Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight

Imagine spending a full day exploring one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders—the Great Barrier Reef—on a luxury vessel, with opportunities to snorkel, dive, and see the reef from above. This tour offers a comprehensive adventure that combines the best of what Cairns has to offer, all wrapped into roughly 8.5 hours of marine and aerial exploration.

We love this experience for its diversity of activities, the quality of the onboard amenities, and the chance to enjoy spectacular views from multiple angles—from the water, the air, and beneath the surface. The delicious BBQ lunch onboard and the friendly crew truly enhance the overall value.

That said, a potential consideration is the long day on the water—it can be quite full, and depending on weather, your helicopter ride might be canceled. If you’re prone to seasickness, preparing with motion sickness remedies is advisable.

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded, immersive experience of the reef with added scenic highlights. Families, couples, or solo travelers eager for adventure and stunning vistas will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Multiple perspectives: See the reef from a boat, helicopter, and underwater.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Includes snorkeling, scuba diving options, and a scenic flight.
• Quality onboard amenities: Luxury yacht, BBQ lunch, and afternoon wine.
• Focus on safety and professionalism: Well-organized, helpful crew, and safety briefings.
• Strong reviews: Consistently high ratings with authentic feedback on experience quality.
• Potential weather dependency: Helicopter flights may be canceled due to weather conditions.

Overview of the Tour: An All-Inclusive Reef Adventure

This tour, offered by Down Under Cruise and Dive, provides an all-day exploration of the Great Barrier Reef, one of Australia’s most prized natural features. At $267.81 per person, it strikes a solid balance between cost and the variety of experiences included. The tour spans roughly 8.5 hours, making it an intense, fun-filled day for those eager to maximize their time in Cairns.

The journey begins early, with check-in at Reef Fleet Terminal between 7:15 and 7:45 am. After a quick safety briefing and equipment distribution, you’ll board the high-speed Evolution catamaran, which is described as spacious and comfortable by passengers, despite some initial impressions of crowding during the briefing.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Reef Fleet Terminal and Departure

Starting your day at the Reef Fleet Terminal in Cairns, you’ll check in and meet the crew, who are praised for their professionalism and helpfulness. The early departure at 8:00 am means you’ll be on the water before most travelers start their day, giving you a head start in experiencing the reef’s tranquility.

Stop 2: Norman or Saxon Reef

Your first reef stop is at either Saxon Reef or Norman Reef—both outer reef sites renowned for their vibrant corals and abundant marine life. The journey from Cairns takes around 1.5 hours, during which the crew conducts safety briefings and prepares you for the day ahead.

Once at the reef, you’ll have about 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy activities like snorkeling, with the option for certified or introductory scuba dives. From reviews, it’s clear that the crew is attentive and eager to assist, making even first-timers feel comfortable. One reviewer mentions that the diving masters are amazing, and underwater photography is highlighted as a standout feature—perfect for capturing the reef’s stunning colors.

Stop 3: Lunch and Reef Exploration

The BBQ buffet lunch onboard is a definite highlight. Guests rave about the delicious food, with options including fresh fish, steak, prawns, salads, and bread. Special dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free are catered for, and many reviews mention the meal exceeding expectations.

This midday break is a great opportunity to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and prepare for the afternoon activities.

Stop 4: Hastings Reef and Scenic Helicopter Flight

The second reef visit at Hastings Reef is where the tour truly elevates (literally). The highlight here is the 10-minute scenic helicopter flight, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the reef’s vastness and intricate formations.

Multiple reviews describe the helicopter ride as “fantastic,” “amazing,” and “a must-do”. One reviewer noted that you can only really grasp the size of the reef when flying above. For those who prefer not to fly, it’s worth noting that the helicopter experience is optional but highly recommended if weather permits.

Return Journey and Afternoon Tea

As the boat heads back to Cairns, you can unwind with complimentary cheese, biscuits, and a glass of wine—a lovely way to toast a day well spent. The boat typically returns around 4:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to reflect on your reef adventure.

The Vessel and Facilities

Passengers consistently praise the luxury super-yacht-style vessel, Evolution, for its spaciousness and comfort. The boat is air-conditioned, with ample space for socializing and relaxing. Restrooms are conveniently located, and equipment such as masks, snorkels, and lycra sun suits are included, removing the hassle of bringing your own gear.

