We are in Cairns for 4 nights next year as part of our RTW trip. Can anyone recommend a hotel reasonable price and quite central. also which boat would be best to see barrier reef. we are not divers but may be able to snorkel. thanks

hi there..

i am staying in palm cove which is a nice area to stay & we are staying at the elyipsum hotal in palm cove which is very nice & new & is reasonably priced & you can get boats from palm cove for snorkelling etc...

there is even a palm cove website - google it... i hope this helps

Don't know if you are a first time snorkeler. We were and had a trip with
'Great Barrier Reef Dive & Snorkel Adventures' (also called Compass Cruises).

We were very disappointed by them and would NOT recommend this company.

happy travels
Jaap

We stayed at the Acacia Court several years ago. Room rates and the price for the most fabulous seafood buffet I have ever had have increased in the meantime but are still reasonable for my taste (seaview room A$ 130), check out here:

http://www.acaciacourt.com/

Forgot with with company we went to the Reef but it was a very nice tour. If I get hold of the details I will let you know.

I would highly recommend the Quicksilver boat trip to the reef.
I would wait to book anything for your stay as closer to the time you will be able to get some great specials.At the moment there is a bit of a quiet time in Cairns and area, tourist numbers are down and you can get some GREAT bargains here now.I think the same will be happening next year.

I have just picked up a real great deal for 5 nights in Port Douglas ( next week) at wotif.com.au

I agree with Anne about Quicksilver cruises to the outer reef. It's a full day trip, good food, they have a pontoon out there, sem-submersible boat, underwater viewing room etc. plus snorkeling and diving for those who can.