Name: Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour
SKU: 5364FREE
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.9 (683 reviews)

WizardTrip

Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour

4.9(683)· Cairns & the Tropical North· By Cairns Premier Reef & Island Tours

Free cancellation

From

€184per person

1 to 9 travelers per booking.

Options5 of 5 available on this day

Time

1 × Adult × €235€235

Total€235

About the activity

With only a maximum of 25 passengers this makes our Great Barrier Reef & Green Island tour very guest focused! .In fact we are the only sail, reef and tropical island experience in Cairns catering for such a low guest number . Swim, snorkel or dive straight off the boat onto an exclusive magnificent GBR site - no crowds. The boat is moored just 1Km off Green Island - a highly protected Marine Park zone. From Cairns, sail to this reef site and Green Island in style on a two-mast schooner and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch on board. After snorkelling off the boat take a tender transfer to explore the beauty of Green Island, see the rainforest or laze on the white sandy beaches.

What's included

✓A generous smorgasbord lunch featuring seafood
✓Engaging reef talk delivered by a marine interpreter
✓A complimentary glass of wine during the return sail to Cairns
✓Environmental Management Charge / Port / Ram fees
✓A scenic sailing cruise to Green Island & the Great Barrier Reef
✓Access to an exclusive reef site
✓Complete snorkeling equipment (snorkel, mask, fins, buoyancy vests)
✓Convenient transfers between the schooner and Green Island
✓Enjoy a fish feeding experience
✓Coffee and/or Tea available
✓Morning and Afternoon tea provided
✓Snorkeling tuition, guided tours, and in-water crew assistance as needed

What is not included

✕Food and beverages, unless specifically mentioned
✕Hotel pick-up and drop-off services
✕Pre-booking diving is advised only if you have no medical conditions or are not taking medication, as some may preclude you from diving
✕Optional diving – 1-2 Certified or Introductory dives are possible on the day, with depths of 10-12m.

Itinerary

1
Embark on a Personal Sailing Experience
These are the two most personal Great Barrier Reef tours in Cairns. Sail on Ocean Free - our 16M classical sailing schooner for this extremely personal Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour. Sail, snorkel, dive (optional extra) - reef and beach all in one day with only a small group of up to 25 guests - pure bliss!
· 30 min· Admission included
2
Great Barrier Reef
Admire the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef on this very personal day tour. Ocean Free sails to its exclusive Great Barrier Reef mooring just 1 km off Green Island. Step straight off the boat and see a coral garden teeming with colourful reef-fish and marine life on this highly protected Marine Park zone of the Great Barrier Reef. Only our guests snorkel this site making it a very personal experience! Turtles and large schools of fish are common sights amongst the coral "bommies" (outcrops) that rise from about 10-12M up to just under 1M under the surface, making it an ideal area for great snorkelling. Spend the morning snorkelling & / or SCUBA diving (optional extra) over an incredible reef system and view the most unique and colourful marine life under the guidance of our very attentive crew. Afterwards, hop back on board your vessel for a scrumptious large smorgasbord lunch, after which you can hop into the tender as the skipper takes you to Green Island beach - your 2nd site to explore!
· 5 h
3
Green Island National Park
Guests can visit this island as part of their Ocean Free Green Island & Great Barrier Reef sailing tour with only a maximum of 25 guests. They have a choice of spending the rest of the afternoon on the island until last pick-up or return to the main vessel after an hour if preferring to do more snorkelling. Ocean Free actually moors on an exclusive private reef 1Km off the island where guests can split their time between snorkelling and diving (optional extra) just off the boat on this exclusive Great Barrier Reef site and going to the island in the tender to explore or just relax on the tropical beach. Guests have 4 and 1/2 hrs to experience the reef and island. Typically our guests choose to spend 1-2 hrs on the island. On the island, guests can enjoy an interpretative walk across the island, relax on the beach and visit Marineland Melanesia (small fee to enter here).
· 1 h· Admission included
4
Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat
Marineland Melanesia is an optional experience when visiting Green Island. For a small fee, you can enter this attraction to see crocodiles, turtles, artefacts, and facts for around the region.
· 30 min
5
Great Barrier Reef
Choose to spend an hour on the island and return back to the main vessel for more snorkeling or optional diving on this exclusive Green Marine Park zone of the Great Barrier Reef.
· 50 min· Admission included

How to use your ticket

Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One ticket per booking.

