Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns
Overview
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8 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Experience one of the wonders of the natural world up close and personal on this snorkeling and diving cruise on the Great Barrier Reef. This 35-metre luxury fast superyacht departs Cairns with 5 hours spent exploring 2 spectacular and exclusive outer Great Barrier Reef locations for an adventure-filled day.
Visit two different outer reef locations on the Great Barrier Reef for the chance to see tropical marine life. Delicious fresh BBQ lunch, tea, coffee, light snack and glass of wine on the return journey is included. Upgrade to include additional water adventures such as introductory or certified scuba dive or a scenic helicopter flight. Top quality equipment and instruction provided by friendly and professional instructors.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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 8.00am.
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.
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.
For Certified Diving, evidence of dive certification is required from all divers wishing to participate in a certified dive.
Diving within 24 hours before your flight is not permitted.
Due to comfort, weight and balance of the aircraft, the weight limit for helicopters is 130kg. Please contact the supplier directly for further information.
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.
If you chose a package with a dive, this includes 1 pre-booked dive only (note: dives are not included with snorkel-only packages). Additional dives can be purchased onboard on the day or direct with the operator prior to travel.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Personal flotation aids - life jackets and noodles
Use of snorkelling and scuba equipment
All Fees and Taxes
Free lycra/stinger suit hire
5 hours reef time at 2 spectacular outer reef locations
1 pre-booked dive (if dive package is selected. Additional dives can be added once onboard)
10-minute Scenic Flight (if selected)
Glass of wine and a snack on return journey
BBQ lunch prepared onboard with fresh fish, prawns, steak, salads (Veg, GF, DF & Vegan options)
Private transportation
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.
Great Barrier Reef
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
Cruise, Intro Dive and Heli
Cruise, Dive and Heli Flight: Outer Barrier Reef Cruise including 1 introductory, a 10-minute scenic helicopter flight, and buffet lunch.
One Introductory Dive
5 hrs on the Outer Great Barrier Reef, visiting 2 sites. Includes 1 introductory dive, buffet lunch, snorkel & dive gear.
One Certified Dive
5 hrs on the Outer Great Barrier Reef, visiting 2 sites. Includes 1 certified dive, buffet lunch, snorkel & dive gear.
Snorkeling and Heli Flight
5 hrs on the Outer Great Barrier Reef including a 10-minute scenic helicopter flight and free time to snorkel
Snorkeling Only
5 hrs on the Outer Great Barrier Reef, visiting 2 sites. Free time for snorkeling and swimming. Includes buffet lunch, snorkel gear.
Reviews
3,536 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
It might be a bit crowded...
Robbe R,
Aug 1, 2025
- Viator
5.00It might be a bit crowded sometimes but once you’re in the water you can swim away from the group and really experience the reef on your own. The helicopter tour is fun but wouldn’t say it is a must to do.
Had an absolutely...
Samantha P,
Jul 31, 2025
- Viator
5.00Had an absolutely excellent day doing this tour! My partner and I were really worried about getting sea sick but we really lucked out with the weather. We took Travacalm which worked a treat. The staff were all really friendly and helpful. We did the snorkelling only and it was amazing! A bit hectic at first with everyone getting in the water, but we waited 10 or so minutes before we also got in. Lunch provided was also very yummy! Plenty of food was provided so we went back for seconds. Was a very enjoyable day!
Great snorkelling experience
Tom,
Jul 31, 2025
- Viator
5.00Great fun and wonderful locations , food was good too and the staff were helpful and knowledgeable.. Great day out
Great day with safety and comfort a priority.
Rosemary C,
Jul 27, 2025
- Viator
5.00Fantastic adventure for the family on a spacious boat. Watching the crew and how thoroughly they ensure the passengers were all accounted for after every activity was reassuring. Regular inquiries about comfort levels with activities and feelings of safety. Food was great, but if you were late to the table due to a scheduled activity, less options available. Mother Nature did not disappoint, beautiful and healthy coral to observe and discover. Weather was perfect! Was envious of those who chose the helicopter ride option. My two teenage sons tried scuba diving for the first time and loved it. In the beginning, definitely a bit nervous but again, the diving staff were top notch, very attentive and reassuring. Great day for all, would book with them again. Thanks!
Bucket List
Valerie P,
Jul 26, 2025
- Viator
5.00Soooo much fun!! My daughters thoroughly enjoyed this excursion. Diving the Great Barrier Reef has been on their bucket list for years. Mike was an amazing dive guide. The food was good. Overall, this was an amazing experience!
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Operated by Down Under Cruise and Dive