• Upgrade your Great Barrier Reef tour and helicopter flight with a ride around the reef on a semi-submersible submarine, glass bottom boat, or even some scuba diving
• Discover one of the great natural wonders of the world with a scenic helicopter flight and a reef cruise Fly above the Great Barrier Reef in a luxury helicopter and make the most of the endless photo opportunities    
• Take a walk through the Underwater Observatory and learn about the Great Barrier Reef’s marine life with the onboard Touch Tank experience on the floating pontoon on the outer Great Barrier Reef
• Have your camera in hand as you soar above the Great Barrier Reef in a luxury helicopter. The aircraft’s large viewing windows provide endless selfie opportunities! 

From Cairns enjoy a spectacular scenic helicopter flight above one of the world’s greatest natural wonders the Great Barrier Reef, spend time snorkelling and diving the reef from an outer reef pontoon nestled upon the pristine waters on Moore Reef. Try a fly/cruise, cruise/fly or fly both ways.

This is the ultimate Great Barrier Reef tour experience for those wishing to see the very best of the reef in a one day tour from Cairns.

Book Very Early As Helicopter Scenic Flight Seats Are Limited to Only 6 - 7 Per Day Only    

From Cairns enjoy a spectacular 25 minute scenic helicopter flight above one of the world’s greatest natural wonders along with a cruise to an outer reef pontoon nestled upon the pristine waters for Moore Reef.

Departing from Cairns, you have a range of helicopter fly and cruise options to choose from:-

a.) Scenic flight from Cairns to the Moore Reef pontoon and enjoy a boat cruise home.

b.) Boat cruise out to the reef and reward yourself with stunning views with a return scenic helicopter flight

c.) See the ultimate best of the reef from above with return helicopter flights to and from Cairns to the outer Great Barrier Reef floating pontoon.

NB: Note helicopter scenic flights are approximately 25 minutes on cruise and fly options. You may also enjoy 10 minute scenic flights on the pontoon

Whilst on your Great Barrier Reef tour at the pontoon you will enjoy a delicious tropical buffet lunch, a glass bottom boat tour, a walk through the spectacular Underwater Observatory, snorkeling the many coral gardens and colourful reef formations of Moore Reef, a semi-submersible boat tour and a giant waterslide!

Other upgrade in water activities also apply for scuba diving and underwater helmet walking 

Our cruise and fly/fly and cruise Great Barrier Reef helicopter tours really are the best way to take in all that scenery and magical views that this World Heritage listed wonder can offer and it is the perfect Great Barrier Reef tour for non-swimmers to see and experience the reef without even getting wet. 

Full and Half Day Scenic Flight and Great Barrier Reef Tours

The ultimate way to experience the Great Barrier Reef from above and below the water.

Departing from Cairns, there are a number of reef tour options to choose from.

Boat cruise out to the reef and enjoy a scenic helicopter flight back, fly out and cruise back or for those short on time, enjoy a return scenic flight to and from the outer reef pontoon.

Enjoy a tropical buffet lunch, a few hours relaxing upon the outer reef pontoon and enjoying the many in water activities such as scuba diving, helmet diving on offer.

Cruise and Fly Full Day Tour

Enjoy a full day on the Great Barrier Reef with a boat cruise to Moore Reef pontoon before taking to the air for a spectacular scenic helicopter flight return to Cairns.

Nestled upon the outer reef, the Moore Reef pontoon is a beautiful reef with a huge variety of corals attracting a wide range of marine life.

There are so many in-water activities to choose from and so many famous fish to meet such as Wally the huge photo bombing Maori Wrasse.

For the non-swimmers it's the ultimate location to relax, unwind and watch others explore the underwater wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.

Your day will include a full buffet lunch, snorkel gear, access to the underwater observatory, a ride in semi-submersible submarine boat tour, a Glass Bottom Boat tour and a giant waterslide!

Upgrade to other in-water options are available 

Check In

Check in at the boat counter offices at the Reel Fleet Terminal in Cairns between 8:30am and 9:15am.

Upon boarding your luxury catamaran, enjoy complimentary tea and coffee before departing at 9:30am.

Transfers from your accommodation in Cairns or Cairns northern beaches are available at an additional cost. 

Outer Great Barrier Reef Pontoon

Departing at 9:30am from Cairns, your Great Barrier Reef tour boat will begin the 90 minute scenic voyage to the Moore Reef floating pontoon that will be your activity platform for the day on the reef.

