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How to Book a Trip to the Great Barrier Reef

How to · Travel

How to Book a Trip to the Great Barrier Reef

See the reef in the shoulder season without draining your savings account at once.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $4,500 before anything else
Across the 0% window $250.00/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $4,500 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef is best in May or September when the weather is mild and the crowds are thin. You get clear water and comfortable temperatures, which makes being out on the boat all day much more enjoyable.

A trip like this usually runs about $4500. Using the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card, you can pay this off over time. It offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening, giving you a set window to manage the cost.

Remember that the 0% intro window is a deadline, not free money. If you have any balance left after 18 months, the bank will start charging interest on whatever is remaining.

The steps

  1. 01

    Pick your dates

    Aim for May or September to dodge peak heat and school holidays. You will find better availability for reef tours and lower prices on local flights during these months.

  2. 02

    Set up your payment

    The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card gives you 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. By putting the $4500 trip on this card, you can break the total into $250.00 per month for 18 months.

  3. 03

    Book your flights early

    International flights to Australia are the biggest expense. Use a flight tracker to watch prices for your chosen shoulder month and buy as soon as the fare drops.

  4. 04

    Secure your reef tour

    Don't wait until you land to book your reef excursions. Choose a reputable operator that leaves from Cairns or Port Douglas and book your spot online before you fly.

  5. 05

    Automate your payments

    Set up an auto-pay for $250.00 each month from your checking account. This keeps you on track to clear the balance before the intro window expires.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Why go in the shoulder season?

You avoid the jellyfish season and the extreme humidity of summer. It is the best balance of good weather and fewer tourists on the water.

What happens if I miss a payment?

You might lose your intro rate and get hit with a late fee. Always set up an automatic payment to ensure you never miss the monthly due date.

Is the reef accessible for non-swimmers?

Yes, many tours offer glass-bottom boats or semi-submersibles. You can see the coral and fish perfectly well without getting wet.

Should I buy travel insurance?

Since this is a big trip, it is worth looking into. It protects your investment if you have to cancel for a covered reason.