The Great Barrier Reef offers spectacular cruising, an endless selection of pristine islands and unforgettable diving and fishing, all in close proximity to world class marinas, vibrant and cosmopolitan cities and superyacht repair centres.

 
     
 

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Cairns is the gateway to The Great Barrier Reef with countless unique and idyllic locations accessible by superyacht.

Islands / reefs within 1-6 hours cruising from Cairns:

• Green Island • Fitzroy Island
• Double Island • Frankland Islands
• Dunk Island • Bedarra Island

Islands / Reefs within 6-8 hours cruising from Cairns:

• Hichinbrook Island • Ribbon Reefs

Islands / Reefs within 12-14 hours cruising from Cairns:

• Lizard Island • Cod Hole


As one of the world's most spectacular aquatic playgrounds, the Whitsundays encompasses over 100 tropical islands rising from pristine turquoise water with a vibrant coastline. The island group is bordered by the Great Barrier Reef and cradled by the calm waters of the Coral Sea and a picturesque mainland of wooded peninsulas, sandy coves and world class resorts.

The South Pacific islands offer an unforgettable cruising experience and Cairns is the perfect jumping off point from which to explore this spectacular region.

The South Pacific region is considered one of the last frontiers of cruising left in the world.

Superyachts can enjoy the spectacular beauty of:

• French Polynesia
• The Cook Islands
• Samoa
• Tonga
• Fiji
• New Caledonia
• Papua New Guinea
• Solomon Islands
• Vanuatu

The Super Yacht Group - Great Barrier Reef Inc. members have strong networks and links throughout this breathtaking region and can assist you plan your journey with safety and confidence.



Click on the links below for Sample Itineraries

Sample Itinerary 1

Sample Itinerary 2

Sample Itinerary 3

Sample Itinerary 4

Sample Itinerary 5

For more advice on cruising The South Pacific, contact: info@superyachtgroup.com

Recommended Australian Charts For Cruising In and Around Cairns and Whitsundays

•  Aus 832 Cape Flattery to Barrow Point (includes Lizard Island )
•  Aus 831 Low Islets to Cape Flattery (Cooktown)
•  Aus 830 Russell Island to Low Islets ( Cairns area)
•  Aus 829 Brooke Islands to Russell Island
•  Aus 262 Approaches to Cairns
•  Aus 263 Cairns (Northern Sheet)
•  Aus 825 Whitsunday Island to Bowen
•  Aus 824 Bailey Islet to Whitsunday Island
•  Aus 252 Whitsunday Group – Laguna Quays
•  Aus 253 Whitsunday Passage – Shute Harbour
•  Aus 254 Plans in Whitsundays
•  Aus 268 Plans of Airlie Beach & Bowen

For further information regarding charts: charts@markwellmarine.com.au or ruth@poundernavigation.com.au

Click here to view a map of the region

Cruising Permits

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world's most important natural assets. It is the largest natural feature on earth stretching more than 2,300km along the northeast coast of Australia. Regulations ensure the sustainable use of the Marine Park. These are basic rules for operating which apply to all recreational and commercial users.

Most superyachts can access almost all areas of the Marine Park without a permit; however, it is advisable to check the current requirements before each visit.

Before cruising the Great Barrier Reef , superyachts should review the following documents:


• Zoning plan
• Plans of management
• Waste disposal regulations
• Anchoring regulations
• Compulsory pilotage regulations
• Best Environmental Practice

All documents are available on the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority's web site:
web site: www.gbrmpa.gov.au (enter superyachts in search function)
Tel: +61 (0) 7 4750 0868 Email: tourrec@gbrmpa.gov.au
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