
Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tour | Helicopter Package | Half Day/Full Day
Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tour | Helicopter Package | Half Day/Full Day
Save $75.00 on our Cairns Family Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Tour Package Deal. Your Great Barrier Reef snorkel tour from Cairns gives you the option to choose a full day reef trip or add a 10 minute helicopter scenic flight over the reef to see the magnificent Great Barrier Reef from above and below the water's surface. Visit 2 exclusive outer reef sites on the Great Barrier Reef or ride in a helicopter at lunchtime.
Tour Code: 316
TODAY'S RATES FROM
$185.00
Instant Availability
Price is per adult
and includes all levies, fees & taxes
Child $95.00
Family $485.00 Check My Price Now
Ask Questions

Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tour | Helicopter Package | Half Day/Full Day
Save $75.00 on our Cairns Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Package Deal.
Departing from Cairns Marlin Marina this 35 metre (120ft), high speed catamaran cruises at 30 knots so you reach your reef destinations in only 80 minutes, allowing you over five hours of reef viewing time.
We offer guests a huge array of in-water activities to experience the corals and marine life including snorkelling, semi-submersible submarine tours (optional extra) and even scenic helicopter flights (optional extra).
If you are a cruise ship passenger looking for a Great Barrier Reef tour to fit your ships berthing schedule we recommend you book the helicopter Fly/Fly option.
With a maximum of 170 guests on board you’ll have plenty of room relax on the sun deck or in the air conditioned saloon.
The journey home will have you singing along with the on board entertainer with a complimentary fruit & cheese platter.
Great Barrier Reef Tour Inclusions:
- Snorkel 2 outer coral reef locations
- Travel time to reef only 80 minutes
- 5 Hours of reef time
- Use of snorkeling equipment & floatation devices
- Barbeque lunch with meats, fish, prawns, salads, and vegetarian option available)
- Use of lycra sun suits
- Fruit platter, cheese and glass of wine on return home journey
- Experienced, professional dive instructors
- Large air-conditioned modern lounges to relax in comfort
- Spacious sundecks for sunbathing
- High crew to guest ratio
Optional Extra Upgrades
- Introductory Scuba Diving
- Certified Scuba Diving
- 10 Minute Scenic Helicopter Flight (Book whilst out on the Great Barrier Reef or book here)
- Semi-Submersible Submarine Tour (Book whilst out on the Great Barrier Reef)
- Return Coach Transfers to Cairns and Northern Beaches Accommodation
Your Cairns Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Tour Itinerary
Check in for your Great Barrier Reef tour is at 7:30am inside the Reef Fleet Terminal in Spence Street, Cairns where you will be issued your boarding passes.
Once welcomed on board by the crew, they will issue you with a number for the day which correlates with your snorkel equipment locker and is also used for safety reasons.
There is complimentary tea and coffee available in the saloon until your reef trip departs (8:15am).
As you board, the crew will issue snorkel and dive forms to everyone.
This allows the crew to be aware of any medical conditions that may need extra attention throughout the day.
During the cruise out the scuba dive briefings will take place ensuring maximum time is spent in the water on arrival to the Great Barrier Reef.
Your cruise boat will return back to Cairns at 4:30pm approx.
Our Great Barrier Reef Tour Dive Sites
With several exclusive mooring locations at 6 different outer reef systems the Captain will be sure to pick the best two dive and snorkel locations for the day’s conditions.
In the morning visit either Norman or Saxon reefs to dive around coral bommies and snorkel shallow reef lagoon teeming with marine life.
In the afternoon we will head to North Hastings Reef where you can snorkel through shallow bays or dive the steep walls, keep an eye out for giant clams, turtles, Maori wrasse and Nemo!
Great Barrier Reef Dive & Snorkel Activities
Snorkelling
With 5 hours of snorkelling, including all snorkel equipment & floatation devices you’ll be sure to get your snorkel fix.
For beginners who need a helping hand getting started there are professional snorkel instructors available to assist in and out of the water.
Our boat has a large dedicated snorkel platform to ensure entering and exiting the water is done with ease.
Don’t miss the Lesson/snorkel tour (optional extra), a great way to learn about the local reef residents - this tour is lead by a Marine Biologist and is an optional extra.
Scuba Diving - Optional Extra
Enjoy up to 3 dives a day, either certified or introductory.
Please be aware that certain medical conditions and medications may exclude you from diving, speak to your Tour Specialist if you have any concerns on this matter to find out more.
- Introductory Scuba Divers
The professional dive instructors will take you through an on board dive briefing on the way out to the reef covering the basics of scuba diving and safety.
