Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns
4.5
BEST SELLER
LIKELY TO SELL OUT*
Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Cruise from Cairns
By Down Under Cruise & Dive
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About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-99, max of 180 per group
Duration: 8h 30m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: German, Chinese, Japanese, English
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Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best
2024
- BBQ lunch prepared onboard with fresh fish, prawns, steak, salads (Veg, GF, DF & Vegan options)
- 5 hours reef time at 2 spectacular outer reef locations
- Use of snorkelling and scuba 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)
- All Fees and Taxes
What's not included- Private transportation
- Start:
- Reef Fleet Terminal, Cairns City QLD 4870, AustraliaCheck-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.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting 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
- Most travellers can participate
- 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.
- 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 180 travellers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- 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
From
$281.34
per adult
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Itinerary
- Cairns City QLD 4870, AustraliaCheck-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.
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- Gaiavial980 contributionsThe best one out there!I had the best time ever. The crew is extremely knowledgeable and fun! They made the experience exceptional. I did my first intro to diving and although I was nervous,, they made me feel at ease..The yacht is very big but they don’t fill it out at full capacity so that there’s plenty of space to relax without it feeling overcrowded.Written 23 August 2024
- CarloHelmond0 contributionsA day on the Great Barrier ReefThere is an early morning pickup and being dropped at the harbor where check-in is taking place. From there you go to your boat, where you hand in the documentation and get assigned a seat/table for the rest of the day. Snorkeling gear is provided in different sizes. Also life vests are provided for those who want/need them. For those who have a moustache, Vaseline is also available. Even in July the water was not too cold once you got in there. It can get pretty busy, so time when you go out there. There is always a lookout that keeps an eye out on what is happening. There are 2 stops and in between lunch is served. The second stop was a little more interesting as the sun came out and it was a little more shallow, which gave some richer colors to the coral. On the way back snacks and a glass of wine is provided for those who want it, but this goes fast. It is a nice experience especially with kids who saw this for the first time. The downside is that it takes at least 90 minutes to get out there and another 90 to get back. For those who get seasick, motion sickness pills are available (and should be taken if you are affected easily).Written 22 August 2024
- Global486543888870 contributionsFantastic DayDiving on the great Barrier Reef is something we all will remember. The ship was large and nicely decorated, Lunch was better than anticipated with steak and fish both being on the menu, served with various salads. The staff were vey welcoming and helpful. The various marine life you will see is well worth the trip. We had a windy day so conditions were a little choppy but without hesitation we would do again. The Lewars Family, Ottawa, CanadaWritten 21 August 2024
- I5717EEantonioa0 contributionsAmazingGreat experience. All the activities are well organized. Staff is nice and welcoming. Lots of time available for snorkeling. Highly recommended.Written 14 August 2024
- U3253EIjanetf0 contributionsFantastic experienceWhat a fantastic experience. The staff were excellent especially Eddie & Indie. Highly recommend the Gold Class option. We'll definitely be back to experience this trip again.Written 9 August 2024
- karenpellow0 contributionsBrilliant day!We had a brilliant day. The staff are amazing. We did the snorkelling and the 10 minute helicopter flight. The lunch was delicious. It was windy and conditions choppy so we were warned in the morning that the flight might not happen but it did! A wonderful day out - time goes so quickly that you'll wish it was longer!Written 29 July 2024
- 711julianneg0 contributionsAmazing great barrier reef experienceIt was a wonderful day at the reef. It was interesting to go to 2 reef sites with an abundance of coral and variety of fish. The helicopter ride gave a completely different viewpoint and was spectacular. The lunch was very nice with steak, prawns, fish, and salads. The best part were the crew - very friendly and helpful - even towing around some beginner snorkelers so that they were able to view the reef better! I would definately do this againWritten 24 July 2024
- Orla M0 contributionsiconicThis is a once in a lifetime opportunity. You get the privilege of snorkelling and witnessing the beautiful Great Barrier Reef. Scuba diving as a beginner is a little daunting but you have to go for it!!! Shout out to the diving instructor’s- thank you for the vote of confidence and professionalism. The boat journey there and back was a little rocky but to be expected being out in the open water. If you’re predisposed to motion sickness take your anti-emetics prior to trip and end of trip! All crew were great craic and uplifting personalities. If you’re keen to do the helicopter ride- do it, honestly such an incredible experience I’ll remember for a long time! Thank you for an incredible experience! Hope to do this again some day!Written 18 July 2024
