green island tour cairns

Green Island Experience

Full & half day tours operating daily to Green Island

Book With Cairns' Best Reef Island Tour

Award winning Great Barrier Reef Tour Operating Daily

Full Day Tour

• Up to 5.5 hours on the island
• Choice of free glass bottom boat tour or snorkelling gear with Full or Half Day standard tour (not included with transfer only)
• Activities for all ages
• From $105 (Transfer Only)

Our Company

Operating in the Great Barrier Reef for over 30 years

Great Barrier Reef Tours are one of the most popular things to do whilst in Cairns. Only 45 minutes from Cairns, this tropical Island is a beautiful coral cay on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef with unique island rainforests, surrounded by white sandy beaches & magnificent coral reefs and abundant marine life.

Committed To Sustainability

Highly environmentally-conscious

Big Cat pride ourselves on our commitment to sustainability. The ECO Certification logo is a globally recognized brand which assists travellers to choose and experience a genuine and authentic tour, attraction, cruise or accommodation that is environmentally, socially and economically sustainable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question? We're here to help.

Our crew get asked dozens of questions every day, some quirky some quite intelligent, some just plain entertaining. But as they say, there is no such thing as a dumb question so don’t be too scared to ask.

Do I need to check in on the day?

Do you have hotel transfers.

We have a fleet of modern air-conditioned coaches that offer a coach service from Cairns city hotels for just $27 per adult and $17 per child, for the return transfer. If you are staying at one of the Northern Beaches (from north of the Airport to Ellis Beach) we also can pick you up from there too. Beach transfers are $38 per adult and $25 per child return. Please contact us if wanting to add a coach transfer to your booking.

Can I take a pram on board?

All our vessels are pram friendly. The beach areas are not practical for prams however there are boardwalks and pathways throughout the island that are suitable. Prams can be stored on ‘Big Cat’ if needed.

Is this tour wheelchair friendly?

Passengers must have some mobility and/or the presence of a carer who can assist them. Depending on tides it may be necessary to embark/disembark from different levels on the boat. Coral viewing and glass bottom boat activities are subject to the weather and the extent of the passenger’s mobility and/or the presence of a carer who can assist. Please note that the toilets on the vessel are not wheelchair accessible but there are disabled toilets available on the island. Please advise at time of booking if you have wheelchair bound passengers travelling. These guidelines apply to standard wheelchairs only. We are not able to accommodate electric wheelchairs on any of the vessels or coaches.

What do I need to bring with me?

We recommend you bring a towel, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and swimwear. Also, cash for drinks, snacks or souvenirs you may want to buy. Credit cards are accepted at most shops at the Island however surcharges may apply.

Can I change my date of travel or cancel once booked?

Yes, you can cancel or amend your tour to a different date (subject to availability) if you notify us 24 hours or more prior to travel. If you need to cancel or change dates within 24 hours of travel a 100% cancellation fee applies Please note a ‘no show’ (where passengers do not turn up to the specified pick-up point or departure point without notification) automatically incurs a 100% cancellation fee.

Is the Green Island tour recommended for children?

Our cruises are suitable for people of all ages, including families with young children. Our half day option is ideal for small children, infants and babies. Additionally snorkelling directly from the beach is perfect for children and first time snorkelers.

Is lunch included?

No. However you can purchase our delicious buffet lunch option in the cart when booking.

Adult: $30 pp, Child (under 14yr): $16 pp.

Please contact us if you have any special dietary requirements

Why Our Customers Love Us

Rated 4.5/5 stars, our team continues to ensure your experience at the reef is all we have promised and more.

“ Michelle Sparrow Queensland “ Hubby and I booked a day trip on this vessel the Great Barrier Reef with Big Cat. Cannot say enough good things about the vessel or the crew. ”

“ Steve H Lytham St Annes “ What a great experience, with Snuba you have a guide who is Scuba diving with you which leaves you free to observe the marine life and no heavy tanks to deal with! ”

“ Shanii Brisbane “ Loved the service of these guys. The boat was great to travel on. Very helpful with answering any questions and not pushy with up sales either. ”

“ Becc Pitt Town “ All the staff were very friendly and helpful. The hotel transfers were on time. Everything was easy. The buffet lunch was fresh and offered a good variety of hot and cold food. ”

“ Michael C Melbourne “ The boat Captain was very knowledgeable to explain all things we encountered in both cases. It was an amazing trip to see the Great Barrier Reef in the nature life. ”

“ Vanessa Palm Cove “ I had an amazing day with Big Cat with my mother in law and 3 year old son exploring the island. There was so many options for families and was amazing to see the turtles. ”

Share your day with @greenislandcairns

Greenislandcairns.

Big Cat Cruises

• Green Island Tours
• Cruise Extras
• Locals Discounts
• Cairns Tour Packages
• Cruise Gallery
• Accessibility
• Collaboration Requests
• Media Resources
• Agent Login
• Privacy Policy

Big Cat Forms

• Become An Agent
• Conditions of Carriage
• Environment
• EXP Reconciliation Action Plan

• Glass Bottom Boat Tour
• Green Island Snorkelling
• Semi Submarine
• Coach Transfers
• Buffet Lunch & Bar

Green Island Cairns

• Resort Packages

105 CUSTOMER REVIEWS

21 CUSTOMER REVIEWS

12 CUSTOMER REVIEWS

19 CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Watch Green Island Cairns Videos

About Green Island Cairns

Green Island is a beautiful 6000 year old coral cay located in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, just 27km offshore from Cairns, and one of the most popular destinations on the Great Barrier Reef for visitors coming to Far North Queensland.

A ferry trip to Green Island only takes 45 minutes, it makes for a great day out or convenient half day experience.

Green Island History

Green Island is a 12 hectare coral cay that is over 6000 years old. A coral cay is a sandy island formed on the surface of the coral reef over thousands of years.

The Island was the result of the ocean currents build-up of sand and coral rubble deposited on the calm side of the platform reef, and is now the only coral cay on the Great Barrier Reef that is covered in rainforest!

Green Island became a national park in 1937, a marine park in 1974 and protected as part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area in 1981. The Great Barrier Reef has over 400 types of corals and 1,500 species of fish. It is common for visitors to Green Island to swim only metres away from Green and Hawksbill turtles just off the beach, which are endangered species. The island also has a wide diversity of bird and insect life which live inside the tropical vine forest that covers the island.

The Aboriginal people, the Gungandi people know the island as Wunyami. They still maintain a close connection to the island and reef which were used as an initiation ground for young men in the past.