You will be allocated a time to meet your instructors on the dive deck ready for your underwater experience (you’ll have plenty of time to snorkel before or after your dive), from there the back deck supervisor will assist you with your equipment and into the water with your instructor.
After completing a few skills you’ll be whisked off for an unforgettable underwater tour in a small group of no more than four divers to the instructor.
- Certified Scuba Divers
Have the choice of exploring the reefs with your buddy or opting for a dive guide (optional extra).
The on board PADI dive master will provide a dive briefing on the way out to the reef ensuring you can dive as soon as arriving at the first dive site.
The crew will assist you with your equipment which is included in your dive price.
Semi-Submersible Submarine Tour on The Great Barrier Reef
Enjoy the corals and marine life through the glass of a semi-submersible submarine (optional extra payable on board).
This really is experiencing the Great Barrier Reef without gettng wet which is great if you are a non-swimmer.
A knowledgeable crew member will provide informative commentary during the ride as you look out the windows at all the marine life and corals as they go by.
You may be lucky enough to see a turtle and stingrays.
Scenic Helicopter Flight 10 Minutes – Get High Package
Take in panoramic views of the Great Barrier Reef with a breathtaking Great Barrier Reef 10 Minute Scenic Helicopter Flight departing from the heliport at North Hastings Reef.
With these low level flights you may be able to spot an array of marine life such as turtles, stingrays, reef sharks and in the season, whales.
There is no better way to see the Great Barrier Reef than flying in a helicopter only 500 feet or so above the corals which look like intricate lace works under the aqua waters.
Pre-booking your reef and helicopter package “Get High Package” is essential.
Helicopter Flight 25 Minutes - Full Day Option – Cruise/Fly
For the ultimate experience you can Cruise/Fly with all the full day inclusions MV-EVO has to offer.
The flight to MV-EVO from Cairns is approximately 25 minutes giving you lots of opportunity to take photos and see the marine life playing down below.
Helicopter Flight - Half Day Options - Fly/Cruise or Fly/Fly
Either Fly/Cruise 25 Minutes or Fly/Fly 2 x 25 Minutes for a half day reef experience
Please note you will have very limited time on the reef, 75 minutes (approx) we strongly recommend you eat before you go.
The half day options are great for travellers limited in time and wanting to experience the Great Barrier Reef from above and below.
The Fly/Cruise package is the most popular and offers great value for money
Cruising Back To Cairns - Live Musical Entertainment On Board
Join in the fun with the on board live entertainer. You’ll be sure to enjoy the toe tapping songs as you cruise back into Cairns whilst nibbling on a complimentary fruit and cheese platter.
Meals on board
Lunch: a freshly cooked BBQ lunch is offered to all guests on board. Choose from a selection of steak, beef sausages, fish, prawns, salads, breads and condiments. Dine out in the sunshine on the decks or at the seating area in the air conditioned saloon. Vegetarian options available, please notify us on booking.
Afternoon Tea: enjoy fruit and cheese platters during the cruise back to Cairns along with a glass a sparkling wine.
See more helicopter and Great Barrier Reef tour options.
Included in Price
Full day on MV-EVO the newest and most luxurious vessel in Cairns
Fully equipped vessel with state-of-the-art snorkel and dive equipment
Maximum 170 guests – large vessel, lots of space
Large air-conditioned modern lounges to relax in comfort
Full length sundecks for sunbathing
Specialised dive decks
Visit 2 spectacular outer Great Barrier Reef sites
On-board Marine Biologist
5 hours on the Great Barrier Reef to snorkel and/or dive
Specialised dive decks
State of the art snorkel and dive equipment
Free guided snorkelling tour
Flotation devices provided
Experienced, professional dive instructors
Delicious Aussie BBQ lunch including steak, fish, prawns, sausages, and tropical salads, vegetarians are catered for
Morning and afternoon tea, complimentary tea, coffee, fruit and cheese platter on return journey
Onboard live Australian musical entertainer on return journey
For Bookings Call Now!
1300 761 612
Optional Extras
Up to 3 certified or intro dives available per day - Limited so needs to be PRE BOOKED
Bookable & Payable on board: Guided dives, Wetsuits hire for snorkel and introductory divers (FOC Lycra sun suits), Semi-submersible submarine tour (weather permitting), Marine Biology Lesson/Snorkel tour.
