Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight
Overview
Available languages
8 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Down Under Cruise and Dive by Evolution, a luxury 35-meter super-yacht. This package includes a full day to the outer Great Barrier Reef at two stunning reef locations, with 5 hours of reef time plus a 10-minute scenic helicopter flight over the reef. Dives are only included in dive package only (not snorkel package). You will experience the reef from above and below!
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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.
What To Expect
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.
Options
Snorkeling and Heli Flight
5 hrs on the Outer Great Barrier Reef including a 10-minute scenic helicopter flight and free time to snorkel
1 Cert Dive, Heli & Snorkel
Includes 1 certified dive, snorkelling and 10-minute scenic flight.
1 Intro Dive, Heli & Snorkel
Includes 1 introductory dive, snorkelling and 10-minute scenic flight.
What‘s Included
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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
362 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
The highlight of our holiday!
V5115VVheidiw,Jun 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The 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
745farnazh,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Perfect team, planing and experience. The food was perfect, we had snorkeling, diving and helicopter with them and all went perfect.
Best Barrier Reef Tour
Yash N,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I 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...
Nicole N,Jun 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Exciting 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.
Hands-on, Happy, Helpful Crew
Nyasha M,May 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The crew were amazing and so kind assisting my 74 year old Mother to get her sea legs and get around & about. The lunch was tasty. Fantastic job, Captain Tom and Crew!
Highly recommended
Anna1222222,May 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Super nice staff. Everything was excellent. The helicopter flight was absolutely worth it. Nothing to complain at all.
Helicopter trip cancelled without prior notice
Road828165,Apr 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00We booked this tour because it included the helicopter ride, but when we arrived to check in we were told that it had been cancelled, we were told that because the boat that was taking you there was in men
Experience of a lifetime.
Victoria T,Mar 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Fantastic experience, reef stops were spectacular and helicopter add on was worth it to see the reefs from above and to experience the sheer volume. The staff on board were amazing, most went above and beyond and were so welcoming and humorous. The only slight negative comment I have to make is the photographer was not very approachable or helpful, thousands of photos taken and it was a case of scrolling through and looking, when most people were wearing stinger suits and masks it was like looking for a needle in a haystack and she was not interested in helping anyone, in fact was quite unapproachable and rude. The rest of the crew more than made up for it though, so helpful and funny. The food and drink was delicious and plentiful.
Great day at the barrier...
Alison J,Mar 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great day at the barrier reef. Great snorkelling spots with loads of coral and wildlife to see up close. Friendly and helpful staff. Lovely food provided for lunch.
Great few good work Brooks
VikramA27,Mar 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The crew on the down under is amazing ; they go above and beyond to make you comfortable . The catamaran is very fast and waters are choppy ; people get sea sick and they take care of them as family . Will give a special shoutout to brooks she was amazing ; keep it up young lady you will go far if you stay this kind PS My son says special thanks
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Operated by Down Under Cruise and Dive