The Luxury Reef and Kuranda Experience delivers not only the best of two worlds but as a VIP and in luxury. Australia’s Great Barrier Reef as well as Kuranda Village.
Top Deck Club is Cairns’ Best VIP Reef Day Experience
Be pampered by your personal valet!
Get that “Celebrity Feel” and discover why our Top Deck Club Reef Day Cruise is the ultimate way to see the Great Barrier Reef. This VIP Day tour is personalised and private and will certainly leave you feeling relaxed. With a dedicated Personal Valet caring for you in and out of the water, you will feel pampered.
Step onboard, head straight for the Top Deck lounge, and make yourself comfortable! Not only do you get to skip the queue but also head straight for the exclusive Top Deck Lounge and get comfortable! Your Valet will look after your check-in and then serve up a delicious plated BBQ Breakfast.
Find a Clownfish at the Great Barrier Reef
Whether you are Snorkelling or diving, you will be able to discover the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. Let your guide personalise your snorkel and diving tour. Do you want to see Nemo the Clownfish? Then again, perhaps it is the Sea Turtle you want to see? No problems, your guide will know exactly where he is hiding. All in all, what better way to kick off your Luxury Reef and Kuranda Experience!
Kuranda Scenic Train, Rainforestation and Skyrail Experience
Next up on your Luxury Reef and Kuranda Experience is a visit to the heart of the rainforest. This tour combines three Cairns Icons – Kuranda Scenic Rail, Rainforestation, as well as the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Journey to Kuranda on ground level through World Heritage Listed rainforest on this world-famous railway. Wrap up your adventure with the Skyrail Cableway. Glide high above the rainforest canopy for an extraordinary birds-eye view of the rainforest, not to mention the endless ocean views!
Take a journey through the rainforest on the Kuranda Scenic Train
Travel past many stunning waterfalls on the Kuranda Scenic Train
Begin your journey on the Kuranda Scenic Railway. This iconic railway was a massive feat, and certainly not without its sacrifices. Travel back in time as you listen to the history of the rail through the onboard commentary. Be blown away as you wind your way to Kuranda, through 15 hand-carved tunnels and traverse across 39 bridges. Certainly is an impressive achievement! Get that camera ready as you travel past Stoney Creek Falls – the only section where you can see the whole train at once! Including a stop at the popular Barron Falls, those holiday selfies are going to look grand indeed!
Once you arrive in Kuranda, you will have a little time to explore this village in the rainforest. Imagine yourself standing amongst vibrantly coloured stalls. Although at first, you will find yourself looking at intrinsic and sometimes abstract artwork from local artists. At the next stall, you will then find yourself chatting to the man who swears he has the hottest chilli sauce in the world. Each stall is so wonderfully different from the last.
Discover many beautiful butterflies such as the Ulysses
But it’s not just about the markets! Save some time to stop off at the Butterfly Sanctuary. The largest aviary in the Southern Hemisphere! Home to over 1500 butterflies, such as the Ulysses Butterfly. There are so many different species to discover. It is such a magical experience walking through. In fact, you may even have a butterfly come and land on your hand!
Explore culture and discover wildlife at Rainforestation
Following on on your adventure, it is time to head over to Rainforestation. Set on 100 acres of World Heritage Rainforest. Travel on an authentic WWII DUKW– better known as the Army Duck. This amphibious vehicle can travel not only on land but also on the water, making for an unforgettable experience! Learn about the indigenous culture through the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience, or take a visit with the iconic Australian animals at the Koala & Wildlife Park.
Surely by now, you would have worked up a hunger? After all that exploring, it’s time to head on over to the Restaurant to recharge with a hot meal. Relax on the old world verandah overlooking a picturesque lake at the Treehouse Cafe.
Soon enough, it will be time to head home, but we have saved the best for last!