Take a seat in the air conditioned cabin or head to the top deck from some fantastic photo opportunities.

En route, enjoy an onboard reef presentation led by a marine naturalist.

Soon you will arrive at your outer reef destination, a floating pontoon nestled upon the pristine waters of Moore Reef.

Moore Reef is located around 40km from the coast of Cairns and is well known for its clear visibility and fantastic water conditions.

Here you will have four hours to relax and explore the outer reef.

Snorkel equipment and demonstrations are available onboard and the pontoon has its very own snorkeling enclosure with rest stops and viewing stations.

Take a walk through the Underwater Observatory where you will have the opportunity to view the abundance of colourful corals and tropical fish that call Moore Reef home.

At around 3:30pm, there is a fish feeding presentation that takes place which is best views from the observatory.

Visit the onboard marine life touch tank where you will have the opportunity to hold and touch various sea creatures whilst on the pontoon.

Discover and learn of the reef’s underwater wonders on a coral viewing Glass Bottom Boat tour.

Glide through the colourful coral gardens on a semi-submersible boat tour and keep your eyes peeled for the abundance of marine life that can regularly be spotted in the pristine waters of Moore Reef, such as Sea Turtles, Reef Sharks, Rays and plentiful tropical fish. 

Onboard there is also a giant theme park style water slide, a fully enclosed kids pool, full bar facilities and a sun deck where you can unwind and soak in the breath taking views of the outer reef.

Whilst onboard you will also be served a full buffet lunch complete with prawns, salads, cold meats, curry, stir fry, tropical fruits, pastas and more. What better way to experience one of the world’s greatest natural wonders? 

Upgrade to an Introductory or Certified Scuba Dive

Immerse yourself in the Great Barrier Reef with an optional Introductory or Certified Scuba Dive.

Your diving experience will be led by a team of experienced PADI professionals who will lead you through colourful coral gardens, marine life and unique reef formations direct from the pontoon.

There are a number of pristine dive sites located in Moore Reef and the best location will be chosen on the day.

For introductory divers, no experience is necessary and your experienced dive guides will be with you every step of the way.

For certified scuba divers, Moore Reef offers world class diving, from City Hall with its swim-through caves and large pelagic fish, through to Scary Point where the currents have encouraged the most diverse array of invertebrates to congregate.

All Certified dives are supervised by a qualified PADI Dive Instructor.

Upgrade to a Seawalker Helmet Dive

This unique and exhilarating experience will have you walking along the bottom of the Great Barrier Reef, getting up close and personal with the hundreds of fish species and spectacular corals surrounding Moore Reef.

Seawalker Helmet diving allows you to breathe through your nose and mouth as you would above water, making it an ideal activity for those a little nervous about snorkeling and scuba diving.

Led by an experienced instructor, you will make your way through the Fan-coral garden as you spot for colourful tropical fish, giant clams and large bommies.

If you are lucky you may even get a photo with Dolla the friendly Turtle or Wally the photo bombing Maori Wrasse. 

Upgrade to a Guided Snorkel Tour

Take your outer reef experience to the next level with an optional guided snorkel tour.

Led by an experienced marine naturalist, the guided tour lasts around 30 minutes, showcasing the reef’s unique marine life and coral systems.

Your snorkel guide will point out all of the best sites, including the world’s largest Bi-Valve Giant Clam, Clown Fish and the Giant Blue Starfish.

25 Minute Scenic Reef Helicopter Flight to Cairns

After enjoying four hours on the outer Great Barrier Reef, you will then begin your return journey back to Cairns on a scenic helicopter flight.

Departing from the heli pad moored at the pontoon, you will be greeted by your experienced Pilot and guide and provided with a head set for inflight commentary.

Taking off, you will immediately gain a sense of just how large and utterly breath taking your Great Barrier Reef tour has been!

As you make your way back towards the coastline, soak in the spectacular views of Moore Reef and its swirling reef formations and corals.

The shallow lagoons of these unique reef formations are a fantastic vantage point for marine life spotting.

Your helicopter pilot will have you spotting for large tropical fish, rays, turtles, sharks and if travelling in winter, Humpback Whales!

Soon your pilot will have you cruising past Fitzroy Island. The island's white sands, lush green mountain tops and fringing reefs provide the perfect photo opportunity!