Green Island Ferry

The Great Adventures Green Island Ferry departs Cairns 3 times daily. Your journey to Great Island takes only 45 minutes. You can choose the Eco (Snorkeling or Glass Bottom Boat) or the Discovery (Snorkeling & Glass Bottom Boat)

Cairns to Green Island Departures

• 8.30am (Check in at 8.00am)
• 10.30am (Check in at 10.00am)
• 12.30am (Check in at 12.00pm)

Green Island to Cairns Departures

• 12.00pm (Check in at 11.30am)
• 2.30pm (Check in at 2.00pm)
• 4.30pm (Check in at 4.00pm)

Great Adventures Green Island Ferry Features

• Return on air-conditioned, fast catamaran
• Snorkel equipment
• Glass Bottom Boat coral reef viewing tour
• Up to 7 hours on Green Island
• Morning tea and coffee served until departure from Cairns
• Use of Island swimming pool exclusive for Great Adventures guests.

Big Cat Green Island Day Tour

Big Cat is a comfortable air-conditioned 35 metre catamaran with spacious interior cabins and a relaxed atmosphere. Travel time to Green Island is just 45 minutes from Cairns. Big Cat Green Island offers a full day on Green Island.

• 9.00am (Check in at 8.30am)

Green Island to Cairns Departure

• 5.00pm (Check in at 4.30pm)

Package Options

Pak 1: Return ferry transfers, Glass Bottom Boat OR Snorkel equipment Pak 2: Return ferry transfers, Glass Bottom Boat OR Snorkel equipment and Hot/Cold Buffet lunch Pak 3: Return ferry transfers, Glass Bottom Boat OR Snorkel equipment and Semi-Submersible Pak 4: Return ferry transfers, Glass Bottom Boat OR Snorkel equipment, Hot/Cold Buffet lunch and Semi-Submersible

Green Island Reef Rocket Ferry

Reef Rocket is a modern, comfortable, air-conditioned, high speed catamaran. Travel time to Green Island is 45 minutes from Cairns.

Reef Rocket Cairns to Green Island Options

9.00am - 1.00pm (Check in at 8.30am) 11.00am - 5.00 pm (Check in at 10.30am) 1.00pm - 5.00pm (Check in at 12.30pm)

Special Family Pricing

We offer special rates for families on all Green Island Ferry & Day Tour experiences. All of our family rates are based on the following:

• Infants (3 Years & Under) travel free
• Children (4 - 14 years) Half Price
• Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) 1 Child travels free

Family pricing may change slightly depending on the tour options you choose. ​Please check the booking form for up to date family pricing for your group.

Things To Do On Green Island

For a small island, there are so many activities and things to do on Green Island. These include snorkelling, swimming, and scuba diving, parasailing or exploring the island further with a self-guided island walk.

If you are unable to swim or have small children, you can view the reef by glass bottom boat or semi submarine. If you want a less active day, perhaps visit the Marineland Melanesia which is home to Cassius the world’s largest Crocodile in captivity. Shopping is also an option at the island resort shop and boutiques, or spoil yourself at, Oiled, the Green Island Massage centre.

Being so easily accessible, Green Island is one of the most popular destinations on the Great Barrier Reef for visitors coming to Cairns and Far North Queensland. Green Island and the surrounding coral reef are a protected World Heritage Site, one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Snorkeling On Green Island

All Green Island Ferry options include snorkelling equipment so you can experience the beauty of the coral reef only metres off the beach.

The waters around Green Island are home to a large population of sea turtles who are often found swimming in the seagrass and reefs close to the island shore.

Snorkelling Equipment includes a Mask, Snorkel and Fins

Lycra Suits and Floatation Vests are available for hire atthe Dive Centre or can be organised on the ferry.

On your journey to Green Island safe snorkelling tips are given, and a patrolled swimming area is provided on the northern side of the island near the beach hire hut.

Snorkel Boat Tour From Green Island

Additional 1 Hour Boat Snorkel Trip | $54 Adult | $38 Child The boat snorkel trip gives you the opportunity to experience much more of Green Island's amazing marine life. After a short 5-7 minutes trip offshore, you will be at one of our four beautiful dive and snorkel sites, about 1.5km from Green Island. Be ready to snorkel amongst colourful marine life and coral gardens, as our lifeguard supervises and directs you to the best areas of the site. (buoyancy vests included).

Snorkelling gear is not available on the vessel. Please bring your own snorkelling gear. You can hire snorkelling gear from the dive shop on Green Island.

Green Island Self Guided Boardwalk

The Green Island Boardwalk is a leisurely 1.3km return taking less than an hour. The boardwalk access takes you through the national park forest to the south-east beach.

A self-guided island walk brochure is available from the information centre for visitors to explore Green Island at their own pace.

A map available from the information centre will point you in the right direction to start your self-guided Eco Walk. This trail guides you to numbered locations that explore the history of the island and informative facts about some of the 126 native species of plant life on Green Island.

The walk has been voted one of Queensland’s top bushwalks in the state giving people the opportunity to spot some of the 28 species of forest birds and 35 species of seabirds that live on the Island. The Eco walk takes less than one hour and the map is available in six different languages.

Marineland Melanesia

Marineland Melanesia is a unique attraction on Green Island; home to over 50 crocodiles, marine aquariums with coral, fish, giant sea turtles, and a magnificent range of tribal carvings. Also displayed are a number of old and restored marine artefacts and stationary engines.

This family owned and operated business has been a popular tourist attraction operating on Green Island since the early 1960’s. Located just a short stroll along the path to the left of the jetty, look out for the iconic shipwreck entrance and gift shop. See exciting crocodile shows, you can even have your photo taken holding a baby crocodile! Marineland Melanesia is also home to Cassius - the largest crocodile in captivity.

Green Island Beach HireHire of water sports equipment such as canoes and windsurfers, lockers, towels and umbrellas are available through the resort and beach hire hut.

Beach Hire Prices

$40 | 2 Beach lounge chairs & umbrella (all day) $15 | Beach volleyball (2 hours) $30 | Double Kayak (1/2 hour) $20 | Single Kayak (1/2 hour)

Dining Options On Green Island

The Canopy Grill The Canopy Grill offers quick service and is a good option for families with young children. Offering Burgers, hot dogs & fish and chips, or café style wraps. Open daily from 09:30 to 15:30.

Emeralds Restaurant Emeralds Restaurant offers air-conditioned or outdoor a la carte dining from 10am. Breakfast is also available up to 10.30am.

Big Cat Buffet (for passengers of the Big Cat Ferry) Must be pre-booked with your Big Cat Ferry ticket. A delicious buffet lunch is served aboard ‘Big Cat’ at Green Island for those who have chosen this option.

Greens Buffet Green Island’s enclosed food court dining area offer guests a delicious buffet or a meal purchased from one of the island’s food outlets including the Canopy Grill or Lite Bites in this lunch retreat amid the rainforest.

Green Island Resort

Green Island Resort features 46 elegant suites nestled amidst a lush rainforest on the 6000 year old coral cay of Green Island, located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, just 27 km off the coast of Cairns. With 126 indigenous plant species and an array of vibrant birdlife, this 15-hectare (37-acre) island offers an unforgettable experience amidst its verdant rainforest and mesmerizing coral gardens.

