Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns
4.5
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Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns
By Down Under Cruise & Dive
About
from per adult
£128.20
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-99, max of 124 per group
Duration: 8h 30m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English, Chinese
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- BBQ lunch prepared onboard with fresh fish, prawns, steak, salads (Veg, GF, DF & Vegan options)
- Cruise onboard the fastest, most luxurious superyacht
- 5 hours reef time at 2 spectacular outer reef locations
- Use of SCUBA equipment
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- 1 pre-booked dive (if dive package is selected. Additional dives can be added once onboard)
- Free lycra/stinger suit hire
- Glass of wine and a snack on return journey
- 10-minute Scenic Flight (if selected)
- Relax in comfort in spacious air-conditioned modern lounges and stylish upper deck
- All Fees and Taxes
What's not included- Private transportation
- Departure details
- 1 Spence St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia Check-in is from 7.15am to 7.45am at Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence Street, Cairns. Evolution departs 8.00am sharp. Return transfers are available for an additional cost. You must contact Down Under Dive to book.
Return details- Returns to original departure point
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3253OSPREY- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Check-in is 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.
- All divers are required to complete a Medical Questionnaire. In a 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. 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 operators Medical Questionnaire and Terms & Conditions prior to travel.
- Children aged and under 12 years (introductory) and 10 years (certified divers) are not permitted to participate in onboard diving activities as per Queensland Australian Law.
- Children under the age of 18 must be in the immediate company of a parent or legal guardian.
- For Certified Diving, evidence of dive certification is required from all divers wishing to participate in a certified dive.
- Diving within 24 hours before your flight is not permitted.
- Due to comfort, weight and balance of the aircraft, the weight limit for helicopters is 130kg. Please contact the supplier directly for further information.
- Most travellers can participate
- Special dietary requirements must be confirmed at least 24 hours prior to travel directly with the tour operator. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten free and dairy free options are available.
- If you chose a package with a dive, this includes 1 pre-booked dive only (note: dives are not included with snorkel-only packages). Additional dives can be purchased onboard on the day or direct with the operator prior to travel.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 124 travellers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- How much is Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns?
- Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns price starts from £127.71. Discover and book Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns on Tripadvisor
- What is the Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns cancellation policy?
- Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns cancellation policy: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. Discover and book Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns on Tripadvisor
- Which company provides Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns?
- Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns is hosted by Down Under Cruise & Dive. Read reviews, discover additonal experiences or contact Down Under Cruise & Dive on Tripadvisor. Discover and book Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns on Tripadvisor
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3253OSPREY
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- Dorina H00Tripadvisor book is a catastrophe!!!!!!!!You canceled our flight when we was in middle of cruise in ocean never we will repeat booking with your company…. Is not fair no ofer explications rezonabile ….. in the reef helicopter of nautilus company flight with others our friends they booking others more srious never never never with Tripadvisor
- NorthStar6177810566500Fantastic day!Had the best day. The boat itself was amazing, the food was great and the staff were absolutely fantastic!! Such lovely accommodating people. We were so scared doing the scuba dive as it was our first time but we could not have been comforted any more. Big shout out to Sammy for being a girls girl, Ruth for being such a lovely sweetheart, Eddie for being a great laugh and Ben for being such a sweet, calming and reassuring scuba instructor! Thank you to everyone for a fab day! Definitely recommend!
- sorchac201700Great experienceAmazing experience, the best team ever on the boat. Each and every one of them were so lovely and helpful. Everything you needed was there for you! Special shout out to Eddie, Ben, Phil and Ruth! Would recommend to anyone.
- Paradise2520798339300Barrier Reef SplendorMy wife and I took the snorkeling cruise and had an amazing day on the Great Barrier Reef. The staff were fantastic especially Eddie who was a delight with his exuberance and humor throughout the day, lunch was substantial with lots of variety and catered for any food allergies ie GF for my wife. Our day was topped off with a helicopter flight over the reef and back to Cairns which was the highlight of an exceptional day. We will recommend this tour to all of our friends.
- Mario Andres L00Great anniversary planGreat experience! Staff was extremely friendly, and the reef locations were mind-blowing. We also had a buffet, it was delicious
- vanessamZ4955EH00Terrific Great Barrier Reef tour - everything you could need supplied by tour operatorGreat tour to the Great Barrier Reef. This was good value for the money. Lots of snorkelling time with only this tour boat at the locations. We were really happy with the quality of the equipment supplied. The stinger suits (like a full body wetsuit) were great for sun protection. They also had a supply of reef friendly sunscreen on board. The organizers thought of everything so if you are a traveller with no equipment you were fully outfitted for the tour. The tour group was larger than we expected (over 60 people) but having the larger boat was nice as it was quite stable.
