become one of your favorite travel memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: