Great Barrier Reef (Moore Reef) Day Tour Highlights
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Get up to 10% cash back per person when you book with us
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A full day at a permanent pontoon on Moore Reef, part of the outer Great Barrier Reef
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Lunch
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Various activities to explore the underwater world, including snorkelling & equipment, semi-submersible & glass bottom boat tours
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Enjoy access to the underwater observatory, fish feeding presentations, and an exciting waterslide
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A gourmet tropical-inspired lunch
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Complimentary tea & coffe on boarding & while moored at the reef
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Departs from the meeting point at Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence St, Cairns
What's Excluded
Why Do We Love This
What to Expect
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to travel to the Great Barrier Reef?
When is the best time to travel to the Great Barrier Reef?
The Great Barrier Reef is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many of our visitors, who have a wonderful experience no matter the weather.
Cairns has a tropical climate and experiences hot, humid summers and cooler, dry winters. Often when the weather is cloudy or rainy in Cairns it can be the complete opposite on the outer Great Barrier Reef.
How deep is the water?
How deep is the water?
The water is between 5 and 12m in depth off the pontoon, depending on the tide. The crew supply life jackets free of charge for extra buoyancy and resting stations are dotted throughout the snorkelling area.
Will the water be cold?
Will the water be cold?
Cairns is located in Tropical North Queensland so the water temperature is very pleasant all year round. Approximate average water temperatures throughout the year are:
- December-February 29C or 83F
- March-May 25C or 76F
- June-August 22C or 72F
- September-November 25C or 76F
Will the sea conditions affect our day?
Will the sea conditions affect our day?
Sea conditions vary every day. The pontoon and catamaran are very stable and safe. If the rare occasion occurs and it is deemed that it isn't safe to operate due to sea conditions, passengers will be offered travel on an alternate day or will receive a refund.
Passengers who are prone to motion sickness are advised to take necessary precautions such as motion sickness medication prior to travel.
Is there a minimum age?
Is there a minimum age?
There is no minimum age. We have had infants just a few weeks old travel to the Great Barrier Reef with us. We have a specially built ocean enclosed pool for smaller children so they too can enjoy a paddle in the sea. There are minimum age requirements for optional activities such as SCUBA diving.
Do I need to book for my infant (0-3 years)?
Do I need to book for my infant (0-3 years)?
Yes, it's important for us to have an accurate record of every single person travelling with us. Whilst children 3 years and under travel free, you need to advise us there is an infant travelling with you when you make your booking.
Is there a maximum age or certain physical requirements to participate?
Is there a maximum age or certain physical requirements to participate?
No. The only requirement is that you are able to move freely around the pontoon and catamaran. The water is accessible by stairs fitted with handrails.
Can non-swimmers travel on the Moore Reef day tour?
Can non-swimmers travel on the Moore Reef day tour?
Yes. There are a large number of included activities that allow non-swimmers to experience the reef, such as semi-submersible and glass-bottom boat tours, underwater observatory and fish feeding, or simply relaxing on the upper-level sundeck.
What languages are spoken?
What languages are spoken?
We have an international team who can speak many languages including Chinese, Japanese, Korean, German, Spanish and French. Important medical forms, health and safety messages are also available in selected languages for guests.
What do I need to bring?
What do I need to bring?
Simply pack a bag as if you were going to the beach for the day. Suggested items include:
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swimming costume and beach towel
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sunscreen (SPF 30+) reef-friendly is recommended
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sun-protective clothing such as a t-shirt or rash vest, hat and sunglasses
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cash or credit card for onboard purchases, snacks and optional activities (we accept AUD$, VISA, MasterCard, Amex, Unionpay, Royalpay)
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camera (you can also hire an underwater digital camera from our photographers Calypso Reef Imagery onboard)
Can I bring a pram?
Can I bring a pram?
Yes, the team will be able to provide assistance to you when getting on and off the catamaran. However as space is limited onboard, they encourage you to pack light or use a baby carrier where possible.
How long does it take to get to the reef?
How long does it take to get to the reef?
It takes approximately 2 hours to get to Moore Reef pontoon from Cairns.
How long do we spend at the Great Barrier Reef?
How long do we spend at the Great Barrier Reef?
You can expect to have 4 hours reef time.
What changing and bathroom facilities are at the pontoon?
What changing and bathroom facilities are at the pontoon?
There are toilets located on the catamaran, which are accessible at all times when the catamaran is docked at the pontoon. This is also freshwater rinse showers and change rooms on the pontoon.
Is there child minding?
Is there child minding?
There is no crèche onboard so the crew can’t care for children. Anyone under 12 years must be directly supervised at all times by an accompanying adult. All children under 18 years must be supervised and are the responsibility of their accompanying adult.
Is Sunlover Great Barrier Reef tour an Accessible Experience?
Is Sunlover Great Barrier Reef tour an Accessible Experience?
Sunlover, a renowned provider of Great Barrier Reef tours, is well-equipped to accommodate wheelchair users and takes pride in showcasing the magnificent reef to disabled guests. The vessel has multiple entrance points, a dedicated wheelchair table on the main deck, and wheelchair ramps to facilitate smooth movement around the vessel. The experienced crew at Sunlover is always ready to provide assistance and support to ensure a comfortable experience for all guests.
It's important to note that access to the water, coral viewing vessels, and underwater observatory may require navigating stairs, and a carer's presence is recommended for guests who cannot walk unassisted. Sunlover is committed to inclusivity and strives to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience for all guests, including those with disabilities.
For further information on Sunlover's accessibility features or to discuss specific requirements, guests are encouraged to contact Sunlover directly. Sunlover is dedicated to making every Great Barrier Reef adventure an exceptional one, regardless of ability.
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A Refundable Booking is available at checkout. This will provide 100% refund for one of the many reasons included via our terms - including adverse weather, sickness or delays with transport.
All customer cancellation & refund requests are also subject to our website’s own refund conditions.