- demdem9300Amazing day on the reef!10/10 day on the reef! The staff are very friendly & attentive. The food was great! & you get alot of time on the reef! Plus a little free treat at the end of the day
- Michael R00Great day at the Great Barrier Reef!We had a great day exploring the Great Barrier Reef. The crew was very focused on safety throughout the day. They provided all of the materials needed to make the day safe and enjoyable. Lunch and a snack were provided
- OandO00Great smirking trip! Option for scuba and Helicopter ride too!This was a great experience snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef. The staff was professional and everything ran smoothly to plan. We stopped at 2 locations for snorkeling and the Evolution yacht was very comfortable. The snorkeling gear was great and there were noodles, rings and life jackets for those who wanted it. Most of us wore the Lycra suits because it was jellyfish season (but we did not see any). We purchased the motion sickness pills on the ship right when we took off and glad we did! We did not get sick, nor feel drowsy and some of the ride was a bit bouncy. We left at 8am and arrived promptly at 4:30pm. Lunch and snacks were included, which was nice! Highly recommend.
- Linda S00It was a very enjoyable trip.Staff was personable and knowledgeable. Food was good. Snorkeling was great. The ship was clean and comfortable. Would highly recommend.
- Dominique M00Absolutely the best!We had a wonderful day on this tour. All the crew were so friendly and helpful. I would highly recommend this company to all. I love that we were assigned to a table so we felt we had a place dedicated to ourselves when we wanted it. We were also free to explore and hang out outside on the decks as well.
- angelamC5362HB00This is worth waiting for.We look forward to meeting up at the Flying Childers each week with my Family. We wouldn't go anywhere else since Marsden's took the pub over and Sam who runs the pub. No other Local pub compares. The Staff are so welcoming and friendly. The atmosphere is warm and Cosy. Blake and Melissa, the staff take note of all the customers and we don't even have to ask what drinks we want, they already know. Going to the Childers is like visiting our extended family. The staff are amazing. We couldn't resist fish and chips tonight. So fresh, big and tasty. Much better than soggy fatty chip shops. Thank you all once again at the Bessacarr flying Childers. Dogs are given treats in the bar too. The pets are spoilt rotten and the bar atmosphere is great too. Many thanks for the great hospitality Sam and all your staff AM😇
- Scowler78200AMAZINGAmazing experience This was an experience of a lifetime. From start to finish from boarding, safety briefing and the dives. The attention to every detail and safety are priority. Lunch was excellent. Photos and support during the day exceptional.
- 658kuldipr00Best in town, look no further!!Just returned from a spectacular day out! This package has it all! I am not a natural in the water, let alone the ocean; nor had I snorkeled before. I was actually a little nervous that I had spontaneously signed up. But, I was in Cairns & I was not going to let this opportunity pass me by! Checking in was seamless, collecting my flippers & snorkel equipment a breeze. The ride out to the outer reef was a little nauseous for some, but once we anchored it was all hands on deck! Once suited & booted, entry into the water was easy & a quick 5 minute intro was all that was needed & off I went! I learned that we were swimming in a national marine park area, I could hardly believe my eyes! The entire crew was brilliant, it’s apparent they love what they do! They kept things running to a schedule whilst still ensuring we had a phenomenal day! If it’s in your budget, the helicopter ride is a MUST! All in all I am so grateful that I got to see a tiny part of the Great Barrier Reef, as well as a variety of marine life. The highlight of my experience was that a few meters below, a shark about a meter long swam right by! An unforgettable day, well worth every penny!! Highly recommend!
- T1103WCkarenb00Highly recommendWe had an amazing time, the staff on board were fantastic. Lunch was delicious. We highly recommended Down Under Cruise and Dive.
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4.5
1,597 reviews
Excellent
1,339
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170
Average
47
Poor
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23
cbibim
Perth, Australia5 contributions
We had a great day on the boat. Staff were very professional, attentive to detail and friendly; especially Eddy. The boat seemed more like a luxury cruise liner than a charter boat. Aussie bbq lunch was great. The photographer who took pictures under water was brilliant and photo prices were very affordable. Diving instructors were very professional and helpful. We would highly recommend this company to go and explore the Great Barrier reef with!
