Ocean Spirit Cairns Sailing to Michaelmas Cay
- Daily departures
- Check-in starts at 7.30 am at the Reef Fleet terminal
- return is approximately 5.00 pm
Ocean Spirit Cruises embarks on an unforgettable journey as you set sail to Michaelmas Cay, a pristine gem within the breathtaking expanse of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Onboard the magnificent Ocean Spirit, a 32-metre sailing catamaran, your adventure begins daily from Cairns at the crisp and inviting hour of 8:30 am. This marvellous vessel promises an extraordinary four-hour experience on the captivating reef, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore its vibrant marine life and dazzling underwater world.
Michaelmas Cay
Michaelmas Cay is located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park—forty-three kilometres from Cairns and 17 kilometres north of Green Island. A spectacular fringing Reef surrounds the island.
Michaelmas Cay is a National Marine Park-protected sanctuary for migratory seabirds.
This vegetated coral reef island is 1.8 hectares and rises to a height of 3.5 metres above sea level. Michaelmas Cay is home to 23 different species of sea birds.
This picturesque sand island is rich in historical and environmental significance.
Cruise
First, we will glide along the Coral Sea on a 32-metre sailing catamaran.
After the 90-minute sailing cruise, you will arrive at the unique Michaelmas Cay.
Michaelmas Cay is at the tip of Michaelmas Reef. During your Michaelmas Island tour, see brightly coloured coral and marine life.
While at Michaelmas Cay, the beach buggy shuttle will transfer guests between Ocean Spirit and the beach.
You can enjoy the reef on many different levels. Choose from snorkelling, scuba diving or a semi-submersible tour.
Onboard Ocean Spirit has a spacious sundeck where you can relax and work on your suntan.
Ocean Spirit has options for all levels of swimming experience so everyone can enjoy the Great Barrier Reef.
Semi-Submersible
Next, try a semi-submersible tour with marine commentary and view the reef in air-conditioned comfort. This tour provides an excellent view of one metre below the waterline and is perfect for nonswimmers. During this tour, you can watch a fish feeding presentation.
Guided Snorkelling tours
During the day, you can take a guided snorkelling tour with a marine biologist, learning even more about the Great Barrier Reef.
This tour is conducted straight from the beach. Next, giant clams, turtles, and brightly coloured fish are encountered. Furthermore, this tour is fun and educational.
Introductory Scuba Diving
Discover the fantastic reef life below the surface during a handheld introductory scuba dive. Introductory scuba diving is fun and easy with a professional scuba diving instructor.
Afterwards, on our journey back to Cairns, enjoy a glass of sparkling wine with cheese and crackers.
Last, we arrive at the Cairns Marina at five p.m. after a beautiful day with Ocean Spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Ocean Spirit Cairns
Do you have questions about your Ocean Spirit Cairns adventure? We’re here to provide all your answers for a seamless and exciting experience. Check out our FAQs below:
Q: What is Ocean Spirit?
Q: What destinations do you cover?
Q: What activities are available on your cruises?
Q: Are the cruises suitable for beginners?
Q: How do I make a reservation?
Q: What safety measures are in place?
Highlights
• Cruise to Michaelmas Cay, a stunning coral sand island on the Great Barrier Reef
• Snorkel vibrant reefs straight from the beach or pontoon
• Relax on white sand with the reef stretching out before you
• Glass bottom boat tours for non-swimmers
• Spot colourful reef fish, giant clams and seabirds
• Spacious catamaran with smooth sailing from Cairns
• A truly iconic Great Barrier Reef island experience
Included
Your cruise includes:
– Return Ocean Spirit cruise from Cairns
– Experience 4 hours at Michaelmas Cay on the Reef.
– Morning tea with muffins and focaccia
– Afternoon tea with tropical fruit platter and cake of the day.
– Hot and cold buffet lunch, including fresh prawns.
– Snorkelling equipment, lycra suits.
– Buoyancy vests.
– Marine Biologist presentation.
– Semi-submersible coral viewing tour with commentary.
– Fish feeding presentation on arrival.
– Glass of complimentary sparkling wine served on the homeward journey, with cheese and crackers.
Optional Extras
Optional Extras
• Introductory scuba diving
• Certified scuba diving
• Underwater photos and video packages
• Wetsuit hire
• Souvenirs and reef merchandise
What to bring
What to Bring
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Hat and sunglasses
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Light jacket for the cruise
• Camera or phone
• Cash or card for optional extras
How to get there
How to Get There
Departure Point:
• Cairns Marina (Reef Fleet Terminal)
Getting There:
• Easy walk from Cairns CBD accommodation
• Taxi and rideshare access available
• Paid parking available nearby
Check-in details and departure time will be confirmed after booking.
Important Information
Important Information
• Suitable for most fitness levels
• Snorkelling available for beginners and confident swimmers
• Diving subject to medical clearance and conditions
• Weather conditions may affect reef location or itinerary
• The cay is a protected seabird sanctuary access areas may vary
• Tour order and activities may change for safety and comfort