A Guide to Visiting The Great Barrier Reef

1. Outer Reef Snorkelling & Diving Tours (Cairns & Port Douglas)

If you want the full reef experience, take a full-day boat trip to the Outer Reef. Snorkel or dive among vibrant coral gardens, swim alongside schools of colourful fish, and keep your eyes peeled for turtles and reef sharks. If you're prone to sea sickness then take some medication with you as it can be a bit choppy! Expect to pay anywhere between $150-200 for a full day tour, many also include lunch. Compare operators on websites like Get Your Guide and book in advance online for discounts.

2. Green Island & Fitzroy Island

Just a short ferry ride from Cairns, these tropical islands offer beautiful beaches, snorkelling right off the shore, and scenic walking trails. Fitzroy Island is particularly good for budget travellers, with self-catering options. A round trip is around $100, bring a picnic and spend the day snorkelling off of world class beaches.

3. Whitsunday Islands & Whitehaven Beach

Halfway between Cairns and Brisbane, the Whitsundays are famous for turquoise waters and pure white sand. You can take a day cruise from Airlie Beach or, for budget-friendly options, book half-day tours or local ferry trips to nearby islands. Imoova campervan relocations are common between Cairns and Airlie Beach, allowing you to get to one of Australia's most famous beaches on a budget. From Airlie Beach you can also take a scenic flight out over the reef and get an aerial view of Whitehaven Beach and the famous heart reef.

4. Lady Elliot Island

At the southern tip of the reef, Lady Elliot is known for manta rays, turtles, and crystal-clear water. Day trips depart from Bundaberg and Hervey Bay. Car relocations are common between Brisbane and Hervey Bay.

If you’re relocating a vehicle with Imoova, you can turn your journey into a tropical east coast road trip. Some great stops include:

• Mission Beach – Laid-back vibe, golden sands, and a great chance to spot cassowaries.

• Townsville & Magnetic Island – Take the ferry to explore hiking trails, secluded bays, and wildlife.

• Airlie Beach – Gateway to the Whitsundays with a lively backpacker atmosphere.

• Yeppoon & Capricorn Coast – Gorgeous beaches and a relaxed holiday pace.

• 1770 & Agnes Water – The last stop north where you can surf — ideal for lessons.

• Hervey Bay – Whale-watching capital from July to October.

Step 1: Visit Imoova.com and search for vehicle relocations to or from Cairns.
Step 2: Book a car, campervan, or motorhome for as little as $1/day (plus a small booking fee).
Step 3: Use the free travel days to explore at your own pace — adding extra days at a low rate if you want to stop longer.
Step 4: Drop off the vehicle at its destination and enjoy the savings.

Why it’s ideal:

• You avoid expensive one-way rental fees.

• You have the flexibility to stop at coastal towns along the way.

• Campervan relocations can also save you money on accommodation - no cramped hostels!

Travel in shoulder seasons (April–June, September–November) for better weather and lower prices.

Pack your own snorkelling gear if possible to avoid hire fees on multiple trips (some tours do include this so be sure to check).

Look for free campsites if in a campervan — apps like WikiCamps can help.

Self-cater meals — fresh tropical fruit and local produce are cheap and delicious.

Book tours locally — sometimes walk-in rates are lower, especially in smaller towns.

The Great Barrier Reef is a bucket-list destination that doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. By pairing reef experiences with an Imoova relocation to or from Cairns, you can explore Australia’s tropical east coast, visit vibrant towns, and snorkel one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders — all while keeping your budget intact.