Moore Reef (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Moore Reef?
What makes it 90% Solo-Friendly: Solo visitors enjoy unlimited snorkelling, guided dives, glass-bottom tours, and sociable pontoon space; trained lifeguards and crew make the long offshore day safe and rewarding.
Positives:
- Gear included: Stinger suits, masks, fins and life jackets come with your tour fare.
- Meet fellow travelers: Group activities on the pontoon make it easy to connect with other solos.
Challenges:
- Seasickness risk: The 1.5–2 h boat transfer can be rough; take medication if prone to motion sickness.
- Limited connectivity: No phone signal or Wi-Fi on the platform; download guides and music before departure.
What is Moore Reef?
- An outer barrier reef section of the Great Barrier Reef located about 40 kilometres off the coast of Cairns, Queensland
- A vibrant coral ecosystem of hard and soft corals anchored on a fine white sand seabed, forming steep reef walls and expansive coral gardens
- Clear deep-sea waters with visibility up to 20 metres, hosting a rich diversity of tropical fish, invertebrates and reef sharks
What is so special about Moore Reef for solo trip?
- Unlimited complimentary snorkeling and reef activities.
- Underwater observatory and glass-bottom boat for dry viewing.
- Optional guided snorkel tour with a marine biologist.
- Waterslide adds a fun twist after diving in.
- Small groups make it easy to meet other solo travelers.
Recommended visit duration: 0.5–1 day
Why 0.5–1 day visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to snorkel, explore the pontoon and join an optional guided tour
Solo-Friendly Activities in Moore Reef
Snorkel the outer reef:
Swim among hard corals and tropical fish up to 3m depth
Tip: Wear the provided stinger suit and fins; start early for clearer water and reef sharks
Descend to the underwater observatory:
Watch fish and giant clams through sub-sea windows
Tip: Arrive by 3 pm for the daily fish-feeding demonstration
Ride the glass-bottom boat:
View the reef without getting wet from the comfort of the hull
Tip: Sit at the front for the best view and ask the guide about coral types
Slide into the lagoon:
Spiral down a 30 m waterslide into calm reef water
Tip: Go after snorkeling when the water is warmer
Join a guided snorkel tour:
Upgrade to a small-group reef walk with a marine biologist
Tip: Book the AU$55 upgrade in advance for a max of 8 participants
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Moore Reef
- Book the first boat: Early departures have fewer crowds and calmer seas for snorkeling.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen: Protect coral by applying biodegradable sunscreen or wearing a lycra suit.
- Bring a waterproof camera: Capture vivid fish and corals without hiring gear on-site.
Reviews of Moore Reef
James Zhuo
I wasn’t sure what to expect before joining the Sunlover Reef Cruises, but Moore Reef is still very much in tact with no coral bleaching as of April 2024. There’s a large variety of both soft and hard corals, with lots of different fish and turtles if you are lucky. The glass boat is a good way to see corals if you don’t want to go into the water, but the most immersive experience is still snorkel...
Michael McRoberts
Great reef experience!
Gilbert Mui
Lots of fishes around, definitely worthwhile to visit the reef for a nice snorkeling or scuba diving experience!
Luke Carr
Reef is in ok shape. Crown of thorns has been through and flogged it. But there is evidence of bleaching that they would not admit. The rule seems to be let as many Asians as you can on there every day to the detriment of the reef without care. Greed over conservation. Reduce your numbers by 65-70% and they might actually have a half decent experience. I am an experienced scuba/free diver and the ...
Anthony IAMTHEONE
This was the highlight of our trip to Cairns. Even though weather wasnt the greatest had an awesome day. Most activities are free unlike the other tours.
When is the best time to visit Moore Reef (Great Barrier Reef Area, Australia)?
Visit June–October for clearer water and fewer jellyfish; from November–May always wear a stinger suit when snorkeling.
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Moore Reef full-day tour | AUD 165 |
| Guided snorkel tour upgrade | AUD 55 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 220 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Moore Reef
Address: Moore Reef, Australia
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