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.
Days
- 1 day
Group size
- 10 to 160
Start / finish
- Cairns / Cairns
Return
- See itinerary for details
Transport
- A high speed 35 metre dive vessel from the Reef Fleet Terminal on the Cairns esplanade, with air-conditioned lounges below and full length sun decks above. Check in at 7:30am. It is about an hour and a half out to the first reef, 60km off the coast.
Meals
- A buffet barbecue lunch of steak, fish, sausages and fresh salads, with vegetarian options. Tea and coffee on the way out, and cheese and biscuits on the way home, with a licensed bar.
Route
Included experiences
- Two outer reef sites, with around five hours in the water across the day
- Snorkelling over coral gardens, watching for turtles, rays and reef sharks
- Scuba diving with PADI qualified instructors, for first timers and certified divers
- A glass bottom boat at the second site, with a guide naming what you are seeing
- All snorkel gear and lycra suits provided, with underwater cameras for hire
- Dolphins and manta rays sometimes spotted on the way out
- Live music from one of the crew on the run back to Cairns
- Optional — a scenic helicopter flight from a pontoon over the reef
Pictures / Videos
Reviews
5.0
Based on 312 reviews
Verified from
Real reviews from travellers who've done this tour, gathered from around the web and paraphrased.
AI summary of 312 reviews
Travellers consistently praise the friendly, professional and attentive crew, who are frequently described as helpful with nervous or inexperienced swimmers and diligent about safety and headcounts. The most commonly highlighted features include the quality and cleanliness of the boat, the plentiful buffet lunch with items such as steak, prawns and fish plus wine and cheese on the return, and the abundance of coral and marine life across two reef sites, with some reviewers noting turtles, sharks and whales. Optional extras such as scuba dives, helicopter flights, semi-submersible tours and marine biologist guided snorkels are often mentioned favourably. The most frequent caveats concern rough seas and seasickness, with several advising motion sickness tablets beforehand, along with additional charges for extras such as wetsuits, dives and photos and occasional confusion over needing to book add-ons in advance. A minority found the boat crowded, and isolated complaints referred to poor-quality paid photos and one instance of an interaction perceived as discriminatory.
How we collect and publish reviews
Where they come from. Our reviews are gathered from independent review sites and from guests who share feedback with us directly after their trip. They come from people who have actually travelled on the tour. Some longer trips are made up of shorter tours we also sell, run back to back — where a review was written about one of those legs, the review says so.
Why some are edited. Many of our guests travel in their second or third language. Where a review is hard to read, we lightly edit spelling, grammar and punctuation, or paraphrase a sentence for clarity. We never change the rating, the meaning or the sentiment, and we never write a review on a guest's behalf.
Reading the originals. Reviews sourced from public review sites appear there in their original form, and can be read in full at their original source at any time.
“Great for travelers”
We went on the down under cruise for my partner 30th birthday and we had the most amazing time! The staff were so friendly and up for the fun!! I was really nervous about snorkelling but the team put my mind at ease. They made the whole day so much fun and we laughed all day!! We also did the helicopter ride with them and it was out of this world!! Would definitely recommend doing this it’s such a fun day out. Big shout out to Eddie Lou he made us laugh so much! Thank you so much guys!!
“Highly recommended!!!!”
We had an amazing experience! We came to celebrate my partner's birthday and everything was perfect. From the very first moment, the team made us feel right at home. Everyone was so friendly, the service was excellent, and the food was delicious. Everything was exactly as described: well-organized and even better than we expected. We would definitely come back and highly recommend it. Thank you for making this day so special!
“Perfect Tour ”
Highly recommend this company. We went with another company 2 days before to Green Island and a platform. This was a much better experience. The crew was excellent and so nice. They explained how to do things and had people to help. The ride out was rough and a lot of people were seasick. So be prepared. We were fine. The lunch was delicious with a nice assortment of foods. Steak and fish were both good. Wish they had real coffee. Went to Saxon Reef and Hastings Reef. Hastings was absolutely gorgeous. We saw so many different species of fish. Saw dolphins as we were leaving.
“ Highly recommend this tour”
We had the most fantastic day! The outta reef was absolutely spectacular. Crew were lovely and great instructions/clear communication. They have crew in the water that will give advice on best spots when snorkelling or they are there to support people if needed. Loved the boat Evolution, particularly as we could sit outside in the shade or go inside into air con if we got too hot. Highly recommend this tour and I wouldn’t hesitate booking again.
“Perfect Tour !!!”
One of Cairns slickest operators! Heading out to the reef on a super yacht is just a must do, for the amount of people the boat takes you never feel squashed and there’s plenty of space on the 3 levels.
Dive sites out on Hastings were gorgeous and the snorkelling on Saxon was epic!
Food is in my opinion the best out of any of the day trips I’ve done on Cairns, steak and prawns!
All the crew were friendly and very knowledgable. One Divemaster stood out Laurie the Finn (excuse the spelling). He went above and beyond for everyone he came into contact with to have the best day!
Great day out.
“This Is The Best Tour I Had”
The Great Barrier Reef is breathtakingly beautiful. Compared to other destinations I have experienced, it is undoubtedly one of the best seas in the world. Although it is a place where people of various nationalities gather with excitement. at first I felt like my day had been ruined by the discriminatory attitude of one staff. But the moment I saw the beautiful coral forests, all my negative emotions disappeared.
I would like to share one uncomfortable experience so that other Asian travelers won’t face the same situation as I did.
I joined the morning tour on November 1, 2025. At check-in, I added scuba diving on the same day, and the staff checked my diving license and told me I could pay on the boat. Once on the boat, the only female diving instructor told me that because I had not reserved in advance, I needed to pay AUD 130 instead of the standard AUD 80 for New reservation. I easily accepted, but after I agreed, only then did she tell me that there might not be a spot available. Her explanation was misleading. Wasn’t the extra cost I paid supposed to create a spot that didn’t exist in the first place? I had to pay extra to secure a new spot, but after I agreed, the spot was suddenly unavailable? that doesn’t make sense. I was confused because there was no explanation at check-in that the diving spot might not be available.
She showed visible irritation. Instead of explaining the company’s inconsistent guidance, she whispered "This is a communication problem because you are Korean." At that moment, I felt it was rude. The Korean crew explained that I could only get a diving spot if someone else canceled due to illness or a change of mind.
The problem was not that she brought a Korean crew for communication. My complaint is that there is no valid reason for her to insult me just because I asked a question. The confusion was not caused by me, but by the unclear and inconsistent information provided by the company. As a paying customer, asking for clarification was completely reasonable. Even if there was a misunderstanding, blaming my nationality was unnecessary and hurtful. Instead of clarifying the situation, she shifted the blame to my nationality, which made the experience feel discriminatory.
Except for this one instructor, the rest of the crew was very kind. The boat and equipment were clean, and the food was delicious. Overall tour experience was perfect for enjoying the coral reef. Perhaps that is why it was even more disappointing that one person’s attitude had such a negative impact.
The Great Barrier Reef is an unforgettable place, and I hope every visitor can fully enjoy its beauty with an equally enjoyable experience. I sincerely hope the service continues to improve so that everyone can have the best possible memories here.
“amazing experience! this tour is fantastic!”
We had an awesome experience on Evolution today. Taylah, one of the crew on board was great and awesome with the kids. The boat's well maintained, food offered is wonderful. Highly recommend a day out to the reef with them!!
“Spectacular!”
The team is "tereefic". Barrier Reef is great and the overall experience was awesome. Onboard I would like mention a few characters that I met and they were awesome. (BU)Nic, Mike scuba diving instructors Jack the boss who kindly gave us the opportunity to experience the reef. Taylah the marine biologist who tailored the course around the reef that even my 11yo could grasp. Ida (I hope I have got the name right.) Our onboarding experience guide. All the extra pairs of eyes, (sorry I didn't get all the names) who were on the lookout for us divers and snorkelers. The one one guides who took us out showing us the near impossible to spot aquatic animals. The most important of the lot the captain and all the support staff, you're amazing and your hospitality will be forever remembered.
It's a pity my scuba certificate from NIC blew away with a gust of wind and I have lost it forever to Davy Jones' locker.
“Really Great Experience”
We had a fantastic trip!
Well organised and catered, lovely boat and staff. Family friendly.
Special shout out to Eddie Lou who was such a kind and courteous person!
“amazing experience!!!!”
Amazing day trip snorkelling and doing the heli ride. Staff were amazing, incredibly well organised.
“Great for travelers I really have fun here!”
Could not rate this trip highly enough! We completed scuba dives, and did a 10 minute helicopter flight. Bucket list moment is an understatement. This company is a well oiled machine that made us feel so safe and kept everything going so smoothly, thank you guys for the best day ever! Especially Mike our dive instructor. We will 100% be doing this again on our next trip to cairns.
“amazing experience!!”
I had a good experience snorkelling with this company. The two sites we visited had some nice corals and fish, though quite a bit of dead coral if you went in the other direction - that’s just the reality though. I wasn’t bothered by the number of people on the boat or the sea, but I went in the off season. The staff was always nice to me. The sea was mild on the way there but rough at the second snorkelling site and return. I booked the intro dive, thinking I can do it. But the rough sea made me feel out of it, plus diving for the first time and the way breathing using the oxygen tank feels - I felt way too anxious and just couldn’t do it. I wouldn’t recommend the dive honestly; sounds like a lot of people just couldn’t do it, especially as you have 5 min to practice and then it’s either pass or fail. It’s way too intense for the first time diving and honestly you won’t even see anything as it just dives next to the boat in an empty spot. No refund if I chose not to do it, and wasn’t failed - but that I understand. However, at the end I wanted to purchase a photo - $20 per photo airdropped. I paid and they airdropped such a low quality blurred photo. I was so annoyed. The photographer tried to airdrop another one - equally bad quality. Then she just moved on to the next customer, so disappointed! Unacceptable for $20, no refund. Make sure to check the photo quality on the computer before paying!
“Spectacular!”
Amazing experience with two diving/snorkelling sites. Lunch, a glass of wine. But the most amazing was the crew. Very friendly and caring, ready to help at any time. My wife with disability had a great help , specially from Laurie. Thanks to him, she was able to snorkel.
Well down Down Under!
“I really recommend it.”
Amazing experience!, the best tour ever.
The staff was fantastic, kind and friendly.
The Helicopter guy on the boat was really nice, friendly and helpful, he is amazing it was my birthday and he made it special!
Thank you! I really recommend it.
“Great for travelers”
The most phenomenal day. Fantastic boat and quality equipment. The crew were professional but also so much fun and obviously loved working with each other and went above and beyond to make sure everyone had the best day. The dive was absolutely fantastic.
“Great for travelers”
The staff members were absolutely brilliant!
When it comes to scuba-diving, I felt there should have been something more for the money. Otherwise, snorkelling and the food was good.
“I will recommend this tour and come back here!!!”
Just wanted to give a special shoutout to scuba instructor Phil and to crew member Maja. They both were PHENOMENAL in getting me to get over my nerves on scuba diving for the first time. I didn't get a chance to snorkel before going out, so grasping the concept of calmly breathing in and out was rough for me and I nearly gave up a few times but both of them were so accommodating and encouraging and helped me get past this and enjoy the beauty of the corals. Every time I announced that was my last try, Maja would calm me down, diagnose the issue, and then encourage me to give it another shot and it was the perfect amount of motivation I needed. The entire experience as well from every crew member was fantastic. Highly recommend this experience!
“Spectacular!”
The moment Indi passed me the Vaseline, I knew I was receiving the VIP treatment. No water would make its way under my crystal clear lemon scented mask.
Marine Biologist Indi had shuffled me to the front of the line for the Biology Reef Experience. This involved a half hour tour of some of the most spectacular organisms on the reef. Indi also introduced her crew mate Bree who was a budding scientist and made available her juicy brain for any probing questions I might have about the reef.
As the tour progressed Indi explained in explicit detail the mating habits of cuttlefish, trigger fish and the tragic fate of clams that fail to close quickly enough and are literally licked to death by predatory reef snails. A scientist myself, I found all this information fascinating. It was the icing and cherry on top of a thoroughly enjoyable reef snorkelling cake.
The ship was clean and crewed by smiling, friendly staff who worked together like a well lubricated machine.
The experience was smooth and efficient under the challenging conditions of a sometimes claustrophobic swinging experience atop the ocean.
Next time I will go diving instead of snorkelling as I do miss the freedom to get up close and personal with all the denizens hiding on the reef.
Absolute amazing value for money.
“Great for travelers this is the best!!!”
Very friendly staff. They even managed to get my big baby girl to snorkel. Having a friendly crew is key to a good user experience but I can say their entire staff was too notch. They got their process down to explaining how things work to getting the headcount every xyz
Loved the shrimp from the lunch.
Was however disappointed to be charged for wetsuit ( $10 each) as per my booking w their affiliate it was stated that this was included. This is something that they need to communicate w their vendor.
“Great for travelers this is the best!!!”
Worth every cent!! Mike was very patient and professional with taking me out scuba diving for the first time. Excellent crew, excellent boat, excellent service.
“This Is The Best Tour I Had”
A brilliant tour that was well organised and very well run. Excellent staff made the day run seamlessly and our session with the marine biologist made it even more special. The boat also had plenty of space. We have done a few reef tours and this was the best by far.
“Definitely Recommend!!”
I wanted to express my thanks to the crew and here I found their page. Took a trip with them earlier this month. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking and it truly lived up to the hype. Very accommodating and professional staff, they gave very informative lessons b4 the snorkeling/diving. Lunch was included along with snacks & coffee, and you can also enjoy a beer or two at a reasonable price. The triple deck ship was spacious enough to host 150 guests or so. In all both the sights and crew are world class. It’s a trip that you definitely do not wanna miss.
“Great for travelers”
I would give more stars if possible! We had the most wonderful trip to the Great Barrier Reef! The team was just amazing from start to finish! We travelled with a little one and they looked after us as a family to beautifully. We booked an additional scuba dive and joined a guided snorkelling tour and both were amazing!
I had wondered about the amount of people on board beforehand but all other guests were friendly and easy going. It didn't feel crowded at all.
Book it if you can - it's so worth it!
“amazing experience!!!”
Fantastic day. The 2 sites were excellent - lots of different coral types and fish to see. Probably the best I've seen of all my trips out on the reef. The crew were really helpful and friendly. Lunch was good and the boat was clean and comfortable. Even spotted some whales on the return trip. Highly recommend. Thanks guys!
“best tour”
I always dreamed of doing Scuba diving and it was such a surreal experience for me thanks to the Down Under Cruise & Dive team. Especially my mentor Aaron, thank you so much for your patience with me. It was my first time and I was having difficulty with my breathing under water and getting salt water out of my goggles.. Aaron helped me get that right after multiple attempts.. also thank you to the whole team, everything was smooth as.. from the booking, to the on board crew members and the captain who stopped the cruise and gave us a nice view of the humpback whales on our way back.. I can’t wait to learn diving and explore more.. thanks again guys.
“This Is The Best Tour I Had Really Fun!!”
It was truly one of the best experiences of my life!
The water was crystal clear, the coral was vibrant, and swimming alongside colourful fish and marine life felt like a dream. The crew was professional, friendly, and made the whole day unforgettable.
Whether you’re an experienced snorkeller or trying it for the first time, this is an absolute must-do. I left feeling so connected to nature and full of joy. Highly recommend this magical experience!
“This Is Funtastic!!”
A great day on the reef. The reef is amazing but also.. Staff were incredibly friendly and the whole experience was well thought out. Would recommend. Would choose this company again. Snorkeling with a biologist was a highlight in our group.
“Highly recommended!”
An all-inclusive experience.
A truly attentive and friendly staff throughout the day.
A very well-designed boat that makes you feel safe at all times.
It was a moment of pure bliss, even for my in-laws who were a bit unsure about being on the open sea.
Everything is designed with safety in mind, and the experience is so magical on the two reefs explored.
A must-do.
