Which Great Barrier Reef Tour?

Which Great Barrier Reef Tour is Right for You?

Which Great Barrier Reef Tour is Best for You?

• Low Isles: Ideal for families and first-time snorkellers with calm, shallow waters, a sandy cay, and easy access to coral gardens just offshore.

• Mackay Coral Cay: A remote and untouched reef experience with small-group tours and incredible marine biodiversity—perfect for nature lovers and eco-travellers.

• Agincourt Reef: One of the most popular outer reef destinations with pontoons, diving platforms, snorkelling, and family-friendly facilities.

• Opal Reef: A snorkeller’s dream with clear water, vibrant coral gardens, and frequent turtle sightings—often visited on boutique small-boat tours.

• Pontoon Tours: Great for all ages and non-swimmers, offering stable platforms with underwater observatories, guided snorkels, and semi-sub rides.

• Island Tours: Low Isles tours offer the chance to combine beach relaxation with reef exploration—perfect for a laid-back day on the reef.

• Sailaway to Mackay Reef: Enjoy an eco-luxury sailing experience with small groups, guided snorkels, and a strong sustainability focus in the pristine Coral Sea.

Discover Which Great Barrier Reef Tour is Best for You.

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders—but with so many amazing reef destinations to choose from, it can be tricky to know where to start. Whether you’re snorkelling for the first time, travelling with kids, or chasing the ultimate dive experience, there’s a reef tour from Port Douglas that’s perfect for you.

We’ve made it easy with this guide to help you find the reef that best matches your travel style.

Low Isles – Perfect for Families & First-Time Snorkellers

• Just 15km offshore (approx. 30 minutes by boat)
• A beautiful coral cay with a sandy beach
• Ideal for younger children and non-swimmers
• Guided snorkelling tours in calm, shallow waters
• Great for turtle spotting and reef walks

Best for: Families, couples, beginners, anyone who prefers calm, easy conditions

Agincourt Reef – For Snorkellers and Divers Who Want the Wow Factor

• Located on the Outer Reef (approx. 90 minutes offshore)
• Incredible visibility and vibrant coral walls
• Snorkel or dive directly from the back of the boat
• Often includes introductory and certified dives
• Ideal for confident swimmers and adventure seekers

Best for: Snorkellers, scuba divers, confident swimmers, photographers

Outer Reef Pontoons – Great for All Ages and Abilities

• Large floating platforms with snorkelling and semi-submersible tours
• Sheltered snorkel areas with lifeguards
• Optional add-ons like helmet diving and scenic helicopter flights
• Ideal for mixed groups and guests wanting extra comfort

Best for: Families, seniors, non-swimmers, anyone wanting more facilities and variety

Opal Reef – A Boutique Experience for Snorkel Lovers

• Known for its healthy coral gardens and marine life
• Usually visited by smaller boats with fewer passengers
• Exceptional snorkelling sites with reef-edge access
• Personalised attention from marine guides

Best for: Snorkel enthusiasts, couples, eco-conscious travellers, small group lovers

Mackay Reef with Sailaway – Eco-Luxury Meets Reef Adventure

Liveaboard Trips – For the Ultimate Reef Adventure

• Spend 1-3+ nights on the Great Barrier Reef
• Visit multiple Outer Reef sites including remote locations
• Includes all snorkelling and diving gear, meals, and accommodation
• Wake up to the reef right outside your cabin

Best for: Divers, adventurers, couples, travellers wanting a once-in-a-lifetime reef experience

Still Not Sure which Great Barrier Reef Tour is best?

Get in touch with our friendly local team. We’re here to help you choose the reef tour that’s right for your interests, swimming ability, and time frame.

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