The crew is frequently described as friendly, professional, and attentive. Their enthusiasm, especially regarding the reef, enhances the overall experience. Guests note that safety is a priority, with life jackets and flotation aids provided, and detailed safety briefings are given before departure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Diversity of Perspectives

Seeing the reef from three different angles—underwater, from the air, and from the boat—gives you a comprehensive appreciation of this natural wonder. The aerial view from the helicopter reveals the reef’s scale and complexity, while snorkeling and scuba diving allow for close-up encounters with marine life.

Quality of Food and Amenities

Guests consistently mention the delicious BBQ lunch, which surpasses expectations for a tour meal. The all-inclusive nature—gear, lunch, afternoon tea, and scenic flight—adds significant value, especially considering the positive reviews about the helpful crew and smooth organization.

The Scenic Helicopter Flight

This optional addition is a game-changer for many. The 10-minute flight offers a stunning vantage point that transforms the reef into a vast, colorful canvas. Reviewers describe it as “worth every penny” and “the highlight of the trip”.

The Crew and Safety

With reviews highlighting professionalism, friendliness, and attention to safety, you can relax knowing your day is in capable hands. The crew’s enthusiasm—especially about sharing their knowledge—adds an authentic, engaging touch.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While most travelers rave about the tour, some mention that seasickness can be an issue—particularly on rough days. One reviewer suggested taking motion sickness pills beforehand, especially if prone to nausea.

The weather dependency of helicopter flights** is also worth noting. If conditions aren’t suitable, your scenic flight might be canceled, although the tour offers refunds or rescheduling options.

Plus, the long hours—from early morning check-in to late afternoon return—may be tiring for some travelers. However, the abundance of activities helps keep the energy high.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager for a full day of marine exploration and aerial views. It suits families with older children, couples celebrating special occasions, or solo travelers who enjoy social, well-organized tours.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive reef experience with good value for money, excellent food, and stunning sights, this trip is a top contender. However, those sensitive to seasickness or seeking a shorter, more relaxed outing might prefer a half-day option.

Final Thoughts

For a balanced blend of adventure, comfort, and scenic beauty, this full-day reef cruise with a helicopter flight ticks many boxes. The thoughtful organization, friendly staff, and multifaceted experience make it worth considering if you’re visiting Cairns and want a memorable, well-rounded reef encounter.

While the day can be intense and weather-dependent, the chance to see the reef from underwater, above, and from the boat ensures you’ll leave with a deep appreciation for this natural marvel. The delicious BBQ, friendly crew, and unforgettable views truly enhance the value.

This tour offers a fantastic option for those wanting to maximize their time in the reef, especially if the helicopter flight is a priority. For travelers who appreciate well-organized, engaging experiences with a focus on safety and authentic enjoyment, this excursion is well worth the investment.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Check-in begins at 7:15 am at Reef Fleet Terminal, with the boat departing promptly at 8:00 am.

How long do we spend at the reef?
You’ll have approximately 5 hours of reef time, split between two locations—Norman or Saxon Reef and Hastings Reef.

Are meals included?
Yes, a BBQ buffet lunch is served onboard, with options accommodating various dietary needs like vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free.

Is the helicopter flight guaranteed?
The scenic helicopter flight is included and usually runs, but it is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered a refund or reschedule.

Can I snorkel or scuba dive?
Absolutely. Snorkeling is included, and certified or introductory scuba dives are available (additional fees may apply). Dive participation requires a medical questionnaire and valid certification for certified dives.

What is the boat like?
The vessel, called Evolution, is described as spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped, with air conditioning and easy access to restrooms.

Are children allowed?
Children aged 12 and under for snorkeling and 10 and under for certified diving are generally not permitted to dive, as per local laws. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

What is the price for this tour?
At approximately $267.81 per person, it offers good value considering the inclusions, especially the scenic flight and multiple reef stops.

How many people typically join?
The tour has a maximum capacity of 36 travelers, maintaining a balanced and less crowded atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Bring reef-friendly sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof camera if you wish. The tour provides gear and Lycra sun suits.

In sum, this tour combines adventure, comfort, and breathtaking sights, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to truly experience the Great Barrier Reef from all angles. The thoughtful organization, friendly crew, and diverse activities help create an unforgettable day on Australia’s most famous marine wonder.