“amazing experience”
It was an amazing experience. The Great Barrier Reef is a beautiful place and the crew of the Down Under Cruise is awesome. Highly recommend
“amazing experience!!!!”
This was our second trip with Down Under Dive. Another great day under very trying weather conditions. Once again we cannot fault the friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism of all the crew. We certainly didn’t go hungry, lunch was great and plentiful. We would not hesitate to do this tour again and have already recommended it to friends and family.
“Great for travelers this is fantastic!!”
Evolution was a fantastic boat to travel to the reef. The crew were awesome, professional and very knowledgeable.
I did two dives, however the $10 fee/dive was disappointing. Having spent many years as a dive instructor in the Whitsundays there is no need to take additional money for something so simple. Especially as there were only 5 certified divers in total and 3 of the dive had already booked a dive guide anyway.
Long story, great day out but please include the dive guide as part of the certified dive package. Just make every certified diver go with a guide.
Lunch was great too, steak, fish and prawns with plenty of salad.
“Great for travelers”
First time in Australia, and it was the first time on a big charter boat that offered scuba diving.
I did not pay attention to the large number of passengers that just wanted to bathe, snorkel (with or without life jacket), etc. In my opinion; the biat was too crowded and created a stressful experience.
The dive crew was great, and the dive instructor was amazing! Went on scuba as certified diver to dive on Great Barrier Reef. Wow; what an experience! We saw tons of beautiful coral, lots of fish, shark, turtles, octopus, and more!
My personal wish would have been a smaller boat with crew and instructor, but you can't have it all
If you only want scuba check out options and remember to plan well ahead of time. Do research and communicate honestly about what you expect from the day, and your actual scuba experience.
“Worth day tour ”
We are certified scuba divers and our guide Mike showed us an amazing time on 3 dives in one day. The pictures taken by the on board photographer are so good that they look fake and the food and boat were top notch.
“Highly recommended This Tour Was Funtastic!!”
Great experience- a must do when visiting Cairns. Crew were extremely friendly and helpful - thank you. Our group did snorkel and intro dive - saw heaps of coral and fish life (big GT’s etc). Great food. Also recommend marine biologist guided snorkel and semi- submersible options. Very highly recommend visiting Great Barrier on the Evolution (great boat). Thank you to the crew - you made the day that much better.
“Highly Recommended!!!”
My wife & I had a great time at the Great Barrier Reef. We went on Sunday, July 6. Down Under brought us to two excellent reefs. My wife have a minimal swimming ability. A young man/crew (excellent swimmer!) with an orange ring preserver made my wife very comfortable in the water. The staff & food are both amazing! What a great way to spend our 30th wedding anniversary! Unforgettable experience. Thank you to all the staff! Highly Recommended.
“Highly recommended! This Tour Was Amazing !!”
Awesome trip. Crews are so nice and helpful. They actually take people who do not know how to swim to reef for snorkelling.
“Spectacular!!!”
We LOVED our trip to the reef with Down Under Cruise and Dive. The staff was fantastic, the meal was delicious, and the views were unbeatable. We enjoyed visiting two different reefs and snorkeling at each, and at the second reef we were able to experience a semi submersible (for a small additional charge). I appreciate that they had a strong focus on safety, while also ensuring that we had an unforgettable experience! Highly recommend!!!
“Spectacular!!!”
We had the best reef tour ever with Down Under Cruise and Dive! From being lucky to spot whales at the start to snorkeling at two stunning locations, everything was amazing. The crew were super friendly, attentive, and made sure we were safe and entertained throughout. Loved the delicious breakfast, BBQ lunch, and wine on the way back. A comfortable boat, unforgettable experience – highly recommended!
“I will come back!!!!”
The best Great Barrier Reef experience, the staff are very knowledgeable and helpful with everything. The boat is clean and organized. The food is very delicious. Highly recommended.
“Highly recommended!”
Extremely professional, absolutely worth each penny, food is quite decent, snorkeling experience was amazing as well as submersible tour. Cherry on top was each friendly staff were there to see everyone off with a smile on their face. Thanks so much everyone. Highly recommend.
“Yess I Really Enjoyed This Tour!!”
This was our second visit to the Great Barrier Reef. The first time was during summer when the water was clear and the ocean calm – ideal conditions for snorkeling and diving. This trip, however, was in August (Australia’s winter).
We’d booked a helicopter tour for 2 adults and a 7-year-old through GetYourGuide, but Down Under Cruise and Dive cancelled it due to extremely rough seas that day. Their staff notified us about the cancellation onboard, and GetYourGuide’s customer service processed a refund for that portion immediately – very efficient!
**Food:** Steak, prawns, potato salad, and pasta were served. On the return trip, they offered wine and cheese – excellent!
**Staff:** All crew members were friendly, helpful, and multilingual (Cantonese, Japanese, Spanish). They meticulously did headcounts before departure – very professional.
**Submarine Tour:** Unfortunately, this wasn’t available.
**Capacity:** The boat was quite crowded, and seating felt cramped.
**Take Dramamine or another motion sickness medication before boarding the boat.
Compared to our previous tour with **Quicksilver*, Down Under Cruise and Dive delivered a superior experience overall. Highly recommended for families!"
“ I really have a great time here”
We visited in Aug 2025 and the weather was so perfect with bright and sunny day. We had a amassing experience with Down under Cruize, the world is so magical below the water at reef. Unfortunately we were told that we can book the scuba on the day in the boat, however when I spoke to staff they said it is all booked and should have booked in the advance.
The food was good and all the staffs are beautiful girls and super friendly
“This Is The Best Tour I Had”
The team was well organised, kind and caring. There seem to be a lot of extra charges if you wanted to other things. It would have been nice to have someone guide you through the reef with expert eyes, we have had this before it’s another tour company. The explanation of using a snorkel was great, with some handy tips. The boat was excellent, and the management of sick people was great. It was a very windy, rocky day, so people were caught unawares. I had the sickness tablets as a precaution, I’m glad I took them as I was not sick. Thanks team!
“The Experience Is Surreal!!”
I finally able to tick a box of my bucket list, swim in the Great Barrier Reef. I honestly regret not choosing snorkeling with Taylor for the underwater marine biology. I keep on wondering whether we will see more through the snorkeling tour. Although, I did spot so many life creatures. If you are lucky you will see: white tip sharks, parrot fish, box fish, clown fish, trigger fish and sea cucumber.
I can’t complain for the tour. Food were fantastic, served morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea. Scuba diving also provided if you want to. Various on board tours which are quite fascinating. The only thing that I kinda don’t like is too many snorkelers on board we have perhaps more than a 150 passengers on board, I didn’t realize this is a big ferry boat trip.
Water is actually a bit choppy but do prepare for sea sick tablet or dramamine. I don’t have sea sick but with the way the ferry going to the sea, I had motion sickness the day after. I was joining the trip during winter, please do prepare warm clothes, wind is quite strong. Even though thick wetsuit is available to rent on board, you are not to wear it inside.
“I Will Come Back Here!!!!”
We had the time of our life snorkelling on the outer reef today. Our teenage kids said it was the best day ever. Both locations were great, plenty of different varieties of fish, turtles and even a ray. The staff were professional but also very friendly, helpful, approachable and a great sense of humour. Lunch was tasty and substantial after a morning of snorkelling before going to the second reef. We purchased the professional photos which will keep the memory of this perfect day alive for years to come. Nothing to fault at all.
We went to the reef 20 years ago with a different company but today was better by far in every way.
“I really love the vibe and the vibrance of this place”
Just Had the most amazing day out with this guys Eddie from the early morning to the very end kept us entertained the rest of the crew just lovely well mannered and very professional… I booked with my son a snorkel out the marine biologist but my son was a bit scared we cancelled the small tour within the tour and didn’t get charge for that … just amazing they really care and it shows
KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK GUYS !!
“Spectacular! This Tour Was The Best!!!”
I had an absolutely amazing experience doing both scuba diving and snorkeling with this incredible team! From start to finish, the staff were so friendly, professional, and supportive. They made me feel safe, confident, and truly looked after throughout the entire trip. The underwater experience was unforgettable, and it was all thanks to their guidance and positive energy. Highly recommend this team to anyone visiting the area. They made my day so special
“It Was The Best Tour I've Had!!”
First time going to Great Barrier Reef and we glad we chose Down and Under Tour at Cairns. Everything was profesionally arranged and we had good time snorkelling the beautiful reefs.
“Highly recommended!”
We booked this tour to the Great Barrier for snorkeling. We were very happy with the service, food, organisation and communication from this tour group. We changed the day of our original booking to the following day because the weather was forecast to be much better the following day and it was no problem with the tour operator.
Safety and instructions were clearly explained and the boat was clean, well set-up and the wetsuits and gear were great. We loved our experience and had an excellent experience with a perfectly sunny and no wind. Saw lots of beautiful reef fish and coral. Highly recommend going with Down Under Cruise and Dive and staff were friendly and welcoming, thank you.
“Highly recommended!!!!”
Had a great day out on the reef! The staff were super friendly and helpful throughout the trip, which made the experience even better. The weather wasn’t ideal, but we were still able to snorkel and scuba dive without any issues. Saw some amazing marine life — truly a beautiful experience. Would definitely recommend!
“Enjoyable”
I had the most magical experience snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef, a true wonder of the world. The crystal clear water, the colourful corals and the vibrant marine life were simply breathtaking.
From the peaceful floating moments to the excitement of seeing so many beautiful fish up close, this trip reminded me just how precious and alive our oceans are.
If you ever get the chance to visit the Great Barrier Reef, don’t think twice just go. It's an experience that stays in your heart forever.
“Great for travelers”
An amazing experience in the VIP lounge! Highly recommend this company as its staff is exemplary. The boat is clean, well kept and very comfortable. We cruised out and helicoptered back to Cairns, can’t say enough good things!
“best tour”
Excellent day on the outer Great Barrier Reef. Snorkeling. The crew were incredibly professional, counting every single customer multiple times to ensure everyone was accounted for. Equipment is well maintained and clean. Food provided was very tasty. Great boat, organised, clean, friendly.
“Really Great Experience”
Great crew, everyone really helpful and experienced, well organised, plenty of great equipment, food service was good but maybe queues got a little long during the busiest time. Overall a great way to see some excellent sites on the reef, always felt safe with plenty of help around, and the boat felt very safe and clean. I'd recommend for anyone from young families, young adults wanting to have fun, and older groups too.
“Perfect Tour !!!”
Great snorkeling and Great Barrier Reef experience! The staff was friendly, helpful, and educational. They ensured safety, the food was great, and you get a lot of snorkel time. Would highly recommend.
“Spectacular! Amazing!!”
PHENOMENOL!! The crew onboard The Encounter were absolutely fantastic!! I was actually seasick this day and the ccrew were literally rubbing my back, they go above and beyond to ensure everyone has an amazing day! All the crew were extremely knowledgeable about The particular Reefs we were on and the fish around them.
I took a helicopter flight with a great pilot named David, again so impressed with all the info they just reel off! David went out of his way - literally we were in a chopper; to find some Manta Ray thay he knew were swimming about.
I can't recommend the guys at Down Under Cruise & Dive enough! Will definitely go with these guys again!!
“Recommended”
What an incredible experience! The entire team was absolutely wonderful—so friendly, welcoming, and professional. It was an amazing day out on the reef, filled with unforgettable sights and moments. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a truly memorable adventure!
“I Really Enjoyed This and In Will Recommend!!!”
Truly a 5* experience. My husband and I booked this tour to snorkel and dive and had a fantastic experience! From the minute we stepped onboard, the staff were helpful, friendly and professional. They delivered several safety briefings throughout the day and were on hand to help whenever necessary. We even had snorkelling guides in the water helping everyone adjust to the choppy waters and directing us to the best snorkelling spots. The diving team were just as good, as was everyone arranging the helicopter rides(which we were able to book last minute since there was still availability). We were also provided with an ample buffet style lunch and cheese and wine on the return trip home.
“Highly recommended! This Tour Was Amazing !!”
What an incredible experience we had! The staff, the gear, the food - all awesome! The staff especially was top notch - very knowledgeable, attentive, supportive, ready to answer any questions or help if needed. My son did scuba diving for the first time and loved it as his instructor was very supportive and knowledgeable! Both reefs we went to offered plenty of fish - all colors, sizes, shapes! I spent about an hour or so snorkeling at each reef site and cannot say they were overcrowded. Our first experience at the Great Barrier Reef was absolutely amazing and I hope to be able to return one day!
“Great for travelers this is the best!!!”
We had an absolutely incredible experience with Down Under on our recent reef dive! From start to finish, everything was well-organized, professional, and welcoming. The team’s passion for the reef and marine life really shone through, making it a memorable trip for the whole family.
A special shoutout to Phil, who went above and beyond to make our day special. My son was full of questions—some pretty technical—and Phil answered each one with patience, knowledge, and genuine enthusiasm. It was clear he loves what he does, and his encouragement really boosted my son's confidence and curiosity about the ocean.
We can’t thank the crew enough. If you’re looking for a top-notch reef diving adventure with outstanding staff, look no further. We’ll definitely be back
“I will recommend this tour and come back here!!!”
Firstly, Jeff is AMAZING!!!!! I have snorkeled many times and in different countries but have never been lucky enough to see a turtle in the wild. But Jeff changed this for me today - Jeff you ticked a BIG thing off my bucket list - THANKS!
Now to review the rest of the day. The endeavour is a fabulous boat. There are many levels to sit on both inside and outside. The staff take care of and help out anyone that feels sick, needs help with their scuba or snorkeling gear and even help out with flotation for people that can’t swim so they can feel safe on the water with a guide and get to see the reef and fishes.
The food on the boat was lovely and plentiful. Morning tea was served while going to our first dive spot. After a snorkel or dive lunch was provided which includes pawns, steak, fish and many salads and breads. On the way back home there was wine and cheese and crackers.
The snorkeling spot picked was fabulous as we got to see lots of beautiful coral, the most colourful fish, sharks and did I mention there are TURTLES!
What a great day out on the ocean and well worth the money.
Ps if you do get sea sick take some tables before you get on the boat so you can enjoy the day!
“Highly recommended Amazing Tour”
We had an amazing day!
The team was absolutely fantastic – friendly, cheerful, and always helpful. The buffet was great, and we ate really well.
We were lucky enough to enjoy an incredible helicopter flight and went snorkeling at two different spots, both were absolutely stunning.
The only downside was that the boat driver was a bit too rough, making the ride bumpier than expected, especially considering the waves weren’t that big.
Aside from that, everything was perfect. The crew on board truly made the experience special with their positive energy and professionalism.
Highly recommended!
“Great for travelers”
I had the most incredible experience with Down Under Cruise and Dive! From start to finish, everything was perfectly organized and truly unforgettable. The entire team deserves a huge shout-out for their professionalism, passion, and dedication.
The staff made everyone feel welcome and safe, while keeping the atmosphere fun and full of positive energy. Their knowledge of the reef and their genuine love for what they do made the trip even more special. Whether it was diving, snorkeling, or just soaking up the stunning views, every moment was amazing.
A big thank you to the crew for doing such a fantastic job — you made this adventure one I’ll never forget. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Cairns and looking to explore the Great Barrier Reef in the best way possible!
“amazing experience!!”
Can’t express how incredible, well organized and enthusiastic this entire crew were. To dive the Great Barrier Reef is what many around the world dream of, to enter a world far from our own and admire from a distance its stunning beauty. The ship was well organized in getting us situated and briefed on the days excursions. Safety was their utmost importance and was seen with every crew members activity. The food and beverages served were an amazing touch. And our dive master Bree! Thank you, thank you for your patience, joy and experience. My friends and I couldn’t have asked for a better dive master or dive!
“best tour”
The best reef experience you will find in Far North Queensland!
All the staff throughout the day were so friendly and helpful.
Special thanks to Eddie who gave us plenty of laughs (starting from check-in) and Aaron for making our introductory dive a memorable experience!!
