Can you still see the Great Barrier Reef if you can’t swim?

The short answer to this? Absolutely! Despite being submerged in the deep ocean water, you don’t have to be a swimmer to see the underwater wonderland that is the Great Barrier Reef.

With an endless amount of activities on offer, you will run out time fitting them all in.

• Glass-Bottom Boat

  Instead of diving below the ocean surface, hang out above the water in the Glass-Bottom Boat tour. As you can probably guess from its name, this small boat has a complete glass bottom that is a window into the submerged reef. Slowly cruise across the water and see the swarms of fish and marine life whizzing past you from below. Perfect for the whole family as children and adults of all ages can find this a convenient and easy experience without getting a simple drop of water on you.

• Pontoon

  Travel out to the outer reef and encounter the state-of-the-art Pontoon nestled right in the heart of the reef. This massive, boat is essentially a man-made concrete island, becoming a permanent floating part of the waters. Instead of traveling in and out of the waters, the Pontoon remains, with other vessels traveling there to bring visitors. Due to its stability and size, the pontoon is able to fit a number of people, with multiple boats visiting together. The aim of the pontoon is to provide visitors with a great way to see the reef both inside and out of the water.

  The platform delivers state-of-the-art facilities, including toilets, showers, dining areas, a kitchen, as well as both indoor and outdoor hang out spots. With a kid’s a pool and a theme-park style waterside to entertain the children, adults can relax in the licensed bar on board. Even if you don’t jump in the water when visit, you’re guaranteed to enjoy your time at the Pontoon.

• Boom Netting

  A new phenomenon alternative to swimming that lets you instead enjoy cool ocean waters without any effort. It’s called boom netting and involves a large net section attached to the back of the boat. This net is lowered into the water where you and your group can scramble into to sit waist deep within the net. As the boat sets off, letting you ride along the water securely inside the nett. Marveling at the passing islands and marine life as you whizz past.

• Boat Cruise

  Enjoy the stunning sapphire waters and picture-perfect weather of Queensland and simply take a day trip out on the boat. Enjoy a delicious lunch, with seafood and glass of sparkling as you marvel at the nearby reef spots from above. Even stopping into the reef’s islands scatter within. You can travel through Green island’s famous rainforest, or hanging out at Lizard Island’s beach spots.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.