Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 684 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour worth booking?
Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour is a 9-hour experience in Cairns & the Tropical North, Australia, from $207 per person. It scores 86 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 684 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 86 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (684)
- Duration
- 9 hours
- From
- $207 per person
With only a maximum of 25 passengers this makes our Great Barrier Reef & Green Island tour very guest focussed! .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 you get
About this experience
With only a maximum of 25 passengers this makes our Great Barrier Reef & Green Island tour very guest focussed! .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
Included
- Lunch
- Reef talk by a marine interpreter
- Complimentary glass of wine on the return sail to Cairns
- Environmental Management Charge / Port / Ram fees
- Sailing cruise to Green Island & the Great Barrier Reef
- Exclusive reef site
- Snorkeling equipment (snorkel, marks, flippers, buoyancy vests)
- Transfers to/from the schooner to Green Island
- Fish Feed
- Tea and coffee
- Morning and Afternoon tea
- Snorkeling tuition, tours and in-water crew assistance if required
Not included
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Only Pre-book diving if no medical conditions/taking medication - some may preclude you from diving
- Optional diving - x 1-2 Certified / x 1-2 Intro dives possible on day .10-12m depth .
What you'll see and do
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 minutes here · Admission included
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 a common site amongst the coral "bommies" (outcrops) that rise form 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!
300 minutes here
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 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 chose 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)
60 minutes here · Admission included
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 minutes here
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 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Cairns & the Tropical North
Enter the Reef Fleet Terminal and look for Ocean Free & Ocean Freedom desk. From the side entrance enter and look right. If entering from the entrance facing the sea look straight ahead on the right . Check-in is from 7.15 am at this desk .
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Enter the Reef Fleet Terminal and look for Ocean Free & Ocean Freedom desk. From the side entrance enter and look right. If entering from the entrance facing the sea look straight ahead on the right . Check-in is from 7.15 am at this desk .
Options you can book
Tour + Two Introductory Dives
Two Introductory Dives: Some medical conditions and medication may preclude you from diving. Please contact supplier.
Tour + One Certified Dive
One Certified Dive: Some medical conditions and medication may preclude you from diving. Please contact supplier.
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 supplier.
Tour + One Introductory Dive
One Introductory Dive: Some medical conditions and medication may preclude you from diving. Please contact supplier.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 9 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Cairns Premier Reef & Island Tours
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least 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 preclude you from diving
- Tour requires you to be stable and mobile enough to move around a moving vessel and to transfer from main vessel onto 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 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.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 684 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Food and drink
6 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Small groups
4 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Good for families
3 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
The guide
2 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
684 verified traveler reviews for Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Highly recommended for a relaxing intimate tour, wonderful staff and all round great day
Very enjoyable, small group setting which was really nice. The sail boat experience was super relaxing, it wasn't a rush with crouds of people, it was more intimate. The crew were absolutely fantastic, so good with our kids, they took time to talk to them and let them help with some things on the boat, which they loved. They gave lots of great information but we weren't blasted with too much. Snorkelling was easy, they took us to a good easy location. The fish feed was really cool to watch. Lunch was fresh and delicious, with seafood, cold meat, fresh bread, lots of salad options, we were offered a complimentary glass of wine on the way back. I have to mention the crew again as they were so lovely and made our experience so much better. We had a little rain but it was still pretty warm. I highly suggest this tour if you enjoy a relaxing boat ride and a more intimate experience.
via Viator
Great team who made...
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: 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!
via Viator
Remarkable Day
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: 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!
via Tripadvisor
Still good on a soso weather day.
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 $$.
via Tripadvisor
100% recommend this small group tour
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: 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 :)
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 9 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $207 to $468
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 239
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 86
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cairns & the Tropical North.
How much does Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour cost?
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Prices start at $207 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 Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour take?
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Plan for about 9 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 Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 86 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 684 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Cairns & the Tropical North, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island 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 Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour?
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Around 239 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 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island 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 Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour?
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Included: Lunch; Reef talk by a marine interpreter; Complimentary glass of wine on the return sail to Cairns; Environmental Management Charge / Port / Ram fees; and Sailing cruise to Green Island & the Great Barrier Reef. Not included: Food and drinks, unless specified; Hotel pickup and drop-off; Only Pre-book diving if no medical conditions/taking medication - some may preclude you fr; and Optional diving - x 1-2 Certified / x 1-2 Intro dives possible on day .10-12m depth . Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour?
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Enter the Reef Fleet Terminal and look for Ocean Free & Ocean Freedom desk. From the side entrance enter and look right. If entering from the entrance facing the sea look straight ahead on the right. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour offered in?
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It runs in 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 Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island 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 Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island 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 Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island 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 Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour?
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Across 684 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include food and drink, small groups, knowledge and storytelling. The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
What booking options are available for Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour?
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There are 5 options to choose from, including Tour + Two Introductory Dives, Tour + One Certified Dive, Tour Snorkelling, Tour + Two Certified Dives. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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