“amazing experience!!”
I absolutely loved this trip and can highly recommend it! The entire experience was so well organised and I didn’t have any questions left unanswered. The staff was incredibly lovely and helpful, you could really feel their passion and see how much they love what they do. The two snorkel spots were perfect. I even booked an extra marine biologist tour for $45, and it was so interesting. If you're looking to snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef, I highly recommend choosing this company. I will definitely come back to Cairns and do it again with them!
“Great for travelers”
Although not cheap, it's definitely worth it. Getting to snorkel at two different reef locations, a beautiful boat cruise to and from the locations, an amazing buffet for lunch and amazing staff to go along with it. The staff were so accommodating, very personable, ensured we had a lovely time and very helpful/supportive when it came to the snorkeling activities. If you're in Cairns/Port Douglas, it would be remiss of you to not do this experience. I do believe you get your monies worth.
“great experience. ”
This is a must experience if you ever visit Australia! Down Under Cruise is well organized and the crew is amazing. We snorkel and did the helicopter tour. Going over the reef was great experience. The food was great, especially the fish and
“Great for travelers”
The tour at great barrier reef was fabulous. The crew, the food, the services in general all was perfect
Thanks for your fantastic job and make this experience incredible
“We enjoyed the whole experience.”
We had a blast on this cruise. All the staff were so helpful. They keep a surprise helicopter ride for our kids and pulled it off without any slip ups.
“We had a lovely trip out to the reef. ”
The huge boat was super comfortable, even in less than ideal weather. The staff were excellent to deal with, extremely good natured and well informed.
“So much fun!”
Down under cruise and dive were helpful throughout the experience. Food was in abundance. Thanks. Will definitely come back for a dive in the future. I did a snorkeling.
“Highly recommended for the great Barrier Reef trip from Cairns.”
Very friendly and professional staff, lots of crew members, big and neat boat.
“Perfect!!”
We took the Great Barrier Reef helicopter experience, departing from Cairns at 7 a.m. Check-in was easy, and the staff was professional, efficient, and well-trained. We had a short briefing and got our gear. One hour and 30 minutes later, we arrived at our first location, where we snorkeled for an hour and had lunch. The food quality was good. Then, we traveled for 30 minutes to the second location, where we had our second dive and the helicopter experience. The flight was phenomenal and is a must for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Now, why only 4 stars? Well, I was in group 3 of 5 for the helicopter ride, so I was advised not to swim before the flight. When people were already swimming, I waited around 40 minutes to depart, and when we returned, I literally had just 10 minutes to snorkel. It was a much better location, but I couldn't fully enjoy it. With this review, I hope this company improves its process so people can enjoy the second dive to the fullest, even if they choose the helicopter flight.
“! Love this company, this boat and all staffs! Appreciate!”
I just go for certified scuba dive today with this company. I would say Kiki is the best dive guide I've ever met!!! She works with full of passion and really helpful! Made me with good mood today although I'm tired today. I've been diving with 2 other companies yesterday and the day before. But I have to day, today is the best!
Thx to Kiki a lot!
“The best tour!”
We took the Great Barrier Reef helicopter experience, departing from Cairns at 7 a.m. Check-in was easy, and the staff was professional, efficient, and well-trained. We had a short briefing and got our gear. One hour and 30 minutes later, we arrived at our first location, where we snorkeled for an hour and had lunch. The food quality was good. Then, we traveled for 30 minutes to the second location, where we had our second dive and the helicopter experience. The flight was phenomenal and is a must for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Now, why only 4 stars? Well, I was in group 3 of 5 for the helicopter ride, so I was advised not to swim before the flight. When people were already swimming, I waited around 40 minutes to depart, and when we returned, I literally had just 10 minutes to snorkel. It was a much better location, but I couldn't fully enjoy it. With this review, I hope this company improves its process so people can enjoy the second dive to the fullest, even if they choose the helicopter flight.
“I highly recommend them!”
We were having a great time getting ready to set off, and everything seemed perfect. We reached our first stop, excited to explore with our 6 and 9 year olds. But instead of enjoying it, the kids were upset, crying, and clearly not happy. It felt like one of those days where nothing would go right, and we started feeling really frustrated, especially since we were at the very place they wanted to see!!
I was ready to give up and just sit back in my seat, but instead, I decided to ask for help. I explained that we weren’t having a great time, and the Staff immediately stepped in. They were so helpful.
they took the time to show my daughter how to use the equipment properly and made sure both kids felt comfortable. Thanks to their patience and kindness, the kids ended up having a fantastic time, and by the end of the day, they didn’t want to leave!
You can pay for all the bells and whistles, but what truly makes an organization great is the team behind it. The staff on that boat went above and beyond to make sure everyone had an amazing experience. Down Under provided that extra support that turned our day around. Such an incredible group of people!!
“Incredible experience with this operator. ”
I booked a Fly / Cruise Half Day Tour through Nautilus Aviation after hours of research and choosing Down Under Cruise for my trip. We met the Down Under team at Hastings Reef. After we were transported from the helipad to the cruise boat, we were warmly greeted, provided with safety instructions and gear for the snorkelling activity and introduced to the team. Once geared up, we snorkelled for around 45 mins to an hour.
The staff was superb!! Honestly amongst the best hospitality I have experienced anywhere in the world and I am very well travelled. They love what they do and it shows in how they treat all the guests. They all seemed excited and that got me more excited
Hastings Reef was full of life, incredible colours and perfect mix of shallow and deep waters. I previously snorkelled off Hamilton Island and the reef there was badly damaged / dead so this was a breathtaking experience.
The cruise boat was modern, had multiple levels with indoor and outdoor seating and several toilets.
The food was okay. It is a cruise boat so I am thankful they arranged it and catered to dietary requirements.
Over all, I am very impressed with the team and their operation. I highly recommend booking your snorkelling tour with them.
“The staff are all very friendly and experienced. ”
The buffet lunch is great. My son has a really good day today with Down Under Cruise. The only downside is a big group and the photographer hasn't had a chance to take the photo for my son under the water.
“An Unforgettable Great Barrier Reef Experience! ”
Our day with Down Under Cruise and Dive in Cairns was absolutely fantastic! From start to finish, the experience was seamless, and the entire team went above and beyond to ensure we had an unforgettable time exploring the Great Barrier Reef.
It was our first time snorkeling, and thanks to the crew’s professionalism, patience, and enthusiasm, we felt completely at ease. Their guidance and support made the experience even more enjoyable. The boat was well-equipped, the service was outstanding, and every detail was taken care of to perfection.
A huge thank you to the incredible team for making this adventure safe, fun, and truly memorable! We highly recommend Down Under Cruise and Dive to anyone looking for the best reef experience in Cairns. We can’t wait to come back!
“Fantastic day with Down Under Cruise and Dive. ”
Extremely friendly and fun staff who did their utmost to ensure everyone had a fabulous day. They were extremely professional and showed patience and understanding to any nervous participants. There was plenty of really tasty food, coffee and teas and even a complimentary glass of vino with our cheese and crackers. The diving was superb again complement to the Fantastic staff on their professionalism. They really made our day. Full marks to Down and Under Cruise and Dive. The Evolution is a fine big boat and even though the sea was a little choppy on the way out very few people were sea sick.
“Fabulous!”
Fantastic fun filled dive with Down Under Cruise and Dive here in Cairns! The crew were all very nice and professional and the dive master for my group, Phil, was excellent! He’s also a marine biologist so he was able to point out stuff to us that we would have otherwise missed and also helped us to not get lost! They also serve you lunch so don’t worry about that! Scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef has been a bucket list item for me so thank you to Down Under for allowing me to check that off
“Just do it!!”
A truly amazing and magical day snorkelling on the barrier reef, finished off with an awesome helicopter ride.
Everything was perfect from start to finish.
The boat crew were all absolutely brilliant, as was the helicopter pilot.
I would not hesitate to recommend this trip to others who are thinking of booking.
“A bucket list thing to do!”
Absolutely unreal. We did the cruise with the helicopter return to Cairns yesterday and it was unreal. As a local who has travelled on many boats I can honestly say that Down Under have the BEST crew!!! Eddie is hilarious and even makes check in fun! The crew can not do enough for you and they make sure your day is not only fun but also very safe. They also do a great job about reef conservation and doing their best to educate so that passengers too don’t negatively affect the reef. Food was great and we had fabulous reef sites! The boat is absolutely fantastic!!! Thank you team!! I would give it 10 stars if I could!
You won’t regret doing the helicopter as an add on!
“Cheers!!”
We booked our Great Barrier Reefs tour with Down Under Cruise and Dive, and today (18 April) had the best experience of life. Their staff is friendly and professional and fun too and everyone was passionate. I must mention Ben who helped us with snorkeling (took us a bit away from the boat from where you get a better snorkeling experience) to and helicopter ride. Eddie is hilarious. The on-boarding process was systemic. Plus they have all the things you need for example Sea-sickness tablets, water etc and need not carry anything. Food they serve isn't bad at all. Cruise ship is clean with three decks and is spacious. We also did helicopter ride which was awesome and the pilot gave us a close view of the reef and spotted few turtles too.
Overall experience was fantastic and highly recommend this tour with Down Under Cruise. I am definitely visiting Cairns again and do the same tour with Down Under.
“Thank you for your hospitality, made my day”
Perfect day trip (Get High & cert dive package) out with the crew, everyone in the crew is super friendly, helpful and funny too! The whole check in process is smooth and well organized, great service and clear instructions throughout!
Frankie is a knowledgeable and great instructor, dove with him and was an absolute joy!! Eddie (who speaks multiple languages , Jen, Ash, Phil Mike, Keita and everyone surely did make the trip SUPER memorable. Great value for money, highly recommended!
“Much love from Ukraine.”
Our day with Down Under Cruise and Dive was absolutely magnificent! The crew's professionalism and friendliness made us feel both safe and excited throughout. Perfect for beginners, with patient instructors who ensured everyone was comfortable in the water.
The snorkeling spots showcased breathtaking coral and vibrant marine life. The staff perfectly balanced safety with fun, and the delicious buffet lunch exceeded expectations.
For anyone visiting Cairns, this is THE company to choose for exploring the Great Barrier Reef. These memories will stay with me forever. Thank you, Down Under team, for making this the highlight of our Australian adventure!
“ Cannot recommend enough!”
This is a fabulous way to get the most out of your day in Cairns. In fact, if you only have one day, you should do this!! The staff are absolutely fabulous, try to help in any way and were active in showing everyone attention. Their engagement with everyone meant everyone felt special! They were incredibly well organised which meant the whole day ran smoothly. The places they take you to are weather appropriate and the snorkelling is insane! Best in the world as far as we are concerned and we've done it lots of places! The food is delicious, the bar is open and the complimentary drink and snorkel hire are perfect little touches that just made the day feel extra special, like everything is taken care of! We absolutely loved our day!
“Great experience. ”
Very supportive and kind crew. Food was very good too. They took us to two great spots for snorkeling or scuba, highly recommended.
“Had an awesome time! ”
Staff super friendly. Snorkelling on reef was amazing. I preferred the second reef, more fish and coral so make sure you do both. Helicopter ride was awesome, once in a lifetime but worth it!
“Amazing experience!”
Wonderful experience with Down Under Tour and Dive in Cairns! The team was extremely attentive, providing exceptional service from start to finish. The food on board was delicious, and the boat was very comfortable. The crew’s explanations were clear, allowing us to swim safely with a lifeguard watching over us while we were in the water. I fully recommend this excursion for an unforgettable adventure. Thanks again to the entire crew for this amazing experience!
“Thanks for a truly awesome day.”
A really magical day. The whole organisation was very slick. The equipment was good and the two reefs they took us to (Saxon and Hastings) were excellent. The lunch was lovely and there were snacks and drinks available (extra price for drinks but not expensive). The staff obviously enjoy their jobs and are a great team. Their enthusiasm and wit shines through but you never doubt that they are doing everything they can to ensure your safety.
“However, overall experience was fantastic!”
We had a great time on a snorkelling trip , the crew was very friendly and helpful and assisted first time divers to explore the reef. However the afternoon lunch buffet seemed rather bland and unappealing to my Indian palette. I guess their menus are designed towards a western audience which is their primary customer base, indian tourists should keep this point in mind while booking the tours.
“It was a really good tour experience. ”
The tour was well organised n the crew members were patient, friendly n ensured all those who were snorkelling were safe with even a few guides around in the water to help those that maybe new . Would really recommend taking the tour for anyone who is new or experienced. The reefs were beautiful. N even though it was a raining on the day I went , still manage to see turtles , sharks n many more beautiful fishes .
“Kudos, you guys!”
Loved our day on the Great Barrier Reef with Down Under Cruise and Dive. We didn’t book in advance as the weather was unpredictable and they accommodated us on the day. The crew was exceptional, well-trained, attentive and friendly. They made the day a lot more enjoyable. We loved how they made everything so safe for everyone on the boat irrespective of their swimming abilities. The marine biologist took us close to the reef and even took pictures on my GoPro. Also, the boat was amazing, never felt crowded or anything. The food was yummy and the cheese and wine to wrap the day was a great touch.
“Absolutely amazing once in a lifetime experience!”
Even though I (as did many others) get seasick that day, the staff are all super helpful and kind. The reef was well worth that discomfort because it was truly one of the coolest days of my life!
“Had a fantastic experience with down under!! ”
All the staff were incredibly lovely and attentive. I did the scuba diving with Jack and he was an exceptional diver and lots of fun. He made us feel so safe in the water and his companion, who I’ve forgotten the name of bit he taught us the introductory dive info and a very clear and informative way. Thanks to everyone, couldn’t have had a better day. Even despite the bad weather meaning we couldn’t do the heli ride, it was still a 10/10 day!!!
“Excellent!”
Never have we had the chance to see such a professional team. Given we were at the GBR we had some concerns regarding ensuring we weren’t a part of a bad news report. Immediately upon boarding we quickly felt comfortable and knew we were in the hands of true professionals!
The facilities were as good as they get and the staff were completely helpful!
“Fantastic experience!! ”
We booked through Billy Tea Tours and they handled the tickets.
The checking was pretty easy, and the crew were efficient, funny and professional. It took 1hr (or so) to get to the first reef where we could snorkel or scuba dive for 2hrs. we then went to a 2nd reef, where you could snorkel, scuba, helicopter or semi-submersible (for an additional cost) .
They provided all your gear and stinger suits. The crew give enough safety instructions and options to help people who are new or uncomfortable feel safe, while in the water.
We were offered morning tea, buffet lunch, afternoon tea and glass of wine throughout the trip
The cruise was very accessible for all capacities & ages.
“Wonderful experience”
Aaron, our diving instructor, was fantastic, and the crew were awesome with a hilarious note :)
“I recommend this tour. Really well run.”
The tour was fabulous - a salve to a weary family from Canberra. Snorkeling was easy even though we had no experience, with lots of friendly help. Even our six year olds took to it easily. The crew were largely fantastic- thanks heaps to them for making it almost a dream trip! I really admire their spirit of hospitality, even when they do this day in and day out. The only exception was the person who gave the safety talk, who was quite snarky in talking about behaviors they didn’t want to see. Tried to forget that.
“I recommend this tour. Really well run.”
The tour was fabulous - a salve to a weary family from Canberra. Snorkeling was easy even though we had no experience, with lots of friendly help. Even our six year olds took to it easily. The crew were largely fantastic- thanks heaps to them for making it almost a dream trip! I really admire their spirit of hospitality, even when they do this day in and day out. The only exception was the person who gave the safety talk, who was quite snarky in talking about behaviors they didn’t want to see. Tried to forget that.
