About Evolution Reef Tour + Scenic Helicopter Flight

Reef & Heli Package

Evolution Reef Vessel

Cruise on Evolution to the Outer Great Barrier Reef for snorkelling with all gear and tuition included. Visit two exclusive reef sites, with plenty of time to enjoy relaxing and sun bathing on three deck levels.

Snorkelling is included in our base price however you can dial-up the adventure and add an Introductory dive or Certified Scuba Dive. You can add up to 3 scuba dives at check-out for the full Great Barrier Reef Tour Experience!

At the second reef location, it is time to take to the sky from our exclusive helicopter pontoon at Hastings Reef and enjoy a spectacular reef scenic flight onboard one of Nautilus Aviation's luxury helicopters. Experience the sheer size and beauty of the World Heritage-Listed Great Barrier Reef and gain a true appreciation of one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Sightings of manta rays, turtles and other marine life are not uncommon on scenic flights and if you’re flying with us in the winter months there is even a chance of spotting whales.

With your feet back on the boat, you can squeeze in another snorkel or kick back on a beanbag and relax. Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine and a snack as well as our bar facilities onboard as we cruise back to Cairns.

 

10-minute Scenic Flight over The Great Barrier Reef

10-minute Scenic Flight over The Great Barrier Reef

Take to the air from our exclusive helicopter pontoon at Hastings Reef and enjoy a spectacular scenic flight on board a luxury aircraft from Nautilus Aviation. Experience the sheer size and beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and gain a true appreciation of one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Sightings of manta rays, turtles and other marine life are not uncommon on scenic flights and if you’re flying with us in the winter months there is even a chance of spotting whales; however, as the marine life are wild animals, we can’t make any guarantee!

What's included?

What's included?
  • 2 stunning outer reef sites with 5 Hours Reef Time
  • 10-minute Scenic Flight in a 6-seater luxury helicopter with Nautilus Aviation
  • Snorkelling equipment & floatation devices provided
  • Hot BBQ Lunch (Hot meats, fish, prawns & a variety of fresh salads, vegetarian option available)
  • Free Lycra/sun suit hire
  • Fruit platter, cheese and a glass of wine on return journey
  • Experienced, professional dive instructors
  • Large air-conditioned modern lounges to relax in comfort

Itinerary

Itinerary

07:15am: Check-in open at the Reef Fleet Terminal - 1 Spence St, Cairns
08.00am: Evolution departs Cairns for the first reef location
11:30am: Enjoy a BBQ buffet lunch onboard
01:00pm: Evolution arrives at the second reef location where you will take to the sky for your scenic helicopter flight
03:00pm: Evolution departs for Cairns
04:30pm: Evolution arrives back in Cairns

Snorkelling

Snorkelling

We have selected our outer reef locations for their variety and bottom contours, so to provide the best experience for both beginners, experienced snorkelers and children of all ages.

​Our staff keep a constant watch over the snorkelling sites making sure all passengers can enjoy the amazing wildlife in perfect safety. Our snorkel supervisors are all experienced Divemasters and provide in-depth briefings on safety procedures and site orientation, so you know where to find all the 'cool stuff'.

​For the beginners we offer one-on-one tuition on gear use and snorkelling techniques, a selection of buoyancy aids (foam noodles, life jackets and wetsuits) and FREE snorkel guides are available all day long to guide you through the natural maze of beautiful coral and fishes.

Marine Biology Guided Snorkel Tour

Marine Biology Guided Snorkel Tour

Learn the secrets of the reef from our marine biologist and then explore the coral gardens on a guided snorkel tour.

Our team of dedicated Marine Biologists are actively engaged in conservation work on the Great Barrier Reef. Their weekly tasks include collation of data via observational surveys as part of the Eye on the Reef program with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. 

Join these professional men and women for a guided snorkel tour, which takes approximately 20 minutes - and which will bring you up close and personal with the extraordinary marine life and colourful coral.

For first timers, this is also a great way to learn the art of snorkelling and feel comfortable in the water. For more experienced snorkellers this is an interactive tour that will put you on the key coral formations and marine creatures - setting you up for a great day of exploration at your own pace.

SubXplorer Semi Submersible

SubXplorer Semi Submersible

Enjoy the spectacular coral formations without getting wet on our board SubXplore - our semi-submersible. 

The tour operates at Hastings Reef and runs for approximately 20 minutes. Our friendly team help guests board directly from Evolution safely. Once inside everyone has a seat by the enourmous viewing windows and you will be welcomed on board by our Marine Biologist who will provide live commentary in English throughout the tour - helping you understand the enormity of the world's largest living organism.

(The Semi Submarine Tour is weather permitting. This optional activity is fantastic for all ages, particuarly families with small children and non-swimmers)


Evolution Reef Tour + Scenic Helicopter Flight Reviews

LD

Liberty Dy

Just had an awesome experience of the great barrier reef with these guys! Crew is friendly and boat is clean with complete snorkel gear that comes with the package. I specifically enjoyed the helicopter ride and the semi submarine tour! Keep up the good work guys!

RT

Rosemary Thibodeaux

FUN DAY OUT crew were fun and helpful helicopter = fun and view was great

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Evolution Reef Tour + Scenic Helicopter Flight

Where: Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal - 1 Spence Street, Cairns When: Check in from 7.15am-8.00am daily at the Reef fleet Terminal


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