Written 8 December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
steph_kennelly
Thank you so much for choosing to join us aboard Evolution! Isn't Eddy something special! We hope you were able to get some happy snaps and treasure them for many years to come!
Written 1 November 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jessica N
Randwick, Australia3 contributions
Well, the barrier reef is itself amazing. . I had taken this tour before finding everyone friendly, but this time it wasn't like that in some cases, so I did feel a shift on the personel being friendlier before. In general they were, but some of them were not that helpful and disregarded our concerns sometimes. Someone else took the fines from one of us and gave us smaller ones than the given before, we said that they didn't fit well, but the lady was insisting that they did (even when another crew member told us before that the first ones were perfect), the person in my fam with the small fins had to end the snorkeling before because of the fins being too tight, hurting his feet. So I would recommend the guys to hear the clients more. The food was good and the safety instructions were good as well. If you pay an extra 10 dollars you get to go to the semisubmarine, although I wouldn't recommend it that much since you actually cannot see as much as you would expect. If you can snorkel, I would go for that. If you can't snorkel or dive, then take the semisub. Thanks for a good experience!
Written 10 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
steph_kennelly
Hi Jessica, I'm so sorry to read that this time around you didn't find everyone as friendly as the first time you traveled! And we apologize for the fin dilemma, you're absolutely right the staff member should have listened and got you another pair...
The semi submarine is more for the people that don't wish to get wet or can't get in to snorkel... You will always see more snorkeling...
Thank you for choosing to travel with us! I hope one day you will return again and we will again be as great for you as your first experience!
Written 11 November 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Dave
4 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
Walking up to the largest and fanciest boat at the dock set the trip off to a great start. Everyone in the crew was helpful and professional and the boat was very clean. As a scuba diver, there is always concern about the equipment quality when traveling/renting but all the gear was clean and worked perfectly. Dive master Ben gave us certified divers an experience to remember for a lifetime. I would definitely recommend this boat for diving (and go on the tours because the dive masters know where all animals like to chill). We saw turtles, sharks (not the kind to be concerned about), cuttlefish, a ray, and some beautiful fish. Thank you to Down Under, the crew and Dive Master Ben for this incredible diving experience.
TLDR; great boat for Certified Divers and snorkelers
TLDR; great boat for Certified Divers and snorkelers
Written 18 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
steph_kennelly
Thank you so much for choosing to travel with us aboard Evolution for your outer GBR adventure! We are so happy to read you enjoyed your dives with Ben!
Written 8 November 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
WebUserUnknown
Long Beach, CA8 contributions
The crew is very professional. The dive is great. Activities are mostly well-organised. However, I experienced a difficulty of combining scuba diving, helicopter ride, and the sub. By the time I was done with the first two. the latter wasn't available. Also, the helicopter ride could have been as good as it has for the rest of the passengers. Yet, I got stuck in the middle seat from where it was difficult to see, not to mention take pictures. This really cheapened the entire experience as it leads one to believe that the tour operator puts the bottom line before the experience of their customers period. The tour operator should really charter 4 seater helicopters not 6.
BTW, don't count on the lunch being gourmet. I didn't and wasn't disappointed as my steak was no different from a rubber gasket.
Again, the crew were great, and that's the reason why I'm not giving this tour a "0."
BTW, don't count on the lunch being gourmet. I didn't and wasn't disappointed as my steak was no different from a rubber gasket.
Again, the crew were great, and that's the reason why I'm not giving this tour a "0."
Written 12 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi there, our crew makes every effort to ensure our guests can participate in every activity they want to. If you wanted to do the semi-sub next time, just let our friendly crew know and they would have been more than happy to move you into an earlier Helicopter group so that you have time to do the semi-sub too! The helicopters have 6 seats, so yes, during busy periods a couple of people may be in the middle seat. In saying this, the middle seat is only one seat away from a window and with helicopters having 180-degree views, you are still incredibly close to the window with amazing scenic views! I will follow up on your comments about the lunch as our hot and cold buffet BBQ lunch is something we always receive great feedback on. We are glad to hear that our crew was great and you had an enjoyable dive!
Kind regards, Steph, Down Under Cruise and Dive
Written 18 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Martin B
London, UK2 contributions
Yesterday we managed to tick off an item on my bucket list.
