Cairns: Outer Great Barrier Reef & Dunk Island Small Group

Far North Queensland, Cairns



Reach Beaver Reef in just over 1 hour from Mission Beach or Dunk Island. QuickCoast is fast, comfortable and air-conditioned. QuickCoast is the only sizable catamaran to visit pristine Beaver Reef.

QuickCoast offers small group snorkelling tours from Mission Beach to Beaver Reef on the Great Barrier Reef, ideal for snorkelling enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Highlights

  • Small group snorkelling with a maximum of 50 passengers
  • The only sizable comfortable catamaran visiting Beaver Reef
  • Expert snorkel guides provide education on coral and marine life
  • Time for beach walks or relaxation on Dunk Island in the afternoon
  • Beaver Reef is a relatively untouched reef, enhancing the experience

Description

QuickCoast’s snorkelling tours have a maximum of 50 people, averaging 20-30, making them a smaller operator and suitable for groups or exclusive charters. Beaver Reef is pristine and just over an hour from the mainland or Dunk Island, providing a quick transfer to the Outer Reef.

This is the only sizable, comfortable catamaran visiting Beaver Reef, which is regarded as one of the most untouched reefs. A marine biologist accompanies tours with 10 or more passengers, presenting information en route. Guests can join a guided snorkel tour for an enhanced experience.

Dunk Island Adventures offers a transfer option for accommodation at Mission Beach, allowing visitors to combine this tour with local accommodation. The Enjoy Mission Beach Multi-Day Pass is available at the same price upon booking.

Itinerary

  • 6:00am – Cairns hotel pick-ups from selected hotels on Lake & Abbott Streets
  • 6:30am – Myroo Coach-X departs Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, Bus Stop No.2, 1 Spence Street
  • 8:30am – Clump Point Marine Facility, priority boarding with morning tea including muffins, tropical fruits, and tea/coffee/juice
  • 9:00am – QuickCoast departs Clump Point Marina Facility
  • 9:30am – QuickCoast arrives at Dunk Island for day visitors to disembark
  • 9:45am – QuickCoast departs Dunk Island for Beaver Cay and Reef
  • 10:45am – Arrival at the Outer Great Barrier Reef near Beaver Cay & Reef
  • 11:15am – Snorkelling at East Reef with plate corals and coral gardens
  • 12:00pm – Snorkelling at West Reef with reef’s edge and marine life
  • 12:45pm – Snorkelling at Middle Reef Bommies with diverse coral species
  • 1:15pm – Last snorkelers back on board; fresh made-to-order lunch served (gluten free, vegan, vegetarian options available)
  • 1:30pm – QuickCoast departs Beaver Reef, tropical fruits served
  • 2:45pm – Arrive Dunk Island for approximately one hour of beach walks
  • 4:30pm – QuickCoast departs Dunk Island
  • 5:00pm – Arrive Clump Point Marine Facility with transfers back to Cairns or selected Mission Beach accommodations
  • 7:00pm – Myroo Coach-X returns to Cairns with drop-offs at Cairns Lagoon, The Esplanade, Night Markets, and Cairns Pier Parking

Includes

  • Bus transportation
  • Boat cruise
  • Priority boarding and light breakfast onboard
  • Three hours at Beaver Reef and Cay with a minimum of two hours in the water
  • Lunch onboard with tropical fruits
  • Cheese and crackers on the return cruise to Mission Beach
  • Two hours on Dunk Island with a minimum of 1.5 hours ashore
  • Snorkelling gear provided

Excludes

  • Purchase of extra beverages or cocktails
  • Sunset dinner at your own expense
  • Wetsuit hire

Important Information

  • Participants should have basic swimming ability and be confident in the water
  • Beginners Snorkel Assist available at an additional charge and must be pre-booked

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, book in advance and bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a hat. Early morning departures provide optimal weather and sea conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes snorkelling at Beaver Reef, guided coral and marine life education, and an afternoon visit to Dunk Island for beach walks or relaxation.
The tour has a maximum of 50 passengers, with an average group size of 20 to 30 snorkelers for a more personalized experience.
The snorkelling tours depart from Mission Beach, offering easy access to Beaver Reef on the Great Barrier Reef.
Yes, the tour is suitable for snorkelling enthusiasts of all levels, with expert guides providing support and education throughout the trip.
Yes, Beaver Reef is relatively untouched and offers excellent opportunities to see a wide variety of coral and marine species.
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, a hat, and any personal snorkeling gear if preferred; other equipment is usually provided on board.
Yes, expert snorkel guides offer educational commentary on the coral and marine life found around Beaver Reef.
Yes, the tour includes an afternoon stop on Dunk Island for beach walks or relaxation before returning to Cairns.
Tours operate year-round, but check the website for current availability and seasonal conditions from Cairns.
Non-swimmers can enjoy the scenic cruise and island visit, but snorkelling activities require basic swimming ability for safety.
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