The 45 minute walk around Green Island is a popular choice for resort guests. The Eco-walk and walking around the Island are the best way to experience the magic that lives amongst Green Island.

Green Island Resort has been awarded Advanced Ecotourism Certification for preservation and their commitment to the island’s surrounding rainforest and reef, and the management of this eco-sensitive resort.

Resort Accommodation

Green Island Resort has two styles of accommodation: Reef Suites and Island Suites. All suites are set in clusters under the rainforest canopy and adjoin to the central facilities via raised covered walkways. They are cleverly secluded from the remainder of the island and day visitor facilities

Island Suite

Green Island Resort's Island Suites offer luxurious and spacious accommodations with a tropical flair. The suites feature a large open-plan living area, separate bedroom, modern bathroom, and a private balcony with views of the island. Amenities include air-conditioning, mini-fridge, flat-screen TV, and a choice of twin beds or king-sized bed. Interconnecting or adjacent rooms are available for families.

The Reef Suite at Green Island is a luxurious and spacious (66 sq m) split-level room designed for a romantic getaway or special occasion. It features a comfortable king-sized bed, a cozy lounge area, a separate bathroom and shower, and a private balcony with views of the lush rainforest. The room can accommodate up to 2 adults and offers air conditioning for added comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far away is Green Island from Cairns? Green Island is located 27km offshore from Cairns, within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

How long does it take to get there? Ferry transfers take just 45 minutes. Ideal for those who are short of time and looking for a quick getaway, or for those who are sensitive to the motion of the ocean, after a quick ferry ride you'll be on dry land where all reef & island activities take place.

When is the best time to visit? Situated in the tropics the climate is favourable year round, making it suitable for water activities anytime. The warm waters range in temperature from 22-29 Celsius (75-85 Fahrenheit).

Is Green Island suitable for my family? Green Island is an easy trip for people of all ages. The half day options are ideal for small children, infants, babies and the elderly. The facilities on the island provide ease and convenience.

Can I bring my own lunch? Yes you can bring your own packed lunch or choose to dine at one of the various food outlets. Some tour operators include lunch in their package rates.

Is the island wheelchair accessible? Green Island is accessible for wheelchairs, please advise on booking as not all vessels offer wheelchair facilities. Once on the island wide paved or timber walkways allow for wheelchair access and there are disabled toilets.

Is it safe to swim? Yes you can swim or snorkel straight off the beach. This is ideal for beginner snorkellers providing the opportunity to gain confidence in the water. The main beach area is patrolled by Surf Lifesaving Queensland lifeguards

Are there Marine Stingers at Green Island? It's very rare but, Jellyfish season is generally between November to May, during this time it is advised to wear a stinger suit when entering the water to avoid any 'bites' or stings.

Will I see turtles? There is a high chance you will get to see a turtle. The sea grasses surrounding Green Island are a popular feeding ground for green sea turtles, they can be frequently spotted from the jetty.

What happens if it's raining? Trips still operate to Green Island even if it's raining. In most cases you'll find that it'll be raining in Cairns and clear & fine at the reef, as the rain tends to draw towards the mountains.

Are lockers available? Green Island offers coin lockers for your convenience. These lockers are compact but sufficient for storing your valuables while you enjoy your time in the water.

Where can I park my car while I am on the Green Island tour? The Reef Fleet Terminal is located next to the Pier Marketplace where you can access paid parking. Additionally, the Cruise Liner Terminal also has a paid car park where you can purchase a day pass for approximately $10.

Read Green Island Cairns Reviews

Les gilbert.

Enjoyed the ride to & from Green Island. The glass bottom boat guide was excellent. Unfortunately, tide was too low for swimming so stuck to pool. Overall, according to expectations.

Great staff with a good boat and great lunch and location was perfect

Daren Bartholomaeus

The only issue was the birds and the mess they left, not that its anyones fault but it was the only thing that let the island down, I thought anyway.

Donna Ribton-Turner

We had a fabulous day on our Travstar trip to Green Island. The boat trip, glass bottom boat, snorkeling, rainforest walk, everything was just wonderful. Enjoyed by grandkid, grandma & parents alike. Highly recommended.

Colin Mayfield

We had a very good time on Green Island. There were lots of fish swimming around when we were snorkeling. The island was clean and tidy.

MICHAEL COX

Great day out. Staff exceptional, lunch good, time at Pontoon just right.

Love Green Island. We booked just the ferry, round trip (no extras). Was nice to not have a schedule on the island and flexibility to choose what (if anything) we wanted to do/when.

Carol Crump

had a wonderful day with my grandchildren on green island they really enjoyed everything that was on offer.

Kyra Garriti

Loved it and would recommend Big Cat to the world to JUST DO IT AND SEE FOR YOURSELF.

Green Island was beautiful but over crowded. Definite recommend for families.

WOW! This was an awesome day for us. Different ages, something for everyone. Friendly staff, they were amazing all throughout our tour. Service and facilities were tops! Thank you so much! So happy!

Sha Cordingley

Great day with Big Cat, with a wonderful whale sighting for good measure

Keep up the good work,we have recommended you guys to friends

Our group of eight people had a fantastic time on Green Island, and the whole experience from booking to enjoying our day went extremely smoothly. Great value for money!

Easy booking , great day out . Fantastic customer service

Pamela Taylor

Amazing adventure.

Enjoyed our trip to Green Island. Perfect little spot for the kids to play. Mostly helpful, especially when one of our kids was sea sick.

Helen Brent-Jones

We booked this tour through travstar. We received great service from travstar and the tour was very enjoyable.

Margaret Francese

Fantastic day out! Staff were friendly and super helpful. Facilities were excellent and I would highly recommend you book!

Graham Roughton

We had a great time, but next time we will pick to go there on a high tide

View Green Island Cairns Photos

Green Island Cairns News

6 Green Island is inclusive and accessible

Island Experience - Great Adventures Green Island & Green Island Resort

Green Island’s wide paved or timber pathways are easy for wheelchairs to access, as is the jetty – perfect for some turtle spotting. There is a boardwalk through the rainfo

Green Island’s wide paved or timber pathways are easy for wheelchairs to access, as is the jetty – perfect for some turtle spotting. There is a boardwalk through the rainforest into the centre of the Island to explore the flora and birdlife. The sandy beach for access to the water is not accessible by wheelchair. The glass bottom boat is only accessible via a number of steps.

The day visitor area has disabled toilet facilities and easy access to the food outlets.

At our Cairns jetty and Green Island, Great Adventures catamarans have boarding ramp gangways able to accommodate standard sized wheelchairs, however larger motorised wheelchairs may not be suitable. Depending on tidal conditions, at times there may be a few steps at the end of the gangway onto the jetty. We recommend contacting our reservations staff 24 hours prior to travel to ensure the most appropriate departure times regarding tide.

Green Island Resort has an Island Suite configured for wheelchair access to the room and bathroom facilities, with the room located in easy access to central facilities and boardwalks. 

