We all know the Great Barrier Reef is massive, but how massive really is it?

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s natural wonders, and it’s no surprise why. You can actually see the Great Barrier Reef from outer space.

The size of the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef extends over 2,000 kilometres long. It’s the largest living organism on the planet, covering around 350,000 square kilometres of land.

The Great Barrier Reef is home to more than 1,500 species of fish, 400 types of coral and 4,000 mollusc species. There are also 6 turtle species and over 200 bird species that call the reef home.

Visiting the Great Barrier Reef

There are 2 main locations where travellers in Australia visit the Great Barrier Reef.

Cairns is the number one destination for Great Barrier Reef exploration. It’s the closest city to the Great Barrier Reef, with the boat trip only taking around 45 minutes between the mainland and the reef.

Another popular location to explore the Great Barrier Reef is in the Whitsundays. When visiting the reef in the Whitsundays, most tours depart from Airlie Beach.

Top Great Barrier Reef tours

There are seemingly endless options for tours to the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you have a single day or multiple days to explore, we have the perfect tour for you.

  • Great Barrier Reef day tour from Cairns

Our most popular Great Barrier Reef tour is this deluxe day tour from Cairns. The tour includes return transportation from your accommodation, lunch and 6 hours of snorkelling on the reef. All snorkel equipment is provided and you can also enjoy a complimentary beginner or certified dive!

  • Great Barrier Reef day tour in the Whitsundays

This day tour in the Whitsundays departs from Airlie Beach and takes you to explore the Great Barrier Reef for a day. This tour includes an exhilarating ride on an ocean raft, snorkelling at 2 reefs and a fascinating talk from a reef expert. There is also the option to upgrade your tour ticket to include a tasty tropical lunch and drinks!

  • 3-day reef liveaboard from Cairns

Spend 3 days living aboard a catamaran on an unforgettable tour from Cairns. You’ll have heaps of time to snorkel at different reefs, each featuring its own unique marine life. This tour includes accommodation on the sailing vessel, all meals, snorkel equipment and an experienced crew. Don’t miss out on this fun opportunity to explore the reefs over the course of 3 exciting days!

  • 3-day reef sailing in the Whitsundays

Spend 3 enchanting days sailing around the Whitsunday Islands from Airlie Beach. You’ll get to live aboard a sailboat as you cruise through the turquoise waters surrounding the Whitsunday Islands. This tour includes all meals, accommodation on the sailboat, snorkelling equipment and a friendly crew. This is a fun and unique way to explore the reefs and meet other travellers from around the world!

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward began with a passion for travel and turned it into a thriving tourism business. He co-founded Sightseeing Tours Australia after starting out as a tour guide in Melbourne. Cameron delights in helping visitors get the most from their trip to Australia. Whether he's leading tours or writing about his favourite places, Cameron loves sharing his local insight with fellow travellers.

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