We arrived for Check In just after 7:00 and there was a substantial queue. If you're not a fan of queuing I'd recommend getting there a bit before 7:00.
Check In was really straight forward, for me (certified diver) and my partner (try diver), just a couple of forms to be completed later.
Then to the boat, another short queue, and a quick photo before getting on board.
We then we're taken to our allocated area based on our safety number and completed our forms. All the basic health and safety declarations done!
Certified divers got a choice of up to 3 dives. If you're newly certified, or it has been a while, you can opt for a guided dive. For just an extra $10 per dive it was fantastic.
Ben was absolutely fantastic, friendly, knowledgeable and really took the time to talk to each diver before jumping off the boat.
Both the dives I did we're fantastic, despite the conditions on the surface!
The rest of the team were equally friendly and made the windy / choppy conditions infinitely more bearable.
Would definitely recommend and if we're back we'd definitely go again.
We arrived for Check In just after 7:00 and there was a substantial queue. If you're not a fan of queuing I'd recommend getting there a bit before 7:00.
Check In was really straight forward, for me (certified diver) and my partner (try diver), just a couple of forms to be completed later.
Then to the boat, another short queue, and a quick photo before getting on board.
We then we're taken to our allocated area based on our safety number and completed our forms. All the basic health and safety declarations done!
Certified divers got a choice of up to 3 dives. If you're newly certified, or it has been a while, you can opt for a guided dive. For just an extra $10 per dive it was fantastic.
Ben was absolutely fantastic, friendly, knowledgeable and really took the time to talk to each diver before jumping off the boat.
Both the dives I did we're fantastic, despite the conditions on the surface!
The rest of the team were equally friendly and made the windy / choppy conditions infinitely more bearable.
Would definitely recommend and if we're back we'd definitely go again.
Written 1 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lauren D
31 contributions
I’ve got nothing but positive things to say about this tour!
From the initial check in process to final debarking, the staff and crew were amazing, extremely helpful and full of vibrant energy.
This was a first for me; snorkelling. So the nerves were high but with a simple and engaging talk from ‘froggie’ I felt at ease along with a trusty pool noodle!
The snorkel itself was just beautiful, viewing the reef up close, watching the fish in their natural habitat was just amazing. I was in wow mode with each path I took.
There was an option for a guided tour at this reef with Alistair. I signed up but due to being so tired I didn’t join. What wasn’t made clear was this is an extra cost also, so please be aware when deciding whether you’d like to book.
Coming back on board for a bbq lunch, it was delicious. The salads fresh and flavourful, the fish cooked to perfection and the prawns deliciously fresh!
Next was onto the second reef. Pretty tired after my first snorkel I stuck to exploring the semi submarine. I personally loved it and I think it was due to seeing much more vibrant, colourful coral. This is extra $
I can’t recommend this cruise enough, I loved every minute of it and helped a first timer feel at ease.
Extra shoutout to Froggie for trying his upmost hardest to get my mum, a non swimmer, into that water.
And Alistair; you were full of knowledge and were able to answer any question thrown at you.
From the initial check in process to final debarking, the staff and crew were amazing, extremely helpful and full of vibrant energy.
This was a first for me; snorkelling. So the nerves were high but with a simple and engaging talk from ‘froggie’ I felt at ease along with a trusty pool noodle!
The snorkel itself was just beautiful, viewing the reef up close, watching the fish in their natural habitat was just amazing. I was in wow mode with each path I took.
There was an option for a guided tour at this reef with Alistair. I signed up but due to being so tired I didn’t join. What wasn’t made clear was this is an extra cost also, so please be aware when deciding whether you’d like to book.
Coming back on board for a bbq lunch, it was delicious. The salads fresh and flavourful, the fish cooked to perfection and the prawns deliciously fresh!
Next was onto the second reef. Pretty tired after my first snorkel I stuck to exploring the semi submarine. I personally loved it and I think it was due to seeing much more vibrant, colourful coral. This is extra $
I can’t recommend this cruise enough, I loved every minute of it and helped a first timer feel at ease.
Extra shoutout to Froggie for trying his upmost hardest to get my mum, a non swimmer, into that water.
And Alistair; you were full of knowledge and were able to answer any question thrown at you.
