30. Big Cat Green Island


The Big Cat Green Island Tour offers a classic Great Barrier Reef experience, combining tropical island relaxation with vibrant marine exploration in a single, accessible day trip from Cairns. Designed to suit all travel styles, this experience blends adventure, flexibility, and comfort, making it one of the most popular reef excursions in Tropical North Queensland.

This tour is centred around simplicity and choice. Rather than following a fixed schedule, guests are free to explore Green Island at their own pace. Whether you’re seeking an active day filled with snorkelling and water-based activities or a slower experience relaxing on white sandy beaches, the tour adapts to your preferences.

With multiple package options available—from basic return transfers to fully inclusive reef experiences—this tour caters to families, couples, and solo travellers alike. Its combination of reef and rainforest in one location makes it an ideal introduction to the Great Barrier Reef.

Green Island is a unique coral cay located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, approximately 45 minutes by boat from Cairns. Unlike many reef destinations, it combines a lush tropical rainforest ecosystem with fringing coral reefs, creating a rare and diverse environment in one compact location.

This small island is surrounded by clear, shallow waters ideal for snorkelling, where vibrant coral gardens and marine life can be accessed directly from the beach. Visitors may encounter tropical fish, sea turtles, and a wide range of reef species in this protected environment.

On land, the island is covered in dense rainforest, with walking tracks that wind through towering trees and lead to scenic viewpoints. The combination of reef, rainforest, and sandy beaches makes Green Island one of the most visually diverse destinations on the Great Barrier Reef.

Its proximity to Cairns and ease of access also make it one of the most convenient reef experiences available, particularly for travellers looking for a relaxed yet immersive day trip.

The Green Island tour operates daily with multiple departure options to suit different schedules.

Typical timings include:

  • 9am to 5pm – Full Day Cruise
  • 11am to 5pm – Later start Full Day Cruise
  • 9am to 1pm & 1pm to 5pm – Half Day Cruise
  • Guests can spend up to 5.5–7 hours on the island depending on the departure time selected, providing ample time to explore without feeling rushed.

Traveltime between Cairns and Green Island is approximately 45 minutes.

Transport is provided by a modern, high-speed catamarans designed for comfort, stability, and efficiency.

Key features include:

  • Air-conditioned indoor seating
  • Spacious outdoor decks for viewing
  • Smooth and fast travel time of approximately 45 minutes
  • Onboard facilities and experienced crew

The vessel offers a relaxed and comfortable journey, making it suitable for all ages, including families and first-time reef visitors.

What is included in the Green Island full day tour?
The full-day tour includes return catamaran transfers from Cairns and several hours of free time on Green Island. Most standard packages also include a choice between snorkelling equipment or a glass bottom boat tour. Lunch and/or a Semi Submarine tour can also be included. Guests also have access to island facilities such as restrooms, showers, and seating areas.

How long is the ferry ride?
The journey to Green Island takes approximately 45 minutes each way aboard a fast catamaran, making it one of the quickest reef day trips from Cairns.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal at the marina. Guests are required to check in prior to boarding.

Is snorkelling included?
Snorkelling is included in selected packages. Guests who choose a standard or discovery-style package will either receive snorkelling gear or have it included alongside other activities.

Do I need experience to snorkel?
No experience is required. Snorkelling is suitable for beginners, and equipment such as masks, fins, and flotation aids are provided to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, this tour is ideal for non-swimmers. You can still enjoy the reef through glass bottom boat or semi submarine tours or by relaxing on the beach while taking in the surroundings.

What activities can I do on Green Island?
There is a wide range of activities available including snorkelling, swimming, scuba diving, glass bottom boat and semi submarine tours, rainforest walks, and optional scenic helicopter flights.

What marine life might I see?
Green Island’s fringing reef is home to tropical fish, coral formations, sea turtles, and other reef species. As it is a natural environment, sightings vary from day to day.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included in all packages, but food and drinks are available for purchase on the island. Some premium packages or upgrades may include lunch.

What should I bring with me?
It is recommended to bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a change of clothes. Comfortable footwear is also advised for walking tracks.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is very family-friendly. The calm waters, range of activities, and easy access to facilities make it suitable for children and adults alike.

Are there walking tracks on the island?
Yes, Green Island features rainforest walking tracks and a self-guided eco walk, allowing visitors to explore the island’s unique vegetation and birdlife.

Can I just relax instead of doing activities?
Absolutely. Many guests choose to spend their time relaxing on the beach, swimming, or enjoying the island’s peaceful atmosphere rather than participating in structured activities.

Are optional upgrades available?
Yes, optional activities such as scuba diving, Seawalker helmet diving, guided snorkel tours, parasailing, and scenic helicopter flights can be added to enhance your experience.

Is the tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
Accessibility varies depending on individual needs. While the ferry and some facilities are accessible, certain areas of the island such as walking tracks and beaches may be more challenging.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in most weather conditions. However, itineraries may be adjusted if required for safety or comfort.

Is there mobile reception on the island?
Mobile reception is limited in some areas of Green Island, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive experience away from daily distractions.

Can I bring my own snorkelling gear?
Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own snorkelling equipment if preferred, although equipment hire is available as part of selected packages or on the island.

Is Green Island suitable for a first-time reef experience?
Yes, Green Island is one of the best options for first-time visitors to the Great Barrier Reef. Its easy access, calm waters, and variety of activities make it an ideal introduction to reef exploration.

What makes Green Island unique?
Green Island is a rare coral cay that combines rainforest, reef, and beaches in one location. Its proximity to Cairns and ability to snorkel directly from the shore make it one of the most accessible and diverse reef destinations in Australia.

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Snorkelling or Glass Boat included

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Frequently Asked Questions

Bookings can be made directly from any of the tour or attractions individual pages - or simply give us a call on +61 07 40574312.

All payments are securely processed by the NAB (National Australia Bank) No credit card information is held by us. In fact we never even see your credit card details.

We are an online only agency operating out of offices in Trinity Beach, a suburb on Cairns' Northern Beaches (about a 25 minute drive from the city).

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