Private Charter | Dunk Island Ferry | Dunk Island to Mission Beach | One-Way

Awesome reef snorkeling adventure
Just back from an awesome day out with Dunk Island Reef Adventures, and I can’t recommend them highly enough. Have to shout out to Brian and his crew who made the whole experience so memorable from beginning to end. Brian picked us up with his cheery disposition and comfortable van, bright and early in Cairns for the drive down to Mission Beach. His humour, warmth, and storytelling made the journey fly by and it felt like we were traveling with an old friend. Once onboard the boat, we were greeted with fresh coffee and muffins, the perfect way to start the morning before heading out to the reef. The trip itself was pure bliss as we soaked up the sun and sea breeze on the front deck. The snorkelling was a highlight. The crew took us on a long guided swim over the outer reef, pointing out vibrant marine life, reef sharks, and even turtles gliding gracefully through the water. It felt like being part of another world. Lunch was simple, fresh, and delicious and came with a beer if so desired. On the way back, we had a bonus stop at Dunk Island, having over an hour to explore the island and get some pics for the gram. From start to finish, the trip was seamless, relaxed, and filled with special moments. If you’re looking for an authentic, personal, and unforgettable reef experience away from the big crowds, Dunk Island Reef Adventures is the way to go.

Great small group snorkeling trip to lesser known location. Wonderful crew.
Brian was the nicest organizer, bus driver & historian and prepared us a fine tasty lunch. He got us to the boat through winding road and pouring rain. The boat crew and dive assistants were friendly and helpful. This was a small group snorkeling trip. It was nice having all snorkelers on board. No one who expected to SCUBA dive was let down by being told they had some medical issues to prevent them from SCUBA diving. It was just snorkeling. We visited 2 reef sites close together that were a bit different. The water was a bit choppy and rough that day but the skipper of the boat got us to the reef and I don't think anyone got really ill. It was more like a wild roller coaster ride - no going upside down. The trip included a stop at Dunk Island for a short visit. Originally, it was supposed to be on the way back, but Brian arranged for us to go there first to allow times for the tides to lower and wind to settle down to make for a better snorkeling experience. It was a gray, damp day, so the reef was not that colorful but you can't do much about the weather. Then, despite more rain and darkening skies, Brian got us back to Cairns in reasonably good time. This trip goes to Beaver Reef off Mission Beach north of Cairns. I would recommend it because it is not visited as much as some of the other reefs and the smaller number of participants makes it a more personal experience. Also, the crew locate my mask and snorkel that I had left on board and returned it to me a couple days later.

Amazing snorkeling experience
My friends and I had a great day exploring the Great Barrier Reef with Bry and Louis (June 2025)! The boat ride was a little rough due to winds but sooo worth it to get to the reef snorkeling spot. It was so cool to swim with all the fish and we saw a turtle too! We were staying in Cairns so it was nice to see the Mission Beach area and Dunk Island. Highly recommend this experience! :)

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