January 2022 - Cairns Premier Reef & Island Tours

Google Rating

4.8

Based on 1018 reviews

Ocean Free & Ocean Freedom - Cairns Premier Great Barrier Reef & Island Tours

4.8

Chris Handy

1739178305

I was very impressed with Mike and the crew of Ocean Freedom. From the first meeting to the last wave goodbye their experience, enthusiasm, knowledge, professionalism and friendliness went to make for a great day on the reef. Their commitment to conservation was also very evident in all that they did which I liked as it is important to me.As retiree who had never snorkelled before I couldn't have been in better hands. They helped me all the way and left me feeling safe and confident. Their knowledge of the reef and its inhabitants enabled them to find and show you things that you would never spot yourself. They even arranged for the rain to come whilst we were inside eating lunch and not while we were in the water!I honestly don't have any negatives to report!Thanks to all the crew that have made my day so memorable.

RAFAL W

1737616399

The Australian best . The trip to Great Barrier Reef is for everyone: experienced or inexperienced divers or snorkels or even swimmers. Very well organized, friendly staff and delicious food

Lilian Mosa

1737440704

A bit more expensive than the other but definitely worth it. Few people, amazing staff. Food all the time. Love it

carlos barahona

1737105626

We had an amazing experience with my son ,The team were exceptional, making us feel very welcomed and comfortable from the moment we arrived. Special thanks to each and every member of the team , specially “Tom” our instructor who made our diving experience one to remember for a long time , overall outstanding hospitality and for such a memorable experience 💫💫💫💫💫

Karine Davies

1737066436

We had a wonderful day on 5th January 2025 despite the windy weather. As someone English who is not used to sea swimming, I was reassured by the staff's presence in the water as the sea was very choppy! I was disappointed by not seeing the reef proper but this was because of the weather, not the crew. The lunch was fantastic and the crew so positive and upbeat. I would definitely choose to come with them again. Big shout out for T, Paul, Lucy and Mike, you made our trip very special.

Andy Koltai

1736598580

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the Ocean Freedom Cruise with my family, and it truly was a memorable adventure. One of the highlights was undoubtedly the snorkeling experience at the Great Barrier Reef, which offered breathtaking views and an up-close encounter with the vibrant marine life.The crew on board was exceptional—very accommodating, friendly, and well-organized. They ensured that every guest felt welcome and supported throughout the trip, making our experience enjoyable despite the weather conditions. It’s clear that they are passionate about what they do, and their professionalism stood out.Unfortunately, we faced some challenges due to the weather. It was rainy, and the waters were choppy, which certainly affected the experience. However, as they say, “weather you cannot change,” and we all tried to make the most of the situation.Overall, the Ocean Freedom Cruise is undoubtedly the best choice for exploring the Great Barrier Reef. If you're lucky enough to have good weather, my family can only imagine how incredible the experience would be. We wholeheartedly recommend this cruise for anyone looking to explore the reef, and we look forward to returning in better conditions!

Lesley Carte

1736501316

Our family of 12, age range from 3 to 77, had the most amazing day with Ocean Free! Incredible snorkeling & scuba diving, super knowledgeable & friendly crew, great vibe - not overcrowded. Great food too! I would highly recommend Ocean Free to anyone looking for a day out on the reef…great for all ages & degrees of experience in the water.

Sandra Gradwell

1736501128

Once in a lifetime experience!Friendly and welcoming crew made a memorable day. Smaller group, guided snorkeling and great atmosphere enhanced the whole experience. 😊

George and Sandy Newman

1736499754

Best day on Ocean Freedom today! 20/20. Highly recommend this to anyone wanting an awesome day out on the reefs. Such helpful staff.Massive thanks to this legend who took fabulous care of my husband and son on their 1st ever dives! They had such a memorable day and are now addicted 😆 🙏🏻

Anand Ganesh

1736489714

If I could give more stars I would. I had not scuba dived and my wife doesn't know swimming. The instructors were patient, friendly and even kind enough to show us around with us just tugging along for the ride. It also helped that we went on an absolutely beautiful day with only 3 knots.

Margaret Charleton

1736411665

What a unbelievable experience, the staff are excellent. Giving individual attention and being your buddy and best friend while out at sea. A special mention to ya ya for giving the irish couple great attention and helping us out and helping us to enjoy such an unbelievable experience. We would highly recommend Ocean freedom for the reef experience with small numbers and great attention. The lunch and refreshments on board were great.Thank you Ocean freedom staff.