Skim across the treetops on the Skyrail Experience
View the Barron Falls from above on your Skyrail Journey home
Glide high through the air, skimming past the treetops of the rainforest. There are two mid-stations where you can jump off and see parts of the rainforest up close. The first stop is the Barron Falls station. Venture onto the “The Edge Lookout” if you are brave enough. A glass balcony over the Barron Falls – but expect to get a little wet! In the wet season, these falls are full of water, and you can feel their thunder before seeing them! This is the best way to see the falls, but on the other hand, a short distance away is a second lookout. So if you would prefer to see the falls without getting wet, this is the option for you.
The second station is at Red Peak. With a short boardwalk loop, you can explore and learn about the forest with the many plaques found along the way. On the other hand, you could join the Ranger-guided walk. They certainly have a wealth of information! This station is optional whether you want to jump off and explore or continue your cableway journey.
All in all, a great way to wrap up your Luxury Reef and Kuranda Experience!
Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience Army Duck Rainforest Tour
Koala & Wildlife Park
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Top Deck Club Great Barrier Reef Experience
7:30 am â Board Reef Experience boat at the Cairns Marina ‘A-Finger’ for check-in
8:00 am â Approximate departure & Safety Talk with snorkel briefing
Marine Biology presentation and scuba dive safety briefing
Arrive at our first spectacular reef site
Lunch
Cruise to our second location
3:00 pm â Depart the Great Barrier Reef
A glass of wine, tropical fruits, cheese & biscuits on the return journey
4:30 pm â Arrive back in Cairns
Kuranda Scenic Train, Rainforestation and Skyrail Experience
7.30 am (approx) – Pickup from your Cairns City Accommodation
8:30 am – Travel on the Kuranda Scenic Railway.
10:30 am – Arrive at Kuranda Railway Station.
11:45 am –Â Meet at Australian Butterfly Sanctuary for transfer to Rainforestation Nature Park.
Army Duck Rainforest Tour with Tropical Fruit Orchard.
Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience.
Koala & Wildlife Park.
3:45 pm – Transfer to Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Terminal for 4:00 pm boarding.
5.15 pm – Coach transfer you to your accommodation.
Top Deck Club Great Barrier Reef Experience
Your own personal valet for the day
Exclusive access to the Skipper’s wheelhouse
Up to 5 hours at two Outer Great Barrier Reef locations
Scuba Dive with your own private SSI professional (1 x Certified Dive OR Resort/Introductory Dive included)*Â
Pick up and Return to Cairns City Accommodation**
Marine Biology Presentation**
Large Sun Deck with padded loungers**
*Subject to Medical
**These activities are conducted with other guests onboard.
Kuranda Scenic Train, Rainforestation and Skyrail Experience
Return Hotel Transfers from Cairns City Accommodation
One-way Ticket on Kuranda Scenic Railway
Admission to Butterfly Sanctuary
Admission to Rainforestation
One-way Ticket on Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Underwater Digital Camera Hire
Snack Bar
Great Barrier Reef souvenirs
Bus transfers from Cairns Northern Beaches
Second Scuba Dive
Please note this is a 2-day fun-filled adventure. However, your overnight accommodation is not included.
For your Great Barrier Reef Tour:
Cash and/or credit card for purchases
Swimming Clothes, Towel, Hat, Sunglasses, Sunscreen
Proof of qualification if you’re a Certified Diver
For your Kuranda Tour:
Cash and/or credit card for purchases
Comfortable Shoes
Water Bottle
Hat, Sunglasses and Sunscreen
Most importantly… Don’t forget your camera!
Courtesy Transfers are included for both tours.
However, if you would to make your own way for the Reef Tour, you can meet at the Cairns Marlin Marina: ‘A-Finger’. For check-in, boarding will commence at 7:30 am, directly on the vessel ‘Reef Experience’.
It is important to note that a minimum of 2 passengers is required to book this package.
Your Safety Is Our First Priority
Some medical conditions, age and/or medications may prevent you from scuba diving. For this reason, we strongly recommend that you complete our Scuba Diving Questionnaire before booking. After all, we want you to be able to enjoy every aspect of your adventure.
