Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns

Cairns & the Tropical North , Australia

Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns

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(3661 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Experience one of the wonders of the natural world up close and personal on this snorkeling and diving cruise on the Great Barrier Reef. This 35-metre luxury fast superyacht departs Cairns with 5 hours spent exploring 2 spectacular and exclusive outer Great Barrier Reef locations for an adventure-filled day.

Visit two different outer reef locations on the Great Barrier Reef for the chance to see tropical marine life. Delicious fresh BBQ lunch, tea, coffee, light snack and glass of wine on the return journey is included. Upgrade to include additional water adventures such as introductory or certified scuba dive or a scenic helicopter flight. Top quality equipment and instruction provided by friendly and professional instructors.

Available options

One Introductory Dive

5 hrs on the Outer Great Barrier Reef, visiting 2 sites. Includes 1 introductory dive, buffet lunch, snorkel & dive gear.

Snorkeling Only

5 hrs on the Outer Great Barrier Reef, visiting 2 sites. Free time for snorkeling and swimming. Includes buffet lunch, snorkel gear.

Snorkeling and Heli Flight

5 hrs on the Outer Great Barrier Reef including a 10-minute scenic helicopter flight and free time to snorkel

Cruise, Intro Dive and Heli

Cruise, Dive and Heli Flight: Outer Barrier Reef Cruise including 1 introductory, a 10-minute scenic helicopter flight, and buffet lunch.

One Certified Dive

5 hrs on the Outer Great Barrier Reef, visiting 2 sites. Includes 1 certified dive, buffet lunch, snorkel & dive gear.

What's included

Free lycra/stinger suit hire

5 hours reef time at 2 spectacular outer reef locations

All Fees and Taxes

1 pre-booked dive (if dive package is selected. Additional dives can be added once onboard)

Personal flotation aids - life jackets and noodles

10-minute Scenic Flight (if selected)

Glass of wine and a snack on return journey

Use of snorkelling and scuba equipment

BBQ lunch prepared onboard with fresh fish, prawns, steak, salads (Veg, GF, DF & Vegan options)

Detailed itinerary

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.

Stop 2

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.

Stop 3

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.

Evolution arrives at the second reef location for more snorkelling and/or scuba diving. Marvel at the incredible richness and diversity of marine life as you snorkel at another Outer Reef location.

If you prefer to stay dry, sit back and enjoy the views with our three deck spaces available for lounging. Dial up the adventure and choose the package with the 10-minute scenic helicopter flight to experience the Great Barrier Reef from above!

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.

What's not included

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

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Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

1,587 reviews

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1234

4★

252

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Tripadvisor 4.7

2,074 reviews

5★

1743

4★

204

3★

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

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 8.00am.

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.

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.

For Certified Diving, evidence of dive certification is required from all divers wishing to participate in a certified dive.

Diving within 24 hours before your flight is not permitted.

Due to comfort, weight and balance of the aircraft, the weight limit for helicopters is 130kg. Please contact the supplier directly for further information.

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.

If you chose a package with a dive, this includes 1 pre-booked dive only (note: dives are not included with snorkel-only packages). Additional dives can be purchased onboard on the day or direct with the operator prior to travel.

Meeting point

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.

Important notes

CHECK-IN: 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 8.00am sharp.

TRANSFERS: return transfers can be booked directly with the tour operator's reservations. Additional costs apply. Email: reservations@downunderdive.com.au

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS: you must confirm your special dietary requirements at least 24 hours prior to travel.

DIVE MEDICALS: All divers are required to complete a Medical Questionnaire. In our 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. This can be provided by your own GP before you leave for your holiday.

SCUBA DIVING: Diving within 24 hours of flying is not recommended. 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 operator's Medical Questionnaire and Terms & Conditions prior to travel.

CERTIFIED DIVERS: If booking a certified dive, guests must be able to produce a Diving certification which is a document (usually a wallet-sized plastic card) recognizing that they are authorized to perform a solo scuba dive with the dive certificate indicating that they have successfully completed an open-water dive course as a minimum requirement.

