
2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour
Traveler rating
4.7/5
Based on 36 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour worth booking?
2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour is a 48-hour experience in Cairns & the Tropical North, Australia, from $272 per person. It scores 70 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 36 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 70 / 100
- Rating
- 4.7/5 (36)
- Duration
- 48 hours
- From
- $272 per person
Save with this 2-day Package! Experience a full-day Great Barrier Reef cruise and then enjoy a full day travelling to Kuranda by Skyrail, free time in Kuranda and then the Kuranda Scenic Railway back to Cairns. Evolution departs Cairns daily offering an award-winning full-day reef cruise, with 5 hours spent visiting 2 spectacular Outer Great Barrier Reef locations (Norman OR Saxon and Hastings Reef). Enjoy snorkelling (included) or dial up the adventure and add on a scuba dive or helicopter flight (extra). BBQ lunch and a glass of wine, cheese and biscuits on the return journey are included. Embark on a fascinating journey with Skyrail. Glide metres above the pristine jungle canopy before descending to explore the rainforest close up. After some free time in Kuranda, embark on your journey back to Cairns via Kuranda Scenic Railway, the original rail journey to Kuranda. Travel over bridges and through tunnels hand-made by North QLD’s pioneers. This is a truly spectacular rail journey.
What you get
About this experience
Save with this 2-day Package! Experience a full-day Great Barrier Reef cruise and then enjoy a full day travelling to Kuranda by Skyrail, free time in Kuranda and then the Kuranda Scenic Railway back to Cairns. Evolution departs Cairns daily offering an award-winning full-day reef cruise, with 5 hours spent visiting 2 spectacular Outer Great Barrier Reef locations (Norman OR Saxon and Hastings Reef). Enjoy snorkelling (included) or dial up the adventure and add on a scuba dive or helicopter flight (extra). BBQ lunch and a glass of wine, cheese and biscuits on the return journey are included. Embark on a fascinating journey with Skyrail. Glide metres above the pristine jungle canopy before descending to explore the rainforest close up. After some free time in Kuranda, embark on your journey back to Cairns via Kuranda Scenic Railway, the original rail journey to Kuranda. Travel over bridges and through tunnels hand-made by North QLD’s pioneers. This is a truly spectacular rail journey.
What's included
Included
- Complimentary cheese, biscuits and glass of wine on return journey (reef day)
- Entry/Admission - Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Kuranda Train Ride
- Full Day Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise
- All Fees and Taxes
- 5 hours reef time snorkelling with all equipment
- Arrival tea, coffee and muffins on the reef day
- Personal flotation aids - life jackets and noodles
Not included
- Accommodation
- Meals on Skyrail/Kuranda day
What you'll see and do
Great Barrier Reef
Evolution departs Cairns daily, with five hours spent visiting two spectacular Outer Great Barrier Reef locations - Hastings Reef, Saxon Reef or Norman Reef. Evolution is a large 35-metre catamaran with three spacious deck spaces to lounge in comfort. Experience one of the wonders of the natural world up close and personal snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef (included). Dial up the adventure and add a scuba dive or scenic helicopter flight (extra costs apply, speak to reservations after booking). Enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch cooked onboard with a variety of salads, breads (special dietary requirements catered for too). As well as a complimentary glass of wine, cheese and biscuits on the return journey.
480 minutes here
Embark on a fascinating journey of discovery with Skyrail Rainforest Cableway over and deep into Australia’s Wet Tropics World Heritage Area which has survived against all odds to become the home of the world’s oldest rainforest story. Enjoy a truly unique perspective of this ancient landscape; glide metres above the pristine jungle canopy before descending to explore the rainforest close up. Enjoy free time in Kuranda strolling the streets of this iconic location in Far North Queensland.
360 minutes here
Kuranda Scenic Railway
Then, take the Kuranda Scenic Railway back down to Cairns. This scenic rail is the original scenic rail journey to Kuranda. Travel over bridges and through tunnels hand-made by North Queensland’s pioneers over 100 years ago. Traversing the World Heritage listed rainforest of the Barron Gorge National Park this is one of the world’s great railway journeys.
120 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, cmn, ja, en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Down Under Cruise and Dive
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children under the age of 18 must be in the immediate company of a parent or legal guardian.
- Special dietary requirements must be confirmed at least 24 hours prior to travel directly with the tour operator. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten free and dairy free options are available.
- Dives can be purchased direct with the operator prior to travel (additional cost)
- Check-in is from 7.15am at Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence Street, Cairns. Please make your way to the Down Under Cruise and Dive counter to check-in. Boat departs 8.00am sharp.
