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Australia/Things to Do in Great Barrier Reef Area, couple trip

Reef Magic (couple trip)

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How Couple-Friendly is Reef Magic?

89%Couple-Friendly
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What makes it 89% Couple-Friendly: Shared sundeck daybeds, tandem snorkelling in calm lagoon and optional helicopter flights feel romantic, yet 200-passenger limit means some crowding, so very suitable but not perfect.

Google
Reviews4.6/ 5
(from 563 reviews)
Reef Magic Pontoon!
10 min
Start from:
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Reef Magic Pontoon!
1.7K views • 2 years ago

Positives:

  • Exclusive outer reef access: Dream Reef cruise limits to 200 guests, giving you less crowded coral platforms.
  • Comfortable catamaran ride: High-speed catamaran shortens travel and offers a stable deck for lounging.

Challenges:

  • Weather-dependent visibility: Squalls can reduce underwater clarity—check the daily forecast before boarding.
  • Limited free storage: Boat lockers are small and cost extra—travel light and secure valuables.
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🏖️ Explore Reef Magic with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Reef Magic. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Reef Magic?

  • A permanent offshore marine platform moored on Moore Reef in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
  • A multilevel structure housing an underwater observatory, glass-bottom viewing chambers, and a sheltered coral lagoon
  • A catamaran-linked facility engineered to accommodate up to 200 people with dedicated dive and snorkel infrastructure

What is so special about Reef Magic for couple trip?

  1. Exclusive access to outer barrier reef with fewer crowds
  2. Guided snorkel tours and marine biology talks for in-depth reef insight
  3. Multiple viewing options: observatory, glass-bottom boat, and helicopter
  4. Comfortable catamaran transit and spacious pontoon with day beds

Recommended visit duration: 0.5–1 day

Why 0.5–1 day visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Provides 5 hours exploring the outer reef plus transit time, ideal for a full-day trip without rushing.

(View Reef Magic on Map)

Couple-Friendly Activities in Reef Magic

Guided Snorkel Safari:

Join a small-group tour led by a marine biologist through vibrant coral gardens.

Tip: Start in the sheltered lagoon for calm water and abundant fish.

Underwater Observatory:

Watch fish feed through floor-to-ceiling windows with live commentary.

Tip: Arrive early to secure front-row seating for best views.

Glass-Bottom Boat Tour:

See the reef from above via a glass-bottom boat with live narration.

Tip: Sit near the bow for the clearest, unobstructed views of corals.

Scenic Helicopter Flight:

Take a 10-minute helicopter ride for aerial reef photos and sweeping vistas.

Tip: Book your flight on arrival to lock in a morning slot before crowds.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Reef Magic

  1. Arrive early: Catch the first departure to avoid afternoon winds and claim prime pontoon spots.
  2. Reserve extras on arrival: Book scuba or helicopter tours as soon as you board to ensure availability.
  3. Use the sundeck: Relax on day beds between activities to save time changing and maximize reef time.
🏖️ Tour Reef Magic like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Reef Magic. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Reef Magic

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amanda tilley

amanda tilley

Nov 2025

Absolutely fabulous day with the crew of reef magic. Super organised but also very relaxed day. We had a nice 90 min trip out to the pontoon,then 5 hrs there to snorkel and do any of the other free activities plus paid activities as well. The crew were all friendly and helpful. I suffer from knee arthritis and all offered qhat ever help I needed. The pontoon is easy to access the water and they h...

Steven Z

Steven Z

Oct 2025

Highly recommended! The crew members were friendly, and the outer reef platform let you get incredibly close to the world-class coral formations. I felt a bit seasick, but after holding on for a while, it passed.

Kaz Bar

Kaz Bar

Sep 2025

Absolutely sensational experience with Reef Magic and Dreamtime Dive. The boat itself was fantastic, with the top deck available due to good weather, we were spent the trip out and back with our guide Kevin sharing his culture and stories. This was a wonderful experience and we truly appreciated Kevin's humour and learned so much. The two reef sites we stopped at were beautiful. The snorkelling a...

Nupur

Nupur

Aug 2025

I went with zero expectations but had the best time of my life. They have something for everyone no matter you are young , old or swimmer or non swimmer. I did helicopter, semi submersible , glass bottom and had the great view. Semi submersible was amazing like you are in water. As a non swimmer I wanted to do first the intro scuba diving but after trying it I decided to change it to helmet diving...

Karen Serritslev

Karen Serritslev

Jul 2025

An unforgettable first reef experience – perfect for families! This was our very first reef tour, and Reef Magic completely exceeded our expectations. Our family of five (with kids aged 9, 12, and 15) spent the day on the outer reef, and it was the highlight of our trip. The crew was incredible — so friendly, professional, and genuinely caring. When our 9-year-old felt a bit sick on the choppy r...

When is the best time to visit Reef Magic (Great Barrier Reef Area, Australia)?

Visit April–November for calmer seas and optimal visibility. If traveling in Dec–Mar, wear the provided lycra stinger suit and apply reef-safe sunscreen.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Great Barrier Reef Area on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Reef Magic day trip fare (2 adults)AUD 540
Scenic helicopter flight (optional, per person)AUD 200
Total EstimatedAUD 940

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 Reef Magic

Address: Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Reef Magic (Great Barrier Reef Area)?

← See other Things to Do in Great Barrier Reef Area (couple trip)

About Reef Magic

Opening Hours

Monday:8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday:8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday:8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday:8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday:8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday:8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday:8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+61 7 4031 1588

Average price

US$ 180.85
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Average price

US$ 180.85
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