Perfect Cruise Adventure—Explore the Incredible Great Barrier Reef

Quick answer: A Great Barrier Reef cruise suits almost every kind of traveler. You can snorkel, ride a mini-submarine, take an underwater helmet walk, explore islands such as Moreton and Willis, or simply relax on board with pools, bars and shows. Here is everything you can do, see and experience on your cruise.

If you are tired of your job and your boring routine, it is time for some fun and relaxation. Those who want to unwind can stay on board and be pampered, while adrenaline seekers can dive, explore islands and join the many on-board activities.

Snorkeling: The Easiest Way to Explore the Great Barrier Reef

One of the best, most exciting, cheapest and easiest ways to get up close with the Reef is snorkeling. Many cruises give you the chance to jump into the blue water for a little underwater adventure.

Snorkeling is easy and suitable for basically all ages and skill levels. All you need is:

• A mask
• A snorkel
• Fins
• Ideally, an underwater camera

Don’t forget that camera: the photos you take will blow up your Instagram and make your friends green with jealousy.

Dive a Little Deeper: Mini-Submarine Rides from Cairns

If your cruise stops at Cairns, try something completely unique: a submarine dive. Just a short catamaran ride from Cairns stands between you and a fun mini-submarine ride, perfect if you want to skip the hassle of suiting up for a snorkel or a dive.

Grab your sub companion and launch from the beach into the corals, schools of fish and playful turtles of the Reef. It feels like flying a spaceship through an alien world.

Feel Like an Astronaut: Underwater Walks at Green Island

If the “alien explorer” idea appeals to you, you will love this next experience. Visit Green Island, about half an hour from Cairns, and book an underwater walk. You wear a large diving helmet with a 360-degree view and stroll among fish, sea plants and other marine wonders of the Reef.

This experience is ideal for:

• Non-swimmers who want to see the Reef from below the surface
• People who wear glasses and want a clear view of the sea critters and plants

Go South: The Quieter Side of the Reef

Cairns is the center of the action for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, but it is not all there is. Cruising is a perfect way to broaden your horizons and visit the often-neglected southern Reef.

The southern Great Barrier Reef is full of untouched little islands, diving and snorkeling spots, and unique marine life such as manta rays and colorful coral forests. You can even learn to surf and get a taste of the true Aussie lifestyle.

Visit Heaven: A Stop at Moreton Island

For a tiny piece of Aussie heaven, book a cruise that stops at Moreton Island, near Brisbane. For instance, many affordable Sydney cruises drop anchor at this amazing island. Moreton is free of crowds and full of things to see and do.

Things to do on Moreton Island

• Explore shipwrecks in search of forgotten treasures and swim among colorful fish.
• Relax in the Blue Lagoon or enjoy a natural “bubble massage” in the Champagne Pools.
• Rent a 4WD and explore the island.
• Try sandboarding down the sand hills.
• Hike to Mt. Tempest for a more active day.

There really is something for everyone on Moreton Island. Once you have had your taste of solid ground, you can head back on board and continue your cruise.

Hop Off and Onto Willis Island

Wait until the anchor drops and hop off to explore Willis Island. This little island is a treat thanks to its long beaches and thick vegetation, but the best thing about it is its inhabitants.

Willis Island is home to many bird species, which you can watch from the ship or up close if you go ashore. Grab your camera and binoculars and look out for:

• Wedge-tailed shearwaters
• Sooty terns
• Common noddies and black noddies
• If you are lucky: crested terns, red-tailed tropicbirds and red-footed boobies

Have Fun on Board Your Great Barrier Reef Cruise

You will want to see as much of the Reef as possible, but that does not mean you cannot enjoy the ship itself. Most cruise ships offer fun for couples, singles, parents, kids and teens alike:

• Swimming pools
• Cocktails at the bars and clubs
• Comedy shows
• Kids’ Clubs where children can hang out with their peers

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a strong swimmer to enjoy the Reef?

No. Snorkeling suits almost all ages and skill levels, and non-swimmers can try a mini-submarine ride from Cairns or an underwater helmet walk at Green Island.

Where is Green Island?

Green Island is about half an hour from Cairns and is known for underwater walks with a 360-degree diving helmet.

What can I do on Moreton Island?

You can explore shipwrecks, relax in the Blue Lagoon and Champagne Pools, rent a 4WD, go sandboarding or hike to Mt. Tempest.

Is a Great Barrier Reef cruise good for families?

Yes. Beyond the Reef activities, most ships have pools, shows and Kids’ Clubs, so there is something for every age.

Conclusion

On a Great Barrier Reef cruise you will have time to relax, have fun, meet new people and discover the underwater world of the Reef. From snorkeling and submarine rides to island stops and on-board entertainment, booking this cruise is one purchase you will not regret.