HELICOPTER: Due to the comfort, weight, and balance of the aircraft, passengers weighing over 130kg will be required to pay an additional fee. Please contact the operator to check prior to travel if you are unsure.

About Cairns & the Tropical North

Cairns & the Tropical North is a vibrant region in Queensland, Australia, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and adventurous activities. It serves as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system, and the ancient Daintree Rainforest, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Top Attractions

Great Barrier Reef

The world's largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 km (1,430 miles). It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to thousands of marine species.

Nature Half-day to full-day tours Varies by tour and activity, typically $100-$300 AUD

Daintree Rainforest

One of the oldest rainforests in the world, with diverse wildlife, ancient trees, and scenic walking trails.

Nature Full-day trip Varies by tour and activity, typically $100-$200 AUD

Cairns Esplanade

A scenic waterfront area with a lagoon, walking paths, and picnic spots. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the tropical atmosphere.

Beach A few hours Free

Kuranda Scenic Railway

A historic railway line that offers stunning views of the Barron Gorge and surrounding rainforest. It's a popular day trip from Cairns.

Historical Half-day to full-day trip Railway ticket: $65-$130 AUD (depending on class and direction)

Fitzroy Island

A small island located about 45 minutes by ferry from Cairns. It offers beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and hiking opportunities.

Island Full-day trip Ferry ticket: $80-$120 AUD (including return), activities extra

Must-Try Local Dishes

Barramundi

A popular Australian fish, often grilled or fried, with a delicate and mild flavor.

Main dish Gluten-free, high in protein

Mangoes

Sweet and juicy tropical fruit, often enjoyed fresh or in smoothies and desserts.

Dessert/Fruit Vegan, gluten-free

Moreton Bay Bugs

A type of lobster found in the region, often served grilled or in seafood platters.

Seafood Gluten-free, high in protein

Iced VoVo

A classic Australian biscuit with a jam and coconut filling, often enjoyed with tea or coffee.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Skydiving White-water rafting Bungee jumping Zip-lining Parasailing Beach relaxation Spa and wellness treatments Yoga and meditation

Best Time to Visit

May to October (dry season)

This is the best time to visit Cairns & the Tropical North, with pleasant weather, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for outdoor activities, exploring the Great Barrier Reef, and visiting the rainforest.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (GMT+10:00) or AEDT (GMT+11:00) during daylight saving time (October to April)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cairns & the Tropical North is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of fake tour operators and always book through reputable companies
• Use metered taxis or ride-sharing services to avoid overcharging
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Cairns Airport • 4 km (2.5 miles) from city center

By train

Cairns Central Station

By bus

Cairns Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Sunbus network is the primary public transport system in Cairns, offering frequent and affordable services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cairns City Cairns Beaches Cairns Hinterland

Day trips

Port Douglas

70 km (43 miles) north of Cairns • Full-day trip

A charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.

Mission Beach

100 km (62 miles) north of Cairns • Full-day trip

A beautiful beach town known for its long sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and adventure activities like skydiving and white-water rafting.

Atherton Tablelands

100 km (62 miles) west of Cairns • Full-day trip

A lush and green region known for its waterfalls, lakes, and diverse wildlife. It's a great destination for nature lovers and those looking to escape the tropical heat.

Festivals

Cairns Festival • August to September Cairns Indigenous Art Fair • August Cairns Festival of Arts • Various dates throughout the year

Pro tips

Visit the Great Barrier Reef during the dry season (May to October) for the best visibility and weather conditions
Book tours and accommodations in advance during peak season (May to October) to avoid disappointment
Pack insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the tropical sun and insects
Hire a guide for rainforest walks and cultural experiences to gain a deeper understanding of the region's natural and cultural heritage
Try local specialties such as barramundi, mangoes, and Moreton Bay bugs for an authentic taste of the region