Great Barrier Reef Scenic Helicopter Tour and Cruise from Cairns

Highlights

Unforgettable views of the Great Barrier Reef by helicopter and boat
Marvel at the underwater wonders of the Great Barrier Reef
Options for all: snorkeling, certified dives, or introductory dive course
Personalized experience: limited to six passengers per helicopter

Summary

Depending on the tour option selected, make your way to Cairns Airport or Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, and set out for the outer reefs by either boat or helicopter. While boats set sail in the morning, helicopter flights depart around midday, affording spectacular views over Cairns as well as the reefs and islands of the Great Barrier Reef. On arrival at the Hastings Reef floating helicopter pad, transfer to the cruise ship, which has space for up to 100 passengers and is fully equipped for snorkelers, scuba divers, and nonswimmers. During your time onboard, visit two different locations around the Saxon Reef, Norman Reef, or Hastings Reef, stopping at exclusive moorings. On the full-day excursion, scuba divers can enjoy up to three dives, either taking part in a beginner’s introductory course or exploring dive sites accessible only to certified divers. All tours offer swimming and snorkeling along the reefs, with floatation devices available for nonswimmers. After working up an appetite in the water, enjoy a delicious onboard buffet lunch, including fresh fish, barbecued meats, and a selection of salads and pasta. Finally, you are dropped back at the helipad for the return journey to Cairns, where your tour ends.

Tour info

Duration

2 hours - 7 hours

Why take this tour?

The Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s most visited attractions, and the UNESCO-listed landscapes are home to an incredible variety of marine life. On this tour, choose to experience the natural wonder from all angles—flying overhead in a helicopter, taking a boat cruise to the outer reefs, then jumping in to swim, snorkel, or scuba dive along the reef.

What’s included?

BBQ lunch
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Optional introductory or certified dives, payable direct on travel date (morning cruise only)
AU$20per person Environmental Management Charge (EMC) and Fuel Levy is payable direct to the operator on the day of travel
Hotel pickup and drop off

Things to know

Before you book

Duration: 2-7 hours
Mobile tickets accepted
Instant confirmation

Covid Policy

Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Guides required to regularly wash hands

Nautilus Aviation has a comprehensive COVID plan in place.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operator Website

Operated by:

Nautilus Aviation

About operator:

For that once in a lifetime experience, every time, Nautilus Aviation offers one of the best ways to see the world’s natural wonders just outside their doorsteps. Departing daily, jump on board a scenic flight, enjoy a reef and rainforest day package, escape to a secluded sand cay, design a tour of your own or, for the more adventurous, take the controls and fly yourself! The sky is no longer your limit, it’s your playground!