Great Barrier Reef Cruises
The most comprehensive Great Barrier Reef itinerary available, this Australia small ship cruise will reveal the underwater world of numerous exclusive reef sites with opportunities to become a relaxed beachcomber or an inquisitive adventurer on an 8-day island-hopping voyage of discovery aboard 72-guest Coral Discoverer.
This classic 8-day Australia small ship cruise uncovers the secrets of the Great Barrier Reef—an incredible underwater world hidden just beneath the water’s surface. Whether you experience the reef by glass-bottom boat, snorkeling or diving, it is a mystical world filled with coral, marine life and vibrant tropical fish. The informative crew will always be on hand to provide assistance and information about the fascinating reef life and habitat. An experienced dive instructor will also be there to support the exhilarating experience of scuba diving around the Great Barrier Reef.
Discover a paradise of remote and uninhabited islands. Become a relaxed beachcomber or an inquisitive adventurer. The starkness of the remote and unique coral cays will fascinate you. Go snorkeling and coral viewing among teeming fish life on pristine outer reefs and exclusive mooring destinations, offering a unique and unmatched experience of the Reef, all abundant with marine life and dancing corals.
In Cairns, take time to independently explore the city. Discover Cooktown’s fascinating historical museum, offering artifacts including the original anchor and cannon that was jettisoned overboard after Captain James Cook’s ship Endeavour struck a reef and began taking on water. Or visit the Botanic Gardens, where you may catch a glimpse of native Australian wildlife including kangaroos and wallabies. Top off the adventure with a stop on a private island for special sunset drinks.
Alternative itineraries offer a 5-day route for those short on time. The 5-day Coastal Adventures: Great Barrier Reef itinerary explores away from most other ships, south of Cairns, with a focus on activity, rejuvenation and local flavors while experiencing the region’s highlights.
Board the 72-guest Coral Discoverer for your 8-day Great Barrier Reef small ship cruise and enjoy one of the most comprehensive reef tours in Australia. This expedition ship offers an onboard atmosphere of Australian hospitality, with stylish furnishings, generous public spaces and updated technology. Appreciate opportunities to kayak; snorkel; and cruise in a Zodiac, glass-bottom boat or the ship’s special Xplorer tender.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises in Australia.
Outerknown Adventures on the Great Barrier Reef Itinerary
The Outerknown Adventures on the Great Barrier Reef cruise operates round-trip from Cairns. First cruise north to Osprey Reef, then cruise south to Sudbury Cay.
Board the ship at 4:00pm and take time to settle into your cabin before the 5:00pm departure. Become acquainted with all the facilities on board as the ship cruises northwards from Cairns toward Cooktown. At day’s end join fellow explorers and crew for the captain’s welcome drinks.
No two Great Barrier Reef cruises are the same. Each expedition is crafted by experienced captains and expedition leaders around weather and sea conditions. Below is a selection of the key destinations visited.
Fitzroy Island
At Fitzroy Island, enjoy a walk through the Secret Garden rainforest or for the more adventurous, a walk to the de-commissioned lighthouse rewards hikers with panoramic views of Coral Sea, islands and mainland mountain ranges. Snorkel over the fringing reef, relax on the beach and lend a hand to the volunteers while learning about the turtles at the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Center, where sick and injured turtles are cared for before being returned to the wild.
Sudbury Cay
Arrive at Sudbury Cay, a tiny sand cay that barely rises above the Coral Sea. Far removed from the bustle of civilization, slip off your shoes and feel the sand between your toes as the tropical waters of the Coral Sea lap gently against the shoreline. Surrounded by glistening sea and bathed in the glow of twilight, enjoy sundowner drinks and the company of like-minded explorers while relaxing and watching the sun gently sink below the horizon.
Mackay Reef & Cay
Enjoy more spectacular diving and snorkelling opportunities at Mackay Reef, where we look for green sea turtles and explore the vibrant coral gardens.
Cooktown
In historic Cooktown, learn the history of the Guugu Yimithirr, the first people of this ancient country. Discover recent European history with a visit to the site where Lt. James Cook beached HMB Endeavour to effect repairs in 1770. Wander through the rare flora collection at the Botanic Gardens and visit James Cook Museum, where the story of Cook’s landing is told from an Aboriginal perspective and where artifacts are on display. Later, cruise towards Lizard Island, arriving in time for sunset.
Lizard Island
Hike to the summit of Cook’s Look and enjoy the same view Lt. James Cook did when searching for safe passage through the maze of coral reefs. Snorkel over giant clam gardens from the beach at Watson’s Bay, relax on the white-sand beach beneath shady oak trees and learn about the tragic story surrounding Mary Watson. There may be an opportunity to visit Lizard Island Research Station, operated by the Australian Museum to facilitate coral reef research and education on the Great Barrier Reef.