Written 23 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David M
New York City, NY3 contributions
Jan 2020
Elected 3 certified dives shortly after receiving PADI certification in the United States. If Sally is your divemaster, you're in for a real treat. Absolutely incredibly enthusiastic on the surface and is extremely patient and fun guiding the dives underwater as well. Even filling in our logbooks at the end of the day was extremely fun as we got to recount each and every species of fish and coral our group witnessed during our three dives.
The company itself was absolutely first class before, during, and after the trip. If you walk around the marina, you'll notice DownUnder's boats are simply pristine and set up optimally for large groups. The food on board was great, the underwater photography was phenomenal, and the transfer to and from the reef fleet terminal was seamless. A must do while in Cairns.
The company itself was absolutely first class before, during, and after the trip. If you walk around the marina, you'll notice DownUnder's boats are simply pristine and set up optimally for large groups. The food on board was great, the underwater photography was phenomenal, and the transfer to and from the reef fleet terminal was seamless. A must do while in Cairns.
Written 23 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
steph_kennelly
Thank you so much David for choosing to join us aboard Evolution! So great to read you enjoyed your adventure with us!
Written 2 November 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Elksteroo
Adelaide, Australia10 contributions
We have just gotten back from a wonderful day spent on the Evolution with a tremendous crew. When my wife booked this trip I was a bit apprehensive as I'm only an average swimmer. As it turned out I didn't need to worry. The crew are absolutely great, they talk you through everything and take real care of you throughout. If your not happy to snorkel freestyle then you can have a "noodle" to help with buoyancy or a life jacket. There is a clear marker where you're allowed to swim and once you get the hang of it there was no stopping me.
There were plenty of big and small colourful fish and we even saw a lovely turtle. The lunch was nice and fresh and really tasty. Because of CV19 you couldn't serve yourself but no problems. In fact I thought they handled the CV19 situation very well and at no point did you feel unsafe or like social distancing wasn't possible.
All around I recommend this trip to everyone irrespective of age or swimming ability. It really does cater for all and you will have a wonderful day.
There were plenty of big and small colourful fish and we even saw a lovely turtle. The lunch was nice and fresh and really tasty. Because of CV19 you couldn't serve yourself but no problems. In fact I thought they handled the CV19 situation very well and at no point did you feel unsafe or like social distancing wasn't possible.
All around I recommend this trip to everyone irrespective of age or swimming ability. It really does cater for all and you will have a wonderful day.
Written 3 November 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much for your review and for sharing your experience. We are so happy to hear you felt confident in the water with our crew and the flotation devices and gave it a go!! :) So good!! We hope to see you again :)
Written 4 November 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Carly S
Columbus, OH3 contributions
This was a fantastic way to experience the Great Barrier Reef! The boat is huge and beautiful. Lots of places to sit and relax while we were sailing too and from our snorkel spots. There are a lot of staff on board who are all very friendly and professional! When you check in, you’re assigned a safety number which allows the staff to keep track of everyone since there are a lot of people on board. They do many checks and counts throughout the day to ensure everyone is accounted for.
When you board, they have scones and muffins available for a light breakfast along with tea and coffee. The lunch was good too — steak, fish, prawns, and several side dishes offered. There is filtered water available all day (bring your own water bottle to fill up) and other beverages available to purchase (including alcoholic beverages). After the final snorkel spot, they do give you a complimentary glass of wine for the ride back to the port. They also have complimentary ginger tablets for anyone who gets sea sick and medicine available for purchase. (I recommend taking medicine before getting on the boat).
We did snorkeling only, but they do have options for scuba diving (including introductory dives for first timers). They also have options for a separate snorkel session with the marine biologist on board for an additional charge ($35 AUD per person). Sammy, the marine biologist, was wonderful! She took us out in small groups of 4-6, just past where the rest of the group was to point out special animals and fish in the reef and teach us about them as well! I highly recommend this as we not only learned a lot but got a little farther away from the crowd for a while.
The snorkeling itself was phenomenal! They give everyone stinger suits which made me feel comfortable in the water. We met Wally, the Maori Wrasse who is a huge friendly fish that greeted us when we arrived and posed for pictures with everyone, no joke! We also saw a sea turtle, and so many beautiful fish! We felt like we had more than enough time to snorkel at each spot. Bring your own towel as they do not have these on board.
They also have a great photography team on board taking photos on the boat and underwater which are available for purchase. We just bought our one favorite underwater photo for $20 AUD which they airdropped to our phones.
Overall a fantastic day! I highly recommend this tour!