On the other hand, you may like to consult your Doctor for a Dive Medical using the Australian Standard Forms ‘AS.4005.1
Flying after Scuba Diving
For a single no-decompression scuba dive, you should not fly or go to altitude for at least 18 hours. If you are joining multiple dives, however, you will need to wait 24 hours after your last dive. Additionally, this also includes Skydiving and Hot Air Ballooning. However, we recommend waiting a minimum of 24 hours whenever possible
A minimum of 24 hours' notice is required to re-schedule or alter all or part of a reservation.
Any changes to the booking (date, names, etc) incur a $20 administration fee.
We are required to notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to make sure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during our standard business hours (9 am-5 pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent via email to: [email protected]. Any emails received outside of these hours will be considered received the following day.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
20% cancellation fee 24 hours or more before departure
100% cancellation fee within 24 hours before departure and for "No Show"
There will be no refund of any part of your tour costs should you fail to arrive at a scheduled tour departure time. Tour departures may not be delayed due to passenger circumstances - including events beyond your control, medical problems, airline delays, weather, etc. All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation, and medical cover.
Terms And Conditions
This website acts as a booking agent only for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavour to provide accurate information we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning services.
⢠Childrenâs prices are from 4 â 14 years of age
⢠We are not liable for changes to tours, pricing or itineraries; all of which are subject to change without notice.
⢠Neither this site, nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, loss of
damage, delay or personal injury.
⢠All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. In a medical emergency, any evacuation, vessel relocation, medical or other
expenses are the financial responsibility of that passenger.
⢠Please inform us of any special requirements prior to your date of travel; such as dietary requirements, allergies, mobility and disability issues. This can be done in the 'Booking Message' section of your online reservation or by contacting our friendly reservations team
⢠Infants 3 and under travel for free if nursed.
⢠Bus transfers may vary by 10 minutes either way due to traffic conditions. Please wait at your accommodation 10 minutes prior to pick up time
A minimum of 24 hours' notice is required to re-schedule or alter all or part of a reservation.
Any changes to the booking (date, names, etc) incur a $20 administration fee.
We must notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to ensure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during our standard business hours (9 am-5 pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent via email to [email protected]. Any emails received outside of these hours will be considered received the following day.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
20% cancellation fee 24 hours or more prior to departure
100% cancellation fee within 24 hours prior to departure
There will be no refund of any part of your tour costs should you fail to arrive at a scheduled tour departure time. Tour departures may not be delayed due to passenger circumstances - including events beyond your control, medical problems, airline delays, weather etc.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. No refund or compensation will be issued for unused equipment, prepaid/pre-booked courses and/or Scuba dives, or guides if you cannot complete the entire tour. Please see Scuba Diving â Important Information below.
Terms And Conditions
This website acts as a booking agent only for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavour to provide accurate information, we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning services.
Check-in: If you are Making your own way (no return transfers booked), please check-in and board at 7.30 am. Reef Experience is located on A Finger, at Cairns Marlin Marina.
Terms and Conditions:
A minimum of 2 adults are required to book the Top Deck Club service, per booking.
Childrenâs prices are from 4 to 11 years of age. If booking as a certified diver, adult rates apply.
If you have used a credit card to purchase your ticket for either Reef Experience or Reef Encounter directly from our websites, email or phone, please have this card present along with a matching valid photo ID of the cardholder at check-in. Boarding will be denied without them, or you may be asked to pay again.
Open-Dated Ticket: In certain cases, Open-Dated tickets may be issued. These tickets are valid indefinitely but are non-refundable. Any fare increase must be paid at the time of rebooking. Once a customer accepts an Open-Dated ticket, the cancellation policy applicable to the original booking date will remain in effect.
Schedules, vessels, dive locations, and itineraries are subject to change without prior notice due to unforeseen circumstances, with full consideration for your safety and enjoyment. We reserve the right to adjust tours, schedules, prices, and itineraries at any time without notice. We are not liable for any changes, cancellations, or delays, and we accept no responsibility for any loss, additional expenses, or out-of-pocket costs incurred as a result, whether caused directly or indirectly.
