The Great Barrier Reef sounds intimidating and is anything but from Cairns, where big catamarans deliver you to pontoon-moored outer-reef sites with guides, wetsuits and lunch included. Giant clams, turtles and clouds of fusiliers appear within metres of the ladder. Pay extra for an outer-reef trip rather than a cheap inner one — the coral is markedly healthier. June to November brings clear water and no stingers.
Featured in Ten tropical snorkel and dive spots perfect for first-timers · Tropical