For your experience of a lifetime, Quicksilver's wavepiercing catamarans and friendly crew will take you to a reef at the very edge of Australia's Continental Shelf, to an underwater world that is a dazzling kaleidoscope of colour and brilliance...
 | Vessel | Activities available on this boat | Ports | Choose from these sailing dates: | |||||||||||
| Quicksilver VIII |  Snorkelling  Swimming  Sunning  Coral Viewing  Sightseeing | Departs: Port Douglas Returns: Port Douglas Click on locations for more info |
|
| Rate per 1+ Child | Rate per 1+ Adult | Rate per 1+ Family | |
 | AUD $106.00 | AUD $212.00 | AUD $530.00 |
For your experience of a lifetime, Quicksilver's wavepiercing catamarans and friendly crew will take you to a reef at the very edge of Australia's Continental Shelf, to an underwater world that is a dazzling kaleidoscope of colour and brilliance... Agincourt Reef, a magnificent ribbon reef where you can experience first hand the magic that is the Great Barrier Reef.
Experience of a lifetime
Choose to dive, snorkel, or stay dry and explore the stunning reef from the comfort of a Quicksilver semi-sub, just one metre underwater.
Watch the fish feeding from Quicksilver's unique underwater viewing platform and underwater observatory, or fly in a helicopter over the reef.
Whichever way you choose, you'll bring home a lifetime of memories from this living natural wonder.
Agincourt Reef Key Points
Agincourt Reef is the true Outer Reef experience.
Only Quicksilver takes you to a reef activity platform where you can fully experience this most pristine ecosystem at the renowned Agincourt ribbon reef, acclaimed as amongst the most spectacular in the world. Here at the true Outer Barrier Reef, water clarity and visibility are at their best all year round.
Clear, blue water every day!
Quicksilver was the first company to visit the outer reef daily so we chose the very best location! – we’re still the only reef activity platform on the magnificent ribbon reefs at the very outside edge of the Great Barrier Reef.
The Best!
Australia’s most awarded day reef cruise operator! Best reef location of pontoon based cruises – southern end of the ribbon reefs, outer edge of the outer barrier; distant from coast for best underwater visibility and reef life. Consistent, reliable service; Multiple award winner for quality of crew, vessels, customer service; very high safety standards
Choose how you see the reef
Ideal for all types of clients from divers to non-swimmers, whether you want to get wet and swim with the fish – or stay dry and get a diver’s view from our semi-submersibles!
Relax in comfort
With the most modern fleet of the unique wavepiercer designed vessels, we make your ride to the reef as smooth and fast as possible as the twin hulls pierce through the waves.
Explore our coastline
If you’re traveling from Cairns or Palm Cove you can see one of the most spectacular scenic coastlines in Australia by luxury coach transfer.
Discover the real reef
Our qualified marine biologist share their love and knowledge of the reef with you! Multi language activity sheet available.
All Inclusive
All inclusive price for basic day of snorkelling, lunch & reef activities. Variety of options available from pontoon (diving, bio tours, heli)
Safety
Company culture of safety innovation, quality safety equipment. Qualified safety crew with regular ongoing training in advanced first aid
- Morning and afternoon teas on board.
- Reef presentation by marine biologist.
- Hot and cold tropical smorgasbord lunch.
- All snorkelling equipment provided.
- Return Wavepiercer cruise from Port Douglas
- Qualified snorkelling safety officers on hand
- Underwater observatory fish & coral viewing
- Coral viewing by semi-submersible vessels
- Fish feeding [conducted by crew]
What to bring
- Your camera.
- Swimming costume and beach towel.
- Hat, sunscreen and shirt for sun protection.
- Cash for drinks at the bar.
- Credit cards for shopping and optional tours.
- Underwater cameras available for purchase.
9.30 am
Complimentary morning tea/coffee on boarding. For your safety, hot drinks are not served once the vessel is underway. Passengers are required to be onboard the vessel 15 minutes before departure.
10.00 am
Depart Marina Mirage for the Outer Barrier Reef. A Marine Biologist presentation is shown on the vessel monitors 30 minutes after departure. A snorkelling demonstration follows the Marine Biologist presentation.
11.30 am
Arrive Outer Barrier Reef- reef activities commence:
Enjoy swimming and snorkelling from submerged platforms.
Underwater observatory open for coral and fish viewing.
Semi-subs depart every fifteen minutes from the rear of the platform.
Pre-booked guided snorkelling tours, certified and introductory diving and helicopter scenic flights
Fish feeding conducted at the snorkelling platform at advertised times.