Neither this site nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, any loss, any damage, delays, deaths or personal injury.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase Comprehensive Travel Insurance that covers personal injury and the events, including but not limited to your cancellation for any reason and the cancellation or alteration to the scheduled itinerary for reasons involving weather or passenger, crew or vessel safety. Please read your insurance policy's wording carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. Please be aware that all travel insurance companies do not cover scuba diving and other in-water activities. In a medical emergency, any evacuation, vessel relocation, medical expenses, or other expenses are the passenger's financial responsibility.
The passenger acknowledges and consents to Reef Encounter taking photographs or video recordings during the course of this activity/tour. The passenger acknowledges and consents to Reef Encounter receiving and using images of the passenger from third parties and using these images for marketing and promoting its services.
Please inform us of any special requirements 48 hours before your travel date, such as dietary requirements, allergies, mobility and disability issues. This can be done in the âBooking Messageâ section of your online reservation or by contacting our friendly reservations team.
Scuba Diving â Important Information:
All Certified Divers must present a valid Certification Card. Failure to present a Certification Card may result in the customer being unable to participate in scuba diving. They can enjoy snorkelling activities instead. No refunds would be offered.
The minimum age for Introductory Diving is 12 years old. The minimum age for certified diving and Open Water Courses is 10 years old. All junior divers must either be accompanied by a certified parent or guardian or must dive with a dive professional at an additional charge. If the diver is under the age of 18 years, parental or guardian consent is required for that diver to undertake a dive. The parent or guardian should sign the medical declaration as witness.
Upon arriving at our vessel and before commencing any dive activities, all passengers must complete our liability forms. All information provided must be strictly accurate. If during the tour, it becomes apparent that a form has been incorrectly completed, either by omission or false statement, we reserve the right to prevent any customer from undertaking any scuba diving or snorkelling activities while on board our vessel. Any decision made in this regard will be at the absolute discretion of the Dive Crew aboard the vessel.
The dangers and risks associated with scuba diving in an open ocean environment under variable conditions apply to our tours. We reserve the right to prevent any customer from participating in scuba diving if we determine that they are physically or medically unsuitable to do so or if it is in the best interests of our crew or other scuba divers. Our crew are trained professionals, and it is up to their sole discretion who they take diving and/or snorkelling. No refunds would apply.
Please remember you must allow 24 hours from your last dive before flying.
Medical Conditions & Medications:
Queensland, Australia has some of the strictest scuba diving rules in the world but also the safest scuba diving record. We are regulated by the Queensland Government Code of Practice and comply with all rules, including medical, as is the law.
All passengers participating in any Scuba activities must complete a
Medical Questionnaire
. If youâve answered yes to any questions or take any prescribed medication, you will need further medical clearance. This must be arranged prior to your day of departure.
Medication: DO NOT presume that by taking medication is controlling your medical conditions, and you should be fine to scuba dive, as it is the medication that can be the problem when scuba diving. Particularly prescribed medication may require a medical clearance.
The medical certification should be provided in English, preferably by a medical practitioner with experience in diving medicine, within 90 days prior to the scuba dive. The certificate must state that the person is medically fit to dive.
No refunds are given for uncompleted dives due to medical conditions and/or prescribed medications or changes of mind.
Peak Season Surcharge - To be paid onboard on the day of travel:
⢠A Surcharge of $100 per person applies to 25 December 2025 & 2026 â Christmas Day
⢠A Surcharge of $50 per person applies to the following days:
⢠26 December 2025 â Boxing Day
⢠3, 4, 5 & 6 April 2026 â Easter Weekend
⢠26 December 2026 â Boxing Day
⢠26, 27, 28 & 29 2027 - Easter Weekend
Grand Kuranda Train/Skyrail with return transfers from Cairns
Combining the Scenic Train journey with the world famous Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Rainforestation including lunch is a great way to experience this World Heritage listed tropical rainforest and Kuranda.
Departs
Reef Experience Top Deck Club
VIP Reef Cruise
Looking for a trip to the Great Barrier Reef with that âCelebrity Feelâ? Then our Great Barrier Reef âTop Deck Clubâ VIP Day is just the thing for you.
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