About Sunlover
The Best Great Barrier Reef Tour Operators
An Australian-owned and operated company, Sunlover Reef Cruises has been operating tours from Cairns to the Great Barrier Reef since 1991. We are proud to have showcased the reef to visitors from all corners of the globe.
We are committed to:
- professionalism, integrity and expertise of all of our team
- utmost respect and care for our environment
- safety above all for guests and employees
- quality and excellence of Great Barrier Reef experience
Sunlover has been at the forefront of innovation, upgrading our fleet of catamarans and other marine vessels, our state of the art purpose built pontoons and the range of experiences we have to offer. Whether it be a day of leisure or a day of learning, for experienced divers or even those unable to swim, there is an incredible reef experience for everyone at Sunlover.
Nothing we have achieved would have been possible without the tireless efforts of our dedicated team. We employ up to 100 people, all of whom bring their own specific skills and expertise and most importantly, their enthusiasm for the Great Barrier Reef and the tourism industry.
Some of our team have been with us for decades such as Dive Instructor Vance and Marine Biologist Ted, commencing with Sunlover almost 30 years ago when Sunlover was in its infancy. Cruise attendants Tonya, Nikki and Ying-Wah have been there nearly as long! Its more than just a job, it’s a passion, and every day we share the reef with our visitors is a day well spent.
Having met very specific criteria relating to environmental sustainability and culturally responsible tourism, Sunlover is an Eco Certified Tourism operator, awarded by Ecotourism Australia (EA). As we have held this status for 20 years we are now an accredited Green Travel Leader.
With our commitment to providing the highest quality reef experience for our diverse visitors, our focus on operating at the utmost level of safety and environmental sustainability, the dedicated team at Sunlover are excited to share the Great Barrier Reef in 2025 and beyond.
Sunlover Reef Cruises acknowledges the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji, Mandigalbay Yidinji, Yirrganydji & Gunggandji people, the traditional owners of the Sea Country on which our business operates. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to elders past, present and emerging.
Accessibility at Sunlover Reef Cruises
At Sunlover, we want every guest to feel welcome, safe, and supported when travelling with us. Accessibility to the reef can be complex due to tides, gangways, and vessel design, so we’re committed to sharing what we can provide — and what we need to know from you — to ensure your trip is as smooth as possible.
What We Provide
Boarding & Vessels
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Assisted Boarding: Our crew can assist with manual wheelchairs and lightweight electric chairs (under 21 kg).
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Gangways: Depending on tides, gangway slopes can change (typically 2.0 m – 3.0 m). Gangway widths range from 550 mm to 700 mm, depending on vessel.
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Crew Lift Capacity: Crew are able to assist with equipment up to 20 kg.
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Accessible Toilets: Available on TSS and Catalina vessels.
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Designated Seating: Reserved wheelchair spaces are available on TSS/TSB vessels (please advise crew at boarding).
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Pontoon Access: Wide decks with handrails, snorkel platforms, and non-water reef experiences (Glass Bottom Boat & Semi-Sub).
What We Need From You
To prepare for your trip, please let us know:
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Type of Mobility Device: Manual wheelchair, lightweight electric, mobility scooter, walker, etc.
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Weight of Device: This is essential so we can confirm if crew can safely assist (20 kg max lift).
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Level of Mobility: Whether you can manage steps (e.g., Catalina middle deck requires stairs; Sundancer has a ramp plus 2 steps).
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Preferred Support: If you require reserved seating, assisted boarding, or extra time to board.
| Trip | Gangway Widths | Accessible Toilet | Wheelchair Area | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moore Reef | 650 mm bottom, 700 mm middle | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Best vessel for wheelchair users; crew can reserve seating. |
| Reef & Island | 550 mm bottom, 700 mm middle | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | Wheelchairs can board; no designated wheelchair seating. |
| Fitzroy Island | Ramp + 2 steps | ❌ No | ❌ No | Manual wheelchairs only; no designated areas. |
| The Pontoon | 650 mm | On the Boat | N/A | Wide flat decks, handrails, accessible to most manual chairs. |
Important Notes
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Mobility Scooters & Heavy Chairs: Not suitable for boarding due to gangway width and crew lift restrictions. A manual wheelchair or walker is recommended instead.
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Electric Chairs 21–30 kg: Not recommended as they exceed safe lift limits.
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Devices over 30 kg: Cannot be brought onboard.
Contact Us
Every guest’s needs are different. The more detail you share with us ahead of time, the better we can prepare. Please contact our team before booking to discuss your requirements. res@sunlover.com.au
✅ We’re here to help, and we’re committed to making your reef experience as inclusive as possible.
Proud Champion of Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ)
As a Champion member of Tourism Tropical North Queensland, Sunlover Reef Cruises is committed to supporting the growth and sustainability of our region’s tourism industry. Our membership reflects a shared vision to showcase the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, foster meaningful connections with visitors, and contribute to the long-term success of Tropical North Queensland as a world-class destination.
Being part of the TTNQ Champion community also allows us to collaborate with like-minded operators, share insights, and actively participate in campaigns that promote responsible tourism. Together, we’re helping to protect what makes this region so special—its reef, rainforest, and rich cultural heritage—so it can be enjoyed for generations to come.
