Ocean Free & Ocean Freedom - Cairns Premier Great Barrier Reef & Island Tours
4.9
Suraj Vrindavan A.
1778657189
Even though the weather was rough and challenging, this ended up being one of the best experiences me and my partner will never forget.Huge shoutout to Ollie, our scuba diving instructor — absolute legend. Calm, energetic, professional and made us feel safe the entire time. The whole Ocean Freedom crew brought such good energy that they somehow made the rough weather feel like part of the adventure.We were in a small group of around 17 people and genuinely felt looked after from start to finish. My wife got seasick at times because of the conditions, but the crew were incredibly supportive, patient and caring throughout.We were also lucky enough to see a shark, stingray and turtle all during our dive, which made the experience even more unforgettable.And honestly — scuba diving is an absolute must do. You get to explore so much more of the reef than just snorkeling. This was absolutely money well spent.Please support this small family business at all costs. You can really feel the passion and care behind what they do.Thank you Ocean Freedom team for an unforgettable experience.
Priya K.
1778657146
Just had an amazing day with the team at Ocean Freedom! The weather was pretty rough and unpredictable, but the crew did everything they could to make sure we still had the best experience possible.Huge shoutout to Ollie, Reese, Luke and Ryan for being such an awesome and fun team ❤️Special mention to Ollie - an incredible scuba diving instructor who took us out as first-time divers and made the whole experience feel safe, exciting and unforgettable. Couldn’t have asked for a better first dive experience. Highly recommend Ocean Freedom!
Nicola S.
1778388974
We had a fantastic day out with Ryan, Amber and Tom. We were undaunted by the weather (it was very windy) and they were undaunted by our singing.The crew went out of their way to make sure we had a fabulous day. They took our safety seriously but also made sure we had fun. I recommend booking a boat to yourself and making a day of it!!
barbara C.
1778359847
Great day with a great team. Snorkeling was amazing even though weather wasn't the best. Thanks to all of you for this amazing experience.
Rasa Ž.
1778321133
Absolutely amazing experience, honestly one of the best days ever! I did two introductory dives and was a bit stressed at first, but the instructor never left my side. They were incredibly supportive, patient, and helped me calm down.The whole crew had such an awesome vibe and energy too, super friendly, fun, and professional. Highly recommend this diving tour to anyone, especially if it’s your first time diving!
felicity W.
1778309543
An amazing day out. Very friendly and professional crew who made me feel 100% safe all the time I was in the water and out. The lunch was delicious! With prawns! As well as a tasty morning and afternoon tea xx can’t recommend this enough!
Nick B.
1778131337
We had an incredible family day out on the Ocean Freedom from Cairns, exploring the stunning Great Barrier Reef with our two kids (6-year-old and our 12-year-old). The smaller boat made it feel wonderfully intimate—not overcrowded like some big tour operators—giving us plenty of space to relax and enjoy the views.The staff were standout: super friendly, engaging with the kids, and packed with fascinating facts about the reef's ecosystem and marine animals we spotted, like colorful fish and turtles.Lunch and snacks were great—fresh, tasty buffet options that satisfied everyone, including picky young eaters.With calm waters, easy snorkeling gear for beginners, and that personal touch, it's our top pick for families wanting a memorable Reef experience without the crowds. Highly recommend booking with Ocean Freedom!
Enjoy L.
1777977219
Absolutely faboulous. Crew on the Ocean Free was friendly and highly professional!We saw dolphins on our way to the reef, a turtle and reef sharks from the boat at the reef and there were plenty of colorful fish to see while snorkeling. To snorkel guides joined us in the water and explained some things and the weaker swimmers were given lifejackets and could hold on to a life ring to rest for a moment during snorkeling.The food served on the boat was of higher quality than on all other daycruises we've taken (Danish pastry for breakfast, a variety of salads and salmon and prawns for lunch, fresh fruit, cheese, cracker and complimentary wine and cake on the way back to Cairns).The only downside - imho - was Green Island itself, which is a cocktail of stinky birdpoop and Asian tourists snorkeling in knee-deep water, fully equipped as if they would go on a deep-sea dive.I absolutely recommend this company/boat/crew; support them, they're family (and friends) - owned and offer a very exclusive experience at a - considered what you get - absolutely reasonable price!
Maria L.
1777877824
We tried Ocean Free and it was amazing! Thanks to all team on 4th May 2026 for impressive teamwork, super aligned crew! Highly recommend this trip. Very private, reliable and relaxed! Thank you!
