This cruise has exclusive access to a stunning coral reef location selected for it's superior water clarity, coral quality and overall diversity of marine life.
Depart direct from Cairns on a fast, stable catamaran providing a smoother ride and reduced travel time, leaving more of your day to experience the magic of the Great Barrier Reef.
The all-weather Reef Magic pontoon caters for all activity levels, and is the newest pontoon on the Great Barrier Reef, launched in early April 2022. Snorkel in the sheltered coral lagoon, join our Marine Biologist on a Guided Snorkel Safari, try Scuba Diving or even Sea Trek Helmet Diving.
Not a confident swimmer? then stay dry and view the reef from the semi-submersible reef viewer, glass bottom boat or underwater observatory, try a Helmet Dive for a scuba-style experience without getting your hair wet, or soar above it all on a spectacular Reef Scenic Helicopter Flight. With 5 hours at the reef there is time to do it all.
If simply relaxing & soaking up the tropical warmth is more your style then take time out on our spacious sundeck. Best of all when traveling with Reef Magic you benefit from the expert local knowledge of an Australian owned, Cairns based crew who bring the friendly inclusive atmosphere for which we are renowned for.
Snorkelling
Our snorkel area is supervised at all times and personal flotation devices are readily available in adult and child sizes. Stairs lead down from the main deck to a submersed snorkel platform where you can sit down and put on your mask and fins. Access to the water could not be easier with the snorkel platform opening directly into a shallow, bright and sheltered coral lagoon.
Floating snorkeller rest stations are strategically located around the site where you can take a rest at any time. This prevents tired snorkellers standing on and damaging the corals and is part of our commitment to ensuring our site is kept in its current pristine condition.
Beginner snorkellers will feel comfortable being able to see the bottom at all times and an array of colourful corals and incredible fish life can be immediately seen without even letting go of the platform!
It would be a very rare day if Wally the Giant Maori Wrasse didn't show up to snorkel alongside you.. an incredible photo opportunity!
Guided Coral Gardens Snorkel Tour
- Perfect for the beginner snorkeller. Join our Marine Naturalist in small groups and learn more about the reef. Explore our sheltered coral lagoon with expert snorkelling assistance and instruction available at all times.
Adventure Snorkel Safari
- Suitable for snorkellers who are comfortable in the water, you have the opportunity to explore even further utilising our dedicated snorkel boat.
- Drift snorkel the spectacular outer reef wall with our Marine Biologist. The extensive coral formations and HUGE schools of fish have to be seen to be believed!
Scuba Diving
This cruise offers visitors an incredible variety of world class dive options to suit all skill levels from the complete beginner to the most experienced certified diver.
Certified Diving
- All equipment is supplied including dive computer and wet suit.
- With 5 hours actual reef time we can offer up to 3 completely different dives in a day.
- All dives are professionally guided for your safety and enjoyment. We take you direct to the best places, leaving you more time to take in the beauty of your surroundings without the need to navigate, magic!
Introductory Diving
- No experience necessary. All equipment supplied including wetsuit & souvenir dive certificate to hang on your wall.
Stairs lead into a sheltered “moon-pool” where you will spend time practicing some basic scuba skills in shallow water before heading off on your dive. Group size is kept small with a maximum of 4 divers per instructor (less if nervous divers) so you know you are in safe hands. Your first dive will be in our coral lagoon, a shallow sheltered area with dense coral cover and teaming with fish life. The 1st dives last around 20-30 minutes and reach a maximum of 12 metres with most of the dive around 4-5m. On the 2nd or 3rd dives you will have already done the skills leaving more time for the actual dive.
- If you can kick and have a heart beat chances are you can dive, so give it a go its an experience you will never forget!
- Scuba diving in Australia is safe and highly regulated with qualified instructors and strict operational procedures. At Reef Magic Cruises your safety is our number one priority and our safety record remains unblemished.
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On the way to the reef our friendly and experienced instructors will answer all your questions, introduce you to the scuba equipment and brief you on the very basics you need to know to enjoy this experience of a life time.
SeaTREK Helmet Diving
SeaTREK is a guided underwater walking tour designed for non-swimmers and guests aged 12 to 65. Experience the thrill of helmet diving face-to-face with friendly marine life right here at Moore Reef. No diving experience required, so you can experience the thrill of Scuba Diving without getting your hair wet.
Non Swimmers
Marine World caters for people of all ages and all swimming abilities. Included is a range of activities and facilities for the non-swimmer or those simply wanting to take time out of the water and experience the reef from a different perspective. You can experience both our 30 minute glass bottom boat and semi submarine tours, or simply watch the underwater world from our underwater viewing chamber.
Our marine biologist will also hold a presentation on the wonders of the reef as well as a fish feeding display. This frenzy is not to be missed!