Meeting point and return

Enter the Reef Fleet Terminal and locate the Ocean Free & Ocean Freedom desk. If entering from the side entrance, proceed straight ahead and look to your right. If entering from the entrance facing the sea, look straight ahead on your right. Check-in is available from 7:15 AM at this desk.

On the day of the tour, please check in with your voucher details at the Ocean Free & Ocean Freedom counter inside the Reef Fleet Terminal, located at 1 Spence Street, Cairns. Check-in begins at 7:15 AM. Boarding the boat commences at 7:30 AM on A Finger, directly in front of the Reef Fleet Terminal.

Please ensure ALL adults traveling have completed their Pre-Boarding Waivers before check-in.

Please note: All Child Fares (including family packages) will require proof of age at check-in.

Meeting point

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Practical information

Public transportation options are conveniently located nearby.
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.
Travelers should possess a moderate level of physical fitness.
A maximum of 25 people ensures a unique and personalized experience.
Please note: All DIVERS will be required to complete a medical questionnaire on board prior to diving. Please only book the diving options if you have no medical conditions nor taking medication, as some conditions/medication may preclude you from diving.
The tour requires you to be stable and mobile enough to move around a moving vessel and to transfer from the main vessel onto the tender and back.
Guests come from many countries and many only have a small opportunity to visit the reef. The vessel will operate in all weather conditions (apart from gale force and severe weather warnings) and has extra procedures to make the day the best possible. If you are concerned about the weather, please visit www.bom.gov.au cairns coastal report - it will give you a 4 day forecast. 10-20 knots is a normal good day. Date of travel can be changed subject to availability and also full refund if cancelling with minimum 24hrs notice. Our vessels are open air with good boat movement so less likely to suffer seasickness than some other closed vessels however, if prone to motion sickness we recommend taking travel sickness tablets 20 minutes before boarding the vessel.
If intending to take part in diving, all divers (whether certified or introductory diver) will be required to fill out a diving medical questionnaire on board. If diving is an important option for you, please advise if you have any medical issues (past or present) or are taking any medications so we can advise if any QLD diving medical clearance is required. Some medical conditions and medication may preclude you from diving. It is imperative for your safety that you answer the questions on the form truthfully.

Activity options

Tour + One Introductory Dive
One Introductory Dive: Some medical conditions and medication may preclude you from diving. Please contact the supplier for more information.
Tour + One Certified Dive
One Certified Dive: Some medical conditions and medication may preclude you from diving. Please contact the supplier for more information.
Tour Snorkelling
Green Island Sailing Cruise from Cairns including snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef.
Tour + Two Certified Dives
Two Certified Dives: Some medical conditions and medication may preclude you from diving. Please contact the supplier for more information.
Tour + Two Introductory Dives
Two Introductory Dives: Some medical conditions and medication may preclude you from diving. Please contact the supplier for more information.

Duration

9 h

How to prepare for your experience

Book your diving options in advance if it's a priority for you.
Check the weather forecast on www.bom.gov.au/qld/forecasts/cairns.shtml before your trip.
If prone to seasickness, consider taking medication before boarding.
Ensure all adults have completed their pre-boarding waivers.
Bring proof of age for child fares.
Be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity.

Experience the Great Barrier Reef and Green Island in an intimate setting on this exclusive sailing tour from Cairns.

Cancellation conditions

For a full refund, please cancel at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.

Any questions?

Product code: 5364FREE

Activity offered by Cairns Premier Reef & Island Tours via Viator.

Who is this activity suitable for?

