Well, we only are able to do a day trip from Cains, and would like some recommendations. I'm not sure I want to spend a whole day on a platform, as I am a coward, and not into snorkeling. Any suggestions? Thanks.

I think a nice trip for you would be by bus down to the Mission Beach area and then a boat out to Dunk Island. Or, out of Cairns, a boat to Green Island.

I'm a little confused by your post but I'll try to respond. There are boats that go out to the Barrier Reef for a day but I imagine almost all the people on them either snorkel or scuba dive. I can't imagine why you would take a trip out to the reef if you didn't want to go in the water. You don't need to be a strong swimmer to go snorkeling there, the water is quite buoyant and they might even provide life vests. The company we used was Quicksilver and I would recommend them. If you just wanted to go to an island, you can take a boat trip out to Green Island and I believe there are a couple of other islands that you can day trip to as well. <BR> <BR>If you wanted to do a day trip on land you can either go to Cape Tribulation/Daintree on a four wheel safari or you can go to Kuranda on the train/skyrail. <BR> <BR>Hope this helps.

Dear Merriem: <BR> <BR>We went out to Upolu Cay 2 weeks ago for the day and had a wonderful time. Those that wanted to snorkle snorkled. Those who wanted to SCUBA dive did so. <BR>My wife and I prefered to see the reef through the glass bottom boat they keep anchored out there. Of course they lifted anchor and we went touring. Great way to spend the day! <BR>I think the company was Quicksilver. <BR> <BR>John <BR>

I tok a day trip to the Barrier Reef only a few weeks ago. It was through Quicksilver cruises, based in Port Douglas. The day was excellent, everything is very professional and well organised and very good value for money. The company offers two cruise options, one to the Outer Barrier Reef, and the one we took, to the Low Isles. The big plus for me about the Low Isles was that its' destination was an island, rather than a platform floating on the reef. The island is actually part of a national park, so this prevents you from wandering too much, although it is very small and a walk around the island is offered at one point during the day to explain all about it and how it was formed etc. There is snorkelling, scuba diving and glass bottom boats available, and the 'Wavedancer" boat is very comfortable with a bar and ample indoor or outdoor seating available. All in all, I would highly recommend this day, and a plus is that you can get a transfer to Port Douglas for the commencement of the cruise from any hotel in Cairns or Palm Cove by Wavepiercer catamaran or bus. One point though, the island have very rough 'sand' more like broken shells and coral which is very rough on tender feet. I suggest that you bring suitable shoes, or do as the locals do and wear 'Thongs'.Enjoy!

Don't be concerned about the paltform...The Quicksilver offers a VERY large...covered pontoon which , I believe, is permanently anchored....so there is no motion...It is covered with many large picnic style tables and has covered area..to get out of the sun...also..their was submersible sub..to see the coral and fish without getting wet( i think quite few people didnt go in the water....the area to snorkel is roped off..and watched closely...mane people in life jackets...people snorkelled....ate ...lounged..snorkelled again...etc..it was not an all day in the water.. <BR> <BR>If you are staying in Cairns....I would take a boat out of Cairns. The Quicksilver out of Pt Douglas( which we took) means you would have to go by buss to their dock..and then be bussed back. <BR> <BR>If you go....be prepared for a high speed possibley bumpy boat ride....they offer ginger pills..which work..and many people..my wife included..used Sea Bands on their wrists...we saw some "tough looking guys"..that took no precautions and got sick.. <BR> <BR>