Set out on a remarkable journey to the outer reaches of the Great Barrier Reef with the ‘Cruise to Outer Reef – Cruise Return Plus 10 Minute Scenic Flight.’ This immersive tour combines the best of both worlds – an underwater exploration aboard a semi-submersible vessel and a bird’s-eye view from a thrilling helicopter ride. From vibrant coral formations to abundant marine life, guests will witness the true splendor of this natural wonder. But there’s more to this excursion than meets the eye. Prepare to be captivated as you dive deeper into the heart of this unforgettable adventure.

This experience made our list of the 24 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Cairns and the Tropical North.

Key Points

Cruise to Outer Reef - Cruise Return Plus 10 Minute Scenic Flight - Key Points

  • This tour offers a comprehensive Great Barrier Reef experience, including a semi-submersible boat cruise, snorkeling, and a 10-minute scenic helicopter flight.
  • The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and allows exploration of the reef, with informative commentary and opportunities to interact with the diverse marine life.
  • Included amenities such as a hot and cold tropical buffet lunch, snorkeling gear, and hotel pickup and drop-off ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
  • Weight and child policies are in place to accommodate diverse travelers, with a maximum weight limit of 287 lbs per passenger and specific conditions for children.
  • The tour departs from a centrally located meeting point in Cairns and boasts a 5.0 rating from 5 reviews, promising an unforgettable adventure.

Tour Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive experience, combining a semi-submersible boat cruise, snorkeling, and a scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns and the Tropical North of Australia.

Spanning approximately 7 hours, the tour provides a chance to explore the reef’s vibrant marine life from multiple perspectives.

Guests will first embark on a semi-submersible boat cruise, offering an underwater view of the coral and fish.

Next, they’ll have the opportunity to snorkel and discover the reef’s diversity up-close.

The highlight of the tour is a 10-minute helicopter flight, offering a bird’s-eye view of the stunning natural wonder.

With a 5.0 rating from 5 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

Included Amenities

Cruise to Outer Reef - Cruise Return Plus 10 Minute Scenic Flight - Included Amenities

The tour provides a range of included amenities to enhance the overall experience, starting with a hot and cold tropical buffet lunch to refuel guests midway through the adventure.

Snorkeling gear like life vests and buoyancy noodles are also provided, allowing guests to freely explore the underwater wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.

The tour also includes a semi-submersible coral reef viewing experience with commentary, an underwater observatory, an informative eco-reef talk, and a guided snorkeling activity.

Lastly, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, ensuring a seamless and convenient start and end to the day’s excursion.

With these thoughtful inclusions, guests can focus on soaking up the beauty of the reef without worrying about the logistics.

Weight and Child Policies

Cruise to Outer Reef - Cruise Return Plus 10 Minute Scenic Flight - Weight and Child Policies

Cruise operators carefully manage weight and child policies to ensure passenger safety and comfort.

A total weight limit of 287 lbs per passenger applies, with individual weights required at booking to avoid additional fees for variances over 10%.

Children 3 years and above must have their own seat and pay the full price, while those under 3 may travel for free on a parent’s lap under certain conditions.

The maximum single seat payload is 130 kg, allowing the tour to accommodate a diverse range of travelers.

These policies help maintain the stability and enjoyment of the cruise experience, prioritizing the well-being of all participants.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Cruise to Outer Reef - Cruise Return Plus 10 Minute Scenic Flight - Meeting and Pickup Information

Passengers convene at 1 Spence St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia to embark on the tour, which ends back at the same location. The day begins promptly at 10:30 am, allowing ample time for the incredible experiences ahead. The meeting point is centrally located, making it easily accessible for all. Once everyone is gathered, the group sets off on their adventure to explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.

Meeting Point Start Time End Point
1 Spence St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia 10:30 am Activity ends back at the meeting point

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Cruise to Outer Reef - Cruise Return Plus 10 Minute Scenic Flight - Cancellation and Refund Policy

Cancellations made 48 hours prior to the tour’s departure receive a full refund, while those made between 24-48 hours before are eligible for a 50% refund.