12 noon
Lunch [included in the fare] is served. Enjoy a hot and cold tropical buffet, containing fresh prawns, pastas, meats, salads and fruit. There are full bar facilities available where you can purchase drinks.
1.30 pm
Lunch finishes. Time for more activity or just relax and take in the view!!
3.00 pm
Depart Agincourt Reef for Port Douglas. Reef video viewing on board.
4.30 pm
Arrival at Marina Mirage, Port Douglas.
Port Douglas,
| Vessel: Quicksilver VIII | Type: Motor |
| Length: 149ft | Year: 1995 |
| Crew: Supplied | Hull type: Catamaran |
| Model: Wavepiercer Catamaran | Beam: 53.28ft |
| Draft: 6.23ft | Cruising speed: 35kn |
| Manufacturer: Northern Queensland Engineers & Agents | Engine: 4 x Detroit 16v – 149 delivering 1130 KW at 1900 |
| Black water: 1x9000L | Fresh water: 2x3000L |
| Fuel capacity: 2x6000L | Free use of snorkelling equipment |
| Hot and cold tropical smorgasbord lunch included | Morning and Afternoon Teas included |
| Reef presentation by marine biologist included | Return transfers to accommodation available |
The Operator's technologically advanced Wavepiercers ensure that your cruise to the Outer Reef is pure enjoyment from the moment you step aboard. Relax in the luxury of the spacious air-conditioned cabin areas with fully licensed bar, or sit outside and enjoy the cool sea breezes.
Cruising at high speed to Agincourt Reef, 39 nautical miles [72 kilometres] from Port Douglas these superb vessels give you the smoothest possible ride in all weather conditions as their revolutionary torpedo shaped hulls actually pierce the waves.
With the widest range of Great Barrier Reef experiences, The Operator offers a choice of award-winning day trips to the magnificent Outer Barrier Reef and the idyllic Low Isles.
The Operator was founded in 1979 with one vessel, a catamaran, which took guests to the Low Isles. This was the first ever commercial trip to these idyllic coral cays, and visitors coming to the small fishing village of Port Douglas, just north of nearby Cairns, were quick to embrace the concept. Just a few years later in 1983, The Operator pioneered Australia’s first true Outer Barrier Reef cruise, travelling right to the ribbon reefs at the outer edge of the Continental Shelf - one of the very best locations to experience the full majesty and elemental force of this unique natural wonder.
Today, The Operator has become a highly sophisticated company with a fleet of the most advanced Australian made cruising vessels. The Operator hasbeen honoured many times with awards and voted Australia’s best tour operator, but The Operator can only take half the credit. Nature provides the reef and we're proud to take you to where the very best of nature's work is found.
The Operator is committed to sustainable environmental practices and ongoing conservation for future generations to enjoy. Our Reef Biosearch environmental division is led by the largest team of marine biologists outside of a government agency! In fact, Reef Biosearch has the longest logbook database of marine observations on the Great Barrier Reef, ongoing for over two decades. All of our tours are accredited with Advanced Ecotourism Certification and each day, our team of marine biologists are also on hand to ensure our guests gain an appreciation of our World Heritage environment.
It is sure you will enjoy your day with The Operator, experiencing nature's finest with Australia's best.
Morning and afternoon teas and a tropical buffet lunch are provided for your dining pleasure. This is included in your rate.
Snorkelling
Swimming
Sunning
Coral Viewing
Sightseeing
Included Activites
Snorkelling at Agincourt Reef
Snorkelling is one of the best ways to view the incredible underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, and Quicksilver's friendly staff are on hand to show you how. On your way out to Agincourt Reef you can view an instructional video on how to snorkel to teach you the right techniques.
Upon reaching the outer reef, you can obtain your snorkelling equipment from the storage containers on the platform. Easy access to the water is available from submerged platforms. Our friendly snorkelling safety officers can assist you with your snorkelling gear, and give you a few tips so that you can fully enjoy your experience.
If you would like to learn a little more about the Great Barrier Reef whilst snorkelling, you may like to try one of our optional Snorkelling Expeditions with a qualified Marine Biologist.
Semi Submersible coral viewing
If you would like to stay dry, then you can explore the stunning reef from the comfort of a Quicksilver sub. The semi submersibles cruise slowly through the colourful coral gardens giving passengers, seated just one metre underwater, the opportunity to experience a snorkellers-eye view of the marine life without getting wet.
The semi-sub experience takes approximately 25 minutes and includes an informed commentary on the marine life observed during the journey and an overview of the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
Semi-subs depart every fifteen minutes from the rear of the platform. Anouncements are made to prompt you before departure.
