Tour Highlights
- Experience the best of the Great Barrier Reef in a day with a helicopter scenic flight from Cairns and a visit to Green Island and an outer Barrier Reef pontoon
- Snap a selfie from the comfort of your seat in a luxury helicopter as you soar above Arlington Reef, Upolu Cay and Green Island on the Great Barrier Reef scenic flight.
- Enjoy a self-guided eco-walk through Green Island’s lush rainforest and relax on the pristine white sandy beaches or go snorkelling in the fringing reefs.
- An amazing 2 in 1 Great Barrier Reef tour deal where you can add in scenic helicopter flights
Description & Tour Inclusions
Included In Price
- Morning & Afternoon tea / coffee
- Self guided eco-walk on Green Island
- Snorkelling equipment for Green Island & Norman Reef platform
- Access to Green Island and use of day visitor facilities & island swimming pool
- Great Barrier Reef scenic helicopter flight
- In-flight commentary
- Up to 3 hours at Norman Reef pontoon (dependant on package booked)
- Semi-submersible submarine tour on Norman Reef platform
- Underwater observatory on Norman Reef Platform
- Hot and cold tropical buffet lunch
- Lycra suits
- Bouyancy aids
- Reef Education presentation
Combo $$$ Saver Deal! Experience the best of the Great Barrier Reef in a day with a scenic helicopter flight, a visit to Green Island, one of the most popular tropical islands near Cairns and to top it off, an outer reef pontoon nestled upon the stunning coral reef systems of Norman Reef.
What to Expect
Book your seat on the Green Island & Great Barrier Reef Helicopter & Cruise Combo Packages from Cairns for a comprehensive reef and island adventure. These helicopter and reef combo package tours combine a morning visit to the unique, rainforest-covered Green Island with an exhilarating afternoon spent exploring the Outer Great Barrier Reef from a well-equipped pontoon activity platform. Experience the best of both worlds: the tranquillity of an island retreat and the excitement of vibrant underwater ecosystems. This is the perfect option for visitors who may be non-swimmers or those who are looking for a complete overview of the Great Barrier Reef experience in the one day.
Green Island & Great Barrier Reef Helicopter ComboTour Packages:
- (Option 1)
- Fly/Cruise/Cruise: Helicopter scenic flight to Green Island, boat cruise to the Outer Reef pontoon, and return to Cairns by boat.
- 20 minutes helicopter flight, 1 hour on Green Island, 3 hours at the Outer Reef pontoon.
- Depart Cairns: 09:50
- Arrive Cairns: 17:30
All product requires a minimum number of passengers to proceed. Our Reservations team will reach out to confirm availability within the shortest possible time after we receive your order online.
- (Option 2)
- Cruise/Cruise/Fly: Boat cruise to Green Island and the Outer Reef pontoon before helicopter scenic flight back to Cairns.
- 2 hours on Green Island, 2hrs:45mins at the Outer Reef, 25 minutes helicopter flight.
- Depart Cairns: 08:30
- Arrive Cairns: 15:30
All product requires a minimum number of passengers to proceed. Our Reservations team will reach out to confirm availability within the shortest possible time after we receive your order online.
- (Option 3)
- Cruise/Cruise/10 Minute Scenic/Cruise: Boat cruise to Green Island and the Outer Reef, 10-minute scenic helicopter flight at the pontoon and boat cruise back to Cairns.
- Depart Cairns: 08.30
- Arrive Cairns: 17.30
- This option includes a 10-minute scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef at the pontoon before the boat cruise back to Cairns.
All product requires a minimum number of passengers to proceed. Our Reservations team will reach out to confirm availability within the shortest possible time after we receive your order online.
Features and Highlights
Green Island Experience:
- Scenic Helicopter Flight: Take off from Cairns and fly over stunning landmarks like Arlington Reef, Upolo Reef, and Vlasoff Sand Cay before landing on Green Island. This is one of the most spectacular and varied helicopter scenic flights in Cairns.
- Green Island Tour Activities: Enjoy 1-2 hours on Green Island, depending on your selected package. Options include snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, relaxing by the island's pool, or taking a self-guided eco walk through the island’s tropical rainforest. Morning tea/coffee provided.
- Facilities Access: Full use of Green Island's resort facilities, including pools and day visitor areas, is included, enhancing your leisure time on the island.
Outer Reef Platform Adventure:
- Great Barrier Reef Activity Pontoon: Travel by fast catamaran to the Outer Reef and in 45 minutes you will arrive on the Great Adventures pontoon which will serves as your base for numerous in-water activities or for non-swimmers the underwater observatory or the semi-submersible submarine are great options to enjoy all the activity on the reef.
- 10 minute Helicopter Flight: For those who chose option (3) this is where you will enjoy a 10 minute helicopter ride across the outer Great Barrier Reef.