- sophiehW9370ZC0 contributionsAbsolutely amazing!!Absolutely amazing day!! The Staff Eddie and Alister were the best! Super friendly and always making sure we were well looked after. The guided snorkelling tour was really interesting and we learned a lot and got to see some pretty cool fish and coral! Would definitely use this company again and would highly recommend!Written 17 July 2024
- W7230DTdouglast0 contributionsWord-class experienceThe 4-day open water PADI dive course was one of the best experiences I've had. Every aspect of the course was extremely high quality and professional, from the gorgeous boat and reefs to the hospitality of the instructor. Frankie was incredibly accommodating and went out of his way to ensure we had the best time possible, and the places he took us diving were incredibly beautiful. The course was also extremely good value for money. Couldn't recommend this experience to anyone more!Written 15 July 2024
- H1079EBjamesf0 contributions'Frank'ly Amazing 🦈🪸🐟🐠All round amazing experience! Explored the Great Barrier Reef while also getting our PADI open water certification! 1. The first two days of practice and theory was well run with: - concise notes with digestable learning - practice dives with clear instructions and tailored advice 2. The two days out at the reef were fabulous with: - Tours to fantastic dive locations at Saxon and North Hastings Reef - Friendly and helpful crew - Great spread of food on board - Saw an array of aquatic life, my favourite was the white tipped reef sharks and giant clams. 3. Franky who ran the course was Frankly amazing. Honestly made the experience so worthwhile with great knowledge, patience and banter. If you go, I hope you get Franky! Highly recommend! 5 Star!Written 7 July 2024
- 302becj0 contributionsGreat family day for n the reefThe staff were all so friendly and helpful. The reef snorkeling was excellent and lunch delicious! Thanks for making this the highlight of our trip 😊Written 7 July 2024
- G5758QQamandac0 contributionsGreat VIP Experience on a beautiful ship.I booked this for my husband and I not expecting a true VIP experience (I thought it was just an advertisement tactic), and we were pleasantly surprised by the service we received. We were escorted by Eddie away from the check-in line and were the first people to enter the boat. We had a private room for the duration of the journey and Sammy was available to use to help sign us up for excursions or anything else we may have needed. Even delivering us our return journey meal personally. The room was very modern and well appointed for the journey with plenty of drinks/snacks available to use between meals. You will receive lunch on the ship and it was nice to be able to eat and relax away from the crowds. Given the price of the regular trips, I didn't feel like I paid much extra to get the VIP experience so I felt it was good value for money.Written 6 July 2024
- Geoffmac650 contributionsgreat divesbrilliant introductory dives and DM Kiki was great. makes want to learn to dive dive site was great and lunch too overall crew very friendlyWritten 3 July 2024
- Tourist200036630160 contributionsBest experience everThe tour was amazing. Snorkel and helicopter. The two better ways to enjoy the Reef. The crew was amazing as well. It worths every pennyWritten 2 July 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members 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.
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4.5
1,811 reviews
Excellent
1,520
Very good
189
Average
54
Poor
21
Terrible
27
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.
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.
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.
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, CA11 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, UK6 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
43 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.
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, Australia13 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, OH7 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, Australia7 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?
Written 15 July 2023
How big is the difference in quality between the introductory dive and certified dive? Is it worth getting certified for this? Thank you!
Written 14 June 2023
Yes it is worth getting certified for a better dive
The introductory dive doesn’t venture far from the boat
Written 15 June 2023
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?
Written 8 May 2023
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.
Written 9 May 2023
Can a 9-yr old child who is a non-diver (have never tried diving before) sign up for the introductory dive?
Written 15 April 2023
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.
Written 19 April 2023
Does the “One Introductory Dive” package include the cruise and snorkeling also? Thank you.
Written 8 February 2023
Yes, it does- Highly recommend this!
Written 8 February 2023
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!
Written 24 October 2022
Hi, Are you allowed to snorkel if you can't swim?
Written 11 September 2022
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.
Written 11 September 2022
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???
Written 30 August 2022
I suggest you get a legal answer before taking him outside the US in case something happens.
Written 11 September 2022
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*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.