For more information about wheelchair accessibility across our operations, or contact our friendly reservations teams for advice.

10 Big Cat now 7 Days a week

Big Cat Green Island is now back to 7 days a week operation from Boxing Day 2022!

The only semi-submersible boat on Green Island and a fresh buffet lunch (including prawns) served daily by award winning Ochre Restaurant.

The Big Cat Full Day G

The Big Cat Full Day Green Island Tour departs Cairns at 9am and returns at 5pm. You have the option to include Snorkeling Gear, Glass Bottom Boat,  Buffet Lunch & a Semi-Sub Tour.

6 Rare dugong sighting at Green Island

A group of very excited scuba divers with Great Adventures Cruises at Green Island were treated to a rare encounter with a young adult dugong.. Estimated to be around 2 metres in length, this was the first dugong sighting recorded by Great Adven

A group of very excited scuba divers with Great Adventures Cruises at Green Island were treated to a rare encounter with a young adult dugong.. Estimated to be around 2 metres in length, this was the first dugong sighting recorded by Great Adventures divers at Green Island in several years. It was also the first ever sighting for videographer Dan (DD) Liu and two very lucky introductory divers on holiday from Ballarat Victoria.

“It was so exciting to see! He was very curious swimming near us as the group were diving on a nearby coral bommie. He came close within about 4 metres, swimming away and then coming back for another look before swimming off over the seagrass beds,” said DD 

Dugongs, often called sea cows, as they graze shallow seagrass meadows (eating up to 40kg a day!) are found across the tropical belt in Australia. They reach a length of 3 metres, live up to 70 years of age and can weigh as much as 400kg.

“Dugongs are fascinating mammals, sharing a common ancestor with elephants, and early sailors are believed to have confused them for mythical mermaids,” said Quicksilver Group Environment Compliance Manager, Doug Baird.

“They are most closely related to the manatee, their northern hemisphere relative. They resemble a large dolphin but lack a dorsal fin and have an upper lip covered in thick bristles.  They are well designed for aquatic life, with nostrils situated on top of their heads so they can breathe, and have a large, strong tail that propels them through the water. Their eyes and ears are on the side of their heads. Although their eyesight is poor, they have an acute sense of hearing.”

Dugong are threatened on a worldwide scale and in Australia, are a protected species under various legislation including the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975.

This important sighting will be reported to GBRMPA’s Eye on the Reef monitoring program contributing valuable information about these endangered creatures as well as the long-term protection and management of the reef.

8 Official launch for new Wunyami Cultural Walking Tour

The Gunggandji and Yidinji Traditional Owners have commenced Wunyami Cultural Walking Tours, providing an authentic indigenous experience for visitors to Green Island.

The Wunyami Cultural Walking Tour is 100% indigenous owned and operated. It’

The Wunyami Cultural Walking Tour is 100% indigenous owned and operated. It’s a wonderful addition to the island experience bringing traditional stories to life and a whole new perspective to the cultural history. Wunyami, which means “Place of Spirits” is Green Island’s original name. 

Participants learn about traditional food and medicinal uses of the rainforest plants, participate in traditional fire lighting techniques and can learn about cultural importance of clay painting. 

Elders Gudju Gudju Fourmile and Garth Murgha (Muka) say,” Our guides explain how the island is connected to an ancient journey of two ancestorial story-time beings who fought and formed the island and who still protect it today. This story is shared by the GuruGulu Gunggandji people (Yarrabah) and the Gimuy Yidinji people (Cairns). Our guides tell of the relationship of these warriors and the connectivity of this iconic island to the ancient seascape.”

Guides have been given special permission from their elders to share the stories of the island and the Great Barrier Reef with all who come on this tour.

The new business venture also includes the Black Seahorse gift shop which has opened in Green Island Resort’s day visitor area, selling a range of authentic indigenous artworks and merchandise. The shop draws its name from the Black Seahorse, a known lucky charm for the saltwater women of the Great Barrier Reef in memory of Alma Fourmile (nee Patterson Katchewan).

The Wunyami Cultural Walking Tour are available daily and takes approximately 1 hour. Tours can be booked at the Black Seahorse gift shop on the island. 

General Enquiry Form

Click Here to Make an Enquiry

MANAGED BY TRAVSTAR

Office Hours: 9am - 3pm every day except Christmas day

Address: TRAVSTAR PTY LTD ABN: 21 095 692 925 PO Box 6918 Cairns QLD 4870 Australia

Travstar.com

Cairns Reef Tours

Bruny Island Tours

Daintree Rainforest

Kuranda Train & Skyrail

Airlie Beach Tours

Port Douglas Tours

Maria Island Tours

White Water Rafting Cairns

Cairns Cruise Tours

Blue Mountain Tours

Tasmania Info

Port Arthur Tours

Phillip Island Tours

Port Douglas Reef Tours

Cairns Info

Great Ocean Road Tours

Dunk Island Ferry

Fitzroy Island Cairns

Whitehaven Beach Tours

Darwin Info

Litchfield Park Tours

Mission Beach Tours

Gold Coast Cruises

Gold Coast Tours

Fitzroy Island Ferry

Experience Uluru

Red Centre Tours

POWERED BY TOURISM TOWN

Privacy | Terms | © Tourism Town 2024

• Menu ×
• 199 Reviews
• Back To Top

Please Wait

Cairns City Tours

Cairns area, reef day cruises, island day cruises.

Green Island Tours from Cairns

Green Island & Outer Great Barrier Reef Tour from Cairns

Special save up to $30 per person Normally Adult $318|Child $132|Family $816 Adult $288.00| Child $156|Family $740

Departs daily 8.30am - 5.20pm Enjoy the best of both worlds with this complete Great Barrier Reef and Island tour. Enjoy 2 hours on Green Island and  3 hours on the Outer Barrier Reef.  Fast 45-minute catamaran ride to beautiful Green Island and enjoy 2 hours on this iconic  coral cay, and then continue your day adventure and discovery with a further 45 minute ride  to Great Adventures spacious activity platform moored on the majestic Outer Great Barrier Reef.

The complete reef and island experience awaits with this exciting tour. Take a fast 45-minute catamaran ride to beautiful Green Island and enjoy two hours on this unique reef and rainforest coral cay. Then, you’ll depart Green Island to continue your day of adventure and discovery with 3 hours on board Great Adventures' spacious activity platform moored on the majestic Outer Great Barrier Reef.

Green Island It is a beautiful 6000-year-old coral cay in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park – a premier world heritage site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Grab your snorkel gear and head to the Lifeguard patrolled beach to explore the marine world off the beach, take a stroll thru the unique tropical rainforest, laze on the white coral sand beach or take part in some of the optional activities that Green Island has to offer

Outer Barrier Reef The stable reef activity platform is the perfect base for swimmers and non-swimmers to explore. Snorkel and/or dive, visit the underwater observatory, cruise in a semi-sub to view the surrounding coral or relax on the sundeck with a delicious buffet lunch. The vibrant marine life of the reef awaits you.