Book helicopter flight whilst out on Great Barrier Reef
Duration
8 hours (approx)
Departure
Cruise/Cruise: departs 8:30am - returns 4:30pm
Fly/Cruise: departs 12:40pm - returns 4:30pm
Cruise/Fly: departs 8:30am - returns 3:05pm
Days of Operation
Daily
Departs From
Reef Fleet Terminal Cairns
Departure Instructions
Check in 7:30am
Pickup From
- Cairns Beaches
- Palm Cove
- Cairns
What To Bring
Sunscreen, hat, change of clothes, swimmers, towel, cash or credit card for on-board purchases
Fitness Level Required
Medium snorkelling / High Scuba Diving
Child Policies
Child price applies to children 4 to 16
Infants 0 to 3 travel free
Minimum age for diving is 12
One child travels free as part of a family (2 adults & 2 children)
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Policy:
All cancellations must be in writing. Please note that all cancellations will incur an administration fee. Please see our terms and conditions for details prior to booking.
Operator’s Terms & Conditions:
Pricing: Adult age: 17yrs+; Child age: 4-16yrs; Infants up to 3yrs. Children up to 15yrs must be accompanied by an adult. Passengers under 18yrs will require parental guardian signature. Safety: Divers 65yrs+ must provide a current ‘AS4005.1’ dive medical prior to travel. Please consider weather and wind strength before booking. Semi-submersible tours are weather permitting. Cancellations/Alterations/Refunds: No refunds for cancellations within 18 hours of departure time; 24 hours for dive courses and packaged products. Re booking fees apply for alterations made within these times. The operator reserves the right to cancel the tour, change vessel type or arrange an alternative carrier in the event of bad weather or mechanical problems. No refunds for voluntary uncompleted dives.
Additional Information
Destinations
Saxon and Hastings Reef in the Outer Great Barrier Reef
Nicholas
The 'Get High' package is our most popular package and is very well priced.
Read more about this tour operator
Want to know more?2019 - 2020
1 Apr 19 - 31 Mar 20Full Day Outer Barrier Reef Tour | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Full Day Outer Reef Tour | Snorkel Check My Price | Check My Price |
|
||||||
Full Day Outer Reef Tour | Cruise/Fly Check My Price | Check My Price |
|
||||||
Full Day Outer Barrier Reef Tour Diving Options | ||||||||
SPECIAL | Full Day Reef Cruise Snorkel + 1 Intro OR 1 Cert Dive | Book & Travel from 01/12/19 to 15/12/19 Check My Price | Check My Price |
|
||||||
Full Day Outer Reef Tour | 1 Intro Diving Package Check My Price | Check My Price |
|
||||||
Full Day Outer Reef Tour | 1 Cert Diving Package Check My Price | Check My Price |
|
||||||
Full Day Outer Reef Tour | 2 Cert Diving Package Check My Price | Check My Price |
|
||||||
Full Day Outer Reef Tour | 2 Intro Diving Package Check My Price | Check My Price |
|
||||||
Half Day Outer Barrier Reef Tour Enjoy a 25 minute helicopter flight to the outer Great Barrier Reef to meet MV-EVO the newest and most luxurious day trip vessel in Cairns - Please note you will have very limited time on the reef, 75 minutes (approx) we strongly recommend you eat before you go. | ||||||||
Half Day Outer Reef Tour | Fly/Cruise Check My Price | Check My Price |
|
Optional Extras for 2019 - 2020
The following optional extras can be purchased at time of booking.
Certified Dive - 1st Dive |
|
||||||
Certified Dive - 2nd Dive |
|
||||||
Certified Dive - 3rd Dive |
|
||||||
Introductory Dive - 1st Dive |
|
||||||
Introductory Dive - 2nd Dive |
|
||||||
Introductory Dive - 3rd Dive |
|
||||||
Return Transfers From City (For Reef Day Trip) |
|
||||||
Return Transfers From Northern Beaches & Outer City (For Reef Day Trip) |
|
2020 - 2021
1 Apr 20 - 31 Mar 21Full Day Outer Barrier Reef Tour | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Full Day Outer Reef Tour | Snorkel Check My Price | Check My Price |
|
||||||
Full Day Outer Reef Tour | Cruise/Fly Check My Price | Check My Price |
|
||||||
Full Day Outer Barrier Reef Tour Diving Options | ||||||||
Full Day Outer Reef Tour | 1 Intro Diving Package Check My Price | Check My Price |
|
||||||
Full Day Outer Reef Tour | 1 Cert Diving Package Check My Price | Check My Price |
|
||||||
Full Day Outer Reef Tour | 2 Cert Diving Package Check My Price | Check My Price |
|
||||||
Full Day Outer Reef Tour | 2 Intro Diving Package Check My Price | Check My Price |
|
||||||
Half Day Outer Barrier Reef Tour Enjoy a 25 minute helicopter flight to the outer Great Barrier Reef to meet MV-EVO the newest and most luxurious day trip vessel in Cairns - Please note you will have very limited time on the reef, 75 minutes (approx) we strongly recommend you eat before you go. | ||||||||
Half Day Outer Reef Tour | Fly/Cruise Check My Price | Check My Price |
|
Optional Extras for 2020 - 2021
The following optional extras can be purchased at time of booking.
