Great Barrier Reef in March
 

Hoping to see the Great Barrier Reef in mid-late March. I understand it is not the ideal time as it this is still wet and cyclone season. Those of you who are local to the area, or have been during this time, would you absolutely advise against this? Or is it still possible to take a tour to the reef then? Does going from Cairns or Airlie Beach make much of a difference during this time? Thank you in advance,

Most trips out to the reef leave from Cairns or Port Douglas. I think Airlie Beach would be too far south. The weather in March will affect any boat trips but it could vary day to day. So if you have minimal rain and it's safe for the boats, you could go out. But if torrential rain or cyclone warning, then you couldn't.

It will be hot and humid in March. In our experience, there can be short, heavy rain fall, then it clears a bit. Another thing to be aware of is the rain stirs up the sand, so if snorkelling or in a glass bottom boat, the water won't be as clear as normal.

We've just been on a cruise to FNQ and had 3 nights in Cairns. Most cruise passengers who did a reef trip said it was disappointing in that the coral is all dying. I have done a reef trip but it was about 10 years ago from Port Douglas with Quicksilver in May. They go way out to the Agincourt Reef which may not be so devastated by warming seas. Have a look for some reviews.
It is stinger season so you will need to wear one of those stinger suits. You can do non swimming activities on the Quicksilver trip but really what's the point of going? I found the whole experience of swimming in the Coral Sea with no land in sight a magical experience. It's all very safe with netted off areas you swim in and lots of staff around. Plus they do a head count so no one is left behind!
If your main objective with the trip to Australia is to visit the reef I would go later in the year.