Quicksilver Pontoon and 10 Minute Scenic Helicopter Flight

About this tour

Board a purpose-built catamaran for a full-day expedition to the Outer Barrier Reef, departing from Cairns. You'll clock a 10-minute helicopter flight over the reef, explore from a dedicated platform anchored at the reef's edge, tour the underwater observatory, watch marine biologists feed and identify fish species, and ride the semi-submersible for submerged viewing without getting wet. Meals and snorkelling gear included. Six-and-a-half hours total.

Highlights

• 10-minute scenic helicopter flight over coral gardens
• Platform-based access right on the reef edge
• Semi-submersible tour—no diving required
• Underwater observatory for close reef viewing
• Fish feeding and species identification with biologist
• Full buffet lunch with prawns and morning/afternoon tea
• Snorkelling gear and lycra suits supplied

What to expect

You'll depart on a fast catamaran and spend most of the day moored at an exclusive platform on the outer reef. After the helicopter flight and a marine biology briefing, you're free to snorkel from the platform or ride the semi-submersible—a glass-walled vessel that descends just enough to see fish and coral without diving. Between activities, a biologist runs a fish-feeding session and teaches you to spot different species. Meals are casual buffet-style served onboard. The pace suits mixed fitness levels: active snorkellers get their fill, while those preferring dry access use the observatory and semi-submersible.

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