- Snorkelling and Scuba Diving: Dive into the reef's bustling marine life with all snorkelling gear provided. For those new to snorkelling, flotation devices and detailed instructions are available to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Please note scuba diving safety, terms and conditions.
- Semi-Submersible Submarine Tour: Board the semi-submersible submarine for a cruise beneath the waves. This brilliant tour comes with expert commentary, giving you insights into the complex reef ecosystems.
- Underwater Observatory: Visit the pontoons underwater observatory for up-close views of the coral and marine life and all the underwater activity without getting wet.
Food & Beverage:
- Dining: Your adventure includes morning tea, a sumptuous hot and cold buffet lunch aboard the platform, and afternoon tea. Dietary needs are catered for upon request.
- Beverages: Enjoy complimentary soft drinks, water, and from 11 am, beer and wine are available at your cost.
Additional Information:
- All tours include Environmental Management Charge (EMC).
- The variety of packages allows you to customize your day to match your interests and schedule, making it ideal for those who want to maximise their time exploring one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders.
Choose your exceptional adventure and discover the unparalleled beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and Green Island from Cairns in the one day.
See all helicopter and reef combo tours from Cairns and Port Douglas.
Read the Barrier Reef Australia Blog for all the things you need to know before you go.
Itinerary
Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight, Green Island and Norman Reef Tours
Experience the very best Great Barrier Reef tour in a day with a scenic helicopter flight, a visit to Green Island and the Norman Reef interactive pontoon on the outer Barrier Reef.
Departing from Cairns, this full day tour includes a hot and cold buffet lunch and many free activities with a number of different tour upgrade options available.
Option 1: Fly/Cruise/Cruise
Begin your day with a 20 minute scenic helicopter flight from Cairns to Green Island.
Enjoy around one hour on the island with free use of the island’s facilities and explore the lush rainforest and white sandy beaches of this tropical paradise, before boarding your boat cruise to journey out to Norman Reef.
Enjoy around 3 hours at Norman Reef; discover the reef’s underwater wonders or relax on the sun deck at the multi-level pontoon.
Green Island
Enjoy one hour on Green Island with free use of the island’s facilities, including a tropical swimming pool, access to the array of shops, cafes and restaurants and the opportunity to indulge in plentiful optional activities.
Head to the Dive Shop and collect your snorkelling gear, mask and fins to explore the many coral gardens and friendly tropical fish that call the island home.
Green Island is an ideal snorkelling destination for families and beginners, with many of the reefs located just a short walk from the beach.
The beaches are patrolled by lifeguards and flotation devices and lycra suits are available for hire. Keep your eyes peeled for Sea Turtles, Maori Wrasse, Nemo and an abundance of colourful and friendly tropical fish that can be found swimming on the shores of the main beach.
For the adventurous, a self-guided island eco walk is also available. The rainforest of Green Island is home to over 120 species of plant and 55 species of birds. The 1.6km return walking trail will lead you through lush rainforest greenery and coastal vegetation. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, the tropical paradise of Green Island has a little something for everyone!
Journey to Norman Reef - Outer Barrier Reef Pontoon
After enjoying one hour at stunning Green Island, you will then board a luxury catamaran to Norman Reef.
You will be greeted with spectacular views of the outer Great Barrier Reef as you make your way to the multilevel activities pontoon.
A delicious cake selection will be provided onboard as well as a snorkelling demonstration and reef presentation. If you have booked an Introductory or Certified Scuba Dive, you will attend your briefing whilst onboard.
Norman Reef
You will arrive at the multi-level outer reef activity pontoon where you will have around 3 hours to explore, relax and unwind. Located 70km east of Cairns and upon the edge of Australia’s continental shelf, Norman Reef is well known for its excellent snorkelling and scuba diving conditions.
As you arrive at the activity platform you will be greeted by friendly staff and provided with a list of activities and tours available throughout the day.
A full hot and cold buffet lunch and tea and coffee will be provided whilst onboard. Soft drinks, wines, beers, spirits, snacks and souvenirs are also available for purchase throughout the day.
Toilets, changing rooms and showers are also available onboard the pontoon.
Choose your own activities throughout the day:
- Relax on a sun lounge on the top deck.
- Discover Norman Reef’s underwater wonders on a semi-submersible submarine coral viewing tour complete with commentary.
- Spot giant clams, colourful bommies, corals and tropical fish from the underwater observatory.
- Upgrade to Scubadoo
- Upgrade to scuba diving
- For those wishing to get wet, snorkels, lycra suits, masks, fins and flotation devices are provided whilst on the pontoon. If you are nervous about snorkelling, the pontoon’s experienced staff will be there to provide guidance. Keep your eyes peeled for the resident Napoleon Maori Wrasse, Barney.
