It doesn't really get much better than this when it comes to a day of adventure on the Great Barrier Reef.

e start off on our catamaran in the morning, fortified with complimentary coffee and tea, en route to Moore Reef for the day.

The trip out is comfortable and entertaining as friendly and funny staff provide information about the day’s events and tell us everything we need to know to make the most of our experience.

The team makes a particular effort (without there being any sense at all that this is work for them) to impart their knowledge using humour, keeping everyone’s attention. And, in fact, now is probably a good time to mention this was the most fun team we’ve experienced. Each seems to genuinely enjoy what they do and this makes it more fun for us.

If there is any issue involved with the day, it’s deciding how to fit it all in, with so many great choices. We chose to squeeze in as much as possible, but you could always opt to just enjoy a leisurely afternoon. We weren’t so much into relaxing as taking the opportunity to try everything.

As we near the Sunlover pontoon, we rub our hands together in anticipation as we pass by the helicopter’s landing pad – a little spin in that lovely flying machine is one of the items on today’s agenda and something we’ve wanted to do forever. It certainly did not disappoint.

To see the Great Barrier Reef from the air is an incredible experience. It’s hard to put it into words, but this incredible natural wonder shimmers and glows as we enjoy our flight. Unfortunately, we do eventually have to land. Luckily for us, we are going to be so busy for the rest of the day that we won’t have time to wish we were still flying. Book this adventure ahead of time or set up your flight onboard. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity.

Next up was a little trip on the glass bottom boat for a look at what was happening just beneath the surface. The other way in which to stay dry and explore the Reef is aboard the semi-submersible.

It was then time to head back to the cat for a delicious buffet luncheon of fresh seafood, hot dishes, salads and tropical fruit before squeezing in a quick snorkel. Usually, we would spend more time at this much-loved activity, but today we needed to fit in what became one of the definite highlights of the day – the Seawalker helmet dive.

We were a little nervous before this adventure, not having dive experience, but it was fun and simple. You are guided by an instructor as you make your way down a ladder and then along the underwater platform, where you’ll get a close look at some fascinating creatures. You can even make friends with the fish, giving them a little pat as you wander past. There’s heaps more to do while you’re out there, including checking out the underwater observatory, the fish feeding or just chilling out on the boat.

Before we knew it, it was time to head back to Cairns after a fabulous day of fun. We strongly recommend getting onboard with Sunlover as soon as you can to experience the Reef’s beauty. You won’t be sorry.

WHAT Sunlover Reef Cruise to Moore Reef

WHERE Departs Reef Fleet Terminal daily

COST $180 adult, $65 child (4-14), $425 family; extras include scenic helicopter flight, diving and Seawalker helmet diving all at additional cost

CONTACT Phone 1 800 644 227 or send an email to reservations@oceanspirit.com.au

The writer was a guest of Sunlover.

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