If you are unable to dive, then the best way to get up close and personal with the Great Barrier Reef is to don your snorkelling gear.

All you need is a mask, a snorkel and flippers, a good sunscreen and sunshirt and visitors can while away the day floating across the Great Barrier Reef.

Snorkelling is an activity that anyone can enjoy, from kids to grandparents.

All tour boats that head out to the reef or stop at the islands have snorkelling gear for use.

There are a number of specific snorkelling tours available that combine sailing or other luxury tours, but snorkelling is generally free on other tours.

Always remember to take a strong sunscreen, sunshirt and hat when snorkelling, it doesn't take much to get burnt in Far North Queensland.

Remember to snorkel in the marked areas as it is easy to become separated from your group.

All tours will have dedicated "spotter" out looking for snorkellers who have travelled too far, so don’t panic.

If you get a chance to stop off at one of the many tropical islands in the Cairns region, snorkelling is available strait off the beach.

This is a great option for parents with younger children, as it will allow them to see the reef with supervision from the shore.

Would you like to know more about the Great Barrier Reef or other tourist attractions in the Cairns region? Follow the links below to find out!

> Cairns Diving and Snorkelling

> Great Barrier Reef Tourist Information

> Cairns Beaches and Islands

> Great Barrier Reef Tours and Day Trips

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