Boat Cruise to Cairns
Return boat cruise back to Cairns as you reflect on your totally inclusive Great Barrier Reef helicopter and reef combo tour.This tour really is the best way to really experience the vastness of the world’s largest living organism, the Great Barrier Reef.
Option 2: Cruise/Cruise/Fly
Your day will begin with transfers from your accommodation in Cairns or Cairns Northern Beaches between 7.00am and 7.30am.
You will then check in at the Reef Fleet Terminal in Cairns before departing on your luxury catamaran to Green Island at 8.30am.
Green Island
Arriving at Green Island at approximately 9.15am enjoy 2 hours at Green Island with free use of the island’s facilities. Explore the lush rainforest of this tropical paradise, snorkelling the colourful fringing reef or simply relax on the white sandy beaches.
Enjoy 2.45 hours at the Outer Reef pontoon riding around in the semi-submersible sumbarine, viewing all the underwater activity from the viewing room, snorkelling, scuba diving and lots more options. After a memorable and relaxing few hours its time to board your scenic helicopter flight back to Cairns
If booked you will then enjoy return transfers back to your accommodation in Cairns or Cairns Northern Beaches.
Option 3: Cruise/Cruise/10 Minute Scenic Flight/Cruise
Your day will begin with yor booked transfers from your accommodation in Cairns or Cairns Northern Beaches.
You will then have a boat ride to Green Island and then onto the Outer Great Barrier Reef pontoon.
Green Island
Arriving at Green Island helicopter you will then enjoy around 1 hour before departing for the outer Great Barrier Reef onboard a high speed catamaran.
Norman Reef
Enjoy discovering the Great Barrier Reef’s underwater wonders from the underwater observatory or semi-submersible submarine tour, or snorkelling the reef or relax on the sundeck or upgrade to scuba diving and scubadoo.
Green Island optional extras
Green Island is the ideal destination for snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef. Swim through stunning coral gardens and spot for giant clams, turtles, large tropical fish, reef sharks, large rays and colourful reef formations.
With calm water conditions and fantastic visibility, Green Island is the perfect location for first-time and beginners.
Marineland Melanesia
Meet Cassius, the oldest crocodile in captivity, witness a crocodile feeding and if you’re brave enough, hold a baby crocodile, and view one of the largest private collections of Melanesian exotic tribal artefacts at Marineland Melanesia.
Please Note:- Not all guests may upgrade to these options due to time limitations on Green Island.
Norman Reef optional extras
Scuba Doo Tour
Discover the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef without even getting your hair wet! The Scuba Doo Tour is a fun and memorable way to experience the Great Barrier Reef from below the water.
Jump onboard a motorized underwater scooter and whiz past tropical fish, bommies, coral gardens, giant clams and more. Led by a guide, you will be provided with a scuba diving helmet that breathes fresh air into the device, allowing you to breathe as normal.
Ideal for beginner swimmers or for those simply to experience something truly unique! Pre-booking is recommended.
Introductory or Certified Scuba Dive
Secret coral gardens, First Bommie, Turtle Sanctuary and Pontoon are just some of the world-class dive sites you can expect to explore when visiting Norman Reef. Reef locations on the day are chosen suited to diver experience and weather conditions. Diving from the pontoon is suitable for first-time divers to experienced certified divers.
Introductory divers will begin their experience with training in the pontoon’s very own diving pool. Once equipped with the skills needed for their dive, introductory divers will then be taken to the diving platform at the end of the pontoon. Paired with a buddy, divers will be guided by their experience PADI instructor whilst exploring the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef from below.
Certified divers will be provided with many reef locations to choose from on the day. Enjoy a guided tour or set off with a buddy. Keep your eyes peeled for giant clams, trevally, Maori wrasse, manta rays, moray eels, turtles and of course, Nemo!
The minimum age for Scuba Doo and Scuba Diving activities is 12 years. You will be required to complete a medical questionnaire. Pre-booking for this activity is recommended.
Guided snorkel tour
When visiting the Norman Reef pontoon, guests can choose to upgrade to a guided snorkelling tour lead by an experienced marine naturalist. Choose from a beginner or advanced tour that will have you swimming with the fish, discovering the reef’s best locations and learning more about the magnificent marine life and ecosystem.
Please Note: Due to time limitations you may not be able to upgrade to these optional extras.
See more Non-Swimmer Great Barrier Reef tour options in Cairns and Tropical North Queensland.
Tour Details
Tour Languages Offered
English
EnglishDeparts From
Cairns
Departure Time
- Cruise/Cruise/Fly: departs Cairns 8:30am - departs Green Island 11:30am - departs Platform approx. 3:05pm
- Fly/Cruise/Cruise: departs Cairns 09:50am - departs Green Island 11:30am - departs Platform 3:45pm
Departure Instructions
Passengers to make own way to departure point – transfers not included.