A breath taking alternative to in-water activities and coral viewing vessels is to soar above it all in a helicopter for a spectacular birds eye view of the Great Barrier Reef!Heli Magic offers a range of extremely popular scenic flights to suit all budgets. From the moment you lift off uninterrupted panoramic views provide a unique perspective of this stunning World Heritage Listed location. The turquoise waters of the Coral Sea are alive with extensive coral formations. Spot turtles, rays, reef sharks and schooling fish.
Helicopter Transfer Packages
Cruise / Fly - Helicopter flight to Cairns from Marine World. (1-way helicopter, 1-way Reef Magic)
Fly / Cruise - Helicopter flight to Marine World ex Cairns. (1-way helicopter, 1-way Reef Magic)
Fly / Fly - Helicopter both ways between Marine World and Cairns. (both ways helicopter)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the boat ride to the reef?
Our fast, stable motor catamaran delivers you to the Outer Reef in only 90 minutes leaving more of your day to enjoy the reef.
What is the itinerary for the day?
Check-in commences inside the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence Street, at 08:00. Our vessel departs Cairns Marlin Jetty at 09:00 arriving at the reef by 10:30, leaving the reef at 15:30 and arriving back in Cairns by 17:00. Activity times will be advised on the day and are dependant on passenger numbers and interest in each activity.
How long do we spend at the reef?
You will have 5 hours to explore the reef which is up to 2 hours longer than similar Outer Reef Cruises. You can snorkel in our sheltered coral lagoon, join a guided snorkel tour, try an Introductory Scuba Dive, climb aboard a spectacular Scenic Helicopter Flight, take a Semi-Submersible tour (twice if you like) enjoy lunch and still have time to relax on the sundeck with a cool drink! You have time to do as much or as little as you like without the rush. Most guests will have travelled a long way to visit the Great Barrier Reef and with so much to see and do it is not something you want to hurry.
Where is the Marine World platform located?
The Marine World platform is located at a private Outer Reef Location on the pristine north eastern end of Moore Reef. Located approximately 45km’s offshore from Cairns this site is far enough from coastal rivers, streams and sandy beaches to ensure clear ocean waters and maximum underwater visibility in a range of weather conditions.
So what is the reef like where we go? Is there noticeable bleaching or damage?
The Marine World site is highly regarded as one of the best quality coral reef locations in the region. Recent independent research from Reef Check Australia has reported no noticeable bleaching on the Marine World site, high hard coral concentrations and a site of excellent overall health. Tropical cyclones and storms or higher than average summer temperatures can effect the extent of bleaching but are a natural part of the reef life cycle. Reef Magic Cruises & Marine World are endorsed with Advanced Eco-Accreditation from Eco-Tourism Australia.
What if the weather is really bad?
In poor weather we are happy to move your booking without charge to the next most suitable day, subject to availability. In the rare event we deem the weather too bad to travel and you are unable to reschedule a full refund will be provided.
Will I get sea sick?
Hopefully not. This depends largely on the individual. Travelling on our fast, stable catamaran ensures the smoothest possible ride arriving at the stable Marine world platform in the shortest amount of time (90 minutes). If conditions are forecast 15 knots or below it will generally be smooth going. At 20 knots and above it can get a little bumpy at times however our skippers are skilled in picking the best route to our destination. If you are prone to other common forms of motion sickness such as travelling in a car or plane you may wish to take precautions. We have both natural Ginger Tablets as well as medicated Travel-Calm on board however these are preventative, not a cure, so should be taken approximately 30 minutes prior to departure for maximum benefit.
Is there shelter and shade at the reef?
At Marine World yes, many others places no. The Marine World main deck has a canopy cover and roll-down sides to protect from wind or rain and provides welcome relief from the tropical sun in summer. Marine World also has a spacious sundeck with shaded lounge areas. You may return to the air-conditioned vessel at any time throughout the day.
Do you still go out if it is raining?
Yes we do. You’re going to get wet anyhow and it”s more the wind and swell that determines the quality of your day not so much the rain. Even if it is raining in Cairns there is still a good chance conditions at Marine World (45km’s from Cairns) will be fine.
Can I change my travel date once booked?
Yes this can be done without a fee but is subject to availability on the new date. We advise you to provide us as much notice as possible to ensure availability and avoid disappointment. If you are genuinely sick or have other extenuating circumstances why you can travel just let us know and we’ll work something out for you. Passengers who “no-show” without contacting us forfeit any monies paid and are not entitled to a refund.
Is the trip suitable for children and babies?