Green Island Sailing Day Tour

Adult $279|Child $220 Departs Daily 8.00 am - 5.00 pm Renown as the most exclusive, personal, customer-oriented Great Barrier Reef tour in Cairns with only 25 lucky guests. Join this amazing personalised team on the 16.5 meter sailing schooner 'Ocean Free' for a day to remember on the Great Barrier Reef. Ocean Free sails you to Pinnacle Reef, an exclusive reef site located in the highly protected Marine Park zone just off Green Island offering excellent coral coverage and vibrant marine life.

Join this amazing personalised team on the 16.5 meter sailing schooner 'Ocean Free' for a day to remember on the Great Barrier Reef. Renown as the most exclusive, personal, customer-oriented Great Barrier Reef tour in Cairns with only 25 lucky guests..

Green Island is a truly tropical haven situated 26 km from Cairns on The Great Barrier Reef. Ocean Free sails you to Pinnacle Reef, an exclusive reef site located in the highly protected Marine Park zone just off Green Island offering excellent coral coverage and vibrant marine life. It's protected waters are the perfect location to discover the reef snorkelling or scuba diving.

Experience the best of both worlds – the spectacular marine life on your private Great Barrier Reef site and then get taken straight to Green Island beach where you can explore the tropical island or just relax in the cool, crystal clear, shallow waters.

If you’ve never dived and wish to try it, we have introductory dives - guaranteed 2 divers to one instructor! (the usual ratio is 4:1) If you are a certified diver, you can enjoy the wonders of the reef with our experienced complimentary guides. At the end of your day hoist the sails and enjoy a sail home (engines off - wind permitting)

Green Island Full Day Tour

FROM $116 Full Day 9.00am - 5.00pm Half Day 11.00am - 5.00pm Snorkel and swim in the clear, cool island waters straight from the white sandy beach. Encounter a wide variety of colourful fish, turtles and other marine creatures whilst exploring the beautiful coral reef gardens surrounding Green Island.

Make your way to the Reef Fleet Terminal - Cairns Marina (1 Spence St Cairns). Check-in at the Big Cat Cruises desk 30-45 minutes before departure.

Snorkelling Snorkel and swim in the clear, cool island waters straight from the beach. Encounter a wide variety of colourful fish, turtles and other marine creatures whilst exploring the beautiful coral reef gardens surrounding Green Island. Mask, snorkels and fins in all sizes are available.

Glass Bottom Boat Float across the reef, looking through large viewing windows while enjoying an informative commentary from your guide. This 30-minute tour allows you to view the spectacular coral reef, where an abundance of fish is guaranteed during a lively fish feed.

Marineland Melanesia from -Adult $25 Child $12.50 One of Green Island’s most unique attractions is Marineland Melanesia. Not only is it home to the largest captive crocodile in Australia, Cassius, but it is also home to one of the largest private collections of exotic Melanesian tribal artefacts and aquariums. With twice daily crocodile shows and the chance to hold a baby croc, it’s a family favourite, especially with the children.

Green Island Cruise • Full day

Adult $116|Child $62|Family2A2C $292 Departs daily 8.30am or 10.30am Returns 5.20pm Green Island is an idyllic coral cay located only 15 nautical miles offshore from Cairns, snorkel and swim in the clear, cool island waters straight from the white sand beach. Encounter a wide variety of colourful fish, turtles and other marine creatures whilst exploring the beautiful coral reef gardens surrounding Green Island. Includes choice of snorkelling equipment OR  glass bottom boat.

Green Island Snorkelling Snorkel and swim in the clear, cool island waters straight from the beach. Encounter a wide variety of colourful fish, turtles and other marine creatures whilst exploring the beautiful coral reef gardens surrounding Green Island. Mask, snorkels and fins in all sizes are available. Adult $28 Child $16 Family $72

Green Island Glass Bottom Boat Float across the reef, looking through large viewing windows while enjoying an informative commentary from your guide. This 30-minute tour allows you to view the spectacular coral reef, where an abundance of fish is guaranteed during a lively fish feed. Adult $28 Child $16 Family $72

Seawalker For an amazing underwater walking experience, let Seawalker’s expert guides show you the wonders of the reef as you stroll along the Green Island lagoon’s sea floor. There’s no equipment to operate, non-swimmers are welcome, and you don’t even have to get your hair wet! It’s quick – only 45 to 50 minutes from the briefing to being back on dry land. Learn about safety, don the helmet, and walk on the seafloor – it’s that easy. It’s easy – no new skills to learn, no swimming and no equipment to operate. It’s safe – Seawalker’s guides are always in the water beside you; it’s great for non-swimmers and anyone who is not confident in the water. It’s low stress – no complicated equipment to use, and you can wear glasses or contacts. Per person over 12 yrs $198.00

Lunch at Emerald Restaurant  is available to be pre-booked between 11.00am-2.00pm. Choose one of the following delicious menu options plus a beer, wine or soft drink. Truffle pasta, Pesto barramundi, Grilled chicken breast with avocado salsa, Green Island beef burger or vegetarian burger. Adult $37.00 Child $20.00

Join Indigenous guides for the  Wunyami Cultural tour  and learn how the island is connected to an ancient journey of two ancestorial story-time beings who fought and formed the island and who still protect it today. This story is shared by the GuruGulu Gungganji people (Yarrabah) and the Gimuy Yidinji people (Cairns). As part of a small group, your guides will explain the symbiotic relationship of these warriors, the cultural ceremonies of these two tribes and the connectivity of this iconic island to the ancient seascape. The Indigenous guides have been given special approval from their elders to share this story with all who come on this tour.

The Wunyami Walking Tour takes approximately 1 hour, and you can choose from a morning 9.45am or 1.00pm afternoon tour. Adult $41.00 Child $21.00

Green Island Marineland Melanesia Croc shows 10.30am & 1.30pm One of Green Island’s most unique attractions is Marineland Melanesia. Not only is it home to the largest captive crocodile in Australia, Cassius, but it is also home to one of the largest private collections of exotic Melanesian tribal artifacts and aquariums. With twice daily crocodile shows and the chance to hold a baby croc, it’s a family favourite, especially with the children. Adult $28 Child $14

Green Island • Seawalker Helmet Dive Tour

Adult $273|Child $225|Family $996 Departure 8.30am or 10.30am  Returns 5.20pm Underwater helmet diving experience on the Great Barrier Reef. Immerse yourself in the marine wonderland of the Great Barrier Reef and discover the underwater world from a different perspective. It’s a fun and engaging and easy to do. There is no equipment to operate, and non-swimmers are welcome; Seawalker is accessible to almost everyone and you don’t even have to get your hair wet!

