Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight

Exploring the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef has never been more enticing. This full-day reef cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the vibrant marine ecosystem, with up to five hours of reef time and the chance to experience the thrill of scuba diving at two exclusive outer reef locations. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – guests will also enjoy a breathtaking 10-minute helicopter scenic flight over the reef and islands, providing a unique bird’s-eye view of this natural wonder. As the day draws to a close, travelers can savor a delectable BBQ buffet lunch and indulge in a glass of wine, cheese, and crackers, leaving them with lasting memories of an unforgettable journey.

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

Key Points

• The full-day reef cruise offers up to 3 scuba dives at 2 different dive sites, as well as a 10-minute helicopter scenic flight over the reef and islands.
• The cruise includes a BBQ buffet lunch aboard a luxury catamaran, with a glass of wine, cheese, and crackers on the return journey.
• The tour visits two exclusive outer reef locations, allowing up to 5 hours of reef time for exploring the Great Barrier Reef.
• Passengers must meet the weight limit of 130kg for the helicopter flight, and divers over 65 require medical clearance to participate.
• Children under 12 (introductory) and 10 (certified) are not permitted to dive, and all children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Reef Trip Overview

This full day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef offers up to 3 introductory or certified scuba dives at 2 different dive sites, as well as a 10-minute helicopter scenic flight over the reef and islands.

Guests will sail aboard a luxury catamaran, where they’ll enjoy a BBQ buffet lunch with fresh seafood, meats, and vegetarian options.

The cruise visits two exclusive outer reef locations, allowing up to 5 hours of reef time.

Onboard amenities include all necessary equipment, as well as a glass of wine, cheese, and crackers on the return journey.

With private transportation and all fees and taxes included, this reef trip provides a comprehensive and indulgent Great Barrier Reef experience.

Inclusions

The full day reef cruise and helicopter scenic flight package includes a visit to two exclusive outer reef locations, allowing guests up to 5 hours of reef time. Travelers can partake in up to 3 introductory or certified scuba dives at these sites, with all necessary equipment and lycra/sun suit hire provided.

The cruise features a BBQ buffet lunch aboard the luxury catamaran, offering a variety of fresh fish, prawns, steak, and an assortment of salads to cater to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options.

Guests can also enjoy a glass of wine, cheese, and crackers on the return journey, with all fees and taxes included in the package. Private transportation to and from the meeting point is also provided.

Policies

Travelers must adhere to several policies to participate in the full day reef cruise and helicopter scenic flight package.

A weight limit of 130kg applies for the helicopter flights, and medical clearance is required for divers over the age of 65.

Certified divers must provide evidence of their dive qualifications, while children under 12 (introductory) and 10 (certified) aren’t permitted to dive.

Plus, all children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and no diving is allowed within 24 hours of the scheduled flight.

Passengers with special dietary requirements must confirm their needs 24 hours prior to the tour.

These policies ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants during this remarkable reef and helicopter adventure.

Weight Limit for Helicopters

One of the key policies for this tour is a weight limit of 130kg for the helicopter flights. Passengers exceeding this limit won’t be able to participate in the scenic aerial portion of the experience.

This weight restriction is in place for safety reasons, as the helicopters used have a maximum capacity that can’t be exceeded. Guests are advised to check their weight prior to the trip and notify the operator if they’re close to or over the limit.

The crew will work with passengers to accommodate their needs, but can’t compromise on this policy as it’s a non-negotiable safety requirement. Guests should plan accordingly and be prepared to fully enjoy the rest of the reef experience even if the helicopter ride isn’t an option.

Medical Clearance for Divers

Medical clearance is required for divers over the age of 65 to participate in this reef cruise experience. Guests in this age group must provide evidence of their fitness to dive from a qualified medical professional prior to the tour.

This policy is in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all participants, as older individuals may face increased health risks when engaging in scuba activities. The tour operator takes this requirement seriously and won’t compromise on it, as the safety of their guests is of the utmost importance.

The medical clearance must:

1. Be issued by a licensed physician.
2. Confirm the diver’s physical and mental fitness to engage in scuba activities.
3. Be presented upon check-in on the day of the tour.
4. Be dated within 6 months of the tour date.

Evidence of Dive Qualification

Certified divers must provide evidence of their dive qualifications upon check-in to participate in the scuba diving activities during the reef cruise. The tour operator requires this documentation to verify that guests have the necessary skills and training to dive safely at the reef locations. Without proof of certification, divers won’t be permitted to submerge.

For introductory divers, the crew provides all necessary training and supervision. However, certified divers must show a valid certification card issued by an internationally recognized organization like PADI, NAUI, or SSI. This ensures they’ve the proper experience and qualifications to join the more advanced dives at the outer reef sites.

The dive staff will review each certified diver’s credentials before allowing them to gear up and descend.

Age Restrictions

Children under 12 years old aren’t permitted to participate in the introductory scuba diving activities, and those under 10 are barred from the certified dives during the full-day reef cruise. This policy is in place for the safety of younger participants.

The tour operator has a few key age restrictions:

1. Children under 12 aren’t allowed on introductory scuba dives.
2. Children under 10 aren’t permitted on certified scuba dives.
3. All children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
4. No children under any age are allowed to dive within 24 hours of a flight.

These rules ensure the reef trip is enjoyable and secure for guests of all ages.

Meeting and End Point

Guests will check-in for the full-day reef cruise and helicopter flight at the Reef Fleet Terminal, located at 1 Spence Street in Cairns, between 7:15am and 7:45am.

The catamaran departs promptly at 8:00am from this meeting point, where it will also return at the end of the excursion.

The meeting point is conveniently situated in the heart of Cairns, allowing for easy access and transportation.

Participants are advised to arrive with enough time to complete the check-in process before the boat’s departure.

Upon return, guests will disembark at the same location, concluding their incredible day exploring the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef by air and sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling/Diving Equipment?

You can bring your own snorkeling or diving equipment, but it must meet the operator’s safety standards. All rental equipment is provided, so using your own gear is optional.

Is There an Option to Extend the Helicopter Flight Time?

The cruise package does not offer an option to extend the helicopter flight time. The 10-minute scenic flight over the reef and islands is a fixed component of the full-day excursion included in the package.

Are Underwater Photos and Videos Allowed During the Dives?

Underwater photos and videos are allowed during the dives. Divers can bring their own waterproof cameras or rent equipment onboard. However, flash photography is not permitted to protect the reef’s marine life.

Is There a Gift Shop on the Cruise Ship to Purchase Souvenirs?

The cruise ship offers a gift shop where passengers can purchase souvenirs and mementos of their reef adventure. Items available may include reef-themed apparel, postcards, snorkeling gear, and other keepsakes to commemorate the memorable experience.

Can I Book This Tour as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, this reef trip can be booked by solo travelers. The cruise accommodates single passengers and arranges group seating to facilitate meeting other travelers. Solo guests are welcome to join this full-day excursion to the Great Barrier Reef.

Recap

The full-day reef cruise offers an unforgettable experience at the Great Barrier Reef. Guests can enjoy up to three scuba dives, a helicopter scenic flight, a BBQ lunch, and more.

With private transportation, all fees covered, and no hassles, this tour provides a seamless and memorable day at one of the world’s natural wonders.