Mary S.
1777801539
My husband and I did two intro dives with Ocean Freedom and can't say enough positives about them. The crew was absolutely phenomenal, one of the best dive boats we've been on. We're certified, but hadn't been diving in 5 years. We did 2 dives with Paul to refresh and he was great, patient, kind, and attentive. Captain Mike was solid and kept an eye on everyone in the water. Oliver and Anna made sure everything was in order and the other crew were great, too. Danishes, fruit, tea, and coffee in the morning, lunch was salads, prawns, lunch meat, and chicken and then an afternoon snack of fruit, cheese and crackers, and cake. Ample time to dive and also snorkel at 2 sites. About 50 on the boat today, max of 75. It did not feel crowded, and the crew focused on keeping everyone safe while having an amazing time.
Nihar J.
1777774429
The team at Ocean Freedom are next to none, I am a certified diver but was nervous prior to my dive given the choppy, The crew and the divemaste put me at ease. The experience was really smooth and I would recommend anyone visiting cairns to choose Ocean Freedom
Lisa Mary J.
1777624627
What an amazing day with Ocean Freedom! From the glass bottom boat to snorkelling and scuba diving, every moment was unreal. The crew were fantastic, the food was great—and spotting a GT was the highlight! 🐟✨ Well done to all the crew!!!
Jeanette Arkins J.
1777371853
Absolutely fabulous day. Staff are fantastic. Would definitely recommend.
Eveline B.
1777283622
Ich hatte einen wundervollen Tag im Great Barrier Reef. Die Crew machte einen super Job, ich habe mich sehr sicher und wohl gefühlt. Vielen Dank!
Paulina G.
1777167357
Super. Bardzo miło. Widoki ekstra. Opieka i jedzonko na najwyższym poziomie. Miły młody zgrany zespół. Widzieliśmy dużo ryb ,rekiny i żółwie
mridul C.
1776939927
Booked the Ocean freedom experience and absolutely loved it.I and my wife had no diving experience and we are not confident swimmers as well but we were taken care of during the scuba dive and snorkeling.The team on board was really helpful and friendly.A special shout out to our diving instructor Paul, who made the experience really amazing for us !
Gish
1776924608
Amazing snorkelling experience - spotted such great biodiversity and even a turtle surfacing to breathe right in front of us 🐢!!Super friendly staff sharing a lot on marine knowledge & great glass-bottom boat rideHighly recommended if ur after an adventure at Greater Barrier Reef 🪸
Jen K.
1776888492
Fantastic experience all around!!! Staff was friendly, well informed, eager to engage, and made sure we were well looked after. No matter if you were there for snorkeling, diving, the glass bottom boat, or just a beautiful day out at sea with a couple beers, you were welcomed and well attended to. My friend and I had a fantastic first encounter with the Great Barrier Reef thanks to the wonderful staff. Thanks!!!! Look forward to next time.
Aaron F.
1776681029
Unreal day out to Upolu reef snorkelling. Highly recommend to anyone staying in cairns looking to go snorkeling!
Olivia M.
1776549385
I had the absolute BEST time on the boat tour! Archie, Marie and Ryan were all amazing- so kind, knowledgable and had the best vibe ever!! I could not recommend this touring company enough! The whole experience was unlike anything I have ever experienced before. This was the best birthday ever, thank you for making it so special! Thanks for a great day!!!
dhriti basu M.
1776372663
We had a wonderful time with Ocean Freedom. The team was great and helped us have a great snorkeling experience.We went on 16/04/2026 it had a bit of not so ideal weather but as the team said "fishes doesn't care about a bit of rain" . The weather got better and so did our experience.I would definitely recommend them for your Reef ExperienceThanks team for all the care and guidance during the experience 👍🖖
Alexis R.
1776136616
C'était une journée magnifique avec l'équipe. La barrière de corail une merveille. Le repas étais très bon aussi y'a n'a pour tout le monde
Lucy W.
1776064534
We had an incredible experience on Ocean Freedom today! Would highly recommend! The crew were wonderful and it was such an awesome day trip
Ocean Free & Ocean Freedom - Cairns Premier Reef & Island Tours
5.0
Kerry C.
