Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise with Helicopter Flight Cairns
Overview
This full-day outer Great Barrier Reef cruise from Cairns takes a large modern vessel to two outer reef locations, with about five hours of reef time, and adds a 10-minute scenic helicopter flight over Hastings Reef. The default option includes snorkelling equipment, a lycra stinger suit and a BBQ lunch prepared on board, with vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan choices. Two other options add a diving experience, either an introductory dive or a dive for certified divers. It suits couples and families who want the reef from water and air.
Highlights
- Reef cruise to two outer Great Barrier Reef locations, with about five hours of reef time
- 10-minute scenic helicopter flight over Hastings Reef
- Snorkelling equipment and a lycra stinger suit provided
- BBQ lunch on board with vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan options
- Options to add an introductory dive or a dive for certified divers
- Large, stable vessel with a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere
Full Description
Two outer Great Barrier Reef sites
The outer Great Barrier Reef lies about 60 kilometres or more off Cairns, well beyond the coastal islands, and this is where you find the clearest water and healthiest coral. The vessel visits two sites in the day, so you can compare different reef areas, each with its own mix of coral gardens and fish.
Spending about five hours at the reef is a generous amount of time, enough to snorkel more than once, rest on board and go back in. If you are wondering whether the Great Barrier Reef is worth the trip from Cairns, the outer reef is where it lives up to its reputation.
Hastings Reef by helicopter
The helicopter flight lasts 10 minutes and passes over Hastings Reef, one of the outer reef systems, where coral shapes, sandbanks and turquoise lagoons are clear from the air. It is a great way to see the scale of the reef and to take spectacular photographs.
Flights are subject to weather and safety conditions on the day. Because seats are limited, guests take turns in small groups, and the crew arrange the schedule so everyone gets their flight while the others carry on snorkelling or relaxing on board, so there is no need to worry about missing out.
Snorkelling, diving and life at the reef
All options include snorkelling equipment and a stinger suit, so beginners and confident swimmers can spend hours in the water. You can expect colourful coral, giant clams, parrotfish, wrasse and, with luck, turtles gliding past.
For more depth, choose the introductory dive with an instructor or the dive for certified divers, each of which includes one dive. Additional dives can be added on board, while scuba diving is not part of the default option. Tell the crew about any medical condition before you dive or snorkel, and follow their advice about staying together as a group.
Life on board and lunch
The vessel is large and stable, with shaded seating and room to move around, so the crossing is comfortable even if you are not a confident sailor. The crew brief everyone on safety and snorkelling technique before you enter the water.
A BBQ lunch is prepared on board and served during the day, with vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan options available on request. Return transfers to and from your hotel are not included, so plan your journey to the departure point in Cairns, which is confirmed in your voucher, and arrive a little early.
Itinerary
- Check-in in CairnsArrive at the meeting point in your booking voucher and board the vessel for the 08:00 departure.
- Cruise to the outer reefSail for around one and a half to two hours while the crew give safety and snorkelling briefings.
- First reef siteSnorkel, or dive if your option includes it, at the first outer reef location.
- BBQ lunch on boardEnjoy a BBQ lunch with dietary options catered for on request.
- Helicopter flight over Hastings ReefTake the 10-minute scenic flight in your turn.
- Second reef siteSpend more time in the water at the second location.
- Return to CairnsSail back and arrive in the late afternoon, about eight hours after departure.
What's included
- Reef cruise to two outer Great Barrier Reef locations with about 5 hours of reef time
- Use of snorkelling equipment
- 10-minute scenic helicopter flight over Hastings Reef
- Lycra stinger suit
- BBQ lunch prepared on board (vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan options available)
Not included
- Return transfers (on request, additional cost)
- Additional dives (can be added on board)
- Scuba diving
Not suitable for
- Guests who are afraid of helicopters or cannot follow safety instructions
- Wheelchair users, as boarding requires mobility
- Guests with heart, respiratory or other medical conditions unless cleared by a doctor
- Guests who are not comfortable in the water for snorkelling
Meeting point
The meeting point is in Cairns and the exact location and check-in time are confirmed in your booking voucher. Hotel transfers are not included, so arrange your own transport and arrive in good time for the 08:00 departure.
Important information
- Bring swimwear, a towel, a hat, sunscreen and a change of clothes
- Reef-safe sunscreen is best for protecting the coral
- Helicopter flights depend on weather and safety conditions
- Additional dives can be added on board and are not part of the default option
- Tell the crew about allergies and dietary needs when you check in
- Return hotel transfers are not included and can be requested separately
- Take seasickness tablets beforehand if you are prone to motion sickness
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.
How much does the outer reef and helicopter cruise cost?
The price depends on the option you choose and on the number of adults and children. The booking panel on this page shows the current price for each option, adult and child.
Is the helicopter flight included?
Yes, all three options include a 10-minute scenic helicopter flight over Hastings Reef, subject to weather and safety conditions.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a BBQ lunch is prepared on board, with vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan options available.
Is snorkelling equipment included?
Yes, all options include snorkelling equipment and a lycra stinger suit.
Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel transfers are not included. You meet at the departure point in Cairns given in your voucher.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about eight hours, with around five hours of reef time across two outer reef locations.
What is the difference between the options?
The default option is snorkelling with the helicopter flight. The others add one introductory dive or one dive for certified divers.
Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes, children can join, and child prices are shown in the booking panel. Children should be comfortable in the water for snorkelling.
When is the best time to visit the outer Great Barrier Reef?
The drier months from June to October are usually clearest and calmest, but trips run all year and stinger suits are provided.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
Often yes, subject to availability. The booking panel shows the next available dates.
