The Helicopter & Cruise Great Barrier Reef Package from Port Douglas promises an extraordinary adventure that blends the thrill of a scenic helicopter flight with the wonders of the world’s largest coral reef system. Guests will soar above the vibrant azure waters, witnessing the incredible Agincourt Reef from above, before plunging into the depths to explore the diverse marine life up close. With experienced pilots and instructors ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience, this package offers a unique opportunity to discover the breathtaking beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. But there’s more to this package than meets the eye – the real question is, what other surprises await those who embark on this journey?
Key Points
- Scenic 35-minute helicopter flight providing aerial views of the vibrant Great Barrier Reef and Agincourt Reef.
- Snorkeling opportunities to explore the diverse marine life and coral formations at Agincourt Reef.
- Onboard underwater observatory for observing sea turtles, tropical fish, and potentially reef sharks.
- Tropical buffet lunch featuring fresh seafood, meats, and vegetarian options to refuel after activities.
- Flexible cancellation policy allowing for full refunds up to 48 hours prior to departure.
Breathtaking Helicopter Scenic Flight
The breathtaking helicopter scenic flight offers travelers a unique perspective of the Great Barrier Reef, providing panoramic views of the vibrant coral formations and azure waters that stretch out below.
Soaring high above the magnificent Agincourt Reef, passengers can witness the sheer scale and beauty of the world’s largest living organism.
The 35-minute flight is a thrilling addition to the Helicopter & Cruise Great Barrier Reef Package, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the grandeur of this natural wonder from the air.
With knowledgeable pilots at the helm, the scenic flight is an unforgettable experience that complements the up-close encounters with the reef’s diverse marine life during the cruise portion of the tour.
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Snorkeling at Agincourt Reef
Upon reaching the outer reef platform at Agincourt Reef, travelers can don their provided snorkeling gear and enjoy the vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life.
Experienced snorkelers and beginners alike can explore the shallow, crystal-clear waters, marveling at the diverse array of coral formations and the opportunity to spot sea turtles, manta rays, and other captivating creatures that call this ecosystem home.
The qualified lifeguards and snorkeling instructors on hand ensure a safe and informative experience, while the underwater observatory and fish feeding demonstrations provide additional insights into the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
This snorkeling adventure offers a chance to connect with the marine environment in an up-close and personal way.
Marine Life Spotting Opportunities
Aboard the outer reef platform, travelers can spot a variety of captivating marine life, including sea turtles, manta rays, dugongs, and even the occasional whale. The clear waters and diverse ecosystem of Agincourt Reef provide ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. With the help of the knowledgeable crew, guests can learn about the unique creatures that call this region home.
Marine Life | Description | Likelihood of Spotting |
---|---|---|
Sea Turtles | Large, majestic reptiles that gracefully glide through the water | High |
Manta Rays | Giant winged creatures that can span up to 7 meters wide | Moderate |
Dugongs | Gentle, plant-eating marine mammals also known as "sea cows" | Low |
Whales | Migrating humpback or minke whales may make an appearance | Low |
Tropical Buffet Lunch Spread
Travelers aboard the outer reef platform can indulge in a vibrant tropical buffet lunch spread, offering a delectable selection of hot and cold dishes to refuel and rejuvenate after the morning’s activities.
The spread features an array of fresh seafood, succulent meats, and a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that all dietary preferences are catered to.
Colorful tropical fruits, crisp salads, and hearty entrees come together to create a harmonious and flavorful dining experience.
Guests can savor the flavors of the region while taking in the stunning views of the Great Barrier Reef.
The well-rounded lunch spread provides the energy and nourishment needed to fully enjoy the remainder of the excursion.
Onboard Underwater Observatory Experience
Guests can explore the vibrant underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef through the onboard underwater observatory, which offers a unique perspective of the diverse marine life.
The observatory allows visitors to witness:
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Schools of tropical fish darting among the colorful coral
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Sea turtles gracefully swimming by
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The occasional appearance of a curious reef shark
Through the panoramic viewing windows, guests can marvel at the incredible ecosystem below the surface without getting wet.
The observatory provides a captivating and educational experience, giving travelers an up-close look at the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
This feature complements the other activities like snorkeling and semi-submersible coral viewing for a well-rounded reef exploration.
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Scuba Diving and Oceanwalker Options
Along With snorkeling, the tour also offers scuba diving and oceanwalker helmet diving for those seeking a more immersive reef experience.
The scuba diving option allows adventurous travelers to explore the vibrant underwater world up close, accompanied by certified dive instructors.
Meanwhile, the oceanwalker helmet diving experience enables participants to walk along the seafloor while breathing naturally, offering a unique perspective of the reef’s diverse marine life.
Both activities provide an unforgettable opportunity to discover the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
Participants should note that additional fees apply for these optional activities, and advanced booking is recommended to secure availability.
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
The tour provides select meeting points for pickup and drop-off, offering travelers convenient access to the Agincourt Reef experience from Port Douglas.
Passengers have the option to choose from the following locations:
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Port Douglas Reef Marina, where the tour departs and returns by boat.
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Select accommodations in Port Douglas, allowing for hassle-free transportation to and from the reef.
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The Port Douglas Sheraton Resort, providing a centralized meeting point for those staying in the area.
These designated pickup and drop-off locations ensure a seamless start and end to the helicopter and cruise adventure, enabling participants to focus on the breathtaking sights and activities awaiting them at the Great Barrier Reef.
Policies and Cancellation Information
Flexibility in booking allows travelers to plan with confidence, as the tour provider offers a comprehensive cancellation policy. Customers can receive a full refund up to 48 hours prior to the scheduled departure, and a 50% refund between 24-48 hours before the tour. Within 24 hours, no refund is available. This policy ensures customers can make last-minute adjustments without incurring significant financial penalties.
The tour also has specific guidelines regarding passenger weights and ages. Children 3 and above pay the full price, while infants under 3 may travel for free on laps. The total weight per passenger is capped at 287 lbs, and individual weights must be disclosed during booking.
Cancellation Period | Refund Policy |
---|---|
48 hours or more | Full refund |
24-48 hours | 50% refund |
Less than 24 hours | No refund |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling/Diving Gear?
Yes, participants can bring their own snorkeling or diving gear for the tour. However, the tour provider also offers complimentary snorkeling gear, buoyancy vests, and other equipment for those who prefer to use the provided gear.
Are There Any Additional Charges for Dietary Requirements?
There are typically no additional charges for dietary requirements such as vegan, vegetarian, or other special meals on tours. The tour operator generally aims to accommodate various dietary needs as part of the included meal service.
How Much Time Is Spent at the Reef Platform?
The tour includes approximately 3 hours at the outer reef platform, allowing ample time for snorkeling, exploring the underwater observatory, and observing marine life. This provides a comprehensive experience of the Great Barrier Reef.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Solo Travelers?
The tour can generally accommodate solo travelers, with a maximum of 7 travelers per group. However, there may be limited options for customization to suit individual needs. Solo travelers should inquire about available options when booking.
What Is the Process for Booking the Optional Scuba Diving?
Travelers can book optional scuba diving by indicating their interest when making the initial reservation. The tour operator will provide details on the scuba diving options and coordinate the necessary arrangements for interested participants.
Recap
The Helicopter & Cruise Great Barrier Reef Package from Port Douglas offers an unparalleled experience, combining a breathtaking aerial view with an immersive underwater exploration.
Guests can marvel at the vibrant coral and diverse marine life, while indulging in a delectable tropical buffet lunch.
With professional guidance and safety measures, this package is an exhilarating way to discover the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
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