Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.7/5
Based on 365 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 $345 per person. It scores 73 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 365 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 73 / 100
- Rating
- 4.7/5 (365)
- Duration
- 8.5 hours
- From
- $345 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 h
What you get
- 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
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.
1 Cert Dive, Heli & Snorkel
Includes 1 certified 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
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
Good to know
- Duration
- 8.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- 4+
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $345 to $530
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 128
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 73
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 $345 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 73 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 365 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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The operator sets a minimum age of 4. Older children generally do well here, and families should factor in the 8.5-hour running time when deciding.
How far in advance should I book Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight?
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Around 128 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 Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran, Ocean Free: Small Group Great Barrier Reef & Green Island Tour, Ocean Freedom: Great Barrier Reef Stylish Snorkel, Dive Reef Tour. 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.
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