Osprey Reef
Remote Osprey Reef is the summit of a 6,560-foot undersea mountain located beyond the continental shelf. Enjoy amazing underwater visibility and observe magnificent corals, plummeting drop-offs and many fish in the crystalline waters. Osprey Reef is a highly prized tropical dive location amongst scuba divers, called an ‘oasis for living creatures of all kinds’ by Sir David Attenborough. Osprey Reef is a true expedition-style destination and this visit is subject to appropriate weather conditions.
Ribbon Reefs
The Ribbon Reefs are a line of outer coral reefs on the edge of the continental shelf and are renowned for their prolific marine life and extensive coral species. Enjoy the rare opportunity to snorkel and dive over these excellent reefs, a favorite for its wide variety of marine life and pinnacles cloaked in coral. Join a guided snorkel tour led by the expedition team and witness this extraordinary ecosystem up close. These northern reefs are renowned for spotting iconic marine species such as potato cod, wrasse, sharks and turtles.
The Great Barrier Reef adventure concludes in Cairns this morning. Bid farewell to new-found friends and crew, disembarking at 8:00am. Complimentary post-cruise transfer to a central business district hotel, or airport, following disembarkation.
Included
Accommodations and meals on board; captain’s welcome and farewell drinks; house wine, beer and spirits, juices and soft drinks with lunch and dinner; all meals on board; 24-hour coffee/tea station; use of snorkeling and scuba equipment such as masks, fins, flotation vests and wetsuits plus a free scuba skills lesson; guided marine biologist glass-bottom boat tours; services of expedition staff & Great Barrier Reef expert marine biologist, including daily presentations/lectures; all entrance fees to national parks and ports; group transfers during the cruise; standard WiFi on board; tips and gratuities; voyage photos; and Australian Government Goods and Services Tax.
Exclusions
Pre- and post-cruise flights, transfers and accommodation; bar and shop purchases; Australian entry visas or travel permits; optional scuba diving costs; museum entry fees; items of a personal nature, including but not limited to telephone and bar charges, and WiFi upgrades; travel insurance, medical insurance and insurance of any kind. All rates may be subject to a fuel surcharge.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. A name change/transfer of the booking to another person is considered a cancellation and cancellation penalties will apply. An AUD200.00 per person fee may be charged for any amendments not requiring a date change after booking is confirmed. There is an AUD500.00 per person fee if a date change is made more than 90 days before departure. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Outerknown Adventures on the Great Barrier Reef cruise begins and ends in Cairns, Queensland, Australia (CNS). Plan flights to arrive to Cairns in time for the 4:00pm embarkation and 5:00pm departure on Day 1 of the itinerary. Luggage may be dropped at the ship starting at 2:00pm. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to depart Cairns anytime after the 8:00am disembarkation on the final day of the itinerary. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include kayaking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, wildlife observation, land treks, beach combing, cultural visits, glass-bottom boat tours, snorkeling and diving.
Included in the cost of your cruise is the use of full snorkeling and dive equipment (additional charges apply for scuba diving). Please remember, if you are a certified diver, to bring your certification card and logbook. Additional pre-cruise dive requirements include completing a questionnaire, a medical assessment and resulting doctor’s statement (your Adventure Specialist can provide full details). Snorkeling is free of charge. An introductory scuba skills session is complimentary for first-time divers.
Room Configuration
Limited double occupancy cabins for solo use may be available at a sole use rate in the Promenade Deck B category. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.
Families & Children
Children 0-3 years of age at time of the cruise are free of charge. Children ages 4-14 receive 25% off the applicable adult rate. Two adults and one child traveling together can be accommodated in two staterooms only aboard Coral Discoverer (there are no pullman bunks). On all ships, two adults and two children traveling together may request two rooms next door to each other. Great Barrier Reef Cruises are great for families of all ages, with a range of included activities to appeal to parents and children alike. From snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours, beach and rainforest walks to scuba diving with a marine biologist, families will enjoy the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in one of the world’s great natural wonders.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
As a condition of travel, guests must provide evidence of travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage OR complete a credit card authorization form for expenses incurred during a medical evacuation. Proof of travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage OR a completed authorization form must be provided prior to boarding.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, National Park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
Coastal Adventures: Great Barrier Reef Itinerary
The 5-day Coastal Adventures: Great Barrier Reef cruise sails round-trip from Cairns, exploring south. Highlights include exploring the vibrant reefs at Geranium Passage, rainforest and coastal hikes, and local seafood tastings.