Couples
Families
Small groups
Travelers seeking a personalized experience

Activity essentials

Exclusive small group tour with a maximum of 25 guests
Sail to the Great Barrier Reef and Green Island on a classic schooner
Snorkel or dive directly from the boat at a pristine reef site
Explore the beauty of Green Island with rainforest walks and beaches
Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch onboard
Personalized attention from the attentive crew

Cairns & the Tropical North: good to know

Currency: Australian dollar
Official language: English
Driving: on the left
Power plugs: I · 230 V
Emergency number: 000
Capital city: Canberra

Average temperatures

25°Jan
25°Feb
24°Mar
22°Apr
21°May
19°Jun
19°Jul
19°Aug
21°Sept
23°Oct
24°Nov
25°Dec

Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum number of passengers on this tour?

The maximum number of passengers on this tour is 25, ensuring a unique and personalized experience.

Do I need to have diving experience to dive?

No, introductory dives are available for those without prior experience. However, all divers must complete a medical questionnaire on board.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The vessel operates in most weather conditions, except for gale force or severe weather warnings. If the tour is cancelled due to weather, you may be able to change your travel date or receive a full refund if you provide at least 24 hours' notice.

What is included in the tour price?

The tour includes a buffet lunch with seafood, snorkeling equipment, transfers to Green Island, a complimentary glass of wine on return, and all necessary fees.

Can I bring an infant on this tour?

Yes, infants are welcome but must sit on an adult's lap during the tour.

Reviews

4.94.9(683)

5 stars

629

4 stars

3 stars

2 stars

1 star

Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.

★★★★★Viator review
Great team who made...
Sealani_M, October 2026
Great team who made everyone feel very welcomed and safe. Nice small group, got to know almost everyone by the end of it.
Response from the operator · OFreedom
Hello! Thanks so much for your great review! We really appreciate you taking the time to write these kind words. Its always nice to hear that you enjoyed the small group onboard Ocean Free and felt like you were part of the family! We hope to see you again one day!
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Remarkable Day
Connector46189780886, October 2026
We had the most incredible day sailing out to Green Island, and the crew, Bruce, Yan and Tom truly made the experience outstanding. They were professional, knowledgeable and wonderfully easygoing in a way that created a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere throughout the entire day. Their passion for the ocean really stood out. They shared fascinating insights about the marine life, corals and fish, and you could tell they genuinely love what they do. It added so much depth to the snorkelling and made the whole experience feel richer and more meaningful. The weather was perfect: sunny skies, calm turquoise water and whenever the breeze allowed, we sailed. The food was great too. I don’t usually go in the water, but the team encouraged me. I’m so glad I did it, the snorkelling was beautiful and full of marine life. My husband loved the smaller group in the afternoon even better, which meant they could explore further and see even more. After lunch we were dropped off at Green Island, which honestly felt like paradise, clear water, soft sand, turtles and plenty of time to wander or snorkel again. This tour was exceptional from start to finish and we would recommend this experience to anyone visiting the area.
Response from the operator · OFreedom
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that you had such a remarkable day exploring Green Island with us. It’s fantastic to hear that Bruce, Yann and Tom helped make your experience so special. We’ll be sure to pass on your kind words, they’ll be delighted to know their passion, knowledge and easy going approach made such a difference to your day. We’re especially glad you decided to get in the water and give snorkelling a go! Seeing guests step outside their comfort zone and discover the beauty of the reef and marine life is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. It sounds like you had the perfect conditions for sailing, snorkelling and enjoying Green Island, and we’re delighted that the smaller group experience and time on the island added to your day. Thank you again for recommending us and for taking the time to share such a detailed review. We’d love to welcome you both back on board for another ocean adventure in the future!
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Still good on a soso weather day.
Bardablue, September 2026
We didn't have a great day for weather. Food was really good and plenty of it. Equipment was good quality. Just found the flippers did not fit well on my wide feet. The crew were excellent and very helpful in the water. Glad I snorkelled a 2nd time in afternoon. Only person to go (it was cool and water rough) but saw so much more. Disappointed that we really didn't sail much. I assume since they were trying to keep on schedule the motor was used. Too much for a sailing trip. Overall good tour for the $$.
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
100% recommend this small group tour
Emselb77, September 2026
We had a great day out exploring the Great Barrier reef for the first time. Our teenage son loved his introductory dive. The small group atmosphere was great and the guides Reece and Paul and skipper Bruce (Ambrose) were first class. 100% recommend using this last family owner and operated tour service.
Response from the operator · OFreedom
Thanks so much for your great review! We truly appreciate your recommendation. It is lovely to hear that your son loved his introductory dive and that the small group and crew onboard Ocean Free were a highlights of the trip, we will be sure to pass your kind words onto them! We hope to have you guys back onboard for another reef adventure in the future :)
★★★★★Viator review
Great Barrier Reef Adventure
DAnn_B, September 2026
Excellent adventure the Crew was amazing and very helpful and took awesome care of all of us We also got to spend time on Green Island. Absolutely recommend this company for the wonderful time
Response from the operator · OFreedom
Hello Dann! Thanks so much for your kind review! We are so glad to hear that you felt looked after throughout the day and enjoyed your time on Green Island! Thank you for your recommendation and we hope to see you again someday!

