Relaxing Sailing Experience: Enjoy a leisurely sail aboard a spacious, comfortable catamaran to Michaelmas Cay on the Great Barrier Reef.
Michaelmas Cay Paradise: Visit a beautiful sand cay surrounded by clear turquoise waters, perfect for snorkelling, swimming, and relaxing on pristine white sands.
Semi-Submarine Tours: Discover colourful coral reefs and marine life comfortably from Ocean Spirit’s semi-submarine—a fantastic way to explore without getting wet!
Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy beach play, safe swimming areas, and shallow snorkelling spots, making Ocean Spirit Cruises ideal for families and visitors of all ages.
Eco-Friendly Cruises: Committed to reef conservation, Ocean Spirit Cruises prioritises sustainable practices, ensuring you experience the Great Barrier Reef responsibly.
Delicious Onboard Dining: Savour tasty tropical buffet lunches prepared with fresh local ingredients, enhancing your reef adventure.
Friendly and Experienced Crew: Receive attentive care from knowledgeable crew members dedicated to making your Great Barrier Reef experience memorable, comfortable, and enjoyable.
Discover Ocean Spirit Cruises
Glide along the Coral Sea on a 32-metre sailing catamaran. Sail and Snorkel Michaelmas Cay offers a relaxing day. You will be sailing and snorkelling the world-famous Great Barrier Reef.
After the 90-minute sail trip, you will arrive at the unique Michaelmas Cay. This picturesque sand island is rich in historical and environmental significance. It is located at the tip of Michaelmas Reef, where coral and marine life thrive.
You can enjoy the reef on many levels, from snorkelling to diving or the semi-submersible coral viewing tour. Ocean Spirit has options for all levels of swimming experience so everyone can enjoy the Reef.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Where does Ocean Spirit Cruises depart from?
Ocean Spirit Cruises departs daily from the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, conveniently located in the heart of Cairns, making it easy to reach from your accommodation.
Do I need snorkelling experience to enjoy the trip?
Not at all! Ocean Spirit Cruises caters to snorkellers of all skill levels. Our friendly crew provides snorkelling gear, instructions, and guidance, ensuring you feel safe and confident in the water.
Can I see marine life without snorkelling?
Yes, definitely! Ocean Spirit Cruises offers a semi-submarine tour with large viewing windows, allowing everyone to comfortably explore and enjoy the reef’s vibrant underwater life without getting wet.
Is lunch provided on Ocean Spirit Cruises?
Absolutely! Your cruise includes a delicious tropical buffet lunch, featuring fresh local produce, tasty dishes, and refreshing fruits. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated upon request.
Is Ocean Spirit Cruises suitable for children and families?
Yes! Ocean Spirit Cruises is family-friendly and ideal for visitors of all ages. Children can enjoy safe beach play, shallow-water snorkelling, and educational experiences, making it a memorable day for the entire family.
Conclusion
Ocean Spirit Cruises offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable experiences on the stunning Great Barrier Reef. Whether snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, enjoying the scenic views aboard a sailing catamaran, or simply soaking up the sunshine on the pristine sands of Michaelmas Cay, every moment becomes a cherished memory. With a friendly crew, eco-friendly practices, and activities suited for all ages, a day with Ocean Spirit Cruises is one of the best ways to experience Australia’s most treasured natural attraction. Come aboard, relax, and let Ocean Spirit Cruises show you the magic of the reef!
• 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
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
• Introductory scuba diving
• Certified scuba diving
• Underwater photos and video packages
• Wetsuit hire
• Souvenirs and reef merchandise
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
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
• 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
A minimum of 24 hours' notice is required to re-schedule or alter all or part of a reservation.
Any date and/or name change will incur a $20 administration fee.
We are required to notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to make sure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during our standard business hours (9 am-5 pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent via email to: [email protected]. Any emails received outside of these hours will be considered received the following day.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
20% cancellation fee 24 hours or more before departure
100% cancellation fee within 24 hours before departure and for "No Show"
There will be no refund of any part of your tour costs should you fail to arrive at a scheduled tour departure time. Tour departures may not be delayed due to passenger circumstances - including events beyond your control, medical problems, airline delays, weather, etc.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation, and medical cover.
Terms And Conditions
This website acts as a booking agent only for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavor to provide accurate information, we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning services.
Children: 4-14 years, prices as shown, 3 years and under cruise free of charge.
Family Fare is 2 adults and 2 children of the same family.
We are not liable for changes to tours, pricing, or itineraries; all of which are subject to change without notice.
Surcharge: Due to potential significant volatility in supply & operational costs a surcharge may be applied due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, any charge will be collected on departure.
Not operating on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day & Easter Sunday also on refit from 2nd June – 30 June 2025.
Neither this site nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, loss of personal belongings, property damage, delay, or personal injury.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation, and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. In a medical emergency, any evacuation, vessel relocation, medical or other expenses are the financial responsibility of that passenger. Please be aware that scuba diving and other in-water activities are not covered by all travel insurance companies.
Please inform us of any special requirements before your date of travel; such as dietary requirements, allergies, mobility and disability issues. This can be done in the 'Booking Message' section of your online reservation or by contacting our friendly reservations team
