1 Day Snorkel Adventure
Explore the outer Great Barrier Reef onboard award-winning superyacht, Evolution, with local reef tour operator Down Under Cruise and Dive. Experience the adventure of snorkelling, scuba diving, scenic helicopter flights, marine biology tours, semi-submarine tours and more.
The 35-metre superyacht, Evolution, departs Cairns for the outer reef, with 5 hours spent exploring 2 spectacular and exclusive outer Great Barrier Reef locations for an adventure-filled day. Experience the adventure of snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef. Dial-up the adventure and add a scuba dive for only $80.
- Luxury 35-metre superyacht
- 2 unique outer reef locations
- Delicious BBQ Lunch
- Vegetarians OK
- All snorkel gear & lycra suits
- 5 Hours of Snorkelling
- PADI-qualified dive instructors
- Glass Bottom Boat
- Scuba Diving Available
- Fully Equipped Modern Dive Vessel
- Live Musical Entertainment
- All diving equipment
- 100% Fun & Sun
- Excludes $20 levy
- Trip length:
- 1 Day
- Group size:
- Max 100
- Start:
- Cairns
- End:
- Cairns
- Vehicle:
- Dive Vessel
- Sleep:
- Non Applicable
- Physical Demand:
- Comfortlevel:
Itinerary
Evolution is a state of the art high-speed 35-metre (120ft) vessel, cruising at up to 30 knots, providing comfort and safety for a maximum of 180 passengers. With less travel time, you'll spend more time at the Reef! With its large air-conditioned modern lounge to relax in comfort and full length sundecks for sunbathing you can relax in style.7.30am Check in at The Reef Fleet
Itinerary:
Terminal (1 Spence Street, Cairns)
8.20am Depart for the Outer Reef from Marlin Marina (A Finger - Gate 5)
To begin the Great Barrier Reef tour we meet at the Reef Fleet Terminal on Cairn’s beautiful esplanade to check-in by 8am. From there you’ll be greeted by the friendly captain when boarding the Osprey V. Once you have received your flippers and mask for the day, make yourself comfortable below deck. Tea and coffee is served while the crew prepares to embark for the journey.
The boat ride takes about an hour and a half to get to the first reef, travelling 60 kilometres off the coast of Cairns, to a prime diving and snorkelling location. During this time you can go upstairs or to the back deck to check out the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and try to spot a dolphin or manta ray on the way out to the reef.Before arriving at the reef, an instructor will go through the basic signals and instructions you will need to know to prepare for your snorkel and/or dive so you can safely explore the remarkable coral and get close to the marine life. Underwater cameras are available for hire but remember to get in early because they are snapped up quickly!
Mid-morning
The boat arrives at its first destination where you are free to snorkel and explore the reef. This is where you can admire the coral formations and try to spot a turtle, sting ray or shark. Feel free to ask one of the friendly crew members if you don’t know the name of a marine animal or compare your sitings to the marine animal chart below deck.
As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef comprises of 3000 individual reef systems containing an abundance of marine life. You’ll get to see a glimpse of this beauty through the diving locations you visit on the day.
Book an optional scenic helicopter flight and transfer: For those who want a sky-high experience viewing the Great Barrier Reef from the air. Jump aboard a scenic helicopter flight at an exclusive helicopter pontoon. Fly over the stunning reef locations or fly home in style while taking in the amazing view of the turquoise coloured ocean, white sandy coastline and watch the mountains looming in the distance.
Lunch
After exploring the reef, sit down to a buffet style lunch with an assortment of fresh salads and barbecued tasty beef steaks, fish and sausages. Vegetarian options are also available on the tour.
As lunch settles, the boat cruises to another reef location where you can go for another round of snorkelling and/or diving. This is where you hop aboard the glass bottom boat to admire the coral and sea life. A knowledgeable guide will talk you through some of the different creatures that live on the reef and tell you a little bit about the magnificent World Heritage area. This is your chance to ask all those questions that may have come to mind while exploring the reef earlier in the day.
For those who booked a helicopter flight, this is where a smaller boat will take you across to the helipad and take you sky high to view the beautiful coast line and perhaps spot a dolphin, shark or whale.
Afternoon
The boat makes its way back to Cairns. By this time you will feel a bit weary from the day of action. Cheese and biscuits are put out to nibble on and this is when you can purchase a wine or beer to cruise your way back home while being entertained by one of the crew member’s live music.
