Port Douglas Great Barrier Reef Pontoon
This tour is a great option for everyone, including families and non-swimmers. A range of activities are available for all levels of ability. With so much to do, the Port Douglas Great Barrier Reef Pontoon has something for everyone.
Ultimate comfort on the reef
The Port Douglas Great Barrier Reef Pontoon is designed for comfort and convenience. The stable platforms provide easy access to the water. Covered areas provide shelter from the elements. Unlimited semi-submersible tours and an underwater observatory allow you to see the reef without swimming.
The Port Douglas Great Barrier Reef Pontoon is family-friendly and disability-friendly.
*Please note that scenic helicopter flights, introductory scuba diving, ocean walker helmet diving and certified scuba diving can be booked directly with the operator and subject to availability. Scuba diving is also subject to medical clearance.
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Highlights
- Reef Pontoon
- Outer Barrier Reef
- Activities available for all: snorkelers, scuba divers and for those who want to see the Great Barrier Reef without getting wet
Itinerary
- 09:15 am – Check-in a the marina to collect your boarding passes.
- 09:30 am – Enjoy complimentary morning tea directly after you board.
- 10:00 am – Your adventure begins! The large, stable vessel provides a smooth journey to the Outer Barrier Reef.
- 10:30 am – Marine biology presentation and diving briefings.
- 11:30 am – Arrive at the Outer Great Barrier Reef Pontoon. The boat stays here for 3.5 hours, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy everything on offer.
- 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm – Lunch is served buffet style- with full bar facilities available in case you want to purchase drinks
- 3:00 pm – The vessel departs the Great Barrier Reef Pontoon.
- 4:30 pm – The boat arrives back in Port Douglas.
Included
- 3.5 hours at a fixed Great Barrier Reef Pontoon
- Stunning Outer Great Barrier Reef site
- Unlimited Snorkeling
- All snorkeling equipment and instruction
- Semi-Submersible tours with commentary (weather permitting)
- Qualified lifeguard to watch all swimmers
- Underwater Observatory – See the life beneath without getting wet!
- Reef Presentation by a qualified marine biologist
- Educational fish feeding show
- Hot & cold tropical buffet lunch, including prawns
- Morning & afternoon tea
- Environmental Management Fee
Optional Extras
Get More Out Of Your Day! These can be booked once onboard, subject to availability on the day.
- Scenic Helicopter Flights.
- Underwater Digital Camera Hire available on board.
- Professional photography packages.
- Marine Biologist Guided Snorkel Tour – Beginner Tour or Advanced Tour options are available.
- Scuba Diving* for qualified divers (Certified). Up to 2 dives available.
- ‘Resort Scuba Diving’* for beginners. No experience needed. (minimum of 12 years old)
- Ocean Walker Helmet Diving*
- Snack Bar Purchases: Soft drinks, ice cream, alcohol, etc.
- Prescription mask hire is available if you require vision-correcting glasses.
- Hotel transfers from Cairns and Northern Beaches hotels.
*Subject to medical conditions – see ‘Important Information for Scuba & Ocean Walkers’ below.
What to bring
- Cash or credit card for extra purchases – Note: credit card surcharges may apply
- Camera
- Swimming costume, towel and also hat
- Sunscreen together with sunglasses
- Proof of qualification if you’re a Certified Diver
- Booking Voucher/Confirmation
How to get there
From Cairns and Northern Beaches
- Quicksilver luxurious air-conditioned coaches offer a scenic coastal drive along Australia’s most breathtaking routes.
- You’ll enjoy a full commentary during your journey, adding depth to your experience.
Quicksilver provides a pick-up service directly from your accommodation to make your adventure even more convenient. - Details about pick-up times will be provided when you confirm your booking, ensuring a seamless start to your day.
From Port Douglas
- If you’re in Port Douglas, worry not! We offer coach transfers directly from your accommodation.
- The specific times for hotel transfers will be shared with you upon confirming your booking.
- This way, you can relax and focus on the excitement of your upcoming underwater adventure.
Making Your Way
- For those who prefer to arrange transportation, check-in time is at 9:15 am at the Quicksilver office, located at the Port Douglas Marina on Wharf Street, Port Douglas.
- Are you worried about parking? Don’t be! We offer free parking facilities at the marina, ensuring your visit is stress-free and convenient.
Important Information
Information for Scuba Diving and Ocean Walker
To avoid disappointment, we recommend that all of our passengers complete a dive medical questionnaire before booking.
Queensland, Australia, has some of the strictest scuba diving rules in the world but also the safest scuba diving record. The Queensland Government Code of Practice regulates us and we comply with all regulations.
Can I go Diving?
Flying after Scuba Diving
For a single, non-decompression scuba dive, you should not fly or go to altitude for at least 18 hours after a scuba dive. You should not fly for 24 hours after your last dive. If you are skydiving or hot-air ballooning, you must wait 24 hours after diving. We recommend waiting a minimum of 24 hours whenever possible.