Green Island Ferry explores Cairns Favourite Great Barrier Reef Island

Green Island Ferry

  • Fast and Scenic Journey from Cairns. Travel to Green Island in just 45 minutes aboard a high-speed, air-conditioned catamaran, offering a smooth and comfortable ride across the Coral Sea.

  • Multiple Departures Daily.  Enjoy flexible departure times, allowing you to choose between a half-day or full-day adventure, making it perfect for all schedules.

  • Step Onto a Real Great Barrier Reef Island. Unlike traditional reef tours, the Green Island Ferry takes you to an actual coral cay, where you can snorkel, swim, explore, or relax on the beach.

  • Snorkelling Straight from the Beach.  Experience easy beach access to the reef, with shallow, calm waters perfect for snorkelers of all experience levels, including beginners.

  • Glass-Bottom Boat and Semi-Submarine Tours Available. For those who prefer to stay dry, upgrade your trip to include a glass-bottom boat ride, which offers an amazing window into the underwater world.

  • Island Facilities for a Relaxing Day Out.  Green Island features cafés, bars, showers, picnic areas, and shaded beaches, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for everyone.

  • The Perfect Tropical Escape. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, the Green Island Ferry is the easiest way to experience a Great Barrier Reef island getaway from Cairns.

Hop on Green Island Ferry: Your Perfect Day Trip from Cairns

Spend a full day exploring the stunning Green Island, just a 45-minute boat trip from Cairns. With daily departures from the Reef Fleet Terminal at 1 Spence Street, Cairns, this adventure is easily accessible and perfect for the whole family, including young children.

Plan Your Day at Green Island

Green Island offers several daily ferry departures, allowing you to choose the best time for your schedule. Once you arrive, you’ll find yourself surrounded by white sandy beaches and a lush interior of tropical rainforests, all set on the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef.

While on the island, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained:

  • Snorkelling: Dive into crystal-clear waters and explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
  • Eco Walk in the Rainforest: Stroll through the island’s tropical rainforest and discover its rich flora and fauna.
  • Kayaking: Paddle around the island’s calm waters and enjoy the stunning coastal views.
  • Glass-Bottom Boat Tour: Get a unique perspective of the reef’s marine life without getting wet.
  • Scenic Helicopter Flights: Soar above the island and the Great Barrier Reef for breathtaking aerial views.
  • Relax on a Sunbed: Unwind on the beach with a good book or soak up the tropical sun.

About Green Island

Green Island is one of the most popular stops on the Great Barrier Reef, offering visitors a true coral cay experience. The island is formed over thousands of years from coral rubble and sand and boasts a vibrant ecosystem. Explore the tropical vine forest, home to an array of birds and insects, or snorkel offshore to spot green and hawksbill turtles, along with various coral, clams, and reef fish.

The island is part of the traditional marine territory of the Guru-Gulu Gungandji Aboriginal people, who deeply connect to this land. Known as Wunyami, Green Island holds cultural significance, and visitors can learn about this ancient culture through a Wunyami walking tour.

A Rich History of Conservation

Green Island has been a treasured destination for over a century. Designated as a national park in 1937, it became part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park in 1974 and was recognised as a World Heritage Site in 1981. The island is home to over 120 native plant species and 55 species of birdlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

Where is Green Island?

Located approximately 45 minutes northeast of Cairns, Green Island is easily accessible by ferry. Surrounded by coral gardens and abundant marine life, the island offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Keep an eye out during winter for migrating humpback whales, a sight you won’t want to miss.

Frequently Asked Questions – Green Island Ferry

How long does the ferry ride to Green Island take?

The ferry ride takes approximately 45 minutes from Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal to Green Island, making it a quick and scenic journey.

Are there multiple departure times each day?

Yes! Great Adventures operates multiple daily departures, giving you flexibility to choose a time that suits your schedule.

Is snorkelling gear included with the ferry ticket?

Snorkelling gear hire is available as part of the package options for your ferry ticket. You can pre-book snorkelling equipment when reserving your seat to maximise your time on the island.

Can children travel on the Green Island Ferry?

Absolutely! The ferry is family-friendly, with smooth sailing and onboard facilities perfect for visitors of all ages.

Where does the Green Island Ferry depart from?

The ferry departs from the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, conveniently located in the heart of Cairns city and easily accessible by foot, car, or public transport.

Conclusion

Plan your trip to Green Island today and immerse yourself in this tropical paradise’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage!

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Tour Features

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Green Island Ferry Tours

1030-1630: Standard - FULL DAY (~5 hours Island Time) -Departs marina 10:30am - Depart Green Island 4:30pm

1030-1630: Standard - FULL DAY (~5 hours Island Time) -Departs marina 10:30am - Depart Green Island 4:30pm

Departs

0830-1630: Standard - FULL DAY (~7 hours Island Time) -Departs marina 8:30am - Depart Green Island 4:30pm

1030-1630: Standard - FULL DAY (~7 hours Island Time) -Departs marina 10:30am - Depart Green Island 4:30pm

Departs

0830-1430: Standard - FULL DAY (~5 hours Island Time) -Departs marina 8:30am - Depart Green Island 2:30pm

0830-1430: Standard - FULL DAY (~5 hours Island Time) -Departs marina 8:30am - Depart Green Island 2:30pm

Departs

1030-1430: Standard - HALF DAY (~3 hours Island Time) -Departs marina 10:30am - Depart Green Island 2:30pm

1030-1430: Standard - HALF DAY (~3 hours Island Time) -Departs marina 10:30am - Depart Green Island 2:30pm

Departs