1778313593
Went today and the whole day was wonderful from start to finish. The staff were so helpful and friendly especially to someone as novice as me, Anna was patient, supportive and an amazing guide, the atmosphere on the trip was great, met some lovely fellow travellers and the singing by the staff at the end was hilarious, would recommend this to anyone visiting the Great Barrier Reef.
Mary J S.
1777801628
My husband and I did two intro dives with Ocean Freedom and can't say enough positives about them. The crew was absolutely phenomenal, one of the best dive boats we've been on. We're certified, but hadn't been diving in 5 years. We did 2 dives with Paul to refresh and he was great, patient, kind, and attentive. Captain Mike was solid and kept an eye on everyone in the water. Oliver and Anna made sure everything was in order and the other crew were great, too. Danishes, fruit, tea, and coffee in the morning, lunch was salads, prawns, lunch meat, and chicken and then an afternoon snack of fruit, cheese and crackers, and cake. Ample time to dive and also snorkel at 2 sites. About 50 on the boat today, max of 75. It did not feel crowded, and the crew focused on keeping everyone safe while having an amazing time.
Jolsna V.
1766914159
Amazing support . Highly recommend ..
Anil H.
1766131624
🥳A perfect day on the Great Barrier Reef with Ocean Freedom. Crystal water, vibrant coral, and endless smiles. 💙🤿 I have been scuba diving in many locations before but today was truly special. Of course, the Great Barrier Reef is always remarkable on its own, but what made this experience exceptional were the two fantastic dive instructors I had—Archie in the morning and Amber in the afternoon. The entire crew was outstanding as well. With Ryan as the skipper and Storu, Reece, Marie, and Shea as part of the team, everything ran like clockwork. They made sure everyone on board was well taken care of, always with genuine warmth and a smile. Thank you for an unforgettable day. I look forward to enjoying another wonderful experience with you on my next visit. Dr. Anil Henry
Emma Dahl Thorsager M.
1765019199
100% recommended! We had the best day out on the water. The crew was amazing - super fun and nice! We saw turtles and lots of beautiful fish! Very professional tour!
Becky K.
1763074664
We had the most amazing trip with Ocean Freedom 13.11.25. All the crew were great, really friendly, helpful and made you feel very safe in the water. Snorkeling was fantastic, we were supplied with all equipment ( wetsuit, snorkel and flippers). Glass bottom boat was good and then we seen turtles and reef sharks. Food was great too. Would highly recommend as we have made memories for life. Thank you ocean freedom.
Robina W.
1763009042
Wow! What an amazing crew and Captain Ben. Luke Archie Maddy Andros(sp?) Dan and so many more!! Every crew member was fabulous to work with. Had the best diving experience two days in a row and coming back for more. I see something new each time. Such a professional operation. I scuba dive but they also have a glass bottom boat and tons of snorkeling (their specialty) I highly recommend if you want a great experience exploring the Great Barrier Reef this is the team to choose. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Thank you Ocean Freedom for an amazing experience!!!
Danuta K.
1748391484
🌊 I had the absolute best experience on May 22nd with Ocean Free & Ocean Freedom! From start to finish, everything was flawless — the crew was beyond amazing, warm, professional, and full of energy. Their passion for the reef, the ocean, and for ensuring every guest has a magical time was clear in every interaction.
The snorkeling was incredible, the visibility was perfect, and we got up close with so much marine life. The crew made us feel safe, informed, and completely spoiled the entire day — the food was delicious, and the service was top-notch.
Huge shoutout to the entire crew — you made this the highlight of my trip. Thank you for the memories. Love Danuta and Slav
Lance S.
1748374032
While the water wasn’t the best conditions, the crew was top notch and personable. Can’t wait to come back to Cairns and dive with them again!
Enobong Bassey E.
1747258001
What a tour, did 1st dive. Well constructed experience, no stone left unturned by the genius who runs this. Music, food, fresh air, interest g company. What’s not to like.
Davina P.
1741840268
Hands Down the best reef trip out of Cairns. Best crew, food, attention to detail. Small numbers, beautiful reef, walk in a tropical island early arvo, I literally cannot recommend this gorgeous sailing boat enough. 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Karen H.
1736714438
Thanks to the whole team for a truly memorable day, my first time snorkeling but the team gave me the confidence ( and the safety ring ) to experience the reef - thank you 😊
Fionnuala M.