“So many great views ”
This snorkel trip was definitely the highlight of our time down under! The boat was awesome, the reef was beautiful but the real best part of the whole thing was the staff. Everyone we met was so welcoming and nice to us Texans. Shoutout to Fifi for welcoming us in the morning and showing us some great species of fish underwater. Sammy, Jen and Tom (Joe Dirt) were truly gems as well. It was awesome getting to know all of the crew members and spending time in such a remarkable place. We also got some great pictures underwater which were nice keepsakes. Also, the food was good and plentiful! Make sure if you go to the reef, book with Down Under Cruise and Dive!
“I will definitely visit again!”
Amazingly beautiful experience. Skilled and friendly staff helped us throughout our day. It was perfect from pickup to snorkeling and meals, and you can enjoy scuba diving and helicopter options.
The buffet-style meal was not lacking at all, and even the wine served in the afternoon was perfect.
If I go to Cairns again.
“ I’ll be booking with you guys again!”
Wow, what an experience! Honestly, it was the most beautiful time I’ve ever had! Just to set the scene, I don’t know how to swim, I wear hearing aids, and I tend to panic (a lot, haha!), but Amber was AMAZING! She was so kind, patient, and made me feel completely at ease. She took her time, showed me everything without rushing, and always had a big smile on her face. She took me around the reef a couple of times and kept checking in to make sure I was okay.
The crew was awesome too—super funny but still so professional. The food was okay, but honestly, it didn’t even matter because everything else was so perfect! My friend and I had the best time, and this was on her bucket list before she moves to the EU. I can't wait to come back, bring my kiddos, and for sure.
“Thank you!”
We had a great experience with this company and their service. The booking process was clear, as was boarding at the terminal in the morning. The crew were helpful and friendly. Everything was explained on board, there was water, sunscreen and much more. We enjoyed our stay from start to finish. The only thing I wasn't aware of, and I hadn't found it anywhere online before, even double-checking the FAQ and other sites, was the rule about not being able to use your own camera on the first introductory dive. This led me to book a second dive where it is allowed. I was considering doing this for the upcoming flight. But the time was right to pass the PADI regulations and go ahead. The second dive was amazing, thanks to Aaron, Jack and Kiki! Great time guys, we felt comfortable underwater all the time. Perhaps you could add this to the FAQ for others.
“Do it!”
My partner and I booked the snorkeling day tour, this was my first time. We both had such an amazing experience, we will go again! The meeting point is walking distance, food buffet was delicious, views were absolutely beautiful, the crew members were friendly. Worth the money.
“Bucket list checked!”
Amazing excursion with a fantastic crew. We visited 2 reefs and at both locations felt like we were swimming inside an aquarium. Very clean and comfortable ship, professional but fun and entertaining crew and the food was plentiful. I would highly recommend this.
“Off the grid!”
The staff was massively organized and super friendly. All of the staff had smiles on their faces the whole day, were extremely helpful and well prepared for all activities on the boat. Highly recommend Down Under Cruise if you are looking for a fun day at the reef with bunch of people.
“Today was such a spiritually healing experience. ”
From the moment we stepped on board, to the moment we got off. Those who looked after us were so so so friendly. Travelling from sydney and randomly picking “Down Under Cruise & Dive” as my tour was something out of a hat. I am so happy with my full day experience of The Great Barrier Reef. The photos taken of me was something that could only be captured in the moment, the photographer was super generous when capturing me glide through the water, truly in my element. I saw rainbow fish, turtles & nemo! What a spectacular day.
“We had an amazing experience snorkeling at the Great Barrier Ree”
Heli ride was spectacular as well, giving great views of the reefs from above. 2 snorkeling sites - Saxons and Hastings. Hastings reef was the most beautiful reef we have ever snorkeled at! Down Under Cruise and Dive crew seemed very professional and made us feel very safe all the time, helping our daughter get comfortable with snorkeling.
“We had a great time on our full day reef cruise.”
The entire crew was incredible. Absolutely all crew but especially the snorkel team/ guides. They were pulling people around the reef and keeping everyone safe. I cannot thank them enough for how amazing they made this experience for us.
The weather wasn’t great, keep in mind it’s a rough trip out there on a windy day. We took sea sickness medication before the trip and had no worries. They sell it on board (definitely get it when they recommend it). They also offer prescription snorkel masks free of charge, the minimum prescription is 2.5.
If you’re looking for an intimate/ smaller group, this tour isn’t for you. There’s lots of people at all different levels of swimming/ snorkelling. It’s managed well, though if you need a snorkel guide, be prepared to wait (they are worth it though).
“Food was great!”
Awesome day on the water. Very professional and fun crew. Snorkeling was amazing, they had people help guide you around so you were able to see things that you may have missed. I also did an intro dive which was intense but glad I did it. Definitely harder than I imagined lol.
“ We had an amazing time and would love to do it again”
This was an incredible experience. My husband and I did the diving and snorkelling tours, and we had a blast!! It was my husbands first time diving, and he loved it so much, he ended up doing a second dive there as well. The instructors were super friendly and helpful, and he had an amazing time scuba diving in the great barrier reef. The snorkeling was amazing as well, as there were guides that would take you around the reef while you held on to a life saver if you are feeling a bit too hesitant on snorkeling by yourself or if you're not a strong swimmer. They also serve you tea, coffee and mini muffins when you're traveling to the dive sites and the lunch was super yummy as you get served with steak, shrimp, fish, a mix of Salads, and pasta. On the way back to Cairns, they also serve wine and cheese!! The food and drinks were really great!! The staff are awesome and so friendly to interact with!!
“They are simply the best!”
Had an awesome snorkeling experience at Great Barrier Reef with “Down under Cruise and Dive” team. They are very friendly and nice. Every member tried so hard to give us the best experience possible. Super awesome team. You rock guys. We loved every bit of our time spent with you, because of your lively , super kind, undivided service. This is the first time I snorkeled, and was bit agitated. But you all made sure to pay individual attention to us so we feel safe and secured. Thank you for kind words, care, friendliness, cleanliness and awesome food!! lots of love to everyone of you
For everyone who wants to try snorkeling, pick Down Under Cruise. They take care of u. You don’t even have to know swimming, they’ll make sure to take care of everything. They give tea, coffee ( as much as you want) snacks, yummy lunch, wine cheese and everything!
“Wonderful experience!”
The whole experience from start to finish was very organised and professional. The staff were fun, friendly, knowledgeable and left no question unanswered, and the boat (Evolution) was large, comfortable, and clean. Even though the day of our trip was wet, bumpy and rainy - we still had an incredible experience snorkelling over the reef and the bad weather did not affect the view of the coral and fish at all. I would highly recommend Down Under Tours. Given our day was wet and bumpy every assistance was provided with respect to sea sickness tablets, etc which made everyone enjoy the experience. I highly recommend the guided snorkelling tour with marine biologist, Sammy, as well as posing for an underwater photo with Andi.
“What an amazing experience we just had! ”
The staff is knowledgeable and enthusiastic. They were truly helpful and went the extra mile to make sure everyone on board was given the information needed (before and during the tour). The food was great and they even offered us a complimentary wine in the afternoon. Their boat was one of the best ones (or the best one) and it was cleaned and organized at all time. We highly recommend them if you want to really enjoy the best of the Great Reef Barrier experience.
“Thank you for such a memorable day”
The trip to snorkel GBR was amazing !! The reef was everything and more. It was a beautiful stunning day. We went to two reefs and both were very good
The staff on the boat were great and safety was their first priority. The lunch was absolutely divine. Fresh, delicious and cooked to perfection. Chilling on the sun deck was nice.
I highly recommend this company. I would do another trip with them in a heart beat.
“ I highly recommend this tour!”
This was an unforgettable experience that I truly hope you get to do! The staff are friendly, knowledgeable and hilarious. Safety was very much a priority and was seen in double head counts, safety numbers, explicit teachings and availability of jellyfish protection suits and floatation devices. They had a marine biologist on board for small group snorkeling tours, and a clear bottom boat tour (both were an extra but so cool!) as well as just up for a chat! The food was delicious and plentiful; allowing multiple servings for each guest. You could also purchase sea sick tablets, photos from their photographer, drinks, snacks and underwater phone protector cases. I felt safe, looked after and loved every minute. I went solo and they put me with a group of other solo travellers which made for an exciting day and instant friends.
“Thank you very much for this experience and we recommend this co”
The trip with Down Under Cruise & Dive to the Great Barrier Reef was the most spectacular thing that happened to us during our vacation in Australia. We saw corals and fish of all colors, we had two great snorkeling sessions, the staff was fantastic, made us feel safe, they were always in a good mood, they always offered us very useful information and advice. The helicopter flight was amazing, we had a different perspective on the reef.
The lunch provided, snacks and wine were delicious and more than enough.
“Comfortable!”
I’m going to struggle to put into words the day we just had with these guys, it was incredible.
I’ve long had a desire to visit the Great Barrier Reef and Down under cruise and dive helped to bring that dream to life.
It was clear from the moment we checked in, these guys were very professional - every person knew their job. They took health and safety VERY seriously and at multiple times during the day there was a count of how many people were on board.
They catered for all abilities from people who were obviously very apprehensive about getting into the water (not for very long) up to seasoned snorkelers. They simply made getting into and enjoying the water very easy.
The food was amazing….muffins and drinks on arrival, a fabulous lunch of steaks, fish and salad and cheese and biscuits as the day was coming to an end. They even threw in some complimentary wine after everyone had finished in the water.
Another highlight for me was the availability of complimentary reef safe factor 50 sun cream.
These guys do a proper job and I’d have no hesitation in recommending them.
“This is the best reef experience I've had. ”
The Evolution is a magnificent boat and Down Under don't pack it to capacity so there is plenty of space for everyone to spread out. The staff are incredibly friendly and completely genuine. They were also very helpful and nothing was too much trouble. The check-in system with everyone having individual numbers is really well organised and getting on board and getting into the water is fast and easy.
The crew look after those who are inexperienced with snorkeling and swimming very well and everything you need is provided.
There are also add-on extras such as a tour with a Marine Biologist, an intro to Scuba Diving, and Helicopter Flights. There's also a professional underwater photographer who takes amazing shots you can buy at the end.
I highly recommend this to anyone regardless of experience on the reef. Everyone is catered for.
Oh, and the lunch was delicious. Thanks guys.
“Thankyou to all the staff for a brilliant day and I will see you”
Amazing!! I have been out on Evolution a few times and absolutely love it every time! My dive with Kanani was quite possibly the best I have done on the Great Barrier Reef so far. Being a local who loves adventure, that says it all! My buddy did an Intro Dive and snorkelled and equally enjoyed the experience.
“It worth every penny!”
This guys are a real gem!!! Had the best experience ever at the great barrier reef, the dives were out of this world, and the instructors are the best one’s you can find! The ship was too notch, organisation, food, staff, activities….. etc … everything was more than perfect!
“This is a must experience if you ever visit Australia!”
Down Under Cruise is well organized and the crew is amazing. We snorkel and did the helicopter tour. Going over the reef was great experience. The food was great, especially the fish and
“Fabulous!”
The experience was really amazing. The staff were really friendly.Ash was really helpful and nice to me and my son and she helped us do snorkeling as we were a bit scared. I highly recommend. One advice, they should tell us about the sea sickness before hand in an email as this was my first experience and had no idea about sea sickness and I was vomiting badly and dizzy but the staff were really caring especially the girls.
“We had so much fun on the snorkeling tour. ”
Just the boat ride to and from the reef is worth the money. It's about 1-2 hours out and back so you get a nice ride and get to enjoy the ocean breeze. The lunch provided was better than I expected. We had steak and fish, not a ton of flavor but still much better than most free meals. The crew was very friendly and helpful. The 2 reefs we went to were awesome. We felt safe the whole time and saw so many cool fish.
“Lovely!!”
We did the VIP tour to Saxon and Hastings reef. The staff were amazing. I got sick on the first part of the trip but once we got the aircon working I was fine.
Our dedicated concierge was amazing I cant remember her name I think it started with a I. All the other staff on board were also amazing.
The food was nice as well. The snacks provided were great. Good variety.
The ship was clean and the toilets were also clean and tidy.
“Best way to end an amazing day on the reef!”
I had an amazing day on Evolution with Down Under Cruise and Dive! The boat is quite new, very spacious and feels very luxurious! Because of the size, it can take a lot of people. Still, it didn’t feel crowded at all, and there was a very relaxed atmosphere on the boat. Evolution has 3 different decks, where you can hang out in the aircon inside, or relax and sunbathe! From check in up to leaving the boat, the crew was very welcoming, fun and made sure everything was taken care of.
I did 2 certified dives, and my guide (instructor) Andi was absolutely amazing! She gave us a very detailed briefing before the dives, so even if you’re not very experienced or if your last dive was a little while ago, you’ll know exactly what’s gonna happen and Andi made sure everyone understood everything! We went to two different dive sites and were shown amazing parts of the reef and marine life. The dive deck was very spacious, equipment was well taken care of, and there were equipment lockers for everyones mask, fins, snorkel and wetsuit. The company works together with the Coral Nurture program, and during the second dive we were shown the coral nursery, so cool! There was also a marine biologist on board, who took people on a guided snorkeling tour (I would definitely have done that if I wasn’t diving) and we could ask her all our questions. During the in-water activities their photographer Shannon took some amazing photos as well. During the cruise back to Cairns everyone got a free glass of wine (with very cheap refills) and there were cheese and biscuits.
“Highly recommend.”
Amazing reefs (Saxon and Hastings) and crew. Everything was so well organized and we felt in good hands the whole time, from snorkeling to the helicopter. We’ve been snorkeling 4 times before in other countries and this by far was the most friendly and helpful crew.
“Would love to go again. 5 star”
have been on many boats but this one was the highlight of our life had the best time Absolutely brilliant would highly recommend I would especially like to thank Captain Dave Eddie, Lorry, Nick and Shannon for making the trip so much fun and personal.
“Everyone should have this experience!”
Absolutely amazing! The staff are great, especially Larry who took my 6 year old out to the reef, thank you so much! Thank you for playing with my one year old and making the day enjoyable. It was a dream! I would recommend your team 10000% . The reef is beautiful, the boat is amazing love it!
“It was a great cruise! ”
The ship was fantastic and very clean. The captain and crew went the extra mile to make this a wonderful day. Special shout out to Mike, our dive master, who made the tour of the reef spectacular by pointing out many varieties of sea life that I’m sure I would have missed on my own.
“It's worth every penny spent.”
Scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef is an experience everyone has do when in Cairns. And I am so glad I went with Down Under Cruise and Dive to do this with. The boat was massive, the staff are all nice and helpful, the food was amazing too.
“ Special thanks to all of them!!”
We are a family of 4, 2 adults and 2 kids(8&4), Had a fantastic memory with this ferry and crew on board, right from check in to disembarking everything is planned so well and at-most attention to your safety. Special thanks to all those snorkelling guide, who made our day so much memorable and fun. I think my son was the youngest in the whole of 110+ members onboard, he throughly enjoyed the snorkelling in the middle of the ocean. My wife doest know swimming, yet the snorkelling guide helped her to take a round along the reefs and have a great experience in the middle of the ocean. Finally at the end of the day, the crew were so kind of enough to cheer for my son, while getting off from the ferry, they really made his day.
“A highly recommended experience. ”
The team was very responsible and organized, which made us feel safe at all times. Perfect for beginner divers, and the snorkeling was also amazing. The food was delicious and plentiful, perfect for recharging between activities. All in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. The corals and fish in all colors offered breathtaking views, truly unforgettable. The only downside was that the photos were too expensive. Despite that, it’s an experience I would definitely repeat
“Rating: 5/5 Jellyfish!”
“REEF-TASTIC DAY ON THE EVOLUTION!”
Ohhhhhh who lives in a pineapple and LOVES THE REEF? ME, SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS!
I hopped aboard the Evolution dive boat outta Cairns, and WOWZERS—what a day! From the moment we stepped on deck, the crew had us giggling like jellyfish in a tickle current. The safety briefings? HILARIOUS but totally serious—like if Sandy Cheeks ran a stand-up comedy dojo with a side of scuba wisdom. You know you’re in good hands when you're laughing and learning how to survive a sea cucumber incident.
