Absolutely fantastic from start to finish. Very well organised and staff very helpful and knowledgeable. The snorkelling was out of this world and the helicopter trip was sensational. Thank you all again for a fantastic day x
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Enjoy the ultimate Great Barrier Reef adventure with a luxury cruise and scenic helicopter flight on this full-day tour from Cairns. Step aboard Evolution, a modern 35-metre superyacht, and travel in comfort to the Outer Reef. Relax in spacious air-conditioned lounges or soak up the sunshine from the open sundecks as you journey to the reef.
During the day, you’ll visit two exclusive Outer Great Barrier Reef sites renowned for their crystal-clear waters, colourful coral gardens, and abundant marine life. Snorkelling equipment is provided, and first-time snorkellers will receive guidance from the friendly crew. For those seeking more excitement, optional scuba diving is also available.
Midday, enjoy a chef-prepared barbecue lunch featuring steak, fish, prawns, salads, and bread, with dietary requirements catered for. At the second reef site, take to the skies for a 10-minute scenic helicopter flight. Marvel at the vast reef system, spot marine life from above, and capture incredible aerial photos before returning to the vessel.
As you cruise back to Cairns, unwind with a complimentary glass of wine accompanied by cheese and biscuits — the perfect way to finish a magical day on the reef.
Sample Itinerary
7:15am – 7:45am: Check-in, Reef Fleet Terminal
8.00am: Evolution departs Cairns
9.45am: Arrive at reef location 1
11:30am: Enjoy a BBQ buffet lunch onboard
1:00pm: Evolution arrives at reef location 2
3:00pm: Evolution departs for Cairns
4:30pm: Evolution arrives back in Cairns
Absolutely fantastic from start to finish. Very well organised and staff very helpful and knowledgeable. The snorkelling was out of this world and the helicopter trip was sensational. Thank you all again for a fantastic day x
From start to finish this trip was amazing!! The crew were so welcoming, enthusiastic and knowledgeable - they really made the experience even better. The helicopter ride was so well organised, the guided snorkel was so informative and overall I had the best day!!
Checkin at the Reef Fleet Terminal in Cairns from 7:15 AM to 7:45 AM. The vessel departs at 8 AM and returns at approximately 4:30 PM.
Check availability to see starting times.
Not allowed
Know before you go
Not suitable for
The scenic flight takes place at the second Outer Reef location, usually in the early afternoon. You’ll transfer to the helicopter pontoon for a 10-minute loop over Hastings Reef and the surrounding coral formations, land back at the pontoon and then rejoin the boat. Depending on your allocated flight time, you can snorkel before or after the flight. Follow the crew’s timing and allow enough time to dry off before boarding the helicopter.
The helicopters usually carry six passengers, with seating allocated according to the aircraft’s weight and balance requirements. This means a window seat cannot be guaranteed for every passenger, but everyone follows the same scenic route over Hastings Reef and the surrounding reef system.
Yes. Snorkelling instruction, floatation devices and in-water supervision are available, making the experience approachable for first-time and less-confident snorkellers. Let the crew know before entering the water so they can help you choose the right level of support and enjoy the reef at a comfortable pace.
Yes. The spacious vessel, air-conditioned lounges, open decks, floatation equipment and snorkelling support make it a comfortable full-day reef option for families. Children must remain under adult supervision and follow the crew’s water-safety instructions. Scuba diving has separate age and medical requirements.
You can enjoy the full day with the included snorkelling at two Outer Reef locations, or select an option with one introductory or certified dive. No previous diving experience is required for an introductory dive, although all divers must complete a medical questionnaire. Certified divers need to bring a recognised certification card. Additional dives may also be available onboard.
The vessel is a large catamaran designed for Outer Reef travel, but sea conditions can still vary. If you’re prone to motion sickness, we recommend speaking with a pharmacist and taking a suitable preventative before departure. Seasickness tablets are available onboard, although they work best when taken before the boat leaves Cairns.
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options can be arranged with advance notice. After booking, please contact us with any dietary requirements.
Everything was so good I would highly recommend this tour!
The perfect thing to do if you are at Cairns. The personnel was so kind and helpful, fully recommending this activity
Absolutely fantastic from start to finish. Very well organised and staff very helpful and knowledgeable. The snorkelling was out of this world and the helicopter trip was sensational. Thank you all again for a fantastic day x
The boat for transportation was FANTASTIC with everything you’d possibly need! The actual trip out was incredibly rough due to large waves making 10’s of people sick around the boat which was unfortunate. They did supply sick tablets and water to those who’ve been ill. They gave us loads of time to snorkel the reef which was just beautiful. There were lots of add-ons to pick on the day but the standard ticket was more than enough to satisfy!
Best trip ever. Honestly. Book the Heli with it. You definitely won’t regret it. It was super well organized and I would do it all over again
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