See the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef with a cruise to Green Island, a coral cay that hosts a lush, tropical rainforest. Spend a half-day exploring the undersea world around the island, teeming with technicolour coral and marine life.

Your journey begins aboard a high-speed catamaran that takes you to the soft, white beaches of Green Island. Along the way, listen to your guide explain the basics of snorkeling and the environment of the 6,000-year-old coral cay.

Upon arrival, step ashore to admire the turquoise waters, glittering sand, and fringe of emerald palms ringing the island. You can climb into a glass-bottomed boat and lean over the railings to get an up-close look at a colorful underwater world with brilliant colonies of brain coral, orange sea stars, and scores of blue damselfish flitting to and fro.

If you're craving a swim, strap on a snorkel and mask to see the sights up close. Mingle with black-and-white angelfish as they feed on sponges, or look for striped clownfish nestled among anemones. Spend the rest of your time relaxing on the beach to soak up the sun before cruising back to Cairns.