Ocean Free 25 guest Great Barrier Reef & visit Green Island Tour

Thinking about a day out on the water exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Green Island? This small-group sailing tour from Cairns promises an experience that’s both personal and packed with opportunities to see the reef’s vibrant marine life. It’s a favorite among travelers, with consistently glowing reviews, and rightfully so.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the intimate size of just 25 guests means you’ll enjoy a more relaxed, less crowded day, and the crew can give you personalized attention. Secondly, the sailing on a beautiful 16-meter schooner adds a charming, classic feel to the day—more than just a boat trip, it’s an experience that feels special from the moment you step aboard.

One thing to keep in mind: while the tour offers incredible snorkeling and the chance to see a stunning part of the reef, the weather can influence what you see—some reviews mention muddy water or limited wildlife, especially if the conditions aren’t perfect. Still, the crew’s focus on safety and their helpful approach make all the difference.

This trip is ideal for travelers craving a more relaxed, small-group vibe and those who appreciate sailing and personalized service. If you’re someone who wants to avoid the crowds and really get a feel for the reef with expert guides, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Small-group sailing ensures a more personal and relaxed atmosphere compared to large tour boats
• All snorkeling gear is provided, making it easy to just enjoy the water without fuss
• Expert crew and guides greatly enhance the experience with safety, education, and assistance
• Intimate reef mooring offers a unique chance to explore a pristine part of the reef
• Green Island visit provides a beach break and optional marine park activities like the crocodile habitat
• Excellent reviews highlight the quality of the crew, food, and overall experience, often rated 5 stars

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Departure

You’ll find the meeting point at 1 Spence St, Cairns, a convenient location near public transport, with the tour starting bright and early at 7:15 am. From there, you board a spacious 54-foot schooner—a vessel with real character and plenty of room to relax. The sailing provides a peaceful, scenic journey over the water, making the start of your day feel more like a leisurely cruise than a rushed tour.

The Sailing and Reef Journey

Once aboard, you’ll enjoy a safety briefing and a chance to help hoist the sails—a fun touch that sets this apart from standard ferry rides. As you motor-sail towards Green Island, you can sip on complimentary tea or coffee and munch on fresh muffins and fruit. Many reviews mention the crew’s focus on safety and their friendly, attentive manner, which helps set a welcoming tone.

The boat’s small size (only around 25 guests max) allows the crew to provide personalized assistance, whether you’re new to snorkeling or a seasoned water enthusiast. The sailing part isn’t just about getting from point A to B—it’s about enjoying the journey, with many travelers noting the beautiful views and the relaxing vibe.

Reaching the Reef and Snorkeling

The boat moors at Pinnacle Reef, just offshore from Green Island, which is a protected Marine National Park. This location is ideal for snorkeling because it’s close to the coral gardens and marine life. You’ll have around 5 hours to explore the reef, swim, snorkel, and even do optional scuba diving (which requires pre-booking and medical clearance).

Snorkeling here is described as a fantastic chance to see tropical fish, turtles, giant clams, sea anemones, and starfish. One review mentions the crew having snorkel instructors and helpers in the water, which is reassuring for beginners or nervous swimmers. The reef’s coral formations are said to be impressive, though water conditions can vary—some guests note that the water was muddy or fish sightings limited during less ideal weather.

Green Island Stop

After the reef, you’ll transfer to Green Island by dinghy—an easy, quick ride that gets you onto this picturesque island. Green Island itself offers a beach retreat with white sandy beaches and lush rainforests. It’s a good place to relax, sunbathe, or explore at your own pace.

The optional visit to Marineland Melanesia is a bonus for those interested in marine life and crocodile feeding. For a small fee, you can watch crocodiles being fed and see other regional artifacts, which adds a fun, educational element to your day.

Lunch and Refreshments

A buffet lunch served onboard the boat is a highlight for many, with reviews praising the delicious seafood platter, salads, and fresh salmon. The food is plentiful, making it a great way to refuel after a morning in the water. Alongside lunch, you’ll enjoy morning and afternoon tea—and on the return trip, a complimentary glass of wine paired with tropical snacks, making the sail back even more pleasurable.

The Return Journey

As the boat heads back to Cairns, you can relax and take in the scenery. Many guests enjoy this part of the trip, with reviews mentioning the friendly crew and how they appreciated the crew’s efforts to point out marine life and answer questions. The weather typically cooperates, but in case of poor conditions, the vessel’s open-air design means seasickness is less common than on closed boats.

The Pros and Cons

What Travelers Love

The consistent praise for the personalized service and knowledgeable guides makes this tour a standout. Several reviews mention the crew by name, calling them attentive, friendly, and safety-focused. The small group size creates a more intimate experience, allowing everyone to get closer to marine life and enjoy the scenery without feeling crowded.

Guests also rave about the quality of the food, especially the lunch buffet, and the relaxing sail on a beautifully maintained schooner. The green island stop adds a nice balance of water adventure and land relaxation, catering to those who want a bit of both.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers mention that water conditions can impact what they see; muddy water or fewer fish can occur, especially in less-than-ideal weather. The reef’s visibility and marine activity depend heavily on the day’s weather, which is unpredictable.

Another point to consider is the cost—at around $200 per person, it’s on the higher end for similar tours, but many feel the smaller group and personalized experience justify the price. Also, scuba diving and additional activities like the crocodile habitat are optional extras and require pre-booking or additional fees.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a relaxed, small-group experience with personalized attention and sailing charm, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate a less crowded environment, want expert guides, and enjoy the idea of a scenic sail on a classic schooner. It also suits those who want a balanced day—time on the reef, a relaxing island visit, and good food—all in one trip.

However, if you’re hoping to see highly vibrant marine life or have very specific reef expectations, keep in mind that water conditions can vary, and the reef experience isn’t guaranteed to be as vivid as in some outer reef tours.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour departs from Cairns’ Reef Fleet Terminal at 1 Spence St. You’ll need to make your way there.

What should I bring?
While snorkeling gear is provided, you may want to bring sun protection, a hat, water, and a towel. If you plan to scuba dive, you should follow medical guidance and be aware that you’ll need to complete medical forms on board.

Can I do scuba diving on this tour?
Yes, scuba diving is available as an optional activity, but it must be pre-booked. Participants need to fill out a medical questionnaire on the boat, and some health conditions or medications might preclude diving.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 25 guests, ensuring a more intimate experience than larger tours.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The data doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the water activities and the sailing boat experience, it’s best suited for older children and teenagers who are comfortable in the water.

What is the duration of the trip?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions except severe weather warnings. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In The Sum Up

This Ocean Free small-group sailing tour from Cairns offers a memorable way to explore the Great Barrier Reef and Green Island, emphasizing personalized service, scenic sailing, and quality reef encounters. The small boat and dedicated crew create a relaxed atmosphere where you’ll feel cared for and able to enjoy the natural beauty of the reef without the crowds typical of larger tours.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who value a more intimate, scenic approach and are willing to pay a premium for a more personalized experience. If your priority is seeing the reef through knowledgeable guides, enjoying excellent food, and having enough time to explore both the marine environment and the island’s beaches, this tour deserves serious consideration.

Just remember: water visibility and marine activity depend on weather, so some days might be less lively than others. But with its friendly crew, scenic sail, and focus on quality, this trip offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day out that many find truly worthwhile.

Ready for Your Reef Adventure?

Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler, a first-timer, or just looking for a more relaxed boat trip with a small group, this tour provides a solid balance of adventure and comfort. The personal touches and charming sailing vessel make it stand out from the crowd. If you’re after a day filled with beautiful views, marine encounters, and great company, this could very well be your perfect Cairns escape.