Seawalker Green Island offers an amazing underwater helmet diving experience on the Great Barrier Reef. Expert Guides will show you the wonders of the reef as you walk on the seafloor surrounded by colourful tropical fish and corals at beautiful Green Island, a 6000-year-old coral cay. There is no equipment to operate, and non-swimmers are welcome; Seawalker is accessible to almost everyone, and you don’t even have to get your hair wet!

Please see dive medical form in additional information as some conditions and medication can exclude you from this activity

Immerse yourself in the marine wonderland of the Great Barrier Reef and discover the underwater world from a different perspective. It’s a fun and engaging adventure you can share with your family and friends.

It’s quick – only 45 to 50 minutes from the briefing to being back on dry land. Learn about safety, don the helmet, and walk on the seafloor – it’s that easy. It’s easy – no new skills to learn, no swimming or equipment to operate.

• It’s safe – Seawalker’s guides are always in the water beside you
• It's great for non-swimmers and anyone who is not confident in the water
• It’s low stress – no complicated equipment, and you can wear glasses or contact lenses

Half Day Green Island

Adult $116|Child $58|Family 2A2C $290 Departs daily 9.00am - 1.00pm or Departs daily 1.00pm - 5.00pm Green Island is a beautiful island on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef only 45 minutes ferry ride from Cairns. It is a Marine National Park uniquely rainforested and surrounded by white sandy beaches and magnificent coral reefs and abundant marine life.

Your visit allows you 2 hours at Green Island and included is the choice of snorkelling gear OR a glass bottom boat tour. "Reef Rocket” is a modern comfortable air-conditioned highspeed catamaran with a relaxed atmosphere. Travel time to Green Island is 45 minutes from Cairns. Passengers can take part in the many activities available or simply relax on the beach. Our friendly crew will help you to organise your activities to make the most of your time on Green Island. Floatation vests and lycra suits included.

Green Island Cruise

• Cruise in comfort aboard modern air-conditioned catamarans
• Free choice of snorkel gear OR Glass Bottom Boat Tour
• Ideal for both swimmers and non-swimmers
• Licensed bar on board offering refreshments
• Change facilities on the island including freshwater showers & restrooms
• Shops, bar & restaurants available
• Beach umbrellas & sun lounges available for hire
• Other beach activities available for hire – canoes, surf skis, beach volleyball gear
• Sheltered beach with plenty of shady retreats
• Explore sandy beaches to find your own secluded spot
• Rainforest boardwalks with interpretative signage
• Self-guided island walk
• Snorkelling demonstration and activity presentation- en route to Green Island

Green Island & Outer Barrier Reef

• Return air-conditioned fast catamaran cruise
• Morning tea & coffee served until departure
• Morning tea cake selection
• Two (2) hours on Green Island
• Three (3) hours on Outer Reef platform
• Snorkelling equipment included at Green Island and the Outer Reef
• Lycra/Stinger suit included at the Outer Reef
• Use of buoyancy vests at the pontoon
• Reef education presentation
• Hot and cold buffet lunch
• Semi-submersible coral reef viewing tour
• Underwater observatory
• Guided Eco Reef Talk in the underwater observatory
• Afternoon tea and coffee available whilst at the platform
• Cheese and biscuits on return journey

What to bring:

Additional costs:.

• Visit Marineland Melanesia nautical museum, one of Green Islands unique attractions – It is also the home of Cassius – The World’s largest Crocodile in captivity. Entrance Fee $25.00 Adult $12.50 Child
• Lunch can be pre-booked or can be purchased from the island restaurant and food outlets.
• Floatation vests and lycra suits

Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises - Day Tour

• See all photos

Green Island Day Trip from Cairns

Green Island Half-Day Trip from Cairns

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises - Day Tour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Return Transfer

Green sea turtles, eco island walk.

Green Island Eco Adventure

Description

The Green Island Eco Adventure provides ferry travel to and from the island, and your choice of snorkel hire or a glass bottom boat tour. With up to 7 hours to explore the island’s rainforest and surrounding reef, it’s a great way to experience one of the most unique locations of the Great Barrier Reef.

• Return transfers on board Great Adventures
• Up to 7 hours on Green Island
• Self Guided Eco Island Walk
• Use of day facilities (toilets, showers, pool etc)
• Morning tea and coffee
• Snorkel equipment hire OR Glass Bottom Boat tour

Departure & Arrival

You can choose your preferred departure times from Cairns and Green Island!

Schudeled departure and arrive times may differ. Refer to booking form for availability.

Travel time to the island is approximately 45 minutes.

Monday & Wednesday & Friday *)

Saturday & sunday, coach transfers.

Coach transfers are available at an additional cost from most Cairns and Northern Beaches hotels/accommodation are available. Pick up times are advised on booking confirmation.

What to Bring

• Swimming costume
• Lycra suit if you have one (they are available for hire)
• Beach towel
• Hat, sunscreen and comfortable shoes
• Spending money for drinks, souvenirs and optional activities

Terms & Conditions

• 4 -14 years are classed as children, and under 4 free, i.e. 3 or below.
• Family fare – maximum of 2 adults and 2 children of the same family. Normal fare applies for additional children. Not applicable with any other discount.
• All schedules, activities and prices may be varied without notice. Listed fares in Australian dollars include Goods and Services Tax.
• Credit card surcharge may apply.
• Locals are classed as residents living between Cooktown and Innisfail
• Locals ID (drivers licensed with local address, or any document with a local address) much be presented at check-in.

GSL - Fly & Cruise Green Island

Departure Times

Pricing options.

Experience the best of the Great Barrier Reef above and below on GSL Aviation's Fly and Cruise Green Island combo!

• Take a 40 minute scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef!
• Explore Green Island with Big Cat Cruises full day tour
• Fill up on a delicious buffet lunch
• Choose your activity of a glass bottom boat tour or snorkel gear hire

The  GSL Fly and Cruise Green Island Combo  allows you see and do everything you could want with this day of fun! Start your day enjoying of a scenic flight with sights including Cairns, Green Island and the Great Barrier Reef. After the flight, you will have a full day cruising with Big Cat to Green Island with a range of activities including a glass bottom boat for coral viewing, snorkelling, self-guided walks, and fish feeding! 

Features And Highlights

• 40 minute Scenic flight
• Guaranteed window seat
• Full day cruise to Green Island
• Bird's eye view of Cairns, Green Island, and the Great Barrier Reef
• Snorkelling and other activities on Green Island 
• Glass-bottom boat tour or snorkel gear hire
• Buffet lunch
• In-flight pilot commentary
• Self-guided activities on Green Island

Important Information

• Return transfer is an extra cost and can be booked with Big Cat on your day of travel if required.
• You MUST include your body weights and pick up location when booking this tour
• Flights needs a minimum of 2 passengers to book
• Maximum individual passenger weight limit of 125kgs for the scenic flight
• Infants aged 2 and under are required to sit on a parent's lap. Children aged 3 and over require their own seat. 