Underwater Observatory
Watch the fish feeding from Quicksilver's unique viewing platform and underwater observatory located directly in front of the platform. From here, you can also view "first time" divers taking part in introductory dives. You can see the reef vibrate with the hues, stripes, and shimmerings of a myriad of fishes.
Butterfly fish, parrot fish, angel fish and elegant nudibranchs dance before your eyes and coral gardens beckon you to explore. Watch, entranced, as a clownfish snuggles into the embrace of a sea anemone.
Optional Activities
More Ways to Enjoy the Reef!
In addition to your cruise fare inclusions, a range of exciting optional activities at an extra cost are available for your enjoyment. Optional activities are pre-booked to ensure availability and to avoid disappointment.
Guided Snorkelling Adventures
The marine biologists will introduce you to a new and exciting world during your guided snorkel tours. You will be part of a small group, guided by the experienced marine biologists who can reveal so much more about the magnificent marine life of this fragile eco-system.
There are two different snorkel tours designed to enable all groups of passengers, regardless of their snorkelling skill level, to enjoy an amazing in-water experience on the reef.
Scuba Diving
1. Introductory Diving (No prior experience necessary)
If you’ve never dived before, and would like to experience the magic of SCUBA, Quicksilver offers introductory dives with a highly qualified dive instructor. The only requirements are you are over 12 years, pass the on-board medical questionnaire and participate in the 30 minute dive brief.
2. Certified Diving
Scuba diving right at the edge of Australia’s continental shelf is simply spectacular. At these unique ribbon reefs, visibility is excellent and the variety of marine life is exceptional. Certified divers must posses an internationally recognized SCUBA certificate card.
Ocean Walker - Helmet Diving
A unique and fun experience, see the reef up close during a helmet “dive”.
Breathing fresh air delivered from the surface into your helmet, you will walk underwater on a reef platform - you can even wear your glasses if you wish! Oceanwalker is suitable for non-swimmers and persons aged over 12 ears. After a short briefing and subject to medical conditions, you will be walking amongst the reef fish and corals.
Scenic Helicopter Flights
1. Scenic Helicopter Flight - 10 minute Reef Scenic Flight
For a different andspectacular perspective of the jewel like ribbon reefs, a ten minute helicopter flight is available from platforms moored at Agincourt Ree
2. Scenic Helicopter Flight - Outer Barrier Reef Experience
Fly between Cairns, Beaches, Port Douglas and Agincourt Reef - the perfect finishing touch to your total reef experience. Helicopter one way and Quicksilver cruise one way.
Advice for Water Activities
The minimum age for Scuba Diving and Oceanwalker is 12 years. Certain medical conditions, medications and height restrictions may preclude some people from participating in optional in-water activities. For advice, contact our office.
After a single dive a wait of 12 hours is recommended before ascending to an altitude of 300 metres or greater. An interval of 24 hours is suggested for multiple dives.
Important information about your voyage
Payment Policy
A deposit is payable upon confirmation.
The balance of payment is required in full upon arrival for your departure.
Cancellation Policy
The initial deposit paid is non-refundable. In addition to forfeiting your deposit, the following charges also apply:
Cancellations received within 3 days prior to travel will be subject to a 100% cancellation fee.
Definitions
The following definitions apply for the Terms and Conditions for this vessel.
- The Supplier or Operator means the operator who supplies this vessel to you on arrival.
- The Client is also referred to as the renter (s) or hirer (s)
General Conditions
- All schedules, activities and prices may be varied without notice.
- Listed fares in Australian dollars include Goods and Services Tax.
- Prices valid to 31 March 2010.
- Children: 4 -14 years. 3 years and under free of charge.
- Cancellations: The initial deposit paid is non-refundable.
- Govt Environmental Management Charge of $5pp is levied for all adults and children 4 years and over entering the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage area. This charge is payable direct on day of travel.
- With fluctuations in world oil prices, it may be necessary to apply a fuel surcharge to the ticket price. In such cases, any charge will be payable direct on the day of travel.
- The operator does not accept any liability in contract or tort for any injury, damage, loss, delay, additional expenses or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by force majeure or other events which are beyond control, or which are not reasonably preventable by reasonable diligence on the part including but not limited to war, civil disturbance, fire, flood, severe weather conditions, acts of God, acts of government or of any authorities, accidents to or failure to machinery or equipment or industrial action (whether or not involving the employees and even though such action may be settled by acceding to the demands of a labour group).
- Liability of the operator is limited with respect to both personal injury and damage to or loss of property to the full extent permitted by law and in terms of any ticket conditions issued. In no event will the responsibility or liability for loss of baggage or personal effects exceed $100.
