Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight
Full description
Included / Excluded
- BBQ lunch prepared onboard with fresh fish, prawns, steak, salads (Veg, GF, DF & Vegan options)
- Glass of wine, cheese and crackers on return journey
- All Fees and Taxes
- All equipment and lycra/sun suit hire
- Spectacular 10-minute Reef Scenic Helicopter Flight
- Visit two exclusive outer reef locations with 5 hours reef time
- Personal flotation aids - life jackets and noodles
- ONLY DIVE PACKAGES: 1 x Introductory Dive (beginner) or Certified Dive (requires qualification)
- Private transportation
- Dive not included in snorkel package
Itinerary
Check-in at Reef Fleet Terminal between 7.15am - 7.45am. Once checked in, you can make your way down to the boat, Evolution. Be greeted by your friendly crew, who will provide you with masks and snorkel, and then enjoy arrival tea, coffee and muffins before departure.
Evolution departs Cairns at 8 am with a safety briefing on your way to your first reef location. After 1 hour and 30 minutes, you will arrive at the first reef location. This will either be Saxon Reef or Norman Reef based on weather conditions and water clarity, to ensure the best experience for all activities.
Enjoy a BBQ lunch onboard (special dietary requirements catered for). The spread features an Australian barbecue with fresh fish, steak, prawns, and a variety of salads, and breads.
Evolution arrives at the second reef location, Hastings Reef. This is where you will enjoy your included 10-minute scenic helicopter flight. Marvel at the scenic views of the Great Barrier Reef from above. This is an unforgettable experience. There will also be time for some snorkelling. If you prefer to stay dry, sit back and enjoy the views across our three deck spaces available for lounging.
As you return to the mainland after a full day in paradise, enjoy complimentary afternoon tea of cheese, biscuits and a glass of wine as you toast to a great day visiting the Great Barrier Reef. Evolution arrives back to Cairns at approximately 4.30pm.
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Easy Public Transport
- Infants Required On Laps
Good to know
- Check-in is from 7.15am at Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence Street, Cairns. Please make your way to the Down Under Cruise and Dive counter to check-in. Boat departs at 8.00am sharp.
- Due to comfort, weight and balance of the aircraft, the weight limit for helicopters is 130kg. Please contact the supplier directly for further information.
- All divers are required to complete a Medical Questionnaire. In a commitment to the safety of our guests, divers over 65 years must have a medical clearance with a physician the confirms they are Fit To Dive. Please be aware that certain medical conditions (e.g. asthma, heart disease, diabetes) and ANY prescription medications will require a letter or email from a doctor clearing you to dive. This clearance must state your full name, the doctor's name and practice and the clearance to dive for the specific medications/condition. Please review the operators Medical Questionnaire and Terms & Conditions prior to travel.
- Evidence of dive qualification (certification card) is required from all divers wishing to participate in a certified dive.
- Children aged and under 12 years (introductory) and 10 years (certified divers) are not permitted to participate in onboard diving activities as per Queensland Australian Law.
- Children under the age of 18 must be in the immediate company of a parent or legal guardian.
- Diving within 24 hours before your flight is not permitted.
- Special dietary requirements must be confirmed at least 24 hours prior to travel directly with the tour operator. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten free and dairy free options are available.
Traveler reviews
The Best Great Barrier Reef Experience We’ve Ever Had
Planning to visit the Great Barrier Reef? Go with Down Under Cruise and Dive. Seriously! Over the past year, I’ve visited the reef four times with four different tour operators, so I have something to compare. Out of all of them, Down Under Cruise and Dive was by far the best. From the moment we boarded, the entire team was energetic, professional, and incredibly well organised. They worked so hard to make sure every guest had a smooth, safe, and unforgettable experience. You can really tell they care about what they do. We did our very first introductory scuba dive with Phil. As complete beginners, we were quite nervous, but Phil was patient, reassuring, and explained everything so clearly. By simply following his instructions, we were able to experience the reef up close in a way we’ll never forget. It was one of the most amazing moments of our lives. At the second reef, we also took the 10 minute helicopter flight. Seeing the Great Barrier Reef from above was absolutely breathtaking. It felt surreal watching those famous turquoise reefs and coral formations with our own eyes instead of through photos. If your budget allows, I highly recommend adding the helicopter flight. It’s worth every dollar. A special shout out to Eddie. Throughout the entire day, he was everywhere, making sure guests were looked after and that every activity ran smoothly. With so many people doing different activities, I was genuinely impressed by how hard he worked and how positive he stayed all day. Thank you Eddie! Gamsahamnida! If I visit the Great Barrier Reef again, I’ll definitely choose Down Under Cruise and Dive again without hesitation. I’ll also be recommending them to all of my friends and family. If you want to experience the very best day on the Great Barrier Reef, this is the team to go with.
The highlight of our holiday!
The highlight of our trip to Cairns! Diving in the reef was a once in a lifetime experience, then coupling it with the helicopter flight... There are no words for it. The crew were exceptional; friendly, accommodating and very knowledgeable. I would recommend this trip to any and everyone.
Perfect
Perfect team, planing and experience. The food was perfect, we had snorkeling, diving and helicopter with them and all went perfect.
Best Barrier Reef Tour
I was skeptical at first because I'm not a strong swimmer, but the crew were incredibly helpful and supportive throughout the trip. They took us to two reef locations, and there was also an optional scenic flight available. I chose the helicopter ride back to Cairns, and it was absolutely magnificent. Boarding a helicopter from the middle of the ocean was such a unique and unforgettable experience. I would highly recommend going with Down Under Cruise and Dive.
Exciting day of...
Exciting day of adventures hosted by a wonderful crew. Unexpected amenities made the day comfortable and enjoyable. Loved the snorkeling and helicopter ride. One of our top excursions ever and well-worth the cost.