- If you choose to add a scuba dive (extra cost), please note: all divers are required to complete a Medical Questionnaire. In a commitment to the safety of our guests, divers over 65 years must have a medical clearance with a physician the confirms they are Fit To Dive. Please be aware that certain medical conditions (e.g. asthma, heart disease, diabetes) and ANY prescription medications will require a letter or email from a doctor clearing you to dive. This clearance must state your full name, the doctor's name and practice and the clearance to dive for the specific medications/condition. Please review the operators Medical Questionnaire and Terms & Conditions prior to travel.
- If you choose to add a scuba dive (extra cost), please note: Diving within 24 hours before your flight is not permitted.
- Please choose your Reef Day as the first day of your booking. Once booked, please contact the tour operator once booked to choose your Skyrail/Rail Day.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 36 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Traveler reviews
36 verified traveler reviews for 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Amazing day
We had an amazing time at the Great Barrier Reef .We have been to a lot of boat tour and this the best .The tour was so organised,safety of the passenger was the priority and the staff was so helpful .The food service was plenty.Lasty the experience at the reef was one of a kind .Highly recommended.
via Viator
Excellence with professionalism.
The trip to the Barrier Reef was exceptional- the crew whilst friendly were professional and very focused on safety. A fantastic day with such natural beauty topped with the helicopter ride showing the varying colours from above. The equipment provided for snorkelling was of great quality and provided comfort and confidence whilst in the water. A fabulous day and well worth the money. The Skyrsil was only partially operational but a great view of the rain forest from above. Unfortunately the train was available as they found track issues - whilst disappointing, safety first! Still an enjoyable day up in Kuranda and the Skyrail team did extremely well ensuring we still had a great day.
via Viator
Perfect two days trip
Perfect two days trip, super friendly staffs, amazing experience especially for the ocean reefs, thanks for everything
via Viator
We snorkeled the Great Barrier Reef!
This package filled two days in Cairns with so much fun. The Skyrail was a blast with some interesting facts rolled in for fun about the Daintree Rainforest. When we arrived in Kuranda, we were able to book a picture session with a kaola. The train ride was okay. The snorkel trip was an experience of a lifetime for my husband and I. Every detail was planned and executed. (I think they’ve done this before.) The crew was exceptional, but Rueben sealed the deal for us. My husband and I became very reluctant to take the plunge into the choppy water. Rueben made sure our equipment was in working order and made it happen. Success! This was something we will never forget. Down Under Cruise and Dive is a top-notch company.
via Tripadvisor
Excellent trips- would recommend
Day one The boat trip and snorkelling in Great Barrier Reef was an exceptional day. The day was very well organised. The snorkelling was fabulous- full safety demos, stinger suits etc.plenty of time on the reef. The food was excellent and plentiful- tea/coffee and cakes on arrival- lunch was amazing-steak, prawns, fish, veg, rice, pasta, bread- wine and cheese and biscuits on way home. The staff were excellent Day two Kuranda The Skyrail was really good and efficiently ran. We had approx 4 hours in kuranda- plenty to do. Train home was lovely with good commentary of sights etc Would highly recommend both days but if you only have time for one the boat trip was the best day
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 48 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $272 to $380
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 13
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Down Under Cruise and Dive, who run 6 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 74.9 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Down Under Cruise and Dive runsWhy this scores 70
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cairns & the Tropical North.
How much does 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour cost?
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Prices start at $272 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Cairns & the Tropical North usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour take?
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Plan for about 48 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Cairns & the Tropical North is not rushed.
Is 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 70 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 36 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Cairns & the Tropical North, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 48-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour?
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Around 13 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Cairns & the Tropical North can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Cairns & the Tropical North and add a light layer if any part of the 48-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Cairns & the Tropical North within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Cairns & the Tropical North?
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On Outty we rank every Cairns & the Tropical North experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Fun, Falls and Forest Day Trip from Cairns, Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran, Tully River Full-Day Rafting: Cairns, Mission Beach or Self-Drive. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Cairns & the Tropical North?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Cairns & the Tropical North?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour?
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Included: Complimentary cheese, biscuits and glass of wine on return journey (reef day); Entry/Admission - Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Kuranda Train Ride; Full Day Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise; All Fees and Taxes; and 5 hours reef time snorkelling with all equipment. Not included: Accommodation; and Meals on Skyrail/Kuranda day. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 44 listed pickup locations in and around Cairns & the Tropical North. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time.
What languages is 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour offered in?
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It is offered in German, Chinese, Japanese and English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about 2 Day Great Barrier Reef and Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail Tour?
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Across 36 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include photo opportunities, food and drink, value for money. The views and photo stops come up again and again.
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