The crew? Tighter than a Krabby Patty secret recipe! They worked together like a well-oiled anchor winch to make sure every diver and snorkeler felt safe, seen, and stoked. Whether you're a deep-sea explorer or just like to flop around on the surface like Patrick, there was a perfect option for everyone.
OH! And you can FLY OVER THE REEF IN A HELICOPTER!!! I didn’t do it (I’m made of sponge, not dollar bills), but it looked so COOL I almost wrung myself out and traded my square pants for a ticket!
Special shout-out to Captain Dave—king of the currents and ruler of the reef road! He kept everything ship-shape with a salty grin and a calm command that made even Squidward crack a smile.
All in all, if you want a day full of undersea wonder, coral capers, and crew that treats you like family—you better get your flippers on the Evolution!
Bubbling with joy,
SpongeBob SquarePants (and my imaginary license to dive!)
“Great time!”
Had a great time snorkelling with Down under cruise! Lovely staff members that was constantly making sure everyone was feeling alright. Highly recommending renting a Gopro, as well as taking motion sickness medication! Lunch served was delicious too!
“amazing experience!”
Wonderful experience with Down Under Tour and Dive in Cairns! The team was extremely attentive, providing exceptional service from start to finish. The food on board was delicious, and the boat was very comfortable. The crew’s explanations were clear, allowing us to swim safely with a lifeguard watching over us while we were in the water. I fully recommend this excursion for an unforgettable adventure. Thanks again to the entire crew for this amazing experience!
“The best day!”
We did the VIP tour to Saxon and Hastings reef. The staff were amazing. I got sick on the first part of the trip but once we got the aircon working I was fine.
Our dedicated concierge was amazing I cant remember her name I think it started with a I. All the other staff on board were also amazing.
The food was nice as well. The snacks provided were great. Good variety.
The ship was clean and the toilets were also clean and tidy.
“Great tour”
Staff amazing, boat amazing, food was amazing, but weather, numbers on board and heavy seas made trip terrible. water made it near impossible to see reef properly. have been before and had the most amazing time, but this time took family and highly recommend not going if weather bad as just not enjoyable. staff and boat absolutely 5 stars. but if weather bad don't go, daughter/partner still feeling sick after trip as was very rough
“exceeded all expectations”
Great time! Huge Catamaran! Three levels. Very nice staff.
“Great tour”
The cruise wasn’t to crowded. The team on board were amazing specially INDI and Dom their speeches about safety were very good and kept our attention all the time. The diving with Dom was also a great activity. Food was decent and the activity nice too.
“Great tour”
Excellent day from start to finish. The staff were professional, yet fun and helpful. They assigned everyone at tables, which didn't mean that's were you had to stay, but it gave everyone an opportunity to chat with other people before getting underway and off and on through the whole trip. Our personal things were watch at the table areas so we could just go have fun on the decks and in the water.
“awesome trip!”
Lovely day tour to the Great Barrier Reef, vessel spacious, clean, comfy and well-equipped. The crew members are professional also very helpful and polite. Highly recommended!
“The best day!”
We had a blast on this cruise. All the staff were so helpful. They keep a surprise helicopter ride for our kids and pulled it off without any slip ups. We enjoyed the whole experience.
“exceeded all expectations”
Very well organised trip. Everything explained clearly to make for a safe and enjoyable experience
“friendly staff”
An amazing day out exploring the Great Barrier Reef - couldn't have asked for more! Lots of emphasis on safety, well organised itinerary and very friendly staff. Would recommend to anyone.
“awesome trip!”
Fantastic day with Down Under Cruise and Dive. Extremely friendly and fun staff who did their utmost to ensure everyone had a fabulous day. They were extremely professional and showed patience and understanding to any nervous participants. There was plenty of really tasty food, coffee and teas and even a complimentary glass of vino with our cheese and crackers. The diving was superb again complement to the Fantastic staff on their professionalism. They really made our day. Full marks to Down and Under Cruise and Dive. The Evolution is a fine big boat and even though the sea was a little choppy on the way out very few people were sea sick.
“awesome trip!”
Great day spent. Everything was great. The crew works hard and is super accommodating. A helicopter flight is something special.
I definitely recommend it.
“Amazing!! 10/10!”
We booked the gold lounge with the scenic helicopter flight for our honeymoon and the day did not disappoint! Our guide for the day, Sammy, was so knowledgeable about the reef, took us on a snorkel safari pointing out all the different fish and corals, and she always made sure we had everything we needed. And the helicopter ride was just AMAZING. This tour was definitely the highlight of our trip!
“Great tour”
Great crew, clean boat, and a very fun customizable experience
“awesome trip!”
Absolutely amazing once in a lifetime experience! Even though I (as did many others) get seasick that day, the staff are all super helpful and kind. The reef was well worth that discomfort because it was truly one of the coolest days of my life!
“exceptional ”
We had an absolutely unforgettable experience exploring the Great Barrier Reef, thanks to fantastic staff & incredible captain Dave! Not only did Dave & his team navigate us through some of the most stunning sights, they made the experience memorable, super fun & enjoyable, being kind and attentive to our 8 year old daughter. Dave’s warmth and enthusiasm made us feel safe and excited the whole trip, and he went above and beyond to ensure we had the best spots for snorkeling. This was a dream day on the water, and we couldn’t have asked for a better guide team. The lunch was also delicious. Highly recommend to anyone looking for an exceptional reef adventure! Thank you Dave & team
“exceeded all expectations”
Best trip ever, flying in with the helicopter, semi-submarine dive, perfekt Lunch with Lots of prawns,Fisch and Steak. The ging back by boat to Cairns - I highly recommend the Company as the Staffel is also very friendly and helpful, simple a wonderful tour.
“The best day!”
We took a school group and the tour was excellent. Everything was provided, there was heaps of staff, they personalised our trip, gave a very helpful group discount, and the reefs that they took us too was as good as any on the GBR. Excellent experience overall and would definitely recommend.
“Great tour”
Fantastic day, well organised, superb Boat and crew. Good reef location and do the Helicopter if you can
“unforgettable”
I had such a great day with these guys today! The whole crew was so friendly, approachable and patient, and explained the safety procedures and “boring” bits in such a funny and entertaining way. The snorkel and dive locations were fantastic, the food was great, and the ship (or boat?) itself was exceptional too. I did the semi submersible tour with Sammy the Marine Biologist who told us a lot of interested facts about the reef and its inhabitants. Thank you so much for an unforgettable day
“awesome trip!”
One of the best activities to do in cairns. We loved the day, the crew was incredibly well organised and super kind, food was good, and the reef is impressive.
“awesome trip!”
Great trip. The team really helpful professional friendly. The lunch was great, and lots of it. The chef worked exceptionally hard!! Great job! Ship plenty big enough with space to chill quietly. Bar prices very reasonable. The 2 reefs we visited were amazing. Definitely recommend Down Under for this trip.
“awesome trip!”
Overall good excursion, crew was nice, everything was perfectly managed, but with some improvements that could make the experience even better for everyone: 1) less people. We were "only" 120 and it is definitely too many also for the crew to manage, 2) boat is nice, but could be cleaner. Honestly, the moquette/carpet is useless and not so hygienic (water, hot temp, salt, why adding carpet??), 3) food could be improved. Of course, it is a consequence of having too many people onboard. If less crowded, I think it would be easier to have better quality and variety. It would be also nice to get some fresh fruits as snack during navigation
“Great tour”
Fantastic experience!! We booked through Billy Tea Tours and they handled the tickets.
The checking was pretty easy, and the crew were efficient, funny and professional.
“Great Barrier Reef adventure!”
Had an amazing experience with Down Under Cruise & Dive! The crew, especially Fifi were fantastic—super friendly, funny, and always there to help. The snorkeling spots were breathtaking, with vibrant marine life and crystal-clear water. Everything was well-organized, and they made sure everyone felt safe and comfortable throughout the trip. Highly recommend this company for an unforgettable Great Barrier Reef adventure!
“Great tour”
We had a wonderful experience! The tour guides are well trained and dilligent with all safety precautions. We had a medical emergency that was handled with expertise and excellent results. We loved that there was a professional photographer onboard to capture memories underwater. We would highly recommend this experience!
“Best experience”
Best experience I had, incredible team, everything very organized, the corals are incredible!!! I really recommend
“Great tour”
super enjoy and happy
“Great reef cruise”
Great reef cruise, awesome staff, and got heaps of time in the reef.
We’re locals and keep coming back to these guys. Great value for money.
“exceeded all expectations”
Had an awesome day on the Barrier Reef. The tour was well organised, the staff were all friendly and knowledgeable. The lunch was fantastic.
Also did the cable car to Kuranda and the train back, all organised through Down Under Cruise and Dive. Everything was well organised. Thank you
“Great tour”
Highly recommend!! While there are so many options to choose from when looking at reef tours from cairns - our experience with down under was amazing
The boat is very well designed and spacious. Even when it’s full there’s still lots of space to sit inside, outside, upstairs - wherever you like really!
The food was plentiful and tasty - we had mini muffins for breakfast, lots of options as per the posted menu for lunch and cheese & crackers for afternoon tea on the way back.
The whole crew were fantastic - 10/10!! Special shout out to Aaron & Mike for their informative and funny briefings and Eddie as well.
Great spots for snorkeling (we went to Saxon and Hastings reefs) - we saw lots of fish and a turtle from the boat as well. There were people of all abilities and lots of life jackets and pool noodles etc for those who wanted.
“Great tour”
couldn’t have made a better choice. such an amazing crew and very organized tour! would definitely do it again
“The best day!”
We had the very best day ! The trip
Is so well organised and the staff are fantastic . The boat was clean and food fantastic ! Now to the best bit the snorkelling and diving. A reef teaming with fish and our instructor took us on a dive through the reef showing us fish, sharks and coral and gave us a fu break down afterwards . She was patient and cheerful at all times and made us feel safe and confident Nommi was amazing !!! I would recommend this company to anyone and will definitely take my family next time when we visit it was the best experience and I highly recommend the company and tour for the best days snorkelling I have ever had
“The best day!”
I am writing this after suffering food poisoning and spending all night up vomiting and dihoreah. I never remember throwing up so much . I have discounted food from breakfast as being the cause.The trip itself was well run. I can only imagine that there is going to be more than a few of these reviews today
“The best day!”
Me and my friend had an amazing experience with Down Under Cruise & Dive! The snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef was breathtaking, and the crew made the day even better. Indy was especially helpful; when my friend lost her GoPro, she went above and beyond to help us find it! The whole team was friendly and welcoming, especially Mike, who made us feel right at home. Highly recommend this trip for anyone looking to explore the reef!
“Great tour”
Amazing!!!! The best full day tour I’ve been on. They accommodate for dietary requirements which was great for me being coeliac. All the staff are fantastic and really make sure you have having a great time.
“Great job Down Under Diving, and especially Indi!”
We went out on the Evolution reef cruise and it was awesome. The staff were super organised to get us set up for our dives, and the reef was fantastic. Our Dive Master was Indi and she catered for all of our group with differing levels of diving experience and made everyone feel comfortable. And…..we found Nemo.
Great job Down Under Diving, and especially Indi!
“Great tour”
Very pleasant experience, scuba diving, snorkelling, Heli ride, Great Crew! food was good nice cruise ship.
“helpful! 10/10”
Such a good experience, we loved it! The crew were all so kind and helpful! 10/10
“The best day!”
Fantastic Day with Down Under Cruise & Dive exploring The Great Barrier Reef. Excellent service, professional and friendly staff and just an all round 5* Day. If you’re looking for an enjoyable day exploring the Reef this is the group to go with.
“The best day!”
Definitely the Best Reef Cruise option available! Excellent Experience, the entire crew were Professional and Entertaining. The Gorgeous Boat was the perfect size for the select amount of passengers, with ample toilets and showers.
Locations and Diving or Snorkelling choices were brilliant and all the staff had Excellent Reef and Diving knowledge! Great for Certified or 1st time Divers, Snorkellers and Sunbakers or Air Con lovers!!!
Salads and Seafood lunch was exceptionally fresh and plentiful with excellent options for all Dietary Requirements. Topped off by a complimentary drink on the trip back home!
“Great tour”
We had so much fun on the snorkeling tour. Just the boat ride to and from the reef is worth the money. It's about 1-2 hours out and back so you get a nice ride and get to enjoy the ocean breeze. The lunch provided was better than I expected. We had steak and fish, not a ton of flavor but still much better than most free meals. The crew was very friendly and helpful. The 2 reefs we went to were awesome. We felt safe the whole time and saw so many cool fish.
“ You won’t be disappointed ”
We booked a tour with Down Under for snorkeling and diving on the Great Barrier Reef and can only recommend this company due to their high professionalism and great organisation, as well as for the friendliness of all the staff. We were there with our 5-month old bab and the team was so helpful and caring to make sure he also has a great time, which we really appreciated. You won’t be disappointed by booking your Great Barrier Reef tour with Down Under and will certainly keep like us long-lasting memories of this great experience!
“Absolutely fabulous day .”
Absolutely fabulous day for all ages.
Great destination, vessel, crew, lunch and facilities.
Two wonderful reef destinations, plenty of fish and reef to see. The Great Barrier reef is thriving.
“Excellent focus on safety”
Amazing experience for our first day visiting Cairns. The whole crew made the day incredibly fun and memorable. I felt very safe completing my first scuba dive. I highly recommend booking with Down Under.
“Absolutely amazing”
Absolutely amazing! Aside from the stunning views you will see from being at the reef, all the crew was very very friendly with GREAT customer service, always greeting with a nice, warm and happy attitude and their best efforts to keep the boat clean and tidy. Very well informed and fun staff. Definitely recommend!
“ SO SKEPTICAL”
I was SO SKEPTICAL because there were like… 150 snorkelers on “our dive boat”. Almost cancelled and didn’t want to go because I thought it would be a disaster… but they have their systems down so well and we had a great day! Food was great, tons of dive and other options. We had such a great day!
“All in all, it was one of our best tour”
We had a great day out with Down Under Cruise and Dive on board the Evolution. The staff were helpful and professional from check-in at the Marlin Marina right till the end. A clear culture of safety was evident which made us felt right at ease at all times. The delicious lunch served onboard catered for dietary requirements well. We snorkelled in two locations, and also took the Introductory Diving course - both definitely recommended.
“10/10”
Wonderful staff, excellent snorkelling locations, and most importantly safety always came first. It was the safest ive ever felt while snorkelling, with plenty of staff there to keep you safe in the water, and floation devices available. They are very eco friendly, and made sure everyone knew not to touch the reef to help with sustainability, and had a marine biologist giving guided tours. I had an amazing snorkel, great lunch with a variety of options, and got to enjoy the sun on deck, 10/10.
“Great value”
It was lots of fun with great staff members, they took us to 2 locations at the Great Barrier Reef, they provided seasickness medicine at a low cost if needed, and the lunch options were great too
“Definitely highly recommended.”
It was a wonderful experience, the expectations were not very high, but actually exceeded everything I imagined. the logistics, the crew, the food, the boat, the experience, everything was a 10 out of 10. being in the barrier reef was a wonderful experience, the photos and videos do not do justice to what you see.
“It was lots of fun with great staff members”
It was lots of fun with great staff members, they took us to 2 locations at the Great Barrier Reef, they provided seasickness medicine at a low cost if needed, and the lunch options were great too.
“This was such an amazing experience”
Very friendly and professional crew. The crew made sure that the kids on the boat had a memorable experience. The bio diversity segment was amazing as the group got to see and learn about marine life up-close along with a marine biologist. We will revisit the great barrier again with this crew.
“may want to come here again!”
All crews are so professional and nice. It’s my first time to have intro dive, it’s cool and fun. So nice, I may want to come here again!!!!