Your adventure starts at 12:00pm for a 1:00pm departure from Cairns Trinity Wharf, when the ship will set off for Sudbury Cay. Here you will have a peaceful start to your voyage with sunset drinks on a secluded sandbar.
Savor locally crafted tapas, enjoy the stunning view and meet your fellow passengers as the sun sets over the water. Afterwards, join in for some stargazing on the Skydeck.
You have the day to explore the diverse landscapes of Hinchinbrook Island, also known as Munamudanamy, where mangroves, beaches and rainforest await. Keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles, and the endangered dugong while exploring the island’s trails and beaches. Join a guided hike to Shepherd Bay or enjoy a peaceful beachcombing session along Cape Richards.
Recommendation: Take a guided walk through Hinchinbrook’s diverse landscapes of eucalypt forests, mangroves and melaleuca woodlands.
Geranium Passage boasts some of the most pristine reefs in the region, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling and diving. Explore the vibrant underwater world of Yamacutta Reef, thriving with leopard coral grouper, emperor red snapper, turtles, manta rays and occasionally reef sharks. Very few people get the opportunity to visit here, providing you with ample space to explore.
Recommendation: Opt for a guided snorkel tour to see the vibrant marine life up close, or relax on the Skydeck and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Today, enjoy flexibility as you explore Dunk Island and Mission Beach, with the ship’s Xplorer tender vessel running to and from both locations throughout the day. On Dunk Island, you can take guided or unguided walks to Mt Koolatoo, Muggy Muggy Beach, or Coconut Beach, or simply relax with beachcombing, kayaking, swimming or stand-up paddleboarding. For those seeking adventure, explore the village of Mission Beach or venture into Djiru National Park to spot the southern cassowary.
Recommendation: Slow the pace with ‘Island time’ on the beautiful Dunk Island, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Grab a picnic lunch from the ship’s purser and enjoy some peaceful moments on sandy shores.
Arrive back at Cairns Trinity Wharf in time for breakfast and final farewells. Disembarkation at 8:00am.
Included
Use of Xplorer, Zodiacs, kayaks, SUP boarding; expert guides and crew; all meals, chef-prepared on board; open bridge access; selected beers, wines and house spirits (available throughout the day from 11am to 10pm) & selected juices, and soft drinks; 24-hour coffee and selection of teas; all entrance fees to National Parks, ports, traditional owner fees and charges imposed by governing authorities; tips and gratuities; use of all onboard facilities; photo and video gallery documenting the highlights of your voyage; standard WiFi on board.
Exclusions
Recommended activities in itinerary; pre and post flights and transfers; fuel surcharges if applicable; specialty cocktails and Sommelier’s selection wines; Australian entry visas or travel permits; personal items such as telephone and facsimile charges, WiFi upgrades, laundry, bar charges; travel insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. A name change/transfer of the booking to another person is considered a cancellation and cancellation penalties will apply. An AUD200.00 per person fee may be charged for any amendments not requiring a date change after booking is confirmed. There is an AUD500.00 per person fee if a date change is made more than 90 days before departure. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Coastal Adventures: Great Barrier Reef cruise begins and ends in Cairns, Queensland, Australia (CNS). Plan flights to arrive to Cairns in time for the 12:00pm Noon embarkation and 1:00pm departure on Day 1 of the itinerary. Luggage may be dropped at the ship starting at 10:00am. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to depart Cairns anytime after the 8:00am disembarkation on the final day of the itinerary. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, wildlife observation, land treks, beach combing, cultural visits, glass-bottom boat tours, snorkeling and diving.
Included in the cost of your cruise is the use of full snorkeling and dive equipment (additional charges apply for scuba diving). Please remember, if you are a certified diver, to bring your certification card and logbook. Additional pre-cruise dive requirements include completing a questionnaire, a medical assessment and resulting doctor’s statement (your Adventure Specialist can provide full details). Snorkeling is free of charge. An introductory scuba skills session is complimentary for first-time divers.
Room Configuration
Limited double occupancy cabins for solo use may be available at a sole use rate in the Promenade Deck B category. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.