What to bring
CLOTHING
- Long Sleeve shirt for protection from the Sun
- Shorts and T Shirts
- Comfortable shoes or sandles
- Swimwear and Towel
- Hat and sunglasses
EQUIPMENT / OTHER
- Sunscreen
- Refillable water bottle
- Camera
What is included
- Cruise onboard luxury 35-metre superyacht, Evolution
- Visit 2 unique outer reef locations
- 5 hours of reef time for unlimited snorkelling
- All snorkel gear and lycra suits
- Hot BBQ Lunch including fresh fish, prawns, steak and a variety of salads (Vegan, Vegetarian, GF, DF)
- Arrival tea, coffee and mini-muffins
- Glass of wine, cheese and biscuits on return journey
- PADI-qualified dive instructors and Master Reef Guides
- Spacious air-conditioned lounges and upper deck to relax in comfort
- Price excludes $20 levy to be paid in cash to the guide
Add optional extras:
- Pre-book up to 2 dives, add a 3rd dive on the day
- Scenic Heli Flight
- Marine Biologist Snorkel Tour
- Semi-Submersible Tour
- Return transfers
- Wetsuits
Trip Info
Preparing for the trip
Where can I get more information about this trip?
If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have.
What should I pack?
Depending on where in Australia you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.
What immunisations do I need?
For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.
Do I need to take any medical supplies?
It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour will carry an first aid box and our guides are all certified in First Aid.
How fit do I need to be?
Our tours are made to be fun, informative and active and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking/walking up to 5km each day.
Do I need travel insurance?
Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended.
Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.
Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?
If you are using Telstra as your mobile service provider than most likely yes! Their coverage of Australia is quite extensive so you shouldn't have too much trouble.
Private tours and families
Is it possible to travel in a private group?
Definitely! Just choose an existing itinerary or destination and contact us we can help you arrange the trip as a private tour.
If your looking for a customised itinerary we can tailor make a tour to suit your requirement.
Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip. Our team can help you decide on destinations best suits your needs and give you additional information on the best time to visit, cultural expectations, weather conditions and so fourth.
Booking the trip
Do I have to book this tour online?
Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.
If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?
Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.
Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.
How do I know when a tour is available?
You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.
Does the tour price include flights?
No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself.
If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!
How far in advance do I need to book my tour?
As a rule of thumb we generally say AT LEAST 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible.
Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.
If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?
Balance on tours need to be paid at least 30 days prior to departure. Failure to do so could result is the cancellation of your seat with a fee charged. If you need more time to clear your balance then let us know ASAP and arrangements can be made.
Who travels with us
Is this tour for me?
Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of different ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Generally people who travel with us are between 20 and 45, though we also get alot passengers much older onboard - everyone is welcome! On tour we get equally as many males as females and everyone shares an enthusiasm for the out doors, nature, adventure and culture.
Our tours are for those wanting to really explore Australia and share the experience with likeminded travellers. Whether we are camping by a billabong in Kakadu National Park or sharing a cabin in Tasmania, our travellers want more than just a site seeing tour. They are chasing a hands on group experience.
The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast. There may be some long drives and passengers should expect to help out when setting up camp or cooking food - this is a group adventure. However, there’s always time to chill out, have a cold beer ( or wine! ) and soak up your surroundings.
As always, if in doubt then contact us directly with your concerns.
What type of groups go on these tours?
Onboard our tours there are usually around 5 - 24 people ( depending on the tour and destination ). Lost In Australia's travellers want to explore the country and develop a real sense for the land, nature and its people. We travel in small groups which allows us to get from destination to destination quickly and effortlessly whilst being flexible and free!
Is it ok to travel alone on one of these tours?
We have many travellers jumping onboard our tours by themselves. Those travelling by themselves are very much welcomed and encouraged. During your outback adventure you'll meet new and interesting people and forge relationships that will last a life time.
Those who do travel by themselves will probably be sharing a room with a travelling companion of the same sex, but even if you do get your own room, you won't be charged extra. For camping tours, generally there are enough tents available that you can have your own if you choose to.
For more information please contact us directly.
How many people will be on tour?
Group sizes vary from tour to tour. You can find the size of your group by checking out information at the top right hand corner of the tour page. Group sizes range of 5 - 24 people.
Is there an age limit?
We get a large range of travellers from all over the world and from a very large age range. We get people of all ages joining these trips; generally our travellers vary between 21 - 45 though we also get many happy travellers in their 60s and 70s. Some tours however have a restriction on children under the age of 16 - 18. This will depend on the destination so please email us for more info.
Cost and Fees
What does "Paid Locally" mean?
Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.
Will I need additional money?
Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. Its handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.
Do I need to tip our guide?
If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip the guide, then that is completely up to you. However, tipping is not customary in Australia and is not at all expected.
Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?
Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.
Whilst on tour
Where do I meet the tour?
Our tour guide picks up from all major hotels and hostels. For pick locations in suburban or rural areas please contact us to arrange a meeting point and time.
Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?
Definitely - We know Australia inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations.
Can you cater of special diets?
We can certain cater for most dietary needs. Please advise us at the time of your booking so arrangements can be made. For travellers with more extreme diets we may ask that you bring along additional snacks.