Gliding above the blue azure and deep aqua green waters, you will soon cast your eyes upon the stunning stretch of coastline surrounding Cairns as you fly over the Yarrabah Peninsula and Yorkey's Knob.

Marvel at the golden sands, palm tree lined beaches and surrounding vegetation systems as you return to the mainland.

Upon arrival to the Cairns heli pad, you will be greeted with views of Cairns city as you look out for the many building, landmarks and surrounding natural spectacles before landing.

A once in a lifetime experience!

Arriving back to Cairns at 3:40pm, transfers from your accommodation are available at an additional cost.

Helicopter Fly and Cruise Half Day Tour

Departing from Cairns, your Great Barrier Reef adventure will begin with a scenic 25 minute scenic helicopter flight direct to the Moore Reef pontoon.

Enjoy the stunning views of the reef before arriving at the outer reef where you will have around four hours to relax, unwind and explore the many underwater wonders on this Great Barrier Reef tour.

Your day will include a full buffet lunch, snorkel gear, access to the underwater observatory, a semi-submersible submarine boat tour, a Glass Bottom Boat tour and a giant waterslide before returning to Cairns by a luxury catamaran.

Ideal for those wishing to enjoy a relaxed morning in Cairns. 

Helicopter Scenic Flight Check In

Departing at around 11:30am, you will need to check in at the Cairns central helipad 30 minutes prior to departure.

Return transfers from your accommodation in Cairns or Cairns northern beaches are available at an additional cost.

Prior to departure you will meet your friendly Pilot who will provide commentary and information about the Great Barrier Reef throughout your helicopter flight.

After completing a pre departure briefing, you will safely be strapped into the seat of your luxury helicopter and provided with a head set.

25 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight

Taking off from the Cairns helicopter pad, you will be welcomed with scenic views of Cairns city and its mountainous surrounds.

Have your camera in hand as you fly above the palm tree lined beaches, inland mangroves and estuaries and surrounding rainforest greenery.

Heading east from the mainland, your journey will begin over the mighty Great Barrier Reef but not before soaring above the mighty Yarrabah Peninsula and the golden sands of Yorkeys Knob.

The sparkling blue waters and swirling reef formations below are nothing less than magnificent!

Soon your pilot will have you gliding past Fitzroy Island and its spectacular white sands and fringing reef.

Continuing over the Coral Sea, you may be lucky to spot the many marine life that can commonly be spotted throughout the flight.

Keep your eyes open for manta rays, turtles, reef sharks and larger tropical fish.

If travelling through our tropical winter months of June to August, you may even be lucky enough to spot migrating Humpback Whales.

Soon your pilot will have you soaring over the swirling reef systems of Moore Reef.

On landing you will alight from the helicopter amazed by the unique patterns of coral and reef below. 

Outer Great Barrier Reef Pontoon

Disembarking the helicopter, you will find yourself upon an interactive floating pontoon in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef.

You will have around four hours to enjoy the outer reef pontoon and the many activities on offer.

Moore Reef is located around 40km from the coast of Cairns and is well known for its clear visibility and fantastic water conditions.

Snorkel equipment and demonstrations are available onboard and the pontoon has its very own snorkeling enclosure with rest stops and viewing stations.

Take a walk through the Underwater Observatory where you will have the opportunity to view the abundance of colourful corals and tropical fish that call Moore Reef home.

At around 3:30pm, there is a fish feeding presentation that takes place which is best viewed from the observatory.

Visit the onboard marine life touch tank where you will have the opportunity to hold and touch various sea creatures whilst on the pontoon.

Discover and learn of the reef’s underwater wonders on a coral viewing Glass Bottom Boat tour.

Glide through the colourful coral gardens on a Semi-Submersible Submarine boat tour and keep your eyes peeled for the abundance of marine life that can regularly be spotted in the pristine waters of Moore Reef, such as Sea Turtles, Reef Sharks, Rays and plentiful tropical fish.

Onboard there is also a giant theme park style water slide, a fully enclosed kids pool, full bar facilities and a sun deck where you can unwind and soak in the breath taking views of the outer reef.

Whilst onboard you will also be served a full buffet lunch complete with prawns, salads, cold meats, curry, stir fry, tropical fruits, pastas and more. 

What better way is there to experience one of the world’s greatest natural wonders? 

Upgrade to a Guided Snorkel Tour

Take your Great Barrier Reef experience to the next level with an optional guided snorkel tour.