“Most amazing experience ”
Most amazing experience thanks to the crew! What a good customer service, happy vibes and safe environments!!! Exellent boat, food and equipment! Good snorkling/ diving locations, all worth it! This is the trip to take if you want to Tick off great barrier reef on you bucketlist!
“Big thanks”
Great experience. The boat Evolution is quite big. There were many people on the boat and took a lot of time getting ready with the equipment, but everything was well organized. We went to two locations. The sea can be quite rough so I recommend taking motion sickness tablets beforehand.
The staff was professional, service minded and friendly. Big thanks to Eddie the funniest man on board
“We had amazing experience ”
We had amazing experience snorkelling and scuba diving on Great Barrier Reef through Down under guys! The staff are extremely friendly and helpful! If I’m diving again in Cairns it’ll be through these guys!
“Fantastic memories”
All of the staff were excellent! Friendly and helpful! Eddie stood out as very warm and welcoming! I had a bad experience last year in Mexico and was thinking of skipping both snorkeling sites. Received gentle encouragement from Kanani who also arranged for a snorkeling guide to assist me. Very much appreciated. All staff in the Evolution were warm and friendly and made this a positive experience. Be prepared, the ship will be rocking and rolling vigorously to and from the viewing spots so bring your gravol. They will supply some if you forget. Well done crew!
“Had a great time”
We had a great time on our full day reef cruise. The entire crew was incredible. Absolutely all crew but especially the snorkel team/ guides. They were pulling people around the reef and keeping everyone safe. I cannot thank them enough for how amazing they made this experience for us.
The weather wasn’t great, keep in mind it’s a rough trip out there on a windy day. We took sea sickness medication before the trip and had no worries. They sell it on board (definitely get it when they recommend it). They also offer prescription snorkel masks free of charge, the minimum prescription is 2.5.
If you’re looking for an intimate/ smaller group, this tour isn’t for you. There’s lots of people at all different levels of swimming/ snorkelling. It’s managed well, though if you need a snorkel guide, be prepared to wait (they are worth it though).
“One of the best ”
Honestly one of the best experiences I did in Australia! The crew were absolutely brilliant! Did the intro dive with Leanne! She was so experienced kept everyone calm and make it such an enjoyable experience! If you do only one tour in Australia make sure its this tour!
“Such a great trip!”
Stop what you are doing and immediately book a tour with this company!! We did the Great Barrier Reef Scuba/Snorkel with the helicopter ride and it was PERFECTION. The entire staff runs a very well organized experience from start to finish. From check in to the very end, they have thought of very single detail. We felt safe and well cared for. And the staff were all top notch. They even had a photographer that took some amazing pictures that were available to purchase. A few tips - take a motion sickness pill right as you board. They warned all the guests multiple times that it can get choppy and so many ended up in the back of the boat getting sick in a paper bag. It is not a money grab - they truly want you to have a good time so bring them along or buy them from the staff. The first reef had the most time allowed to snorkel and dive - take advantage of every single minute. Don't jump in the water, see some cool fish and then get back on the boat. You will likely miss something incredible like a turtle!! Enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the reef. We also highly recommend the helicopter experience. It was incredible to see it from the sky and appreciate how vast it is. We felt so safe and thrilled to have this be part of our experience. Finally, if you want to scuba, be sure you sign up for it when you book this tour. Don't think that you can just ask to do it on the day of because it will likely be full and then you will miss that incredible opportunity to dive the Great Barrier Reef.
“An incredible experience”
This was an incredible experience. My husband and I did the diving and snorkelling tours, and we had a blast!! It was my husbands first time diving, and he loved it so much, he ended up doing a second dive there as well. The instructors were super friendly and helpful, and he had an amazing time scuba diving in the great barrier reef. The snorkeling was amazing as well, as there were guides that would take you around the reef while you held on to a life saver if you are feeling a bit too hesitant on snorkeling by yourself or if you're not a strong swimmer. They also serve you tea, coffee and mini muffins when you're traveling to the dive sites and the lunch was super yummy as you get served with steak, shrimp, fish, a mix of Salads, and pasta. On the way back to Cairns, they also serve wine and cheese!! The food and drinks were really great!! The staff are awesome and so friendly to interact with!! We had an amazing time and would love to do it again
“Memorable day”
The trip to snorkel GBR was amazing !! The reef was everything and more. It was a beautiful stunning day. We went to two reefs and both were very good
The staff on the boat were great and safety was their first priority. The lunch was absolutely divine. Fresh, delicious and cooked to perfection. Chilling on the sun deck was nice.
I highly recommend this company. I would do another trip with them in a heart beat. Thank you for such a memorable day
“highly recommend this tour!”
This was an unforgettable experience that I truly hope you get to do! The staff are friendly, knowledgeable and hilarious. Safety was very much a priority and was seen in double head counts, safety numbers, explicit teachings and availability of jellyfish protection suits and floatation devices. They had a marine biologist on board for small group snorkeling tours, and a clear bottom boat tour (both were an extra but so cool!) as well as just up for a chat! The food was delicious and plentiful; allowing multiple servings for each guest. You could also purchase sea sick tablets, photos from their photographer, drinks, snacks and underwater phone protector cases. I felt safe, looked after and loved every minute. I went solo and they put me with a group of other solo travellers which made for an exciting day and instant friends. I highly recommend this tour!
“Absolutely Good”
Absolutely excellent choice if you want to view some of the Great Barrier Reef! The crew brought us to 2 excellent locations to snorkel, we saw so many different fish and coral and even saw a sea turtle! The weather was horrendous (it was lashing rain) but it did not affect the trip at all!
“Excellent tour”
What an amazing experience we just had! The staff is knowledgeable and enthusiastic. They were truly helpful and went the extra mile to make sure everyone on board was given the information needed (before and during the tour). The food was great and they even offered us a complimentary wine in the afternoon. Their boat was one of the best ones (or the best one) and it was cleaned and organized at all time. We highly recommend them if you want to really enjoy the best of the Great Reef Barrier experience.
“Comprehensive tour!”
Amazingly beautiful experience. Skilled and friendly staff helped us throughout our day. It was perfect from pickup to snorkeling and meals, and you can enjoy scuba diving and helicopter options.
The buffet-style meal was not lacking at all, and even the wine served in the afternoon was perfect.
If I go to Cairns again, I will definitely visit again!
“Very satisfying”
Brilliant! This company is super professional and delivers a very slick product. The ship is so nice and the staff were outstanding. It ran like clockwork and they all worked so hard to provide the best day and service. The lunch was absolutely excellent and the skipper put us in the best location to see amazing marine life and the reef. Would definitely recommend this company, and would go again. Thank you so much Down Under and the crew onboard Evolution. Hot tip - do yourself a favour and spend the extra money on a flight. It’s so worth it!!
“Brilliant tour”
The experience was really amazing. The staff were really friendly.Ash was really helpful and nice to me and my son and she helped us do snorkeling as we were a bit scared. I highly recommend. One advice, they should tell us about the sea sickness before hand in an email as this was my first experience and had no idea about sea sickness and I was vomiting badly and dizzy but the staff were really caring especially the girls.
“Nice day ”
This is the best reef experience I've had. The Evolution is a magnificent boat and Down Under don't pack it to capacity so there is plenty of space for everyone to spread out. The staff are incredibly friendly and completely genuine. They were also very helpful and nothing was too much trouble. The check-in system with everyone having individual numbers is really well organised and getting on board and getting into the water is fast and easy.
The crew look after those who are inexperienced with snorkeling and swimming very well and everything you need is provided.
There are also add-on extras such as a tour with a Marine Biologist, an intro to Scuba Diving, and Helicopter Flights. There's also a professional underwater photographer who takes amazing shots you can buy at the end.
I highly recommend this to anyone regardless of experience on the reef. Everyone is catered for.
Oh, and the lunch was delicious. Thanks guys.
“Awesome trip”
Amazing!! I have been out on Evolution a few times and absolutely love it every time! My dive with Kanani was quite possibly the best I have done on the Great Barrier Reef so far. Being a local who loves adventure, that says it all! My buddy did an Intro Dive and snorkelled and equally enjoyed the experience. Thankyou to all the staff for a brilliant day and I will see you next time :)
“made our trip enjoyable”
I’m going to struggle to put into words the day we just had with these guys, it was incredible.
I’ve long had a desire to visit the Great Barrier Reef and Down under cruise and dive helped to bring that dream to life.
It was clear from the moment we checked in, these guys were very professional - every person knew their job. They took health and safety VERY seriously and at multiple times during the day there was a count of how many people were on board.
They catered for all abilities from people who were obviously very apprehensive about getting into the water (not for very long) up to seasoned snorkelers. They simply made getting into and enjoying the water very easy.
The food was amazing….muffins and drinks on arrival, a fabulous lunch of steaks, fish and salad and cheese and biscuits as the day was coming to an end. They even threw in some complimentary wine after everyone had finished in the water.
Another highlight for me was the availability of complimentary reef safe factor 50 sun cream.
These guys do a proper job and I’d have no hesitation in recommending them.
“Absolutely loved this experience”
Absolutely loved this experience. As someone who has never snorkelled before, I was quite nervous but the crew take good care of you. They always keep a smile on their faces despite having quite a stressful job. The seasickness was the not-so fun part, so would strongly recommend taking anti-nausea meds at least 30 mins prior to departure! Would come back again.
“ I highly recommend it”
Absolutely phenomenal experience. Crew was a delight and were courageous to take us out even when the weather was a bit sporty. I highly recommend it. Our dive master for certified dives was funny, safe, and sweet to all divers.
“Such a great trip!”
This guys are a real gem!!! Had the best experience ever at the great barrier reef, the dives were out of this world, and the instructors are the best one’s you can find! The ship was too notch, organisation, food, staff, activities….. etc … everything was more than perfect! It worth every penny!
“Perfect day”
Amazing day! Sadly the helicopter didn’t work out, but our 3 dives were all great. Nic our guide was excellent. Saw a couple giant turtles and clams as well as 4 reef sharks. Great food and nice boat even with the very rough conditions. Thanks again.
“Fantastic memories”
It was an unforgettable day, one of the best experiences I have ever had. I recommend it 100% and especially the helicopter tour. You’ll see amazing views of the reef.
“Couldn't immagine nothing better!”
The whole experience from start to finish was very organised and professional. The staff were fun, friendly, knowledgeable and left no question unanswered, and the boat (Evolution) was large, comfortable, and clean. Even though the day of our trip was wet, bumpy and rainy - we still had an incredible experience snorkelling over the reef and the bad weather did not affect the view of the coral and fish at all. I would highly recommend Down Under Tours. Given our day was wet and bumpy every assistance was provided with respect to sea sickness tablets, etc which made everyone enjoy the experience. I highly recommend the guided snorkelling tour with marine biologist, Sammy, as well as posing for an underwater photo with Andi.
“Day well spent”
We had a great experience with this company and their service. The booking process was clear, as was boarding at the terminal in the morning. The crew were helpful and friendly. Everything was explained on board, there was water, sunscreen and much more. We enjoyed our stay from start to finish. The only thing I wasn't aware of, and I hadn't found it anywhere online before, even double-checking the FAQ and other sites, was the rule about not being able to use your own camera on the first introductory dive. This led me to book a second dive where it is allowed. I was considering doing this for the upcoming flight. But the time was right to pass the PADI regulations and go ahead. The second dive was amazing, thanks to Aaron, Jack and Kiki! Great time guys, we felt comfortable underwater all the time. Perhaps you could add this to the FAQ for others. Thank you!
“Highly recommend.”
Very happy that we selected Down Under Cruise to visit the Great Barrier Reef with. Special thank you to Ruth who assisted us in snorkelling and to all the staff who looked after us. BBQ lunch was also another highlight. Highly recommend.
“Awesome trip”
Absolutely phenomenal experience. Crew was a delight and were courageous to take us out even when the weather was a bit sporty. I highly recommend it. Our dive master for certified dives was funny, safe, and sweet to all divers.
“Such a great trip!”
Excellent trip!! So well organized, they all kept us informed the entire way. Took us to crystal clear water, awesome wildlife and great lunch!!
We saw a sea turtle, reef shark (not dangerous) as well as many other colorful fish and coral. Well done!
“SO SKEPTICAL”
You can’t go to Cairns and not do this! The Great Barrier Reef should be renamed to Spectacular Barrier Reef! The team at Down Under Cruise and Drive were fantastic! A very fun, energetic, knowledgeable, and efficient team. A beautiful boat, and two majestic locations where we scuba dived and snorkeled amongst stunning coral and fish, had a lovely lunch and snack and met some amazing people along the way <3
“Lifetime experience”
Down under cruises and dive is absolutely spectacular. They provide a valuable service and a great value. The food is 2nd to 9. The safety is first and for most The guides are extremely patient and caring for the reef so they don’t get broken or messed up I highly recommend down under cruises and dive they will provide you with a lifetime experience
“Fabulous trip”
Bucket list kind of day! The staff were very friendly, entertaining, knowledgable and safety was a priority. Excellent reef snorkelling and enough time in the water. Delicious lunch too! Definitely recommend Down Under Cruise & Dive!
“Top Notch!”
We can’t say enough good things about Our diving experience with Down Under!!!! The crew and staff were very informational, very well, organized, and tidy. Our dive master Jules was exceptionally well prepared and was great at explaining our experience as well as what to expect. She also helped explain the different types of underwater, marine life we would experience. Overall, it was one of our best dive experiences ever. We would highly recommend and especially Jules.
“We had the best time ever!”
Outstanding ship and crew along with top notch service. I went to scuba dive and they do everything for you. The only thing to be aware of that has nothing to do with this company is that to get to the reef itself it's a good hour and a half trip and if the winds are blowing it is a miserable trip. Highly recommend.
“Outstanding tour!!”
Learning how to dive with instructor Francesco and the team at Downunder Cruise and Dive was the best choice I could have made. The first two days consist of theory and exercises in the pool, day 3 and 4 are spent on the boat diving in two different beautiful reefs. I felt very comfortable and safe. The quality of the course is very high and the value for money compared to other providers is unbeatable in my opinion. The passion of the whole team and especially of Frankie is definitely transferred to the students and gives you unforgettable moments underwater. I highly recommend doing your Open Water Diver here. I had an amazing time and would always do it again.
“Highly recommend!!”
We booked the full day Great Barrier Reef cruise on the evolution, everything was professionally managed. The yacht is also super clean & well equipped, didn’t find anything that was missing. The staff were very helpful, they were kind enough to answer any questions & help out with the snorkel or dives. They take you two great dive locations & we get to spend ample time exploring both the locations. They also serve a great lunch on board, which is part of the package. Highly recommend!!
“Go for it!”
Very little complaints, big boat, takes you out to the great barrier reef which we all know is amazing. Good lunch onboard and the helicopter ride is 100% worth it, dont know about it, but the cruise out - fly back in option is probably worth it, after a long day you want to get back quickly + you get incredible acenery on the way.
Fun crew as well with jokes and a smile on their face all day!
“I highly recommend it! ”
Very happy that we selected Down Under Cruise to visit the Great Barrier Reef with. Special thank you to Ruth who assisted us in snorkelling and to all the staff who looked after us. BBQ lunch was also another highlight. Highly recommend.
“Stunning Tour”
Went on the tour. Everyone was super nice and knowledgeable. We were able to see so many different. Amazing animals. We did the extra biology tour and thoroughly enjoyed the various things that were pointed out.
Thanks!
“Recommended!”
This was an unforgettable experience for us. It was the most organized and well executed day cruise I’ve been on. We went snorkeling just me and my son and the staff helped us feel comfortable, safe and supported the whole way. They briefed us beforehand with safety tips. They helped us adjust our gear and guided us on a marine biology tour so we could learn about what we were seeing. Then we dried off and we took a helicopter ride to see the reef from above. There as well felt it was safe, easy and fun. The lunch was good with steak and salad. We had cheese crackers and wine. There was plenty of space for everyone. I never felt crowded even though we were so many. Really wonderful, could not recommend more. Thank you
“The trip was enjoyable”
Unmissable experience with these guys.