Destinations
- Great Barrier Reef
- Green Island
- Norman Reef
Months of Operation
January - December
Days of Operation
Daily
Tours beginning with a cruise to Green Island depart at 8.30am from Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal
Tours beginning with a scenic helicopter flight depart Cairns City Heliport at 09:50am
Duration
Full Day (approx)
Available for Purchase / Hire
- Introductory Dive
- Certified Dive
- Scuba Doo Underwater Scooter
- Guided Snorkel Tour
- Return Accommodation Transfer
Fitness Level Required
Medium
Restrictions
- Scuba Diving – minimum age 12
- Guided Snorkelling Tour – minimum age is 12 years
Weight: Up to 130 Kg / 287 Lb
IN-WATER RESTRICTIONS
Scuba Diving, Scuba Doo and Helmet Diving Restrictions
- Certain medical conditions and medications may preclude some people from scuba diving and helmet diving/scuba doo.
- Participation is subject to medical questionnaires completed on board with the tour operator.
- Minimum age for scuba diving and helmet diving/scuba doo is 12 years.
- Flying after scuba diving: a wait of 12 hours is recommended after one dive, 18 hour after 2 dives and at least 24 hours after multiple dives, before ascending to an altitude of 300 metres or greater.
Read more about Diving Safety on the Great Barrier Reef.
Additional Information
- Passengers wishing to enjoy a helicopter flight and dive activities (Intro, Certified or Scuba-Doo, must book the ‘Cruise/Fly’ or Cruise/Cruise + 10 Minute Scenic packages.
- Certified Divers must produce their certification card
- All Diving is subject to successful completion of an on-board medical questionnaire
- The minimum dive age is 12 years with parental permission
What to Bring
- Towel
- Swimsuit
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Cash or Credit Card for additional purchases
- Change of clothes
Disabled Travelers
Great Barrier Reef Scenic Helicopter Flights & Norman Reef
Wheelchair Accessibility
Ramp access to pier helipad
Scenic flights have no mobility restrictions (assistance from carer required for passengers with little or no mobility)
Number of Steps
Approx. 2 steps 1 foot (30cm) into aircraft
Boarding Access
No wheelchair access from the Helipad to the vessel
Onboard Access
Maximum wheelchair width 600mm on boarding ramps, possible stairs to negotiate, tide dependent
Visually Impaired Notes
Audio information available in English and Chinese with headsets
Hearing Impaired Information
Visual information provided: safety, local area, facts
Facilities
1 x wheelchair accessible toilet located at the Cairns Heli Centre
Ramp access to pier helipad
Wheelchair storage at office for scenic flights
Additional Information
All activities require the use of stairs. Crew are largely unable to assist due legal restraints6 – 8 steps to snorkel platform and in-water bench (buoyancy jackets available)
6 – 8 steep steps to semi-submersible
Transfers and Local Transport
Transfers
Only available for passengers who are able to negotiate 3 stairs and have a collapsible wheelchair. The first step is approx. 300mm high.
Wheelchair taxis are available for pre-booking.
Pre-order Local Transport
You must arrange your own local transport in advance.
Child Policy
- Children 3 years and older are legally required to occupy their own seat and therefore must pay the per seat price
- Children 0-2 years travel FOC on the lap of a parent / guardian (max 1 per flight).
- A child aged 3 years on the Cruise + 10 min scenic package travels FOC on the cruise but is required to pay $199 for the helicopter seat.
Cancellation Policy
All cancellations must be in writing.
We understand things may change, so we have made cancellations very easy.
In every instance we always recommend you purchase travel insurance for life’s last-minute hiccups.
Please see our terms and conditions for details prior to booking.
Operators policy:
- Cancellation notice of 48 hours is required for a full refund claim and 24-48 hours, for a 50% refund claim. No refund applies if booking is cancelled inside 24 hours.
- Weights of individual passengers and accompanying carryon luggage (max 5 kg) MUST be advised at time of booking. A weight variance greater than 10% may incur an additional fee. Maximum single seat payload of 130kg.
- All product requires a minimum number of passengers to proceed.
- Flights are subject to Management and/or pilot discretion, weather, air-traffic control and availability.
- The decision of the pilot in command is final with regards to cancelling a flight due to inclement weather and/or the refusal of the passenger/s if the passenger/s are deemed unfit for flight.
- Nautilus strives to ensure your flight takes off as planned. However, unexpected circumstances like bad weather, staffing issues, or unscheduled maintenance may arise. In these instances, we will: Do our best to rebook you on another flight: If possible, we’ll happily reschedule your trip for a different date that works for you. Flight rebooking is subject to availability. Offer a full refund: If rebooking isn’t an option, you’ll receive a full refund for your cancelled flight. Please note the refund will be no greater than the flight amount.
From
au$486.00
Prices are AUD, per adult and include all levies fees and taxes.
Child:
au$354.00
Family: au$1,680.00
Tour Code: 552
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