Led by an experienced marine naturalist, the guided tour lasts around 30 minutes, showcasing the reef’s unique marine life and coral systems.

Your snorkel instructor will point out all of the best sites, including the world’s largest Bi-Valve Giant Clam, Clown Fish and the Giant Blue Starfish.

Return to Cairns

After four hours upon the Great Barrier Reef pontoon, you will then board your catamaran return to Cairns.

The journey back to the mainland will have you gliding upon the waters of the Great Barrier Reef and taking in the stunning scenic landscape sights on the way.

The trip will take around 90 minutes so you can choose to take a seat on the top deck or in the air conditioned cabin.

Take a look at the professional photographs that were taken of you throughout the day and purchase your favourite or simply relax and enjoy the sights.

Your boat will return to Reef Fleet Terminal in Cairns at around 5:00pm. Transfers back to your accommodation in Cairns or Cairns northern beaches can be arranged at an additional cost. 

Helicopter Fly and Fly Half Day Reef Tour

Departing from Cairns, your half day tour will include a return scenic helicopter flight to and from Moore Reef where you will enjoy stunning views of the Great Barrier Reef and its many sand cays, reef formations, tropical islands and marine life.

Upon arriving at your outer reef destination, a pontoon nestled upon Moore Reef, you will have a few hours to relax and take part in the many activities on offer.

Your reef tour day will include a full buffet lunch, snorkel gear, access to the underwater observatory, a Semi-Submersible Submarine boat tour, a Glass Bottom Boat tour and a giant waterslide before returning to Cairns by a luxury catamaran.

Ideal for those wishing to enjoy a relaxed morning in Cairns.

Your Coach Awaits - Your Helicopter Awaits

Your adventure will begin with a coach pick up from your accommodation in Cairns or Cairns northern beaches.

Alternatively you can check in at the Cairns central helipad 30 minutes prior to departure.

Return transfers from your accommodation in Cairns or Cairns northern beaches are available at an additional cost.

Prior to departure you will meet your friendly Pilot who will provide commentary and information about the Great Barrier Reef throughout the flight.

After completed a pre departure briefing, you will safely be strapped into the seat of your luxury helicopter and provided with a head set. 

25 Minute Scenic Reef Helicopter Flight

Taking off from the Cairns helicopter pad, you will be welcomed with scenic views of Cairns city and its surrounds.

Have your camera in hand as you fly above the palm tree lined beaches, inland mangroves and estuaries and surrounding rainforest greenery.

Your Cairns helicopter scenic flight will have you heading east from the mainland, your journey will begin over the mighty Great Barrier Reef but not before soaring above the mighty Yarrabah Peninsula and the golden sands of Yorkeys Knob.

The sparkling blue waters and swirling reef formations below are nothing less than magnificent! Soon your pilot will have you gliding past Fitzroy Island and its spectacular white sands and fringing reef.

Continuing over the Coral Sea, you may be lucky to spot the many marine life that can commonly be spotted throughout the flight. Keep your eyes open for manta rays, turtles, reef sharks and larger tropical fish.

If travelling through the tropical winter months of July to August, you may even be lucky enough to spot migrating Humpback Whales.

Soon your pilot will have you soaring over the swirling reef systems of Moore Reef.

Be amazed by the unique patterns of coral and reef below. 

Cairns Great Barrier Reef Tour - Pontoon

Disembarking the helicopter, you will find yourself being transfered to a floating pontoon in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef that will be your interactive activity platform for the balance of your Great Barrier Reef trip experience.

You will have a few hours to enjoy the outer reef pontoon and the many in-water activities on offer.

Moore Reef is located around 40km from the coast of Cairns and is well known for its clear visibility and fantastic water conditions.

Snorkel equipment and demonstrations are available onboard and the pontoon has its very own snorkeling enclosure with rest stops and viewing stations.

Take a walk through the Underwater Observatory where you will have the opportunity to view the abundance of colourful corals and tropical fish that call Moore Reef home.

At around 3:30pm, there is a fish feeding presentation that takes place which is best views from the observatory.

Visit the onboard marine life touch tank where you will have the opportunity to hold and touch various sea creatures whilst on the pontoon.

Discover and learn of the reef’s underwater wonders on a coral viewing Glass Bottom Boat tour.

Glide through the colourful coral gardens on a semi-submersible boat tour and keep your eyes peeled for the abundance of marine life that can regularly be spotted in the pristine waters of Moore Reef, such as Sea Turtles, Reef Sharks, Rays and plentiful tropical fish.