1730004175
What a trip! The hospitality was first class, the boat spotless and the food, well we were fed all day long. I'm a decent enough swimmer but never go out of my depth and to have Mike and Molly guide me when snorkeling whilst keeping me safe and given me the confidence all day, I had the trip of a lifetime! The reef was spectacular, the teams knowledge and expertise was second to none. Never mind seeing so many fish, star fish and the turtle. Would recommend this trip with Ocean Freedom without hesitation. Thank you so much Mike and Molly.
Ariel Q.
1724744929
We have a wonderful time in snorkling. Very nice service and the snorkling buddys were great also! They always check on you if you're ok during the boat ride. I will definitely recommend to friends and family that will visit Cairns, Australia! Captain Mike and the crews you're the best!
Rohan W.
1719133246
yes, strongly recommended
went to Upolu reef with ocean freedom, 23/6/2024. only my 3rd time snorkeling and 1st time scuba diving. Very helpful and caring instructors. very well kept boat.
scuba dive was worth it, plenty of fish including Nemo you won't see snorkelling
Chris H.
1687043270
We had a wonderful experience sailing on the Ocean Free boat to Great Barrier Reef where we snorkelled and our daughter had her first experience diving. The diving instructor gave great instruction and had a genuine care for his clients and the skipper and crew were focused on giving us the best experience possible. would highly recommend.
Terry M.
1684272821
We had the best day. The crew on board were fantastic. The spot they moored off Green Island was so close to the reef you could almost stand on it. Snorkeling and diving was brilliant. Lunch on board is very impressive. We met some lovely people from all over the world. Sailing back at under full sail with a lovely glass of wine was exhilarating and exciting. Thanks to all the staff and crew. You made the day for us so easy from booking to leaving. We didn’t want to leave.
Sue Bailey T.
1680595403
We went on this reef cruise today and it was fantastic! The guides were incredible and the food was great- and there was loads of it! We went on a different snorkeling trip yesterday to Green Island and it was nothing compared to Ocean Freedom. The guides were in the water with us showing us all the fish and marine life. Definitely skip Green Island and go with Ocean Freedom!!!!
Elaine K.
1678969131
What a perfect day! The crew was so pleasant and helpful, catering to our every need, even a glass bottom boat for those wanting a break from snorkeling. Good equipment, great food - and awesome to see all we saw while snorkeling!
Campbell M.
1675898986
My wife, daughter and myself went out on Ocean Freedom on Wednesday 8 Feb 2023. A great day - the Captain and crew were unbelievably helpful and polite. Nothing was to much trouble. Once at the reef a guided glass bottom boat trip then onto with the snorkelling or SCUBA if you wanted. The food was high quality and heaps for everyone. When you thought it was over out came the cheese and biscuits followed by cake. I’ve been on a number of boat tours around the world and this is by far the best. It is highly recommend. Lastly a shout out to crewman Tom who was very patience with my wife and helped her snorkelling experience.
Dan B.
1671434033
Perfect day out visiting two of the nearby reefs. The crew are extremely warm, welcoming and a great laugh helping you be at ease wether if it’s your first time snorkelling/diving or somebody used to the ocean. I did my first (and 2nd) ever scuba dive guided by these guys today and it couldn’t have been any better! Will definitely go with these guys again next time I find myself in Cairns. Thank you!
Kgothatso M.
1665275230
I am glad to share with you my success story today, when I started trading binary and forex few months ago, I really don't have the necessary tools to trade and i lost a lot until I met Mrs Cathy Frederick FX who thought me all about the market psychology as she managed my account for me. Today I am grateful to her for her great offer and help because it really changed my financial situation with an investment capital of $1,000 and am making $11,400 profits per week right now. If you need her help, contact her on Email:cathyfrederick867@gmail.com WhatsApp: +18504466717
Mark D.
1662359648
Great crew and a great day out. More food than you could possibly ask for and great attention to detail. Special shout out to Mike, Liam, Jazz and Jayden who really made the day special. A few people feeding the fish due to bad weather but the crew handled it beautifully. Thanks all.
Amy W.
1661940602
Great day had by our family of 5. Mike the Skipper was awesome and lead an amazing crew. Food was great and plentiful. Would definitely recommend this company to anyone. The only fault was the weather
Jane D.
1656121964
I had a lovely experience on this tour. The staff were very friendly and helpful and the food was great. Met some lovely people on the tour from overseas and other parts of Australia. Snorkelling was amazing and I learnt a little about the Great Barrier Reef on the Glass Bottom Boat tour. Hope to do this tour again and hopefully try diving next time.
