Port Douglas is an idyllic gateway to fascinating islands and some spectacular outer Reef experiences. Here you can immerse yourself in the largest aquarium in the world! The Great Barrier Reef is a magical place to experience and create incredible memories to last a lifetime. It is possible for people of all ages and swimming abilities to enjoy the Great Barrier Reef.
When considering your choice of operator ask yourself a few questions that should help you to make a decision.
If you are travelling with young children or a non swimmer it is possible to visit the reef but will be easier if you take a trip with a Pontoon operator. The Quicksilver tour visits the Outer Barrier Reef and has a stable pontoon with an underwater observatory and also semi-submersible tours giving non-swimmers the opportunity to experience the reef without getting wet. For families with babies in prams or people with disabilities the Quicksilver caters very well.
Alternatively you may find that a daytrip to Low Isles is the best option. Here, children can play on the beach, paddle in the shallows and do the glass bottom boat tour. The quality of the coral gardens is still very good for snorkellers and the island is a very pretty destination. Low Isles is a great introduction to the diversity of the beautiful coral and marine life.
If this is your chance to see the Great Barrier Reef and you really want to see the coral bommies sprouting out of the depths of the coral sea aat the Outer Barrier Reef with non-swimmers or young children in tow then the Quicksilver trip is right for you.
All trips to the islands and great barrier reef include snorkelling gear. If you are uncertain about snorkelling a good idea would be to practice in the resort swimming pool before you get to the reef. Or, you could visit an island such as Low Isles for the day to practice. All trips offer floatation devices and guided snorkelling tours.
It is also possible to try an Introductory Dive. This is an awesome experience that some people liken to being weightless. People of all swimming ability can try this once they have completed a medical questionaire before taking the plunge. These dives are preceded by a dive lesson with an experienced dive instructor. Introductory Dives are generally limited to a maximum of 25 minutes diving and to a depth of around 6 metres. Most of the colour that you see on the reef is close to the surface so depth is not an issue. Expect to be accompanied by up to 4 other Introductory Divers.
If you are a Certified Diver there are trips designed specifically for you and some of these will also cater to those divers wanting to use Nitrox.
If you prefer limited numbers or a private charter this is also possible.
And, if you just want to sleep in every day on your holiday there is even a trip designed precisely with you in mind with a very late departure time.
With so many excellent Great Barrier Reef tour operators we can assure you that you will have a mind blowing experience and we encourage you to get wet.
We are all passionate about taking care of our greatest and most beautiful asset. Make sure you spend a day or two seeing the reef up close and personal. It is the most exhilerating and inspiring experience for people of all ages. Due to our diligence and monitoring of the reef and constant research we are very proud to show you our excellent high standard certified tour operators who have taken additional actions to become the most advanced and innovative protecting our most important and most beautiful asset for our future generations. Visit the Great Barrier Reef daily from Port Douglas.
Aristocat Reef Cruises Aristocat Reef Cruises Snorkel and Scuba
- Advanced Ecotourism
Calypso Reef Charters Calypso Daily Reef Cruises - Full Day
- Advanced Ecotourism
HABA Dive and Snorkel HABA Dive and Snorkel Tours
- Ecotourism
Low Isles Sailaway Sailing Day Tour to Low Isles
- Advanced Ecotourism
Poseidon Outer Reef Cruises 5 Star Cruise to the Outer Reef
- Advanced Ecotourism
Quicksilver Connections Quicksilver Connections Tour
- Advanced Ecotourism - Climate Action Innovator
Silversonic Port Douglas Silver Series Dive and Snorkel Tour
- Advanced Ecotourism - Climate Action Innovator
Synergy Reef Sailing Synergy Full Day Luxury Sailing and Snorkelling
Cruise - Ecotourism
Wavelength Eco Snorkelling Wavelength Eco Snorkelling
- Advanced Ecotourism