Reef Magic Cruises is suitable for all ages – including families with children and babies. Adult supervision is required at all times for children under 16 years of age and is not the responsibility of Reef Magic Cruises. Floatation devices such as buoyancy vests and noodles are available. Snorkelling equipment, Wet suits and Lycra suits are also available in children’s sizes. The pontoon features an infants swimming enclosure.
What is the minimum age to scuba dive?
The minimum age to scuba dive is 12 years. A medical questionnaire must be completed and signed by a parent/guardian for divers under 18 years.
Can I Scuba Dive with no experience?
Absolutely! Our highly qualified instructors can have you in the water and enjoying the magic of scuba diving in no time. See our section on diving for more information.
What if I’m a certified diver and forget my certification card?
Not all is lost. Try contacting your certifying agency and they may be able to fax a copy to us at +61 7 4051 1920 . Failing that, we have a certified divers written test you can do on board with our dive team to verify your diving knowledge. If you have your log book please bring it along. The worst case scenario is we will have to dive you with the introductory divers.
I normally wear glasses or contact lenses. Can I wear these under my mask?
Depending on the strength of your glasses a standard snorkel/dive mask may be sufficient as they magnify objects underwater by around 25%. Glasses cannot be worn under a mask however prescription masks are available for hire for just $5/day and suit short sighted individuals (trouble with far away objects). Masks range in magnification from -1.5 to -8.0. A $100 deposit is required for prescription masks which is cheerfully refunded when the mask is returned in one piece. We do not carry positive (+) magnification masks. Contact lenses can be worn snorkelling however please note some water may get into your mask. Gas permeable contact lenses are suitable for scuba diving however a prescription mask is preferable.
Can I take a pram on board the boat?
The Reef Magic III catamaran and Marine World platform are both pram-friendly with ramp access and wide isles. Reef Magic III also has baby change facilities.
What do I need to bring?
Hat, Towel, Sunscreen, Sunglasses, something to swim in, a dry change of clothes, cash or credit card for optional activities and onboard purchases such as souvenirs, professional photos from our on-board photographer or a drink from the bar.
Do you supply towels?
The best idea is to bring one from your hotel or accommodation. Alternatively limited supplies of Marine World towels are for sale on board for just $20 and make a great souvenir! Unfortunately we are not able to hire or lend towels.
Are there toilets, showers & changing rooms at the reef?
There are toilets on the boat accessible at all times throughout the day. Fresh water rinse showers and changing rooms are on the Marine World platform. The Reef Magic III catamaran has a wheel chair accessible bathroom (shower & toilet) and even baby-change facilities.
Is the lunch suitable for vegetarians?
A hot and cold buffet lunch is served at Marine World and includes a wide selection of fresh salads, cold meats, tropical fruits, nori rolls, breads, prawns and both vegetarian and meat based hot dishes with rice.
Is the snorkeling equipment also in child sizes?
We have snorkelling equipment in both adult and child sizes. Fins range from children’s size 1-3 to Adults 11-13 and masks are in adult and child fittings. Wet suits and lycra suits are also available in sizes ranging from XS to XXL. Swim vests are also available in most sizes for those wanting some extra flotation while snorkelling.
Do you have baby-sitting or child minding facilities?
No, parents are responsible for supervising their children at all times. Our friendly crew can help organise the timing of your activities so that one parent is always free to attend to the children.
Do you have lockers on board?
Lockers are available on board Reef Magic III for just $2 per use & are suitable for small personal items such as phones, jewellery or wallets. While theft is very rare on board we suggest valuables are better off left in your hotel room or with the concierge rather than brought to the reef.
How deep is the water?
The area directly off the snorkel platform opens into clear, shallow snorkelling lagoon of only 4-5 meters, prefect for the beginner snorkeler. During low tide the reef can often break the surface of the water.The Marine World Outer Reef Wall is a renowned dive location by local dive enthusiasts and keen snorkellers and reaches depths of over 30m.
We are elderly and not so interested in snorkelling or diving. What is there for us to do at Marine World?
The Marine World facility caters for all ages and swimming abilities. We have a range of “dry activities” so you can experience the reef without even getting wet. These include our Semi-Submersible and Glass Bottom boat tours, both with interactive commentary, we have an underwater observatory with fish feeding demonstration, plus the opportunity to take an affordable reef-scenic helicopter flight. We also have a large sundeck with lounges so you can kick back and take in the panoramic views of the coral sea. If you are even slightly interested in snorkelling our crew can show you how under close supervision in shallow our coral lagoon. Personal flotation devices and floating rest stations in the water make snorkelling as easy as possible.
How large is the Marine World platform?
The Marine World platform is not the largest but it is the most spacious on the Great Barrier Reef because visitor numbers are limited and it is never filled to capacity. Measuring 45m long by 22m wide there is ample undercover seating and always plenty of room to move about.