Certified Dive - 1st Dive |
|
||||||
Certified Dive - 2nd Dive |
|
||||||
Certified Dive - 3rd Dive |
|
||||||
Introductory Dive - 1st Dive |
|
||||||
Introductory Dive - 2nd Dive |
|
||||||
Introductory Dive - 3rd Dive |
|
||||||
Return Transfers From City (For Reef Day Trip) |
|
||||||
Return Transfers From Northern Beaches & Outer City (For Reef Day Trip) |
|
Guest Reviews
- 1-3 of 3 reviews
Average Rating

REVIEWED
14 July 2019
I took my teenage son and daughter out to see the reef with two introductory dives included. On the way out I was told that both kids needed medical clearance due to previous sinus problems and prescription medications. This was extremely stressful.
They were eventually cleared to dive and we had a good day. We saw what we wanted to see and more. The dive staff were fantastic - and most on the boat appeared interested and friendly (not just going through the motions).
NB: I would really have liked a pop-up screen or warning email saying: 'If you have had any of these conditions you will need a letter from a medical professional' at the time of booking.
Thank you
Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tour | Helicopter Package | Half Day/Full Day Guest Review
Response from The Tour Specialists
Scott thank you so very much for your review of your Great Barrier Reef tour in Cairns. We are really glad to hear you had a great day and saw everything that you had hoped.
With regards to the Dive Medicals, on our booking forms we have a forced system where you cannot proceed with a tour booking for scuba diving or any other underwater activity unless you tick the box that says you have read and fully understand the Medical Questionairre that is also on the booking forms which show all medical details that need to be complied with. All of this is a pop up and a button click.
At least you now know for th future that you need to ensure you read these Medical Questionairres when doing any strenuous acitivities. We look forward to welcoming you back to Cairns in the future.

REVIEWED
27 October 2018
Yes, a lot
Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tour | Helicopter Package | Half Day/Full Day Guest Review
- 1-3 of 3 reviews
More Tours From This Operator
Dive Course | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() |
Cairns Scuba Diving Courses | PADI Dive | More Info |
|
||||||
![]() |
PADI Open Water Dive Course + 5 Nights Premium Room | More Info |
|
||||||
Great Barrier Reef | |||||||||
![]() |
Great Barrier Reef Tours | VIP Admirals Club | Gold Class Lounge | More Info |
|
||||||
Reef Combo Tours | |||||||||
![]() |
Great Barrier Reef & Daintree Rainforest 2 Day Combo Package Tour | More Info |
|
||||||
![]() |
Cairns Tour Deals | 2 Day Outer Reef & Kuranda Tour | More Info |
|
||||||
![]() |
Great Barrier Reef, Skyrail, Kuranda Train & Daintree 3 Day Combo Package Tour | More Info |
|
||||||
Get High | Fly Cruise | Cruise Fly | Fly Fly | |||||||||
![]() |
Cairns Helicopter Scenic Flight Deals & Great Barrier Reef Tour | Snorkel & Dive | More Info |
|
REVIEWED
15 August 2019
Was a great trip all the way around. Only suggestion is to provide more specific information on reasons scuba diving will not be allowed. I read the medical info and didn’t think anything about it. Both my kids take meds that are not a problem for scuba diving but cairns dr said no go. If I had known and had our dr write a letter they would have been allowed to scuba. That was a disappointment
Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tour | Helicopter Package | Half Day/Full Day Guest Review
Response from The Tour Specialists
Thank you for your review Denise we are really glad you enjoyed your Great Barrier Reef tour here in Cairns with your family and we look forward to welcoming you back again in the future.
When booking any diving on our website you cannot proceed with your booking until you have read the Medical Questionairre and then ticked the box that you have read it.
I am sorry if you did not have a full understanding of the PADI guidlines and we will try and make it more clear in the future.
best regards
The Great Barrier Reef Specialists