43. Moore Reef & Fitzroy Island Full Day Reef Tour – Sunlover


The Sunlover Moore Reef & Fitzroy Island experience delivers the ultimate “two-in-one” Great Barrier Reef adventure, combining the vibrant outer reef with the relaxed beauty of a tropical island—all in a single, unforgettable day. Designed for travellers who want variety, this tour blends structured reef activities with free time to unwind, creating a perfectly balanced itinerary.

This experience begins with a journey to Sunlover’s purpose-built pontoon at Moore Reef, where a wide range of activities are available for all ages and abilities. From snorkelling and marine viewing to water-based fun, the pontoon acts as a floating hub of reef exploration.

The second half of the day transitions to Fitzroy Island, offering a more relaxed and flexible experience. Here, guests can explore rainforest trails, swim from the beach, or simply unwind in a tropical setting.

This combination of adventure and leisure makes the tour ideal for families, couples, and first-time reef visitors who want to experience both the outer reef and an island escape in one seamless journey.

This full-day experience showcases two of Tropical North Queensland’s most iconic environments: the outer Great Barrier Reef and Fitzroy Island.

The first destination is Moore Reef, located on the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Known for its clear waters and thriving coral ecosystems, this site offers excellent visibility and abundant marine life. The pontoon is positioned within a natural lagoon, providing safe and accessible access to the reef for snorkellers and swimmers of all levels.

The second destination is Fitzroy Island, a lush continental island surrounded by fringing reef. With its combination of coral beaches, granite headlands, and rainforest-covered hills, it offers a completely different experience to the open ocean reef. Guests can explore scenic walking tracks, relax on beaches like Nudey Beach, or snorkel directly from the shore.

Together, these two locations provide a comprehensive snapshot of the Great Barrier Reef region—both above and below the water.

The Moore Reef & Fitzroy Island tour operates as a full-day experience with an early departure and afternoon return.

Typical schedule includes:

  • Check-in: approximately 7:00 am – 7:30 am
  • Departure from Cairns: around 8:00 am
  • Arrival at Moore Reef: approximately 9:30 am
  • Departure reef: late morning
  • Arrival Fitzroy Island: around midday
  • Departure island: approximately 3:30 pm
  • Return to Cairns: around 4:30 pm

This schedule provides a well-balanced day, with time allocated to both reef activities and island relaxation.

Travel is aboard a modern, high-speed catamaran designed for comfort and efficiency.

Key features include:

  • Air-conditioned indoor seating
  • Spacious outdoor decks for viewing and relaxation
  • Smooth and stable ride across open water
  • Onboard amenities including restrooms and refreshment areas

At Moore Reef, the experience is centred around a large, purpose-built pontoon. This floating platform acts as a base for activities and includes:

  • Easy water access for snorkelling
  • Waterslide and enclosed ocean pool
  • Underwater observatory
  • Changing rooms and freshwater showers
  • Seating and shaded areas

This combination of vessel and pontoon ensures a comfortable, safe, and highly accessible reef experience for all ages.

How long is the Moore Reef & Fitzroy Island tour?
This is a full-day experience lasting approximately 8 to 9 hours. Guests spend part of the day at the outer reef pontoon and part on Fitzroy Island, creating a well-balanced itinerary.

What time does the tour depart and return?
The tour typically departs Cairns in the morning around 8:00 am and returns in the late afternoon at approximately 4:30 pm. Check-in is usually required earlier in the morning prior to departure.

How much time is spent at each location?
Guests generally spend around 2 to 2.5 hours at Moore Reef and approximately 2 hours on Fitzroy Island. This allows time for both structured reef activities and relaxed island exploration.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes return catamaran transfers, access to the Moore Reef pontoon, snorkelling equipment, glass bottom boat and semi-submersible tours, an underwater observatory, waterslide and ocean pool, plus a buffet lunch and free time on Fitzroy Island.

Is snorkelling included?
Yes, snorkelling equipment is included and guests can snorkel directly from the pontoon at Moore Reef. Snorkelling on Fitzroy Island is also possible, although conditions and coral density may vary compared to the outer reef.

Is the tour suitable for beginners or non-swimmers?
Yes, the tour is designed for all experience levels. Non-swimmers can enjoy activities such as the glass bottom boat, semi-submersible, underwater observatory, and enclosed ocean pool, while confident swimmers can snorkel freely.

What activities are available at Moore Reef?
At the pontoon, guests can snorkel, ride the waterslide, take guided reef tours, visit the underwater observatory, or join glass bottom boat and semi-submersible tours. Optional upgrades such as scuba diving, helmet diving, and helicopter flights are also available.

What can I do on Fitzroy Island?
On Fitzroy Island, you can relax on the beach, swim, snorkel, or explore rainforest walking tracks. Many guests also visit Nudey Beach or simply unwind in the island’s natural setting.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included and typically served during the island portion of the day. Additional snacks and drinks can be purchased onboard or on the island.

What marine life might I see?
Guests commonly see a wide variety of coral, tropical fish, and other marine life. Sightings may include turtles, rays, and reef fish, particularly at Moore Reef where coral coverage is strong.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, this tour is very family-friendly. The pontoon facilities, including a waterslide and enclosed ocean pool, make it especially suitable for children, while the variety of activities caters to all ages.

Is the tour physically demanding?
No, the tour can be as relaxed or active as you choose. Guests can participate in water activities or simply enjoy the views, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

What should I bring with me?
It’s recommended to bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable footwear, and a change of clothes. You may also wish to bring money or a card for optional activities and purchases.

Are optional activities available?
Yes, optional extras such as guided snorkel tours, introductory or certified scuba diving, helmet diving, and scenic helicopter flights are available at an additional cost.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, travel is aboard a modern, air-conditioned catamaran with indoor seating and outdoor decks. The journey is designed to be smooth and comfortable for all passengers.

What happens if the weather is плохой?
The tour operates in most weather conditions, but activities and itinerary may be adjusted for safety. In cases of severe weather, departures may be rescheduled or refunded.

Can I participate if I don’t want to swim?
Absolutely. There are plenty of dry activities available at Moore Reef, including the underwater observatory and boat tours, making the experience enjoyable even without entering the water.

Is there enough time to fully explore both locations?
The itinerary is designed to provide a taste of both the outer reef and Fitzroy Island in one day. While time is limited at each location, it offers a well-rounded experience for those wanting variety.

Can I upgrade or customise my experience?
Yes, the tour offers several upgrade options, allowing you to tailor your day with additional activities such as diving or scenic flights.

Is the tour crowded?
The tour can accommodate a larger number of guests, but the pontoon is spacious and activities are spread out, allowing everyone to enjoy the experience comfortably.

What makes this tour unique?
This tour combines two distinct experiences—the outer Great Barrier Reef and a tropical island—into one seamless day. It offers both structured activities and free time, making it one of the most diverse reef experiences available from Cairns.

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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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