When you board, they have scones and muffins available for a light breakfast along with tea and coffee. The lunch was good too — steak, fish, prawns, and several side dishes offered. There is filtered water available all day (bring your own water bottle to fill up) and other beverages available to purchase (including alcoholic beverages). After the final snorkel spot, they do give you a complimentary glass of wine for the ride back to the port. They also have complimentary ginger tablets for anyone who gets sea sick and medicine available for purchase. (I recommend taking medicine before getting on the boat).
We did snorkeling only, but they do have options for scuba diving (including introductory dives for first timers). They also have options for a separate snorkel session with the marine biologist on board for an additional charge ($35 AUD per person). Sammy, the marine biologist, was wonderful! She took us out in small groups of 4-6, just past where the rest of the group was to point out special animals and fish in the reef and teach us about them as well! I highly recommend this as we not only learned a lot but got a little farther away from the crowd for a while.
The snorkeling itself was phenomenal! They give everyone stinger suits which made me feel comfortable in the water. We met Wally, the Maori Wrasse who is a huge friendly fish that greeted us when we arrived and posed for pictures with everyone, no joke! We also saw a sea turtle, and so many beautiful fish! We felt like we had more than enough time to snorkel at each spot. Bring your own towel as they do not have these on board.
They also have a great photography team on board taking photos on the boat and underwater which are available for purchase. We just bought our one favorite underwater photo for $20 AUD which they airdropped to our phones.
Overall a fantastic day! I highly recommend this tour!
Written 14 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brydie Q
Brisbane, Australia4 contributions
Went yesterday and it was an all round great experience! The crew were so attentive and helpful even with the customers who needed more of a hand throughout the whole day. They made the whole trip fun and really looked like they were enjoying the day just as much as we did. The snorkeling sites were beautiful even with the rainy start to the day and food was delicious 👌 I would absolutely go back and highly recommend others try.
Written 13 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much! We are so happy to hear you had a great day :)
Written 24 September 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Maps65154406206
Munich, Germany
The tour on July 14th was canceled after about 2 hours. How do you get your money back?
How big is the difference in quality between the introductory dive and certified dive? Is it worth getting certified for this? Thank you!
schewtmj
Perth, Australia43 contributions
Yes it is worth getting certified for a better dive
The introductory dive doesn’t venture far from the boat
Hi, is it possible to get photos taken throughout the tour? Or if I brought my phone in a waterproof pouch would I be able to use it while snorkeling and scuba diving?
Wendy W
1 contribution
Yes they take photos throughout the day at both reefs. You can also bring your own camera, go pro, or phone as long as it's water proof.
Can a 9-yr old child who is a non-diver (have never tried diving before) sign up for the introductory dive?
Sharyn G
20 contributions
Hi, I'm not sure about the age restriction for diving. They would certainly be able to participate in the snorkeling. Good idea to contact the company Down Under Cruise & Dive which operates the 'Evolution' boat for the activity. Phone: 0061(87)2285255.
All the very best. I'm sure you will thoroughly enjoy the amazing opportunity.
Does the “One Introductory Dive” package include the cruise and snorkeling also? Thank you.
1997Tarheel
Marietta, GA60 contributions
Yes, it does- Highly recommend this!
Rebecca
London, UK7 contributions
For the certified dive, is it enough to have the PADI open water (18m) or is it recommended to have advanced open water (30m). Thank you in advance!
Stephen Lee
Australia10 contributions
Yes
Rosh
Melbourne, Australia7 contributions
Hi, Are you allowed to snorkel if you can't swim?
Toosexy_54
Kearny, NJ58 contributions
They will assign somebody to you if you can't swim. They will put a lifejacket and you will be holding on to a tube while they take you around to experience the beauty of the ocean. They will not leave you alone if you choose to snorkel. They are really good.
April
Peterborough, Australia3 contributions
I’m 21 and wanting to take my 12 yr old brother on this tour. Can I do this as I’m an adult but not a legal parent/ guardian???
Toosexy_54
Kearny, NJ58 contributions
I suggest you get a legal answer before taking him outside the US in case something happens.
aussiekeith11
Penticton, Canada45 contributions
I see you depart at 8 am sharp, the same time the Holland America Noordam docks on November 17th. Any chance we could still join your tour that day?? My wife and I, possible two more. Strong swimmers. Looking to snorkel that day. Thanks!!
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.