19 activities · Australia

Cairns & the Tropical North, Australia, has 19 activities, tours and experiences to book. Also worth exploring nearby: Port Douglas.

01Activities to book

The best experiences in Cairns & the Tropical North

19 in the catalogue

-10%

Half Day Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tour

from €120★ 4.9

Selling fast

Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight

from €280★ 4.7

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Ocean Freedom: Great Barrier Reef Stylish Snorkel, Dive Reef Tour

from €142★ 4.8

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Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour

from €184★ 4.9

Free cancellation

Great Barrier Reef Full Day Tour from Cairns

from €175★ 4.6

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Barron River Rafting: Cairns, Port Douglas or Self-Drive

from €83★ 4.8

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Grand Kuranda including Skyrail and Kuranda Scenic Railway

from €214★ 4.6

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Cairns Rainforest River Tubing

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Cairns: All Inclusive Waterfalls and Rainforest Tour

from €108★ 4.7

All activities · Cairns & the Tropical North · 19

02On the water

Boats & cruises in Cairns & the Tropical North

1 activity

Selling fast

Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran

from €175★ 4.9

03Categories

Guided tours in Cairns & the Tropical North

9 activities

Top pick

Seastar Luxury Outer Great Barrier Reef Island and Reef Tour

from €178★ 4.9

Top pick

Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour

from €184★ 4.9

Free cancellation

Great Barrier Reef Full Day Tour from Cairns

from €175★ 4.6

-10%

Cairns: All Inclusive Waterfalls and Rainforest Tour

from €108★ 4.7

Free cancellation

Snorkel & Dive the Reef: Sustainable, Scientific & Cultural Tour

from €207★ 4.7

Free cancellation

Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation Day Tour from Cairns

from €199★ 4.7

04Categories

Water sports in Cairns & the Tropical North

5 activities

-10%

Half Day Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tour

from €120★ 4.9

Free cancellation

Cairns Half Day Tour to the Great Barrier Reef for Snorkeling

from €114★ 4.8

Top pick

Ocean Freedom: Great Barrier Reef Stylish Snorkel, Dive Reef Tour

from €142★ 4.8

05Categories

Day trips in Cairns & the Tropical North

5 activities

Selling fast

Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight

from €280★ 4.7

Private tour

Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge and Daintree Rainforest Day Tour

from €180★ 4.7

Selling fast

Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation Full Day Tour

from €152★ 4.7

06Explore nearby

Nearby cities

1 city

Port Douglas

Frequently asked questions about Cairns & the Tropical North

What is there to do in Cairns & the Tropical North?

Cairns & the Tropical North has 19 activities, tours and day trips you can book online. Among the most booked: « Half Day Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tour », « Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight », « Silverswift 3 Great Barrier Reef Sites in 1 Day from Cairns ».

What are the top-rated activities in Cairns & the Tropical North?

According to traveller reviews: « Half Day Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tour » (4.9/5, 393 reviews) ; « Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour » (4.9/5, 683 reviews) ; « Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran » (4.9/5, 2,694 reviews).

Can you cancel an activity in Cairns & the Tropical North for free?

Usually, yes: 19 of the 19 most popular activities in Cairns & the Tropical North offer free cancellation. The exact terms are shown on each activity page before you book.