What makes you different from other Great Barrier Reef operators?

• Opportunity to visit the Great Barrier Reef and a tropical island – in one day!
• Short travel time so you can spend more time on the island
• Our vessels conveniently depart Cairns at 9am, 11am, and 1pm. You can spend as little as 2 hours on the island or the whole day!
• We operate Green Island’s only semi-submarine coral viewing tour. Our semi-sub lets you explore the underwater world in air-conditioned comfort with a lively fish feeding display and commentary.
• Big Cat is a family owned and operated reef cruise company with over 30 years experience in offering cruises to the Great Barrier Reef.
• We provide our passengers with an air conditioned all weather base. Our ‘Big Cat’ vessel is stationed at Green Island all day and lunch is served on board between 11.30am to 1.00pm.
• We are suitable for both swimmers and non-swimmers
• Life guard on duty at the northern beach
• FREE Family Fun Pak – Green Island is a great family beach destination. Big Cat has designed a special family program with additional inclusions at no extra cost

Do I need to check in before travel?

Yes, please check in at The Reef Fleet Terminal at least 30 minutes prior to your departure. Please present relevant vouchers or itineraries at check in exchange for your boarding passes.

Where do I park?

Parking is available at the nearby Pier Shopping Complex/Shangri-la hotel, located opposite of the Reef Fleet Terminal. Hourly cost is from AUD 0.80 cents for indoor and outdoor parking. All day parking is also available near Trinity Wharf at approximately $3 per day.

Can I take a pram on board the boat?

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.

How long does it take to travel to Green Island?

Full Day 9am departure (FDBC) – approximately 1 hour

Full Day 11am departure (FDRR) – approximately 45 minutes

Half Day 9am & 1pm departure (HDAM & HDPM) – approximately 45 minutes

Do you offer Seasickness tablets?

Yes, we offer complimentary Travel Calm ginger tablets on board our ‘Big Cat’ and ‘Reef Rocket’ vessels. These are a natural tablet that eases travel and motion sickness.

Do you have wheelchair facilities?

Yes, but limited.  Passengers must have some mobility and/or the presence of a carer who can assist them. Depending on tides it 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 any 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.

Do you have credit card facilities on board the boats?

Yes, you are able to purchase additional activities, beverages and confectionary with EFTPOS and credit cards (Minimum spend applies. AMEX and Diners attracts a 3%  surcharge). Cash withdrawal facilities are available on the island.

Do you supply floatation vests and lycra suits?

Floatation vests and lycra suits are available to hire at the bar on board our vessels. They can also be pre-booked or purchased at check in.

Does the lunch cater for vegetarians and vegans?

Vegetarian dishes are available on the buffet, they include a Vegetarian Napolitana Penne Pasta served with parmesan cheese, fresh salads, steamed jasmine rice, sliced white and multi-grain bread and a seasonal fruit platter. For other dietary requirements (celiac and vegan) we recommend that you take our own packed lunch.

Are there changing facilities on the island?

Yes, Big Cat passengers can use the island facilities including toilets, fresh water showers, change rooms and rest rooms. Lockers are available to hire on the island at an additional cost.

Do you supply towels?

We recommend that you bring along your own towels or you can purchase a towel from our souvenir range on board the boats.

Does it cost anything to change our travel date, and what is your cancellation policy?

We do not charge a cancellation fee however we appreciate as much notice as possible to cancel travel or amend dates of travel. Our reservations department is manned from 6.30am to 10.00pm. **please note that cancellation fees do apply to group bookings**

Is Green Island suitable for my young 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.

Big Cat also offers a Family Fun Pak which is available to all families with children at no extra cost.

Family Fun Pak Inclusions:

• Choice of Snorkelling equipment for the day OR a Glass Bottom Boat tour designed specifically for families
• Guided Island walk for families
• Tour of the ‘Big Cat’ Wheelhouse
• A  free soft drink for kids at lunch (if lunch package purchased)
• A Cool Cruising membership to the Turtle Rescue Club
• Cool Character colouring in sheet

Please note that all children need to be supervised and accompanied by an adult at all times.

How is the snorkeling operated at the Island, from a boat or the beach?

Snorkelling and safety presentation is given on board en route to Green Island. Snorkelling is undertaken at your own leisure, directly from the beach. Life guard is on duty in the flagged area at the northern beach.

Is there stinger nets at Green Islands beach?

No. During the marine stinger season we highly recommend hiring a lycra suit for protection from the natural environment ($8.00 adults/$4 children).