- COMPULSORY ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT CHARGE: is AU$5.00 per person. This fee will be collected upon arrival.
Advice For Water Activities
- Snorkelling can be a strenuous activity. Please use caution and inform our crew of any medical conditions.
- The minimum age for Scuba Diving in Queensland is 12 years. Certain medical conditions and medications may preclude some people from participating.
- Certified Divers: Evidence of dive certification and medical fitness to dive is required from all divers.
- Introductory Divers: Subject to medical questionnaire.
- After a single dive a wait of 12 hours is recommended before ascending to an altitude of 300 metres or greater. An interval of 24 hours is suggested for multiple dives.
Please note: Pets are not allowed onboard. Smoking is not acceptable on the vessels.
Terms of booking on this website
Information disclaimer
The rates on this website are often heavily discounted. This is due to our negotiated rates and bulk buying power. On very rare occasions, a rate may be displayed incorrectly due to our, or a supplier's error. In such a case, if you book with us at a quoted rate that is incorrect, we will notify you of any price change and give you the option to proceed or cancel. We make every effort to keep information on our site up to date, but we cannot guarantee this website is free of errors or omissions and retain the right to update or change the information published at any time.
Liability
To the extent permitted by law we/the owners of this website will not be liable to you or to any third party (whether in contract, tort, or otherwise) for any direct, indirect or consequential loss or damage (including but not limited to any accident, injury, delay or loss of enjoyment) arising out of your reliance upon information contained on this website, including but not limited to your use (or inability to use) any products or services described or procured through this website.
On departure day, before you commence your trip, you may be required to sign a rental agreement (in the case of boat charters) with the supplier of the vessel. Your rental and use of the vessel will be governed by the terms of the rental agreement and any other documentation or information provided to you by the supplier at the time you pick up your vessel. The rental agreement is between you and the supplier and we will not be liable to you or to any third party in relation to the terms of the supplier rental agreement or any other documentation provided to you by the supplier at the time of pick up.
While we will make reasonable efforts to ensure we are representing only reputable suppliers, we make no warranty about the fitness or suitability of any third party (supplier) product or service and will not accept responsibility for the quality or fitness of any vessel. We welcome feedback from our customers on their experience with our suppliers. We may, at our discretion, provide you with reasonable assistance in resolving any dispute you may have with a supplier.
Our total liability to you in relation to your use of this website and the information contained on this website will not exceed the dollar amount of the deposit we have received from you in relation to your booking/rental. Refunds will not be made for bookings cancelled due to inclement weather. Again, we strongly recommend that you take out travel insurance. Your use of this website is governed by the laws of New Zealand and the jurisdiction of the New Zealand courts.
Booking information
To make a booking, you must complete our no-obligations reservations enquiry form which is easy to follow and secured with the latest encryption technology. Once we receive your enquiry, we will contact you via phone or email, to advise of availability and confirm the final price is correct - and discuss payment options. A booking is confirmed when you have been emailed a confirmation notice and at this stage the deposit is processed on your credit card and becomes non-refundable and any cancellation fees stated in the terms apply. Upon receipt of your confirmation, please check your details carefully and notify us immediately if there are any incorrect details, as it may not be possible to make changes at a later date.
Please note we accept Visa and Mastercard and the credit card fees are:
1) 1.75% for the deposit amount.
2) 1.75% for the balance of payment.
If you are booking via phone, please first make sure you have read the terms and conditions of your selected sailing adventure. Our reservations consultant will ask you if you have read the terms and agree to them before proceeding. The onus is always on the renter to ensure they make themselves fully aware of the terms displayed on our website.
Information disclosure
In booking on this website you acknowledge that we disclose your information to your selected Supplier in order to provide the requested rental, trip or charter services.
Amendments
Please check the terms of each vessel to see whether amendment fees apply. Please also note that for some vessels an amendment is treated as a new booking and the rate current at the time the amendment is made to recalculate the entire booking amount (not just the days changed). In the case of boat rental/yacht charter, if the hire or number of days is increased, an additional deposit may be required, while reduction in rental periods or price may reduce the total, but the deposit amount will remain unchanged.
Vessel Capacity and fitness to charter (for Bareboats only)
Under no circumstances are you permitted to carry more passengers than the vessel you charter is legally registered to carry, and if you do your insurance may be invalidated. The number of passengers allowed is indicated next to each vessel on this website. It is your responsibility to choose a journey that is within your capabilities. A boat or trip supplier can refuse to hire a vessel to any person who is in their opinion unfit to skipper or does not meet eligibility requirements. In such circumstances we will have no further liability to you.