Sample Itinerary

40 Minute Scenic Flight

Departing from Cairns Airport, start your day right soaring over the coastline, Green Island and the Great Barrier Reef. On board GSL's high-winged aircraft, you'll enjoy guaranteed window seats for everyone to get the best views from above an appreciation of the region that you can only get from the air! 

Green Island Day Tour

Following your morning flight, you'll che...

Following your morning flight, you'll check in at the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal at the marina ready set out on a full day adventure to Green Island with Big Cat Cruises. Enjoy exploring this developed rainforest and sand cay on the Great Barrier Reef with everything you need with buffet bunch included, along with your choice of a glass bottom boat tour or snorkel gear hire. 

More Information

What to bring.

For Scenic Flight

For Green Island

• Small day bag
• Water bottle
• Cash or Card for any extra purchases

What's Included

• 40 minute Reef Hopper scenic flight
• Guaranteed window seats
• Ferry to and from Green Island with Big Cat
• Glass bottom boat tour or snorkel gear hire

What's Extra

• Return Trans...
• Return Transfers
• Any extra purchases on Green Island

Terms and Conditions

All information provided at any time by Cairns Tours and our affiliates is subject to these Terms & Conditions. This includes but is not limited to tour information, pricing, blog posts, travel advice, itinerary information and availability.

Your Responsibilities:

Please advise us before booking if any passengers are under 18 years old to ensure this is the appropriate trip. 

You must reconfirm all booked tours prior to travel as specified on your voucher. If applicable, notes such as dietary requirements, pick-up locations and additional fees should also be confirmed at this time. Reconfirmations cannot be actioned through Cairns Tours/Mr Travel and must be done so directly through the Service Operator as specified on each ticket.

It is your responsibility to notify us of ticket discrepancies. Please read through the details on your voucher thoroughly to ensure all details such as passenger names, ages and dates of travel on vouchers are correct.

It is the responsibility of all passengers travelling to advise both your travel agent at the time of booking and check-in agent before boarding of any medical conditions including food allergies you may suffer from.

You need to allow adequate time to check-in prior to the specified departure time. Please refer to the specific tour page for full check-in instructions.

Prices/Extra Costs:

All prices are stated in Australian dollars and include GST. The Service Operator reserves the right to alter prices and extra costs. Extra costs may include EMC fees, Stingersuit/Wetsuit Hire, Luggage Storage, Insurance, Linen Hire, National Park Fees, Fuel Levies, Dietary Fees, etc. Bonds may also apply.

We will also endeavour to communicate these extra costs with you at the time of booking, and on your ticket. However, it is your responsibility to confirm which (if any) additional costs apply with each Service Operator upon reconfirming your trip.

Travel Risk/Insurance:

It should be noted that adventure travel involves risk. Whilst we make every effort to safeguard clients, we cannot be responsible for personal injury or loss due to the actions of our clients which are beyond our control. We highly recommend that all clients have travel insurance covering illness, injury, loss or damage to personal belongings and not being able to travel on the confirmed date of departure. You should also ensure your travel insurance will cover special circumstances including weather events preventing guests from travelling to their tour departure destination and cancelled flights due to unforeseen circumstances. 

It should be noted that any transport you have booked (buses, flights and ferries) through Cairns Tours is non-refundable and non-transferable. It might be possible to change flights however do note this must be done directly with the flight operator and we are unable to offer any support with this. This may incur change fees or cancellation fees, it depends on the T+Cs of the flight operators themselves. As we acted as a booking agent for you, it is possible to liaise with the airline directly should there be any unexpected events and the airline is forced to cancel your flights. If there are any changes to your flight times or days, we will get notified and send this email directly to you in a reasonable time.

Merchant Fees:

Please be aware operators pass on credit card merchant fees so there is a non-refundable 1% surcharge for VISA and MASTERCARD card purchases.

Other: 

Terms and Conditions (including the Cancellation Policy) are subject to change. The most recent versions can be found online on the relevant product pages. 

All ticket/voucher reissues attract a $20 administration fee.

The Service Operator reserves the right to limit courtesy transfers to select local accommodations. Private residences or Airbnb properties may be asked to meet at the closest confirmed location. Failure to meet at the specified pick-up location may be treated as “No Show”, for which the Client Cancellation Policy applies. Not all tours offer transfers, please refer to the individual product to see if this is applicable to your tour.

Accountability/Misconduct:

All Service Operators have the right to provide client feedback and to cancel bookings based off of feedback from other Service Operators. 

Please enjoy your travel experience in a kind and responsible manner.

Cairns Tours/Mr Travel will treat this as any normal client cancellation and therefore the cancellation fees stated in the Client Cancellation Policy will apply.

Information & Advice

All information, advice or pricing provided by Cairns Tours and our affiliates, or through any of our team, is subject to change. Cairns Tours articles and products are provided online for general information purposes only and are intended as guides. Any advice interpreted from information on the website (including but not limited to financial, immigration, employment and tax information) is not specialist advice and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional instruction. Cairns Tours does not guarantee that any information provided is up-to-date or accurate. Please obtain professional advice before actioning any advice, including but not limited to tax, immigration, employment, travel restrictions and finances.

Open Date Vouchers / Gift Certificate:

Shipping Costs are in addition to the ticket price and will be added at check-out. Shipping costs are non-refundable and do not makeup part of the ticket value. 

E-Vouchers incur no shipping fees. You have 5 years to use the value of the voucher. Seasonal Price Rises will apply if travelling out the current seasons pricing. Vouchers can be exchanged for free up to the full value of the voucher excluding credit card fees and charges.

Cancellations

Client cancellations:.

This is meant to be a guideline. Full cancellation policies for each tour can be found on that individual product page's terms and conditions as policies vary from operator to operator.  Transfers between tours can be made at the suppliers' discretion, however, it should be noted that supplier fees may apply. Tour transfers also incur a $20 administration fee. 

It is compulsory that all cancellation requests are in writing and sent via email to: [email protected]. Cancellations attempted via online chat or phone will not be actioned.

Supplier Cancellations:

The Service Operator reserves the right to alter prices, alter itineraries, apply a fuel surcharge, cancel departures, arrange alternative transport and vary itineraries and services if necessary.

All departures and itineraries are subject to weather. Tours may be changed or cancelled for any reason at the discretion of the Service Operator. If the Service Operator has to cancel the trip or activity (prior to departure) and we cannot offer a suitable alternative, then a refund will be given minus a 20% administration fee and any associated card fees. We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance, especially during the wet season.

All add-on activities (including but not limited to scuba diving, stand-up paddleboarding, helmet diving, guided snorkel tours, banana boat rides and waterslides) are subject to availability and price changing, and may not be available during your tour without notice. Guests are not eligible for refunds on the grounds of non-operating extra activities.

In the unlikely event of your trip being cancelled or stood down, all guest communication is required to go through our Online Store via telephone or email.  While there is a Travel Shop retail outlet located in Cairns, please be aware that they operate as a separate entity and are unable to access reservations made by the Cairns Tours/Mr Travel online department.

