Disability Access to the Great Barrier Reef

Unique Water Access Lift for Wheelchair Passengers

Our primary vessel, Quicksilver VIII to Agincourt Reef is the most suitable vessel for wheelchair passengers. There are occasions however, when this vessel may not operate and back up vessels are used that do not have wheelchair facilities. This is often not known until 24 hours prior to departure. We recommend guests call the office 24 hours prior to travelling to confirm their details. On Quicksilver VIII, there is an oversized toilet cubicle available suitable for most wheelchair passengers.

Quicksilver’s Agincourt Reef platform features a water powered lift (the only one of its kind on the Great Barrier Reef) to enable access to the water for wheelchair passengers. Passengers can swim directly off the lift’s chair into the weightless environment of the reef where they can snorkel and explore at their own pace. This is available only on the Agincourt 3 floating platform (Quicksilver VIII). At the Outer Barrier Reef there are ramp facilities from our vessel to our floating platform, however access to the underwater observatory, swim platforms and our semi-submersible coral viewing vessels is by stairs only. Collapsable wheelchairs are normally easier due to the smaller size & weight.

Getting To Port Douglas

If a passenger is using their own specially designed vehicle, self-driving to the Port Douglas Port Douglas Marina is the best option. Normal coach transfers are available for passengers who are self sufficient and able to, with assistance, negotiate 3 stairs on and off the coach. The height from the ground onto the first step of the coach is approximately 300mm. For wheelchair confined passengers, a wheelchair taxi can be booked on your behalf to Port Douglas or Cairns. There is a set taxi price from Cairns/Beaches to Port Douglas and payment can be made direct to the taxi company on the day. Our wharf facilities in Port Douglas have boarding ramps that are suitable for wheelchairs.