Experience a special Great Barrier Reef excursion to Helix Reef. Snorkel or dive vibrant coral gardens, encounter incredible marine life and enjoy a full day with meals, equipment and expert crew included.
Explore one of the Central Great Barrier Reef's least-visited reefs on this limited special excursion. Travel further offshore to experience pristine coral gardens, fewer visitors and exceptional snorkelling and diving opportunities.
Helix Reef is one of the hidden gems of the Central Great Barrier Reef, known for its healthy coral formations, exceptional water clarity and diverse marine life. Because it is visited less frequently than many other reefs, conditions are often ideal for exploring vibrant coral bommies, colourful reef fish, giant clams, turtles and, depending on the season, larger pelagic species.
Travel aboard MV Adrenalin or MV Endorphin, our purpose-built 14/ 20-metre snorkel and dive vessels featuring:
Large, shaded seating areas
Spacious sun deck
Marine toilet
Easy water entry and exit
Stabiliser system for a more comfortable ride
Whether you're snorkelling for the first time, completing an introductory scuba dive or already a certified diver, Helix Reef offers an unforgettable day exploring one
of Australia's greatest natural wonders.
Throughout the day our experienced crew will provide reef ecology presentations, snorkelling guidance and professional dive supervision to help you make the
most of your experience.
As always, our exact mooring location is selected on the day based on weather, visibility and sea conditions to ensure the safest and best possible reef
experience.
Trip Includes
Full day Great Barrier Reef excursion
Visit to Helix Reef (weather permitting)
Two in-water session to snorkel or scuba dive
Morning tea
Buffet-style lunch
Afternoon tea
Tea, coffee, and chilled water
Premium snorkelling equipment
Full-length stinger/ wetsuit
Snorkel tuition and safety briefing
Floatation devices
Reef ecology presentations
Professional, experienced crew
Environmental Management Charge (EMC)
Certified Diver Includes
Two boat dives
Weights and weight belt
Full equipment Hire (if selected)
Optional Extras
Introductory Dive (1 or 2 dives)
Guided Dive
30min Guided Snorkel Tour
Refresher Dive
PADI Adventure Dive
Nitrox fills (certified divers only)
Underwater camera hire
Highlights
Special excursion to Helix Reef
Small passenger numbers
Healthy coral gardens
Excellent snorkelling opportunities
Ideal for certified and first-time divers
Turtle, reef fish and giant clam encounters
World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef
Family friendly
Departures from Townsville and Magnetic Island
Itinerary
6:30am – Check-in Townsville
6:45am – Depart Townsville
7:10am – Board at Magnetic Island
9:00am – Morning tea
9:45am – Reef briefing
10:20am – Arrive Helix Reef (conditions permitting)
10:40am – First snorkel/dive session
12:00pm – Buffet lunch
1:00pm – Second snorkel/dive session
2:30pm – Depart reef
3:00pm – Afternoon tea
5:20pm – Magnetic Island arrival
5:45pm – Townsville arrival
What to Bring
Swimmers
Towel
Hat
Sunglasses
Reef-safe sunscreen
Change of clothes
Camera
Reusable water bottle
Certification card (certified divers)
Important Information
Helix Reef is the intended destination for this special excursion.
If weather, sea conditions or operational requirements make Helix Reef unsuitable, Keeper Reef will be the alternative reef will be visited.
Trip confirmation is subject to minimum passenger numbers.
Introductory divers must complete a medical questionnaire before diving.
Minimum age for introductory diving is 12 years.
All trips operate subject to weather conditions.
Departure
Townsville Fuel Wharf Mariners Drive Breakwater Marina
Magnetic Island Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal
images credits to AIMS Long Term Monitoring Program