Reef Magic (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Reef Magic?
What makes it 90% Solo-Friendly: The boat supplies all snorkel gear, small-group dive add-ons and science talks, making a full five-hour reef stop ideal for independent explorers who enjoy meeting others.
Positives:
- Small group setting: Limited to 200 guests for a personal experience.
- Meet fellow travelers: Group dives and communal meals help solo guests connect.
Challenges:
- Seasickness risk: Carry motion-sickness tablets; the catamaran is stable but ocean conditions vary.
- Early start: Boarding begins before sunrise; arrange transport to the marina.
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 solo trip?
- Exclusive access to an outer barrier reef pontoon
- 5 hours of guided snorkeling and dry-deck tours
- Free marine biology talks and cultural demonstrations
- Optional scuba, helmet dives, and scenic flights
- Small groups create a more personal reef adventure
Recommended visit duration: 0.5–1 day
Why 0.5–1 day visit duration is ideal for solo trip: A full-day cruise gives you 5 hours on the pontoon for snorkeling, observatory tours, and talks.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Reef Magic
Guided Snorkel Safari:
Small-group tour of coral gardens with a marine biologist.
Tip: Book online early and arrive 15 minutes before departure.
Underwater Observatory:
Floor-to-ceiling windows reveal reef life up close.
Tip: Attend the fish-feeding talk for the best photo spots.
Semi-Submersible Tour:
View the reef from dry comfort through glass panels.
Tip: Sit at the front window for uninterrupted views.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Reef Magic
- Pre-book extras: Reserve scuba, helmet dives, or helicopter flights online to avoid sellouts.
- Choose morning snorkel: Calmer seas and cooler water offer clearer visibility.
Reviews of Reef Magic
amanda tilley
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
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
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
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
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 June–August for cooler water and minimal stingers. From October–May wear a stinger suit and apply reef-safe sunscreen daily.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Day cruise ticket | AUD 275 |
| Optional guided scuba dive | AUD 140 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 415 |
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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About Reef Magic
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 7 4031 1588Average price
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