Danny Pathange

1736153251

Here’s a detailed review for Ocean Freedom:A Snorkeling and Scuba Adventure Beyond Expectations!Ocean Freedom delivered an absolutely unforgettable experience that surpassed all of our expectations. From start to finish, everything about our day on the water was exceptional.The crew was nothing short of amazing. Their professionalism, enthusiasm, and knowledge made us feel welcome and completely at ease. Whether you were a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, they catered to everyone with such care and attention. Safety was clearly a top priority, and their briefings were thorough yet engaging. The crew’s passion for the ocean was contagious—they shared fascinating insights about the reef and marine life, adding an educational element to the adventure.The snorkeling and scuba diving were phenomenal. The Great Barrier Reef locations we visited were pristine, with crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral gardens, and an abundance of marine life. We saw everything from schools of colorful fish to graceful rays and even a friendly sea turtle! The crew ensured everyone had the best possible experience, offering guidance and support in the water.The boat itself was spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped, with everything you might need for a day out at sea. The food provided was delicious and plentiful—fresh, varied, and perfect after a morning in the water.What truly set Ocean Freedom apart was the crew’s dedication to creating a personal and memorable experience. They took the time to get to know everyone onboard and made us feel like part of the Ocean Freedom family.If you’re looking for a snorkeling and scuba adventure in Cairns, Ocean Freedom is the way to go. It’s not just a trip to the reef—it’s a day filled with excitement, discovery, and genuine hospitality. Thank you to the incredible crew for an experience we’ll treasure forever!Experienced on 06.01.25

Sabrina Lee

1736145014

Amazing day out with Ocean Free! We went with them for a dive / snorkel and excursion to Green Island. I did the intro dive and my boyfriend did a beginner’s snorkel, and the crew were friendly, attentive and made us both feel so comfortable with trying our new activities. Ocean Free is also an awesome sailboat and on our way back we had our sails up and did some sailing with no engines, which was also a super unique experience. I’d recommend it to anyone - don’t hesitate to book!

Kristy McGregor-Bales

1736070718

Melis Damgacı

1735979591

Everything was amazing and the crew even accommodated my ankle injury. Thanks to them, I still managed to do snorkelling at the reef and had one of the best experiences ever. Recommend this company to everyone who wants to see the reef. 🤩

Pieter Naude

1735971851

Did a reef snorkel for a day. Staff were exceptionally friendly and helpfull.Food was top notch and safety taken seriously.I will highly recommend this business 😀

Cam N

1735646953

We were very glad to have chosen Ocean Freedom for our reef tour. It’s a smaller group and the staff were fun, attentive and very passionate about the ocean and the reef. We went in early Nov so it’s the beginning of the jelly fish season but we didn’t see any. We got to see sea turtles, sea snake, sting ray, clown fish, and so many many more. All thanks to a crew member that was kindly showed us around the reef. It was a far better experience than the larger tour we went with the last time we were in Cairns. Highly recommend.

Claude Rybka

1735068311

Très bon accueil et très grand professionnalisme

Vera Fei

1735046844

Highly recommend this tour. It’s a smaller and more intimate group than the other larger boats/cruises. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff and you can tell they are all very passionate about the reef. The instructors easily cater to all swimming experiences. All snorkel gear are sanitized and clean.Food is great as well. It comes with the cost and they provide lunch as well as afternoon snacks like fruits and mini cakes.First reef snorkel spot is my favourite out of the 2 locations they take you. We were very lucky with the weather and visibility during wet season in early December.

Jason Krein

1735041779

Agree with all the other reviews - I snorkeled, and it was a great day. Having two snorkel spots which offered distinct types of coral and fish was very cool, they took care of everything, and the lunch was quite good.The glass bottom boat was a nice way to get information about the reef, but the views were worse compared to the snorkeling, which I think is to be expected.Also, I didn't get to tell them in person but whoever was in charge of the music on the 24th was playing some good stuff 👌👌

Muhammad Bilal

1734884402

I had an unforgettable experience at the Great Barrier Reef, and I just have to share how amazing the staff was! Molly, Amber, Tom, Shae, and Mike, the diving instructor, were all fantastic—so knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. And Bobby, the most welcoming face, really made me feel at home.A special shoutout to Maddy, who sang "Three Little Birds" and shared her incredible knowledge of the reef. It was such a peaceful and educational moment!I had so much fun snorkeling, and even though I didn’t go scuba diving this time (I panicked a bit), I’ll be back with a stronger will to try again. Keep doing what you're doing; your passion and hospitality make this place truly special.Ps: Sorry if I miss someone : crew is great

Clemens Riesemann

1734764836

It has been a lifelong dream of mine to see the Great Barrier Reef, and I’m thrilled to say that, with the help of OceanFreedom, I fulfilled that wish in ways I never could’ve imagined! The two introductory scuba dives and the snorkeling were absolutely otherworldly. The crew were the nicest people ever! Great communication prior to departure as well and for glass wearers they have prescription diving goggles! My instructor, Tom, was top notch — I couldn’t have wished for a better guide to introduce me to the world of diving. I’d 100% book with them again and again, and if I wasn’t leaving Cairns so soon I’d book another dive right now. No exaggeration, what a f*ing trip! 12/10... minus 1 for almost forgetting my weightbelt Tom 😜 = 11/10

victoria roth

1734340054

We had such an amazing day snorkelling and scuba diving with the Ocean Freedom crew today! The staff were super friendly and knowledgeable and made sure everyone felt comfortable in and out of the water. Foodwas delicious and would absolutely dive with them again. 10/10 🙌🏼🌊🐠

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