• This Cairns helicopter flight has you soaring over the Great Barrier Reef for 40 minutes taking in all the magnificent sites of the reef below.
• This 40 minute Great Barrier Reef helicopter scenic flight takes in Green Island, Arlington Reef, Vlasoff Sand Cay and the outer edges of the Australian continental shelf.
• During the months of July to August keep a look out for humpback whales as they migrate north to calve in the safe waters of the reef. 

Cairns helicopter flight on the Great Barrier Reef. On this fabulous 40 minute flight, we'll take you far beyond the inner reef.

What to Expect

40-Minute Cairns Helicopter Flight Over the Great Barrier Reef

Prepare to be mesmerised on this extended 40-minute scenic helicopter flight from Cairns, taking you on an incredible journey to the very edge of the Australian continental shelf where the Coral Sea meets the Great Barrier Reef. This helicopter ride offers a rare opportunity to explore some of the most remote and pristine sections of the Great Barrier Reef, showcasing the dramatic beauty and vibrant marine life of this natural wonder.

From spotting whales during the migration season (July to November) to witnessing the spectacular contrast of reef and deep ocean waters, this helicopter scenic flight from Cairns is an unforgettable way to experience the Great Barrier Reef from above.

Features and Highlights

• Scenic Helicopter Journey: Board your helicopter and take off from Cairns General Aviation Airport and fly out over Trinity Inlet, passing iconic landmarks such as False Cape, remnants of World War II defences, and the rugged peaks of Mt Yarrabah, Mission Bay, and Cape Grafton.
• Explore the Inner and Outer Reefs: Glide over the vibrant coral formations of Green Island, a 6,000-year-old coral cay with its own rainforest ecosystem. Continue your journey across the expansive Arlington Reef, where you may spot turtles, sharks, and stingrays in the clear waters below.
• Fly to the Edge of the Continental Shelf: Venture to the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef, where the shallow reef suddenly drops away to depths of over 1,000 feet. Here, the water clarity is unmatched, offering a stunning view of this transition from reef to deep ocean.
• Vlasoff Cay and Upolu Cay: Circle Vlasoff Cay, a tiny sand cay that is almost completely submerged at high tide, before heading over Upolu Cay, both of which offer picturesque views of isolated sandbanks surrounded by vivid blue waters.
• Panoramic Views of Cairns and the Rainforest: On your return helicopter scenic flight, take in breathtaking views of Tropical Far North Queensland coastline, framed by the lush greenery of the Great Dividing Range and the bustling cityscape of Cairns.

Perfect for Cruise Ship Passengers

This extended 40-minute scenic helicopter flight is an ideal shore excursion for cruise ship passengers visiting Cairns. With easy access from the port and enough time to fit within a busy itinerary, this tour ensures you make the most of your limited time in the region.

Additional Scenic Flight Options

For more options, explore other Cairns helicopter scenic flights or choose from a variety of Port Douglas helicopter flights to see even more of the incredible Great Barrier Reef and surrounding landscapes.

Cruise ship passengers can also check out our dedicated shore tours page for more exciting experiences in and around Cairns during your stopover.

See all helicopter scenic flights on the Great Barrier Reef from Tropical North Queensland. 

Read more about scenic flights over the Great Barrier Reef on our Blog.

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Cairns

Departure Time

Departure time confirmed at time of booking

Destinations

• Great Barrier Reef
• Great Barrier Reef
• Vlasoff Cay
• Arlington Reef
• Michaelmas Cay

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Daily

Duration

40 Minutes

Available for Purchase / Hire

In flight video

Fitness Level Required

Low

Restrictions

Weight variances greater than 10% of that advised at the time of booking may incur additional charges and/or luggage allowances being reduced. Operator reserves the right to refuse travel and charge a 100% cancellation fee.

Weight: Up to 130 Kg / 287 Lb

Camera (charged)

• Children 2 years and above are legally required to be seated in their own seat and are therefore required to pay the full ticket price.
• Children aged 2 years to 13 years must be accompanied by an adult on all flights.
• Children who have not yet reached their 2nd birthday are classified as infants and may travel free of charge (seated on a parent/guardian’s lap utilising a company provided infant seat belt restraint).
• Only one (1) infant is permitted to travel in an aircraft.
• Please notify us at the time if booking advise if passengers are travelling with infants