Outer Great Barrier Reef Tours – Port Douglas’ Must-Do Experience
Outer Great Barrier Reef Tours – What You Need to Know
- Direct access to the outer reef – Tours depart daily from Port Douglas Marina to some of the most pristine reef locations, including Opal Reef and Agincourt Reef.
- World-class snorkelling and diving – Experience vibrant coral gardens, reef walls, and an abundance of marine life including Turtles, parrotfish, reef sharks, and more.
- Full-day adventures with everything included – Most tours include snorkel gear, wetsuits or stinger suits, meals, reef education, and optional scuba diving.
- Expert crews and marine biologists – Learn more about the reef ecosystem from passionate guides who love sharing the reef’s wonders with visitors.
- Small and large vessel options – Choose between fast adventure boats, luxury catamarans, and spacious pontoons depending on your style and comfort preference.
- Great visibility year-round – The outer reef offers excellent water clarity, especially in autumn and winter, ideal for underwater photography and reef exploration.
- Safe and family-friendly – Tours are suitable for confident swimmers of all ages, with flotation devices, guided snorkel sessions, and full safety briefings provided.
Discover the Outer Great Barrier Reef tours.
There’s nothing quite like a day on the Outer Great Barrier Reef. Just a short cruise from Port Douglas, this natural wonder is one of the most unforgettable places on Earth—teeming with vibrant coral, marine life, and breathtaking underwater scenery.
Snorkel, dive, sail, or relax — however you choose to experience it, the reef will stay with you forever.
🚤 Easy Departures from Port Douglas
All outer reef tours depart from the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, just minutes from your accommodation. Friendly staff, expert crews, and a seamless check-in make it simple to get started.
👉 Browse Full Day Reef Tours
👉 Discover Luxury Reef Cruises
🐠 What You’ll Experience
- Snorkel vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish
- Optional scuba diving for beginners and certified divers
- Marine biologist presentations and guided snorkel tours
- Spacious pontoons or sleek sailing catamarans
- All gear provided — no experience necessary
👉 Learn about Reef Pontoon Experiences
👉 Book Intro & Certified Diving
📍 Top Reef Locations from Port Douglas
- Agincourt Reef – Clear water, diverse marine life, and amazing snorkelling
- Opal Reef – Pristine coral, wall dives, and fewer crowds
- Low Isles – A charming coral cay perfect for families and first-timers
👉 See Which Reef is Right for You
🧜♀️ Perfect for All Ages & Abilities
Whether you’re a confident swimmer or prefer to view the reef from a semi-submersible or underwater observatory, there’s an option for everyone. Families, solo travellers, couples, and groups are all welcome.
Looking for ways to explore the reef without diving in?
- Family-Friendly Reef Tours – Safe, fun, and perfect for kids
- Glass Bottom Boat Cruises – See coral gardens from above
- Semi-Submarine Adventures – Glide through the reef in air-conditioned comfort
🌞 What to Bring
- Swimmers, towel, hat, and reef-safe sunscreen
- Camera or GoPro — underwater housing recommended
- Refillable water bottle and a light cover-up for sun protection
👉 Download our Reef Day Essentials Checklist
💙 Reef with Respect
Help protect this incredible ecosystem for future generations. Choose eco-certified operators, use reef-safe sunscreen, and never touch or stand on the coral.
👉 Learn more about Eco Tourism & Reef Care