Big Cat Green Island – Full Day Reef and Island Experience

Big Cat Green Island Tour/ Day Trip

The Big Cat Green Island full day tour is the ultimate way to experience one of the Great Barrier Reef’s most beautiful coral cays. Departing Cairns at 9:00am, this relaxed yet activity-rich day gives you maximum time on Green Island to snorkel the reef, explore rainforest boardwalks, enjoy island dining and soak up the tropical atmosphere.

Perfect for first-time visitors, families and anyone wanting a complete reef and island experience, this full-day tour combines comfort, flexibility and iconic scenery ,all just a short cruise from Cairns.

Why You Will Love this Great Barrier Reef Island Tour

  • Full day on Green Island with a 9:00am departure
  • Snorkel directly from the island’s fringing reef
  • Explore lush rainforest walking tracks
  • Choose optional reef viewing activities
  • Relax on white sandy beaches
  • Family-friendly and suitable for all confidence levels
  • Comfortable cruise with experienced local crew

FAQs

How long do we spend on Green Island?

This full-day tour offers several hours on the island, giving you plenty of time to explore and relax.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?

Yes glass bottom boat and semi-submarine options are ideal for non-swimmers.

Can families join this tour?

Absolutely. This tour is very popular with families.

Is lunch included?

Lunch is available as an optional add-on or can be purchased on the island.

What time do we return to Cairns?

You’ll return to Cairns in the late afternoon.

Book Now

Enjoy a full day of reef, rainforest and island relaxation.
Book Big Cat Green Island (9:00am) today with Hot Getaways.

Highlights

Big Cat Green Island Highlights

  • 9:00am departure from Cairns
  • Several hours free time on Green Island
  • Snorkelling straight off the beach
  • Rainforest boardwalk and island trails
  • Optional glass bottom boat or semi-submarine
  • On-island dining options
  • Air-conditioned catamaran cruise

Itinerary

Big Cat Green Island Day Overview

Morning – Cruise to Green Island

Check in at the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal and depart at 9:00am. Enjoy a smooth cruise across the Coral Sea, arriving at Green Island mid-morning.

Midday – Reef and Island Time

Spend your day snorkelling the reef, walking the rainforest tracks, relaxing on the beach or joining optional reef activities.

Afternoon – Island Relaxation

Enjoy lunch on the island, swim in the calm waters or simply unwind before cruising back to Cairns late afternoon.

No need to wait in line for your boarding pass! Simply head straight to the vessel, guests will receive a digital boarding pass with all the details the afternoon before departure. Boarding commences at 8.15am with final boarding at 8.45am from Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal and tour returns at 5pm.

Included

What’s Included

  • Return Big Cat cruise from Cairns
  • Full day on Green Island
  • Use of island facilities and walking tracks
  • Friendly onboard crew
  • National park and reef levies

Optional Extras

Optional Extras

  • Snorkel equipment hire
  • Glass bottom boat tour
  • Semi-submarine tour
  • Seawalker helmet dive
  • Parasailing
  • Lunch options

What to bring

What to Bring

  • Swimwear and towel
  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Camera or phone

How to get there

How to Get There 

All Big Cat Green Island tours depart from the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, located on the Cairns Esplanade in the city centre.

Getting to the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal

  • The terminal is within walking distance of most Cairns city accommodation
  • Public buses, taxis and rideshare services operate frequently
  • Paid parking is available nearby for guests driving themselves

Check-In Details

  • Please arrive at the terminal at least 45 minutes before departure
  • Check in at the Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises counter
  • Your booking confirmation will include exact check-in instructions and departure time

Important Information

Important Information

Weather & Sea Conditions

  • Tours operate in most weather conditions
  • In the event of unsafe conditions, itineraries may be adjusted or rescheduled
  • Sea conditions can vary — guests prone to motion sickness may wish to take precautions

Swimming & Snorkelling

  • Snorkelling is optional and suitable for most confidence levels
  • Flotation devices are available
  • Non-swimmers can enjoy glass bottom boat or semi-submarine experiences

Stinger Season

  • Marine stingers may be present during warmer months
  • Stinger suits are recommended and available for hire
  • Always follow crew instructions and safety signage

Accessibility & Fitness

  • The tour is suitable for most ages and fitness levels
  • Some walking tracks on the island are flat and well-maintained
  • Please advise any mobility, medical or dietary requirements at the time of booking

What to Expect on the Day

  • Free time on Green Island to explore at your own pace
  • Optional activities can be booked in advance or on the day (subject to availability)
  • On-island cafés and facilities are available

What If Plans Change?

  • Itineraries may vary due to weather, sea conditions or operational requirements
  • Safety is always the top priority
  • Guests will be informed of any changes as early as possible

Environmental Care

  • Green Island is a protected national park
  • Please use reef-safe sunscreen and follow all environmental guidelines
  • Help protect the reef by avoiding contact with coral and marine life

Tour Features

Read policies

Big Cat Green Island Full day 9 am departure Tours

Self Drive: Standard

Make own way to Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal

Departs

Pickup Cairns Accomm: Standard

Return coach transfers from Cairns City accommodation

Departs

Big Cat Green Island Full day - 9am departure - inc Cairns City transfers

Return coach transfers from Cairns City accommodation

Departs

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