Families & Children
Children 0-3 years of age at time of the cruise are free of charge. Children ages 4-14 receive 25% off the applicable adult rate. Two adults and one child traveling together can be accommodated in two staterooms only aboard Coral Discoverer (there are no pullman bunks). On all ships, two adults and two children traveling together may request two rooms next door to each other. Great Barrier Reef Cruises are great for families of all ages, with a range of included activities to appeal to parents and children alike. From snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours, beach and rainforest walks to scuba diving with a marine biologist, families will enjoy the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in one of the world’s great natural wonders.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
As a condition of travel, guests must provide evidence of travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage OR complete a credit card authorization form for expenses incurred during a medical evacuation. Proof of travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage OR a completed authorization form must be provided prior to boarding.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, National Park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
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The Coral Discoverer, formerly known as Oceanic Discoverer, sets the benchmark for small ship cruising in Australia. She continues to raise the bar in expedition cruising in the Southern Hemisphere. Accommodating just 72 guests in 36 spacious staterooms and with a cruising speed of 10-12 knots, her shallow draft allows access to the most isolated and remote locations of Australia (including the Great Barrier Reef), beyond the reach of other ships. Guests enjoy a uniquely Australian onboard atmosphere, with stylish furnishings, generous decks and the latest of modern facilities.
Coral Discoverer Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Coral Discoverer review includes a detailed description of the vessel including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard the Coral Discoverer firsthand. Please read our Coral Discoverer review below then contact our experts to compare the Coral Discoverer with other with other small cruise ships and yachts offering Pacific Island cruises, Australia cruises and Kimberley cruises.
Coral Discoverer was built to the exacting international SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) standards and specifications by NQEA shipyard in Cairns, Australia, with one aim in mind: to create the ultimate small ship cruising experience in the southern hemisphere. Australian flagged, and staffed by an Australian crew, Coral Discoverer is equipped with modern navigation technology and is actively stabilized to ensure comfortable cruising in open seas. Her efficiency at getting passengers off the ship exploring remote areas and world-renowned reef is unparalleled as she offers a diverse choice of expedition vessels, including two Zodiacs, five kayaks (four double and one single), a glass-bottom boat and an Xplorer tender with a water-activity platform for easy entry into the water for snorkeling and kayaking.
Common Areas Aboard Coral Discoverer
Onboard facilities of this small ship rival that of larger vessels: satellite wireless internet facilities (at an additional cost), comprehensive reference library, gift shop, limited laundry facilities, phone and fax facilities, lecture lounge with large plasma TV screens and a SCUBA diving department on select itineraries. The large Sun Deck is the hub of onboard community living, with a covered area, round "Explorer Bar" with bar stools, inviting lounge chairs and an open-air gym with exercise equipment. Coral Discoverer operates an open bridge policy, allowing you to spend time with the captain and his maritime crew as you cruise. Follow your trip's progression on the ship’s charts and chat with the captain, take a guided engine tour or simply sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery.
Dining Aboard Coral Discoverer
Meals are served in the spacious, modern dining room. With no assigned seating and space for all guests to dine during one sitting, there are no queues or long waits. There may also be the opportunity to dine al fresco under the magnificent stars. Enjoy buffet-style breakfast and lunch, and various options of plated dinners. Prepared with great care by an executive chef and sous chef, the food is a mix of international favorites and Australian specialties, including an Australian BBQ. Local produce and fish are procured along the way, ensuring fresh ingredients. Coffee and tea is available on a 24-hour basis. Coral Discoverer strives to accommodate guests with special dietary requirements, based on advanced notice. Please note that liquor licenses do not allow guests to bring their own alcohol aboard. The Coral Discoverer has three fully stocked bars, including the Explorer Bar on the Sun Deck.
Activities Aboard Coral Discoverer
Coral Discoverer is equipped with a fleet of inflatable Zodiacs, along with the Xplorer, a unique, specially designed excursion vessel. Xplorer is equipped with high horsepower engines and comfortable padded seating accommodating all 72 guests, ensuring that you don’t miss any of the region’s highlights. Xplorer is also fitted with an awning to provide protection from the weather and an onboard toilet. Selected itineraries, such as the Great Barrier Reef Cruises, make use of the ship’s glass-bottom boat and SCUBA diving department.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Coral Discoverer
The Coral Discoverer offers five different grades of spacious staterooms, sized between 161 and 215 square feet. All rooms are furnished with contemporary flair and feature original artwork, a private en suite bathroom, individually controlled air-conditioning, an iPod dock, ample storage and Australian toiletries. Serviced daily, staterooms have either a French-windowed balcony, picture windows or portholes.
Current Deals on This Australia Cruise
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Learn About the Small Ship on Your Great Barrier Reef Cruise
The Coral Discoverer maneuvers into special bays and inlets that are inaccessible to larger ships. Her bright outdoor spaces, authentic Australian hospitality and expedition-ready tools offer an elevated experience.
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Expert Review: Great Barrier Reef Cruise
Learn why remote small ship cruising and snorkeling are some of the best ways to see the Great Barrier Reef and its famous coral in this detailed family trip review from AdventureSmith's founder.
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