We had an amazing day in the great barrier Reef.
We went snorkeling and scuba diving as well, we visited two reef sites.
Highly recommended with these team!
“Great tour”
Though the wave was really bumpy the other day, the staffs took care of us perfectly. They put safety in the first place.And the facility are pretty clean and new. Highly recommend it!
“Enthusiastic tour!”
It was really good, well organized and with a very friendly professional crew. During the whole day they giving attention to everyone, helping and supporting and giving confidence in the water with snorkeling etc. The lunch/dinner was great. Well prepared with big variety: so for everyone a really nice meal. We can only recommended this company if you like to have a good boat trip to the Great Barrier Rif. We had both a great day.
“We will certainly be coming back ”
This was one of the most epic tours I have been on. Great schedule and management, but a lot of free time to snorkel and explore the Great Barrier Reef!
Food was epic at lunch time, staff/team were funny, friendly and informative. Equipment was well looked after and clean.
We will certainly be coming back with family and friends to join this tour again.
“I highly recommend ”
I highly recommend seeing the Great Barrier Reef with Down Under Cruise and Diving! Staff was fantastic, and the snorkelling was AMAZING!! We got to see lots of bright, colourful fish, stingrays, and reef sharks . A definite MUST when visiting Cairns. Great for both adults and children.
“Highly recommend to anyone.”
What a fabulous experience. Everything I expected and more. The staff were very friendly, approachable, knowledgeable and very caring when a few passengers became seasick on the return journey. The food was plentiful and the boat was kept clean tidy and safe. Safety during the trip and the time in the water, was paramount and very obvious.
My partner suggested, instead of ads on the various tv screens dotted around the boat, facts about the reef and the fish, the water depth and temp would be an asset.
“Thanks for a great trip”
Absolutely awesome trip. I have been on quite a few trips with various operators and these guys are by far the most professional.
The staff are very welcoming and friendly and the food is beautiful.
If you are able to do the helicopter tour I would recommend that as well
Thanks for a great trip. We look forward to going out again when we come back to cairns.
“Comprehensive tour!”
Very happy that we selected Down Under Cruise to visit the Great Barrier Reef with. Special thank you to Ruth who assisted us in snorkelling and to all the staff who looked after us. BBQ lunch was also another highlight. Highly recommend.
“We had a wonderful snorkeling experience ”
The crews are super nice, helpful and professional. When many passengers got sea sick, they were quick to provide paper bags and napkins and collect the rubbish immediately. Very thoughtful to those needed. Coaches were professional as well as patient, we, as the very beginners, were deeply impressed by their kind acts.
Special and sincere thanks to the whole working team. We had a wonderful snorkeling experience for the first time.
“Thank you for an unforgettable experience.”
Amazing tour to the Great Barrier Reef. Service was top notch …..from the minute you check in at the terminal to the time you disembark, it’s first class all the way.
“Would come here again!!!!!”
Staff are so friendly, passion and helpful. So many colorful reef and fish! I even saw a small shark! Marine Biologist guided tours are strong recommended! The buffet on boat is great! Beef steak, fish steak and prawns! Great options for snorkelling and introductory/cerficated diving!!! Would come here again!!!!!
“Great tour”
Very impressed with Down Under Cruise and Dive snorkel trip to the Great Barrier Reef. Boat is large, super clean, and excellent crew. The two snorkel and dive stops were great locations, and all gear, including "stinger suits," and pool noodles were provided. Lunch on board was a plentiful and tasty Australian BBQ, and snacks and a glass of wine were provided on the return trip. Highly recommend!
“Don’t miss it!”
My daughter and I had such a wonderful experience. Staff were so friendly and welcoming. Water was beautiful. My daughter did 2 x scuba dives. It was her first time and the instructors made her feel safe and assured. She loved every second. Thank you
“Awesome trip”
Spectacular afternoon with Down Under. It was a bit rainy (we were in Cairns in Feb during wet season) but that didn't slow us down. I went scuba diving and my wife went snorkeling - we each had a wonderful afternoon. The team, fellow passengers, and food were great.
We brought our 14 month old child on the boat with us and had no issues (we did notify during booking). So if you have a baby, you can still go with down unde
“Great tour”
Great excursion. Boat was large, spacious, lots of outside seating in the sun, plus plenty of indoor seating and tables for lunch. Staff was funny, engaging, and very helpful. Two great snorkel spots in the Great Barrier Reef. 2 hours in the water at the first spot. 1 hour in the water at the second spot. Lunch was solid, steak, fish and prawns. A few pasta salads too. I would highly recommend this company with lots of options. Looked like the nicest and biggest boat, but not too crowded.
“Definitely recommend this tour.”
We had a great day. Sam and Eddie were fantastic and went above and beyond to make sure everything is excellent. I was very impressed with the level of care and professionalism of the whole group. Definitely recommend this tour.
“The trip was enjoyable”
Jen and the entire crew were fabulous! The catamaran was very spacious and clean, easy to get around! The snorkeling instruction was as detailed as you needed. The food was delicious! The helicopter ride was incredible. I would definitely recommend this
“I recommend these guys to everyone”
Our day was amazing!
The crew handled the bumpy ride to the reef with care and compassion ensuring everyone was as comfortable as they could be with the weather conditions.
Our snorkel was our first experience and there were plenty of staff to assist hesitant or nervous people.
We saw beautiful coral, big and small fish, a small reef shark, starfish and a turtle between the 2 reefs.
It was the most amazing experience, I recommend these guys to everyone
“Loved it! Take me back!”
Overall experience has been good. But the lunch provided is very basic. It’s just salad and one BBQ meat . I have requested for vegetarian option but I just got one veggie cutlet. The frozen types. The crew is super great with handling all your queries. If I am visiting again , I’ll def choose them
“Snorkeling fun”
First time to the GBR. This tour is well-organized with great staff. The lunch was so good. Make sure you take your anti-motion sickness tablets even before getting on board. They do sell it - 2 tablets for $4. I would buy it if you didn't bring your own. It would make your experience much more pleasant. You will be thankful because half the people end up getting seasick - this happens doesn't matter what boat/tour you take. Even on a calm day, people get seasick. We went on a day with pretty choppy sea. If you still want to try it without the anti-motion sickness tablets, you can try to sleep... (just take the meds!)
We saw lots of different types of fish and the colors were amazing. My friends thought my GoPro photos were from an aquarium! It was a cloudy day, so it wasn't even optimal. Sadly, there is not that much coral left and lots of sad dead white coral. It was still a breath-taking experience. They offer a beginner snorkel tour where you just snorkel along a guide by holding onto a floating device. The guide pointed out some clown fish and parrotfish to us. The equipment offered were all in working order and clean. Wet-suit rental is $10 and it's worth it on a cold/windy day. We would definitely go again with this tour group and recommend it highly.
“Really beautiful”
Beautiful spectacle, divided into two places where you will dive. Staff absolutely friendly, helpful and nice. Although the coral reef has own problems, it is worth to visit its.
“The absolute Best!!”
This is my second time on the Evolution, and both trips have been fantastic. The genuinely happy and helpful crew was an absolute stand out, informative, friendly and vigilant with emphasis on safety. From reef pics by on board photographer, simple yet tasty lunch, options for glass bottom boat, reef helicopter flights (did the helicopter on my first trip,fantastic) extra dive options and support for first timers and non swimmers. Will definately head out on the reef again with this crew. Shout out to Daniel,thank you so much :) see you next year. But EVERY STAFF MEMBER was awesome, thanks guys!!!
“Amazing Trip!”
This was an unreal trip. The staff was amazing and always so happy to help. I would go again with this group!
“Awesome Outer Reef Trip”
I've done a couple great barrier reef trips now, and this is by far best outer reef experience yet. Large comfortable still new feeling vessel, great crew and awesome dive and snorkel equipment made the day a pleasure.
It got us to the reef in not much over an hour and this boat rides the waves well. Also great to have large sundeck and shade covered topdeck where you can sit and see in all directions. Unique to reef trips.
Crew really do an awesome job of introductory dives, so for first-timers and experienced divers - highly recommended. Snorkelling equipment as said also new and top-notch so no water filling ill-fitting masks here.
Lunch great and glass of wine and cheese on the way back went down well, even with the wind picking up a bit.
Thanks to all. Couldn't have been a better or more memorable day out.
“The best tour from Cairns”
This tour is a must do if you have any time in Cairns. We were there for 3 nights out of our 3 weeks in Australia and this was our favorite tour of the whole trip. It’s great for nearly all ages and experience levels, the staff was knowledgeable and helpful, and entire experience felt safe and well organized. The vegetarian meal option was actually good and they offered plenty of snacks before and after lunch. They also provided wet suits for anyone who wanted one. The boat felt clean and secure and there were cameras in the boat so your belongings were okay while you were in the water. Definitely add the helicopter option if nothing else as it’s just 10 minutes of the day for views unlike anything else. Would definitely recommend this company and tour.
“Amazing Day”
We absolutely loved our time out on the reef today. The boat is fantastic, the crew are really friendly and efficient and the reefs we visited didn’t disappoint. The whole day runs like clockwork from beginning to end. Lunch was plentiful and really nice. There was plenty of space on the boat to chill out and soak up the sun, either whilst moving around or taking a break from snorkelling. We expected live music on the way back, which didn’t happen and we’re not sure why. It would have topped the day off but certainly doesn’t stop us highly recommending this tour. Thanks for a fantastic day.
“Amazing day on the reef!”
My brother and I enjoyed a great day on board Evolution! Visiting the two reef sites - Norman and North Hastings was fantastic. All the staff were happy and helpful to the guests. The lunch was really nice and there was plenty of food available. I would thoroughly recommend Down under for your next reef trip.
“A great day on the water”
My partner and I did the day trip out to the outer reef for snorkelling. We were hesitant to do a full day but are glad we did. The whole thing was really well structured and the boat was lovely and big enough for everyone to have plenty of room. the safety instructions etc were short and sweet and the food provided was nice and generous portions. we snorkelled at 2 different reef locations and got to spend some time in the sun on the boat deck. we saw a green sea turtle up close, a heap of colourful fish and a reef shark. I was impressed with the amount of saline and while the reef is somewhat damaged it was still beautiful! all in all a great day!
“1st Tour with Down Under”
Got outfitted with prescription snorkeling gear and flippers soon after we were on the boat. There are life jackets and pool noodles, depending on your swimming capabilities and how much energy you want to expend (strong waves). Great snorkeling experience, with amazing coral colors and fish sizes. About 1 - 2 hours in each of the 2 water locations.
A part of the boat and water is geared toward beginning divers, providing a comfortable area to start the experience.
When they tell you that the water is choppy and recommend motion sickness tablets, please do so for the sake of you and everyone else on the boat. If you're worried, the best spot is on the top deck in the back of the boat. The fresh air really helps.
“A wonderful experience from start to finish”
This is a top notch snorkelling, diving and heli ride experience - we did it all and loved every minute. The snorkelling spots were rich with colourful marine life. The boat was spacious and comfortable, the staff friendly cheerful and helpful. Some deserve a mention for making our day really special - photographer Gen for not only capturing the moments with us and the turtle but also for sharing the other fish pics from the day. Great pics, thank you.
Daniel was a patient and encouraging dive teacher and Che very professionally got us ready for the heli ride.
Overall, superb team work and a brilliant day.
“Down Under Cruise and Dive Cairns”
Went on Evolution cruise today fantastic very professional from start to finish felt very safe .The staff were great very slick outfit.Highly recommended. Down Under cruise and dive.Martin and Cathy Q.
“Best yet!”
This was my third time doing a boat cruise/tour to the reef and by far the best! The crew are beyond helpful and the most friendly! Super knowledgeable and highly highly recommend
“I had so much fun!”
Checking in was seamless. No need to be there any earlier then stated, as they don’t begin check in till 7:15am. Boat ride was smooth, but take sea sick tablets if you are prone to getting sick. Both snorkelling destinations were beautiful. Wetsuit hire is $10, good to keep you warm and afloat, but not necessary. The company offers a guide to snorkel with, which is great for first time snorkellers. So many people around so there’s no worry about getting lost on the reef and left behind. Staff are very cautious and frequently check number of people on board. All in all, an amazing day!
“Most amazing experience in Australia so far!”
We had snorkelled in various other locations along the east coast during our travels and were able to see lots of fish but obviously you have to visit the Great Barrier Reef when in Australia. The experience was out of this world, the friendly staff made you feel safe at all times and the equipment was excellent allowing you to swim and snorkel with ease. The staff onboard catering and at the bar were also friendly. The photographs were amazing and reasonably priced. This is by far the best experience I’ve had in my 3 months of being in Australia.
“Reef cruise”
This tour was an amazing experience;the staff were knowledgeable, friendly and efficient and the reef was beautiful to see. My group of four young adults felt very welcome and we were well taken care of by the staff. Buffet lunch was also lovely with vegan options available. Would absolutely recommend this tour.
“Most amazing experience in Australia so far!”
We had snorkelled in various other locations along the east coast during our travels and were able to see lots of fish but obviously you have to visit the Great Barrier Reef when in Australia. The experience was out of this world, the friendly staff made you feel safe at all times and the equipment was excellent allowing you to swim and snorkel with ease. The staff onboard catering and at the bar were also friendly. The photographs were amazing and reasonably priced. This is by far the best experience I’ve had in my 3 months of being in Australia.
“Highly recommended!!”
You can not miss this in Cairns. It is amazing experience. We used the Down Under tours and they had an amazing crew. You don't need any experience or ability to swim. Just go for it. Sea Sickness can be problem for some but again it is actually a must do.
“Well organized trip, amazing reef”
We booked the single day Evolution Great Barrier Reef trip.
The crew was really nice, professional and also funny, they welcome you with big smiles from start to the end of the journey.
The boat is really good, clean and comfortable, it also have plugs 220V and USB for each table, to charge any device you need only your cable.
Lunch is very good, you can take food as much as you want, but not waste it.
Snorkeling equipment are also very good and the crew helps everyone from novice to expert snorkeling level.
The reef is spectecular, it has to be seen to understand, no words can explain it without seeing with your own eyes.
Definitely a really amazing day, I recommend this experience.
“Awesome trip”
This trip was fantastic, the crew thought of everything, were funny and enjoyable to go cruising with. I did one scuba dive, which was really well organised and all instructions clearly communicated.
“Excellent cruise trip.”
Friendly n helpful crew. Value money. I will recommend this company to my friends
“Very efficient dive & snorkel outfit - would go with them again”
I was very impressed with how well organised this company is from the moment of check in, to the end of the trip. Despite catering for such large groups of tourists ranging from beginner snorkelers to advanced divers, the well organised staff and crew ensured that everything ran like clockwork.
“Great day out”
Fantastic trip to 2 spots on the reef. Saw alot of fish, coral and turtles. Staff super friendly and helpful, especially with a wide range of ages and abilities on the boat.
“The tour was incredible.”
The crew was very kind and the service excellent. We went to two different points in the reef and we could see everything perfectly.
“It was amazing and awsome experience”
Thanks a lot Down Under. I would like to commend the staffs efforts and professionalism. They awere very helpful to each visitor.Food was ample and great quality. time keeping and helpfulness was up to the mark. The visit was made memorable and would like to come again. Sally was great !! The Boat is great, organisation and care was ultimate and every single member of the crew was very helpful, ensuring customer delightment. Overall experience is *****. Excellent !! Many thanks.
“Excellent organized, tasty food, entertainment on board”
This was really nice experience - snorkeling cruise with food and wine on the way back. The organization including safety was excellent. Snorkeling was nice and even though we were quite a lot of people in the water, I didn't notice crowd while snorkeling. On the way back we enjoyed wine and nice live music. Will do again.
“A fantastic introduction to the great barrier reef.”
A very easy, relaxing and organized day. It was a little bit choppy on the ocean, but everything went well.
A fantastic boat as well.
