In the shimmering expanse of the Great Barrier Reef, where nature's marvels meet the eager eyes...
After a day full of adventure and underwater discoveries, it's no wonder kids drift into a peaceful slumber on the Moore Reef tour return journey.
So, what exactly is a pontoon?
A pontoon is a large, stable, man-made structure which is permanently stationed at the Great Barrier Reef.
The main benefit of pontoons are the space to roam around, the overall comfortability at sea, and the host of included and optional activities that you can do from the pontoon as your base for the day.
Preparing for the reef: what to bring?
Especially when travelling with children, its so important to be prepared so you can focus on being in the moment and enjoying the day!
Here are the standard items that is recommended:
- Hat, sunscreen, sun protective clothing
- Light jacket for the afternoon
- Towel and swimwear
- Camera
- Cash +/or card for on board purchases
- Reusable water bottle (we have chilled filtered water for refilling)
Now, here's some tips just for parents:
- Extra towel to use as picnic mat or for rolling as a pillow.
- Wet bag for swimwear
- Extra snacks if you kids are snack-inclined
The Excitement Begins: Boarding at Reef Fleet Terminal.
Starting the day at the Reef Fleet Terminal sets the tone for an exciting adventure. With user-friendly paved walkways leading from nearby parking areas like The Pier and Hemingways, getting to the terminal with young kids in tow is a breeze. It's essential to arrive at the terminal at least an hour before the scheduled departure to ensure a smooth check-in process. For a 10am boat departure, I aim to park by 8:30am and be at the terminal for check-in by 8:45am.
The spacious boat offers different seating options over three levels, and there's ample space to bring along a pram, with the crew ready to assist in getting it on board. Once everyone is settled, the crew conduct multiple head counts to ensure everyone’s accounted for before setting off. This meticulous process highlights the crew's dedication to passenger safety, however it can be time-consuming if passengers move around. I like to turn this into a game for the kids, telling them they have to be still like a statue so the crew can count them!
A Hearty Lunch: fuel up for fun.
Lunchtime on the pontoon is a treat with a buffet offering a variety of options to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. With kid-approved choices like bread rolls, cold meats, and fresh fruit, everyone can find something they enjoy. For families, I usually recommend to eat early as hungry tummies need to be tended to proactively!
The buffet is served on the pontoon, and with plenty of seating areas to spread out, families can comfortably set up a base for the day. If children are young, it can be recommended to bring an extra towel to use as a picnic mat and try to get a table along the end to have a bit of space aside.
Post-lunch, families often take some time to enjoy the activities.
Time for the fun.
The pontoon boasts the only waterslide on the Great Barrier Reef, providing endless fun for kids. Snorkeling equipment, including lycra suits for all ages and sizes, is available, although it’s best to change out of these suits only once finished with water activities, as they can be tricky to put back on when wet.
For younger kids or those not ready for snorkeling, the ocean-enclosed kids pool offers a safe space for a splash with a parent. It is even suitable to bring the littlest of kids in for a paddle. Additionally, the pontoon features a glass bottom boat and semi-sub tours, each lasting around 20 minutes, allowing families to explore the reef without getting wet. These run on a rotation and the times are sign posted.
Wait, there's more!
The sun deck is a perfect spot to soak up some 'vitamin sea', and it's also where the waterslide is located.
The underwater observatory provides a serene spot to watch the marine life through large windows, offering a peaceful break from the bustling activities on the pontoon. This continuous access allows families to enjoy the underwater views at their own pace throughout the day.
Safety first.
Safety is a top priority on the Moore Reef tour. The crew ensures that all snorkeling gear, including kids' masks, fins, and buoyancy vests (life jackets), are readily available for extra peace of mind. The waterslide, a highlight for many children, is only open when supervised by a crew member, ensuring a safe and fun experience for everyone.
Sun + sea = sleepy!
After an action-packed day, the return journey on the boat becomes a much-needed downtime for both kids and adults. The combination of fresh sea air, physical activity, and a full belly makes for a perfect recipe for napping. In my experience, about 90% of the kids on board, including my own, tend to fall asleep on the way back, along with many of the adults.
The journey home is notably quieter, as passengers relax after their day of exploration and fun. The gentle rocking of the boat, coupled with the satisfaction of a day well spent, often lulls everyone into a peaceful slumber, ending the trip on a calm and restful note.