Onboard there is also a giant theme park style water slide, a fully enclosed kids pool, full bar facilities and a sun deck where you can unwind and soak in the breath taking views of the outer reef.

Whilst onboard you will also be served a full buffet lunch complete with prawns, salads, cold meats, curry, stir fry, tropical fruits, pastas and more.

There is no better way to experience one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia 

This is the perfect Great Barrier Reef tour for non-swimmers.

Return Scenic Helicopter Flight to Cairns

After enjoying a few hours at the outer reef, you will then board your luxury helicopter for your return flight to Cairns.

Enjoy a return scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef as you make your way back to the mainland.

Take in the views of the stunning coral and sand cays, the swirling reef formations below and surrounding tropical islands.

Upon arrival back to Cairns, you will be greeted with beautiful views of the surrounding beaches, coastline and rainforest in the distance.

Arriving back to the central heli pad in Cairns, you will then be welcomed with return coach transfers back to your accommodation. 

See more Cairns and Great Barrier Reef Helicopter Scenic Flight options.

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Cairns

Departure Time

• 9.30am cruise/fly
• 11.25pm fly/cruise

Departure Instructions

• Cruise Out / Fly Return Tour:Departs 9:30am - Returns 3:25pm
• Fly Out / Cruise Return Tour: Departs 11:30am - Returns 5:30pm
• Fly Out / Fly Return Tour: Departs 11:30am - Returns 3:25pm

Pickup Locations

• Cairns
• Cairns Northern Beaches
• Palm Cove

• Cruise Out / Fly Return Tour:Check in at the Sunlover Reef Cruises office at Reef Fleet Terminal in Cairns between 8:30am and 9:15am. Return coach transfers from your accommodation in Cairns or Cairns northern beaches can be purchased at an additional cost. If transfers are purchased, pick up times and location will be provided at time of booking.
• Fly Out / Cruise Return Tour:You can check in at the Nautilus Aviation office Hangar 9, Bush Pilots Avenue, General Aviation in Cairns 30 minutes prior to departure. Return coach transfers from your accommodation in Cairns or Cairns northern beaches can be purchased at an additional cost. If transfers are purchased, pick up times and location will be provided at time of booking.
• Fly Out / Fly Return Tour:Courtesy return transfers from your accommodation in Cairns, Cairns Northern Beaches and Palm Cove are included. Transfers from Port Douglas available at an additional cost. Pick up times and location will be provided at time of booking.
• Self Dive: you can check in at the Nautilus Aviation office Hangar 9, Bush Pilots Avenue, General Aviation in Cairns 30 minutes prior to departure

Destinations

• Fitzroy Island
• Great Barrier Reef
• Moore Reef

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Daily

Excludes Christmas Day

Duration

Times are approximate

Available for Purchase / Hire

• Return coach transfers from Cairns or Cairns northern beaches accommodation available at additional cost
• Upgrade to an Introductory or Certified Scuba Dive
• Upgrade to Seawalker Helmet Diving tour
• Upgrade to Guided Snorkel Tour
• Lockers avaialable for hire
• Lycra suits, wet suits and prescription masks available for hire

Fitness Level Required

Low

Restrictions

• Scuba Diving – minimum age 12
• Seawalker helmet diving tour – minimum age 12 years
• Scuba diving – all participants must complete a medical assessment on board to assess their fitness for diving
• Weights of individual passengers and accompanying carryon luggage (max 5 kg) MUST be advised at time of booking. A weight variance greater than 10% may incur an additional fee. Maximum single seat payload of 130kg.

Weight: Up to 130 Kg / 287 Lb

Additional Information

Tours and aircraft substitutions are subject to Management and/or Pilots discretion, weather, air traffic control and availability.

Eco Certifications

• Sunglasses
• Camera
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Change of clothes
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Cash or credit card

• Children 3 years and older are legally required to occupy their own seat and therefore must pay the per seat price
• Children 0-2 years travel FOC on the lap of a parent / guardian (max 1 per flight).

• Cancellation notice of 48hours is required for a full refund claim and 24-48 hours, for a 50% refund claim. No refund applies if booking is cancelled inside 24 hours.
• Weights of individual passengers and accompanying carryon luggage (max 5 kg) MUST be advised at time of booking. A weight variance greater than 10% may incur an additional fee. Maximum single seat payload of 130kg.