“One day snorkelling tour to outer Great Barrier Reef”
We had a fantastic day out on the GBR with Down Under Cruise & Dive.
The boat is new, clean and well equipped. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout the day, and made the day fun and everyone welcoming.
The only let downs were having to check in and stand in a very long line (approximately 40 minute wait) in the cruise centre on the morning of the cruise. We also hadn't pre-booked an introductory scuba dive as we were advised we'd be able to book on the day but on the day there was no availability - would recommend booking this in advance if you're considering it. Was also a shame having to wait so long at the end of the day to view photos - perhaps having them available to view at different times during the day could be helpful.
“5-STAR REVIEW FROM A CAIRNS LOCAL”
I can highly recommend this day trip to the Great Barrier Reef, I am a Cairns local and have been out on most of the GBR day trips.
The crew are wonderful and very professional, the boat is the best in Cairns by a long way, it goes to 2 stunning locations where the water is clean, clear, and warm. Today I swam with so many beautiful fish, and saw stingrays and turtles. I loved my day out on the reef. FYI I went on my own and was made to feel very welcome and made some lovely new friends.
“Amazing experience and friendly staff”
My family and I had a incredible experience snorkelling. The staff were welcoming, friendly and we felt safe and well looked after. My son did the introduction scuba dive which was only for a short time and we felt the view snorkelling was just as good. Beautiful lunch and my only recommendation would be to provide some reef education during the trip out. Otherwise great day out, plenty of different marine life to view.
“Excellent service, very enjoyable!”
I picked this company back in 2015 for a day in the GBR, and I really liked. Now back to Cairns this year, I picked them again. The boat is really nice, kinda new, comfortable, it stops at two different spots for snorkeling/ diving, all staff are very friendly, they give you attention/ assistance. My husband went for 3 dives, and loved it! The dive master was a very cute girl, pity that I forget her name, but really nice.
“Fun trip and excellent service!”
Down Under Cruise and Dive have a great team of people who showed us around the reef. We loved our first dive and they helped calm my partners nerves on her first dive. Even with a bit of bad weather initially the staff were really upbeat and we had a great day! Would thoroughly recommend a trip with them to see the reef.
“Gorgeous new boat & organised team on board!”
As a Cairns local, I took two friends (Melburnians trying to escape the terrible weather down south!) along to the Reef. We decided to spend the day on Evolution, with two introductory dives.
Our check-in was quick and efficient, with no troubles, and it was easy to locate the boat with the instructions provided from the staff, and of course it was the newest looking boat out on the docks!
Once on board, we were impressed with the cleanliness of the boat, especially plentiful options of comfortable seating outdoors (generous sized sun beds and side lounges)!
Having been on a few intro dives myself, I managed to convince my two friends to partake in an intro dive as well! Prices are extremely competitive and cheap if you pre book your dives! The staff were super enthusiastic and friendly, which put my friends at ease, especially during the intro dive talks. We stopped at two different sites North Hastings and Norman Reef. The first dive was great and staff were helpful and assisted you through the whole process. One of my friends loved it so much, he paid for a 2nd dive at the next site in Hastings! On our second dive, we were guided by a marine biologist who was just fantastic. It also happened to be cuttlefish breeding season, so we saw a few of those little cute fellows too! And this was just snorkelling after our dives!
Overall, it was a perfect day with pristine weather conditions. Could not ask for more! Myself and my visitors were thoroughly impressed and I would definitely recommend spending the day on Evolution with the team from Down Under Cruise & Dive. Well done guys!
“Great first diving experience!”
Had a really fantastic experience with the snorkeling and intro dive with down under. Obviously it is all about the Great Barrier Reef and seeing this was definitely a memorable highlight of my adventure in Australia. Asides from that Down Under has everything organized to make the trip on the boat as comfortable as possible with a great lunch and qualified instructors!
“Wow!”
This was the most well run tour I’ve ever been on. It was a large boat (around 80 people), but there were probably 10 crew members on board making sure that everything ran like clockwork. The boat included a variety of tour options (snorkeling, diving, helicopter rides, & submarines), and they had a very efficient strategy to keep everyone straight. They also had two photographers working with the option to buy your photos, a pretty decent lunch spread, and live music on the way back. Highly recommend this option!
“The most wonderful day trip we have had”
My wife and I have had the most wonderful day trip with Down Under Cruise & Dive. The place I was snorkeling is amazing. There are lots kind of colorful coral and fish I can see. It is a real under water jungle there you can't believe it. The staff on the cruise are professional and kind. Food and drinks are fabulous. Overall everything is perfect. We believe we will come again some day in the future. Strongly recommend to everyone.
“Great service and great snorkeling”
No negative to list. The boat has less than 100 people. They had eyes on us in the water at all times. Float devices were available. The snorkel fit well. We had adequate amount of time in the water. The lunch was fabulous even for a vegetarian . The entertainment on the way home was great. The glass sub was awesome . Definitely do the glass sub.
“Best Experience Ever!!!”
The whole experience from when you first step on to the boat and get greeted by the staff to when you get off the boat at the end of the day was honestly one of the best experiences ever! The staff were amazing and icing to the cake as the snorkeling was honestly incredible! The day was magical as I got to swim next to a turtle, a reef shark and hundreds of small and big fish. I managed to get a few under water photos of myself and my mates on the day which was amazing and done by the staff. Would recommend to everyone and the experience is a 11 out of 10, I couldn’t fault it.
“We had such a good time on this cruise.”
They took us to two reefs that had great sights both in and out of the water. They fed you ample food and the crew were entertaining to listen to (but they certainly took safety seriously). Our only complaint is a little thing and would have been no problem if we knew about it in advance. When you check-in in the morning, make sure you go to the wharf building first, not the actual pier. Now, a few recommendations. Bring your own waterproof camera or phone bag. They sell them for a hefty fee or offer pictures for purchase for an even heftier fee (and we weren't in any despite running into the photographer in the water 3 times during the day). We wish we had pictures for ourselves and our own camera would have been the best way to do it. Also, I have never gotten sea sick in my life but did start to feel it here due to the waves (nothing the captain could have done). When they offer sea sickness pills, I highly recommend them even if you never get sea sick. They helped so much for our return trip. Please don't let the thought of sea sickness stop you because the trip was absolutely worth it.
“So much fun!”
Definitely worth it! They offer $4 motion sickness pills before you leave the dock - DEFINITELY take those. We had a bunch of folks on our trip sick wishing they had taken the pills.
“Worth every cent”
It was the first time for my wife and I to go snorkeling. We had a great time, the staff was extremely professional and they had taken care of everything. Highly recommended!!!
“Incredible Day”
Highly recommend this tour. Boat was great. Staff were fantastic. Food was great. Reef was amazing. Everything was perfect. I snorkelled and did the helicopter flight.
“Epic experience - top 5 of my life!”
Our family went on the diving/snorkelling day cruise with this company and wow, I had no idea what a truly unforgettable experience this would be. Yacht was very clean, spacious and well operated by the friendly staff. The tour group is the largest group I’ve ever been with but so well organized for its size. Snorkelling in two different reefs was such a treat; I cannot explain the profound sensation is floating at the reef surface while marvelling at the reef treasures and letting the waves rock you. This was honestly one of the top 5 travelling experiences of my life...and I have been to many countries across 4 continents. My hubby and I took our 14-month-old baby along so we took turns snorkelling at each site. Even though our time was split, it did not feel short at all (actually felt very decent for each of us!). Only thing was I wished I found the diver photographer so they could snap a photo of me; what a great memento my other family members had! Such an awesome experience, one I will never forget.
“Surprisingly good”
I've done a few trips on the GBR, while I can't say it was my favourite I was pleasantly surprised. For one of the cheaper tours available I assumed the food wouldn't be great but was good and the crew were all very helpful and fun. I was a solo traveller so they assign you to a seating area with people of the same age & situation which I've never had before and was a nice touch.
I chose this company as the others I had seen had 4 hours reef time, whereas down under have 5 hours on the reef and take you to two different reefs (I went on another boat the day after and they took us to one reef only & back to where I snorkelled the day before with down under!). I got to see a few glimpses of reef sharks, no turtles (the divers did) but the reef has a resident maori wrasse that has a curious attitude and likes to swim behind you when you're not looking.
“Fantastic day at the Reef”
It was a truly great day at the Reef! Despite the large number of guests on the boat everything was well organised and staff were nice and helpful, making sure that everyone had a good time. My first time introductory dive with Brandon was amazing and so was snorkelling at the Reef. I'd definitely recommend booking your Great Barrier Reef tour with Down Under Cruise & Dive.
“Great snorkelling day”
We took our 2 children 7 & 10 for their first snorkelling trip with Down Under Dive and it was fantastic. Our 7 yo wasn’t feeling great on the way out and struggled with snorkelling but the crew were very accommodating and helped out as much as possible. The food was great and served well onboard. Even on a rough day it was still amazing and the crew were awesome! Thanks for a great day
“Trip To Cairns”
The staff was very helpful and they take safety very seriously. Really seems like they are trying to make sure everyone has a good time. The lunch provided on the boat was pleasantly much better than I expected as well. We were lucky to have fantastic weather which made the trip out to the reef really nice.
“Great day down under”
What a fantastic trip out to the outer reefs of the great barrier reef! Very friendly and upbeat crew, wonderful boat and stunning reef locations. One of the best things I've ever done while traveling.
“A great day with wonderful crew”
My daughter (9) and I spent the day with Down Under Cruise & Dive on their large boat Evolution. We both had a wonderful day, enjoying the beautiful reef, seeing countless fish and coral, a shark and to the excitement of Ava turtles. Although the best part of the trip was the thoughtful crew who were patient and understanding and who helped Ava overcome her initial apprehension and to enjoy her day snorkelling. Thanks
“Amazing tour”
Went on the tour with 2 adults and 2 kids (9 and 16). Well organized, very good service, very friendly staff, good food. 2 great snorkeling spots. We rent neoprene suits for all for a very reasonable price 10$pP. You can park your car or Motorhome for 10$ close to the pier, very convenient. Would book the tour definitely again!!! Thanks to the entire Team of the cruise you made our day
“Lots of fun snorkeling the reef”
Not as colourful as I hoped (probably have to dive deeper for that) but plenty of fish and followed a turtle around for a few minutes. Snorkeling for beginners through to advanced all accommodated, even if you can't swim a guide can tow you with a flotation ring.
Staff was professional, friendly and run a good operation. Boat was comfortable, fast and looked fairly new. Food was fine, not great but simple and good (steak or fish with salads). Would definitely recommend.
“Fantastic!! ”
The trip was really amazing!!
“My tour was incredible, thank you!”
My tour was incredible, thank you! There was a bit of confusion on my end because it was the first time I’d done a tour of this sort by myself, but everything went off without a hitch from your end. It was planned perfectly, and I was able to find everything easily thanks to the information provided.
“"Great tour"”
My friend and I spent the day diving the Great Barrier Reef which was absolutely incredible. First impressions of the day trip seemed great with friendly welcomes and feeling comfortable as soon as we boarded. Once we arrived at the reef, Nari along with other crew got us sorted with equipment before jumping in. He automatically made us feel at ease with his great personality, showed us certain instructions and headed down to the reef. It was the most amazing experience so we decided to dive again which was 100% worth doing. Nari made it so relaxed and showed us a lot of cool things whilst being down there! As soon as I left I already wished I could do it all over again. Great day in cairns with a great team guiding us throughout the day!!
““Fantastic””
Booked a day dive.
Meet early in the morning,was very easy to find,staff very friendly and welcoming. First dive was guided was fantastic. Team pick a good reef. Lunch was provided and again was perfect. 2nd dive unguided and amazing. Cake on the way back to land.
Couldn't recommend enough,will be Bach
Thanks guys.
““Would recommend””
Lovely day trip out on the reef. Did 2 scuba dives with Bradley. Was amazing. Bradley was very patient with both my boyfriend and mother who were very nervous at the beginning before the dives. He took them down slowly and made sure they were ok several times before going any deeper. All the crew were lovely and we all had a lovely day.
““Exceptional service, amazing experience””
Being a non-swimmer, I was a bit anxious going on a snorkeling tour. When we got to the reef, I was offered a life jacket and a guided instructor to swim together by holding onto a life ring linked with the instructor. To ensure the best experience, they teach you how to keep your glasses fog free. Being short sighted and not wearing contact lenses, I was not expecting to see as much as other people, it turned out they even had glasses with prescription and really changed my experience there. The boat was slightly dated but you are there for the experience and not the boat. The food was good considering you are on a boat. I could not have asked for more. If you are up for the best experience in cairns, go with these guys. They won't let you down.
““Rough seas smooth service””
Had a great time snorkeling with my partner yesterday on the GBR. The weather wasnt very good however the crew from the captain down were great. Everyone was very friendly and generally happy to be working on the boat.
““Extrem friendly team, super experience!””
I did the one day diving and snorkeling tour on 10th of March with Cairns diving center. I have to say the tour was awesome! First of all you really get extremely good value for money. I did the intro dive and we spend 30min underwater. The team is extremely helpful and super friendly plus a lot of fun. Our diving instructor Lee took great care of all of us, introducing us to the risk and what we can and can't do. If you did well and wanted to you could even dive within his distance on your own. Roxy the photographer took awesome picture which you can buy for a reasonable price. The food was great and plenty and the groups were small. Besides the scuba diving, everyone could go snorkeling for a total of almost 2 1/2 hours on two different spots. Gear was provided and because of the nice team that really seems to know what it was doing and took great care you always felt very comfortable.
This tour has really been one of my hilights in Australia.
““Awesome experience!””
We took the day trip with the M.V. Sunkist, being snorkelers we took the intro dive as well.
Our first stop (Manta Ray Reef) was a great snorkeling spot and our intro dive was amazing. My GF was a little nervous about diving, but the dive instructor (Lee) was very competent, friendly and made her and myself feel in good hands. We were taken down to 11m in small groups (4 people), after 30min diving we resurfaced.
The second spot was even better than the first one, perfect for close up snorkeling. Lunch was okay for a diving/snorkeling tour (if you want a gourmet lunch, go book a museum tour ;-)
and for the price it was perfect. One of our best tours in Australia! Would def recommend!!!
Locally owned and operated. Awesome!
““First Time Diving!””
A friend and I visited the reef today with CDC. We have done snorkelling all the way up the coast including in the whitsundays and this was by far the best snorkelling we have had. Also included in our price was a free intorductory dive. Neither of us have dived before and we we're very much lookign forward to it as well as being a bit nervous. Our instructor, Lee, was very welcoming and was funny as well as informative, which put us both and i'm sure everyone, at ease. Then it was time for our dive! All the crew were very helpful which meant we were in the water as quick as possible which meant we had the most time possible down in the depths. We loved every minute of it and we're just mesmorised by the underwater world! It may not have been the best place to dive in the reef but as a first time diver I coudln't fault it one bit. Lee was very good underwater constantly checking everything was okay which was good to know we we're in safe hands!
We then had plenty of time after our dive to explore with the snorkel. They didn't rush anyone to get out the water so they could get on with the day it was al nice and relaxed which we found good. The snorkelling was FAB! saw loads of cool creatures and fish, but unfortunately not turtles or sharks but hey ho!
Lunch was next and there was plenty of it and was all very nice, as well as a good selection. Cold meat sandwiches, pasta dish, a rice dish, lots of salad and plenty of biscuits!
We then moved to a second diving spot, we only snorkelled but again it was amazing and even better than the first spot.
Would highly recommend as the staff are all very welcoming and nice and the diving (especially for a beginner) was just amazing and a very good price for people backpacking like us!
Thank you CDC!!
““Great value for your first diving experience! MV Reefkist””
I've been snorkeling many times but never diving. Signed up for a day trip with CDC aboard MV Reefkist and it was great! Lee and his team did a fantastic job making the trip safe, enjoyable, and FUNNY. Loved the option to add a second dive for only $30! Lunch was delicious as well. Highly recommend CDC for a first-time diver.
