Cairns Great Barrier Reef – Snorkel and Scenic Flight

Tour Overview

Combine two unforgettable perspectives of the Great Barrier Reef on this unique snorkel and scenic flight experience from Cairns. Operated by Reef Adventures in partnership with Daintree Air, this half-day tour delivers the rare opportunity to explore the reef both in the water and from the air—all in one seamless adventure.

Your experience can be enjoyed in either order, with two daily options available. Early departures begin with a fast-paced snorkelling trip to vibrant reef locations such as Upolu Reef or Breaking Patches, followed by a breathtaking scenic flight. Later departures reverse the experience, starting with an aerial journey before heading out to the reef by boat.

Snorkelling is conducted in small groups aboard Reef Adventures’ high-powered vessels, while scenic flights are limited to just eight passengers, ensuring comfort and uninterrupted views. From the air, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of coral formations, Green Island, and Michaelmas Cay, seeing the reef’s scale and colour from a completely different angle. This tour is ideal for travellers wanting a standout Great Barrier Reef experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

Tour Highlights

• Unique combination of snorkelling and scenic flight
  
• Half-day Great Barrier Reef experience from Cairns
  
• Snorkel vibrant reef sites such as Upolu Reef or Breaking Patches
  
• 40-minute scenic flight over the reef, Green Island and Michaelmas Cay
  
• Choice of Snorkel/Fly or Fly/Snorkel itinerary
  
• Small flight groups (up to 8 passengers)
  
• Fast boat transfers with Reef Adventures
  
• Quality snorkelling equipment and flotation devices included
  
• Transfers between Pier Shopping Centre and General Aviation included
  

Perfect For

• Travellers wanting a once-in-a-lifetime reef experience
  
• Couples and special-occasion trips
  
• Visitors short on time who want maximum variety
  
• Confident swimmers seeking something beyond a standard snorkel tour
  
• Photographers and scenic flight enthusiasts
  
• Those wanting to see the reef from sea and sky
  

Inclusions

Minimum Age

• Suitable for ages 6 to 65 years
  

Included:

• Half-day Great Barrier Reef experience
  
• Snorkelling at Upolu Reef or Breaking Patches
  
• Scenic flight with Daintree Air (approximately 40 minutes)
  
• Quality snorkelling equipment
  
• Flotation devices
  
• Safety briefing
  
• Snacks served onboard
  
• Transfers between Reef Adventures check-in and General Aviation
  
• Small-group experience (up to 8 guests per flight)
  

Optional Add-Ons (Not Included):

• Drinks (available to purchase)
  
• Wetsuit hire
  
• Prescription mask hire
  
• Hotel transfers
  

Itinerary

• Check-in – Meet at Reef Adventures office, The Pier Shopping Centre
  
• Option 1: Snorkel / Fly (early departure)
  
  • Fast vessel transfer to the Great Barrier Reef
    
  • Guided snorkelling at a reef location
    
  • Return to Cairns and transfer to General Aviation
    
  • 40-minute scenic flight over the reef, Green Island and Michaelmas Cay
    
• Option 2: Fly / Snorkel (later departure)
  
  • Transfer to General Aviation
    
  • 40-minute scenic flight
    
  • Return to Cairns and board Reef Adventures’ vessel
    
  • Guided snorkelling at the reef
    

What to Bring

• Swimwear (wear under clothing)
  
• Towel
  
• Hat
  
• Sunscreen
  
• Card for onboard purchases
  

Snorkelling equipment, flotation devices, and snacks are provided.

Safety Information

This tour combines two separate activities—snorkelling and scenic flight—each operated by experienced providers. Reef Adventures supplies safety briefings, snorkel guides, and flotation devices to support guests during reef activities.

Participants must be confident swimmers and comfortable with both boat travel and light aircraft flights. The tour is suitable for guests aged 6 to 65 years. Weather and sea conditions may affect scheduling, reef locations, or flight timing, and itineraries may be adjusted for safety.

Guests with medical conditions or concerns about flying or snorkelling should consult the operator prior to booking to ensure suitability.