All refunds are in Australian Dollars and must be made to the card of payment. Cairns Tours/Mr Travel is not liable for exchange rate fluctuations or fees, or any other merchant/bank fees associated with domestic and/or international transactions.

Where a full refund is applicable, there is the option to transfer the whole cost of the tour to another tour or “Credit” to avoid the administration fee. A transfer fee of $20 will apply.

You will be emailed confirmation once the refund has been processed. Once the refund has been processed, it may still take time for the banks to clear the amount. Please allow 7-10 business days for the funds to clear into Australian accounts and up to 21 business days for international accounts.

Thank you for booking with our East-Coast travel experts here at Cairns Tours/ Mr Travel. If you would like any further advice, assistance in arranging accommodation, transfers or additional tours please  get in touch.

OUR CAIRNS EXPERTS ARE READY TO HELP YOU

• Can answer all your Cairns questions
• We will build you exclusive packages to save you money
• Available by email or chat 24/7

Quick Enquiry

Cairns information.

Booking For GSL - Fly & Cruise Green Island

Check availability for gsl - fly & cruise green island, manual availability check request for gsl - fly & cruise green island, gift card - gsl - fly & cruise green island, date of travel:.

Please select the date you would like to travel.

Please note: Calendar availability is based on total capacity - selected fare options may be limited.

Gift Card Booking Information

Open dated gift voucher.

Destroyed by cyclones, impacted by climate change and neglected by foreign owners – these abandoned island resorts are now an eyesore

A pool lined with green sludge, rotting roofs and termite infested buildings – this derelict island resort has become a sad tourist attraction for all the wrong reasons, and it's not an isolated case.

At least half a dozen resorts along the Queensland coast have fallen to a similar fate.

In the heart of tropical Far North Queensland, the picturesque Double Island was once a thriving hub for holiday-makers including former Hollywood power couple Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston.

The island resort, 30 minutes north of Cairns, even built a gym for actor Keanu Reeves, so frequent were his stays.

But the resort has long been in a state of disrepair, with rotting roofs punctured by falling coconuts and green sludge lining the bottom of the once sparkling pool.

Brad Madgwick offers guided kayaking tours to the island, and recently incorporated the island's decay into his regular marine-life spotting adventures.

"We've always walked the shorelines looking for wildlife, but in the last few years, we have been given permission to go through the resort," Mr Madgwick said.

"The coconuts have taken a toll and the termites are having a good feed, it's sad really because it used to be a very glamorous resort back in the day."

The derelict state of the resort — safari-style tents covered in mould are dotted throughout — is shaping up to be one of the biggest legal battles ever held over an island in Australia.

The Queensland Government's Department of Resources will attempt to strip Hong Kong based billionaire Benny Wu of the island's lease in the Land Court in Cairns within weeks.

Mr Wu's Fortune Island Holding's is accused of non-compliance for failing to bring the facilities up to scratch and open the island to the public.

The day can't come soon enough for some local Palm Cove business owners, although opinions vary about what should happen with the island, if the state government is successful in its proceedings.

"When it was taken over in 2012, it was a thriving business," said local businessman Tony Richards, who would like to see a resort rebuilt.

"Nothing has been done to it since then. It's a complete bulldoze job."

The ABC has contacted Mr Wu for comment.

Paradise lost

Across the Great Barrier Reef, cyclones and neglect have left half a dozen island resorts shuttered and abandoned, with ruined infrastructure and damaged environments.

Brampton Island Resort, off Mackay, was a jewel in Queensland's tourism crown until it was bought by United Petroleum in 2010 for $5.9 million, its ocean side pool now filled with sand.

Lindeman Island in the Whitsundays, once famed for being the first Club Med in Australia, has sat in ruins since it was pummelled by Cyclone Yasi in 2011.

The Singaporean company, Well Start, has since bought the island and pledged to restore it.

Resorts on South Molle and Hook Island have also been closed for years.

The 1980s party paradise, Great Keppel (Woppa) Island off the central Queensland coast, has been laying in ruin for 15 years, with the Queensland government recently announcing a $30 million master plan including provisions for an eco-resort , new sewage system and conservation areas. 

Meanwhile, the beleaguered Dunk Island resort off the coast of Far North Queensland, was also destroyed by Cyclone Yasi in 2011.

There are plans to open "glamping" style accommodation on the island within months, following billionaire Annie Cannon-Brook's purchase in 2022.

Professor Daniel Gschwind, from Griffith University's Institute for Tourism, said abandoned and closed resorts not only had an impact on the Great Barrier Reef's reputation, but Australia's broader tourism brand.

"Globally, the Great Barrier Reef is recognised as an outstanding asset, it's World Heritage listed, which in itself draws a lot of attention," Professor Gshwind said.

"The way Australia manages that asset and presents the asset to visitors is absolutely, critically important for our global reputation."

He said island resorts helped to bring in billions of tourism dollars each year and there needed to be an "expectation that lease holders fulfil their obligations".

However, he said the high cost of maintaining as well as accessing the resorts by plane or barge was impacting on owners to turn a profit, as well as skyrocketing insurance premiums.

"So there are great obstacles to overcome, but the benefit and the value of those islands as a tourism destination really can't be overstated."

Parliamentary inquiry into Queensland islands

Queensland's Transport and Resources Committee held a parliamentary inquiry examining the economic and regulatory frameworks for Queensland's island resorts, tabling a report just over a year ago.

Eighteen recommendations were made to the state government, including cancelling the leases of developers who let the resorts fall to rack and ruin.

Several of the submissions raised concerns about foreign ownership, as well as the impact of climate change, including intense cyclones, on resort infrastructure.

Professor Tim Harcourt, chief economist at the Institute for Public Policy and Governance at the University of Technology Sydney said buying up tropical islands could be seen by some international companies as an attractive proposition.

"They've got to get their money out and they're going to put it somewhere, and buying land is the easiest thing to do," Professor Harcourt said.

He also noted the longevity and success stories of the Hamilton and Hayman Island resorts in the Whitsundays.

The Andrew Forrest-owned Lizard Island, off Cooktown in Far North Queensland has been rebuilt twice due to successive cyclones, and is enjoying strong occupancy numbers.

Orpheus Island and Pelorus Island north of Townsville have also undergone extensive renovations.

Back on Double Island, Mr Madgwick said he would like to see the island returned to its natural splendour.

"I would love to see the island turned into a national park, with a communal kitchen, maybe a caretaker on the island, and to open it up to camping," Mr Madgwick said.

"It's a beautiful island and it should belong to the people."

• X (formerly Twitter)

Related Stories

Former party paradise great keppel island a step closer to new 'glory' with plans for eco-resort and glamping.

• Brampton Island
• Climate Change
• Dunk Island
• Great Keppel Island
• Lindeman Island
• South Molle
• Travel Health and Safety
• Travel and Tourism (Lifestyle and Leisure)