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.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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.
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
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.
Reviews
349 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Hugs from Kansas
James B,Mar 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00What a great way to experience the Great Barrier Reef and meet some amazing new people. Two stops to snorkle, a short Heli, and terrific meal…highly recommend this journey!
Best in the Business
gaurav 829,Mar 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The Down Under Cruise & Dive experience aboard the luxury superyacht Evolution is a high-speed, high-style masterclass in reef exploration that proves you don’t need to be a billionaire to see the Great Barrier Reef like one. From the moment you check in at the Reef Fleet Terminal, the operation is flawlessly organized and the vessel itself is impeccably clean, offering three decks of air-conditioned comfort and sun-drenched lounges. What truly sets this apart as the best full-day trip in Cairns, however, is the superstar crew; their warmth and deep local knowledge are matched only by their dedication to passenger support, ensuring everyone from nervous snorkelers to seasoned divers feels completely safe and pampered. Between exploring vibrant coral gardens and indulging in a gourmet BBQ feast of steak and prawns, the seamless service and high-octane vibes make for an unforgettable adventure. It’s a polished, "Gold Class" journey where the staff’s expertise shines as bright as the tropical sun, turning a simple boat ride into a world-class hospitality experience.
Good and bad of booking this with viator
Jeff F,Feb 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00The staff and crew of the evolution which is the name of the ship we used for full day reef cruise and 10-minute helicopter scenic flight was great. The pitfalls Viator Noah mentions that you were booking with down under cruise and dive. they in turn when they sent instructions did not include the specific location to check in And I went to the actual ship I had to be turned around and go back to a building to check in. basically the flaw is the details they send in the email. other than that food the quality of the ship and the gear provided for snorkeling or diving. all seem to be excellent
All day excursion to Barrier Reef
Anne B,Feb 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This was a very special all day experience to the Barrier Reef on a boat of around 150 people. Very well organised with safety being a main issue. Great food , snorkelling and a helicopter ride at a very reasonable price plus a bit of sunbathing on the way back. Very well run and would recommend it.
Incredible full day reef cruise with dive and helicopter flight.
cathywW5846ZN,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolute must-do reef cruise! The whole experience was incredible, and the friendly, helpful team made the day extra special. Everything was well organised from start to finish. I took the option to try an introductory scuba dive which I loved so much I did a second dive in the afternoon. The helicopter flight was unforgettable. The lunch was fantastic, there was so much food, safety was a top priority at all times and the amazing on-board photographer captured the memories so beautifully. Don't hestitate to book with Down Under Cruise and Dive!
Bucket list check!
Beth G,Feb 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Really fun crew. I felt as a first time diver that the briefing was very informative and made me feel safe. I am inspired to become certified now! Highly recommend this once in a lifetime trip. It was a dream. The only thing that could have made it any better was if the amount of passengers was more limited, however, the crew handled the expedition and keeping everyone on track well. Lots of safety checks!
Down And Under . Evolution
ilyvedado,Feb 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The boat was amazing, the food was great , the reefs even better and the crew were very sweet, supporting and friendly. Phil Jr was our diver instructor, also the helicopter was very smooth and nice , beautiful reefs and an unforgettable experience!
The helicopter experience...
Steven W,Jan 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The helicopter experience is a must do. The crew on board the Evolution were amazing. The whole package was great value
Perfect.
Amadeo M,Jan 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Wonderful experience, my first time diving and my first time flying by helicopter. The crew is 100/10, they made our experience unforgettable. I'm so happy!
Awesome!
Sanjit K,Jan 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great. Can't be missed. Include helicopter! Great reef spots, perfect service, beautiful ship. Incredible!
Related Experiences
Operated by Down Under Cruise and Dive