
Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight
Traveler rating
4.7/5
Based on 371 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight worth booking?
Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight is a 8.5-hour experience in Cairns & the Tropical North, Australia, from $315 per person. It scores 72 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 371 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 72 / 100
- Rating
- 4.7/5 (371)
- Duration
- 8.5 hours
- From
- $315 per person
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!
What you get
About this experience
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!
What's included
Included
- Lunch
- 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)
Not included
- Private transportation
- Dive not included in snorkel package
What you'll see and do
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.
60 minutes here
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.
180 minutes here
Great Barrier Reef
Enjoy a BBQ lunch onboard (special dietary requirements catered for). The spread features an Australian barbecue with fresh fish, steak, prawns, and a variety of salads, and breads.
60 minutes here
Evolution arrives at the second reef location, Hastings Reef. This is where you will enjoy your included 10-minute scenic helicopter flight. Marvel at the scenic views of the Great Barrier Reef from above. This is an unforgettable experience. There will also be time for some snorkelling. If you prefer to stay dry, sit back and enjoy the views across our three deck spaces available for lounging.
60 minutes here
As you return to the mainland after a full day in paradise, enjoy complimentary afternoon tea of cheese, biscuits and a glass of wine as you toast to a great day visiting the Great Barrier Reef. Evolution arrives back to Cairns at approximately 4.30pm.
90 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Cairns & the Tropical North
Check-in is from 7.15am to 7.45am at Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence Street, Cairns. Evolution departs 8.00am sharp. Return transfers are available for an additional cost. You must contact Down Under Dive to book.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Check-in is from 7.15am to 7.45am at Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence Street, Cairns. Evolution departs 8.00am sharp. Return transfers are available for an additional cost. You must contact Down Under Dive to book.
Options you can book
1 Intro Dive, Heli & Snorkel
Includes 1 introductory dive, snorkelling and 10-minute scenic flight.
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.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, cmn, ja, en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Down Under Cruise and Dive
Know before you go
- 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.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 371 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Organization
4 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Value for money
3 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
371 verified traveler reviews for Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
A must , amazing day trip...
A must , amazing day trip to the Great Barrier Reef with a helicopter ride!! Crue was simply amazing and professional 😊
via Viator
best Snorkelling ever!
Very well organised and such a great experience! Kids had a blast too! We did the additional snorkelling guided tour with Amber & the 10min heli ride - well worth it! Snorkelling was the BEST!
via Viator
Going Down Under never looked so good
The day was very breezy on the reef but who cared. The wind might have cancelled the helicopter part of the day but honestly the vibe was too cool to care. From Britte at check-in to Eddie and Cptn Tim the team just make your day. Your international crew do Queensland proud. I loved your bar ladies even when my aussie slang floored the Swedish lass Cptn Tim was there to translate. Eddie ...mate...thanks for the Bundy shout for my wedding anniversary. What an ambassador. You guys for a local Cairns really punch above. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
via Tripadvisor
Banger of an experience
Great experience from the get go. Alex was great diving instructor and Edy was a great guy all round and helpful
via Viator
Great choice for the reef experience
Excellent experience from start to finish. Everything is well organized and thought through. The staff is very helpful and friendly. Both reefs were amazing, and the lunch was great with many choices, the introductory dive was pretty good, and the helicopter ride was icing on the cake. Highly recommended for the day out to the GBR from Cairns!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 8.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $315 to $530
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 130
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Down Under Cruise and Dive, who run 6 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 74.9 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Down Under Cruise and Dive runsWhy this scores 72
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cairns & the Tropical North.
How much does Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight cost?
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Prices start at $315 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Cairns & the Tropical North usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight take?
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Plan for about 8.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Cairns & the Tropical North is not rushed.
Is Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 72 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 371 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Cairns & the Tropical North, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight?
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Around 130 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Cairns & the Tropical North can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Cairns & the Tropical North and add a light layer if any part of the 8.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Cairns & the Tropical North within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Cairns & the Tropical North?
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On Outty we rank every Cairns & the Tropical North experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Fun, Falls and Forest Day Trip from Cairns, Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran, Tully River Full-Day Rafting: Cairns, Mission Beach or Self-Drive. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Cairns & the Tropical North?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Cairns & the Tropical North?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight?
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Included: Lunch; Glass of wine, cheese and crackers on return journey; All Fees and Taxes; All equipment and lycra/sun suit hire; and Spectacular 10-minute Reef Scenic Helicopter Flight. Not included: Private transportation; and Dive not included in snorkel package. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight?
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Check-in is from 7.15am to 7.45am at Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence Street, Cairns. Evolution departs 8.00am sharp. Return transfers are available for an additional cost. You must contact Down Under Dive to book. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight offered in?
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It is offered in German, Chinese, Japanese and English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight?
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Across 371 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include organization, value for money, food and drink. Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
What booking options are available for Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including 1 Intro Dive, Heli & Snorkel, Snorkeling and Heli Flight, 1 Cert Dive, Heli & Snorkel. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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