Unfortunately, no refund is provided for cancellations within 24 hours of the scheduled start time.

This policy allows the tour operator to effectively manage the limited capacity, ensuring that spots are filled and guests have the best possible experience.

With a maximum group size of 20 travelers, the intimate atmosphere is maintained throughout the day’s activities.

The cancellation and refund policy strikes a balance between flexibility for guests and the logistical requirements of running a successful tour operation.

Customer Feedback Highlights

Cruise to Outer Reef - Cruise Return Plus 10 Minute Scenic Flight - Customer Feedback Highlights

According to customer reviews, the staff’s kindness and helpfulness were praised, providing a great experience for all types of travelers. One customer, Kathy_S, noted that the crew went above and beyond to ensure everyone had a wonderful time.

Despite choppy weather, another reviewer, Kellie_W, still enjoyed the snorkeling and found the helicopter ride over the Great Barrier Reef to be spectacular. Highlighting the trip’s highlights, Joseph_L praised the smooth boat ride, good food, and the breathtaking helicopter views.

Tour Duration and Experience

Cruise to Outer Reef - Cruise Return Plus 10 Minute Scenic Flight - Tour Duration and Experience

Approximately 7 hours in duration, the Cruise to Outer Reef offers a comprehensive experience for visitors, blending a semi-submersible boat cruise, snorkeling, and a scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef.

The tour allows guests to explore the wonders of the underwater world through a combination of activities:

  1. A semi-submersible coral reef viewing tour with commentary, providing an up-close look at the vibrant marine life.

  2. A visit to an underwater observatory, offering a unique perspective of the reef’s ecosystem.

  3. A guided snorkeling session, enabling travelers to enjoy the colorful coral gardens.

  4. A 10-minute helicopter flight, granting a breathtaking aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef’s stunning beauty.

Location and Reviews

Cruise to Outer Reef - Cruise Return Plus 10 Minute Scenic Flight - Location and Reviews

The Cruise to Outer Reef adventure takes place in the picturesque Cairns and Tropical North region of Australia, renowned for its stunning natural wonders.

With a stellar 5.0 rating from 5 reviews, the tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from previous participants.

Travelers can expect a combination of thrilling experiences, including a semi-submersible boat cruise, snorkeling, and a breathtaking 10-minute scenic helicopter flight over the iconic Great Barrier Reef.

The tour’s convenient pickup and drop-off service from the meeting point in Cairns City ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience for guests.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking an unforgettable adventure, the Cruise to Outer Reef tour is sure to exceed your expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

While the tour provides snorkeling equipment, guests are welcome to bring their own. However, the tour staff recommends using the provided gear to ensure proper fit and functionality for the best experience.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?

There is no minimum number of participants required for this Great Barrier Reef tour. The maximum group size is 20 travelers, providing an intimate experience. Travelers can enjoy the tour regardless of group size.

Are There Any Restrictions on Camera/Drone Usage?

Cameras are permitted on the tour, but drone usage is not allowed. Guests should be mindful of other passengers and avoid disrupting the activities. Additional fees may apply for bringing professional photography equipment.

How Do I Verify My Weight Prior to the Tour?

To verify your weight prior to the tour, passengers must provide their individual weights at booking. The tour operator can accommodate variances up to 10% without additional fees, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for all travelers.

What Happens if the Weather Prevents the Helicopter Flight?

If inclement weather prevents the helicopter flight, the tour provider will offer an alternative activity, such as an extended reef viewing tour or additional snorkeling time. Guests will be fully refunded for the missed helicopter portion.

Recap

The ‘Cruise to Outer Reef – Cruise Return Plus 10 Minute Scenic Flight’ offers an unforgettable adventure exploring the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.

Guests can enjoy the vibrant underwater world, soar above the stunning landscapes, and savor a delicious tropical lunch, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

This comprehensive tour is a must-try for anyone seeking an exceptional reef experience.