Great Barrier Reef Cruise - Gold Class VIP Lounge Package

Cairns & the Tropical North , Australia

Great Barrier Reef Cruise - Gold Class VIP Lounge Package

Active

(58 reviews)

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Be our VIP’s for the day! Cruise to the Outer Reef onboard superyacht, Evolution, with access to your own private Gold Class lounge for the day with lots of inclusions. Dial up the luxury with VIP access to the exclusive Gold Class Lounge, located on the second level a luxury catamaran for the day.

Enjoy all the benefits of a large, stable, fully equipped catamaran with the feel and service level of a private charter but at a fraction of the cost.

Complete with dedicated concierge service and a range of value adds, the Gold Class lounge delivers an unparalleled experience for couples, honeymooners, multi-generational families, small groups of friends (up to 8 guests), or anyone seeking a premium Great Barrier Reef experience without the high-end price tag. This lounge is unique to Cairns and one of a kind.

Available options

Great Barrier Reef Cruise - Gold Class VIP Lounge Package

What's included

Semi-Submersible Tour for each guest (weather permitting)

Cruise onboard the fastest, most luxurious catamaran visiting two exclusive outer reef locations

Mini-bar with complimentary snacks (chocolates, chips etc.)

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

Private coffee machine with coffee and tea amenities

5 hours reef time with an included guided snorkel tour

Exclusive access for up to 8 guests to the GOLD CLASS luxury lounge located on the second level

Personal flotation aids - life jackets and noodles

$20 Admin/Fuel Levy

A glass of wine, cheese and biscuits on return journey

Dedicated concierge service for the day

Complimentary lycra/sun suit and towel hire

$20 per person onboard credit to use how you wish

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 dedicated concierge for the day, who will show you to your private VIP lounge and provide you with masks and snorkel.

Enjoy arrival tea, coffee and muffins before departure as well as your own private tea and coffee machine and complimentary snacks.

Complimentary towel hire and sunscreen are provided in your room as well.

Evolution departs Cairns at 8 am. You will have a private safety briefing from your concierge team member for the day inside your private lounge.

After your safety briefing, cruise for 1 hour and 30 minutes, before you 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.

Enjoy snorkelling the Outer Reef. Included in the Gold Class package, you can experience snorkelling with one of our guides. They can show you all the best spots and marine life!

Dial up the adventure and add a scuba dive (additional costs apply).

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 (scuba diving is an additional cost). 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! Additional costs apply for the helicopter flight - please ask Reservations when booking.

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

Scuba Diving - optional add-on up to 3 Introductory or Certified Dives - contact reservations

Discounted Helicopter Flights - optional add-ons, contact reservations POA

Return Transfers - optional add-on, contact reservations

Available languages

Guide guide

DE CMN JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

18 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

40 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Please make your way to the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence Street for check-in between 07:15-07:45. Evolution departs 8.00am. Accommodation transfers are available at additional charge however most inner city hotels are easy walking distance from check-in.

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.

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