• Experience the awe-inspiring sights during our 60-minute scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef.
• See the Great Barrier Reef the tropical coastline and the mountainous regions of Cairns and Far North Queensland on this 60 minute flight
• Your helicopter flys over islands, sand cays and tropical reef. During the months of July to August keep a keen eye out for migrating whales 

60 minute helicopter flights over the Great Barrier Reef. Witness a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of colours on the reef and her islands during our 60-minute scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef.

What to Expect

60-Minute Helicopter Flight Over the Great Barrier Reef

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with our 60-minute scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef, offering you a unique bird’s-eye view of one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Departing from Cairns, this helicopter ride provides you with a front-row seat to witness the vibrant colours and intricate beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and its surrounding islands and sand cays.

From the moment you are strapped in with headphones on and take off, you’ll be treated to stunning aerial views of the Yarrabah Peninsula and Fitzroy Island, as well as two distinct coral reef clusters. The lower cluster includes Sudbury Sand Cay, Briggs Reef, Elford Reef, Moore Reef, and Thetford Reef, while the upper cluster features Arlington Reef, Vlassoff Cay, Upolu Cay, and the iconic Green Island.

During your helicopter scenic flight, you’ll have the chance to spot the rich marine life that calls the Great Barrier Reef home. And if you’re flying between June and August, keep an eye out for the majestic whales making their annual migration through the warm waters.

Features and Highlights

• Comprehensive Reef Exploration: This 60-minute Cairns helicopter ride allows you to explore both the lower and upper reef clusters, giving you an expansive view of the Great Barrier Reef’s most stunning features, including vibrant coral formations, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and secluded sand cays.
• Iconic Island Views: Fly over the picturesque Fitzroy Island, a lush green oasis surrounded by coral reefs, and see the famous Green Island, a 6,000-year-old coral cay with its own rainforest ecosystem.
• Whale Watching (Seasonal): If you’re flying between June and August, you may be lucky enough to witness the awe-inspiring sight of humpback whales as they migrate through the Great Barrier Reef, adding a thrilling element to your helicopter scenic flight.
• Convenient Departure: This helicopter ride departs from Cairns, making it easily accessible for visitors staying in the city or nearby areas.

Perfect for All Travellers

• Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or just looking to experience the Great Barrier Reef in a unique way, this 60-minute helicopter flight is perfect for you. It’s also an ideal activity for cruise ship passengers who want to make the most of their time in Cairns.

Additional Scenic Flight Options

• Explore more of the Great Barrier Reef with our wide range of scenic helicopter flights from both Cairns and Port Douglas. Each flight offers a different perspective and duration, allowing you to tailor your experience to your interests and schedule.
• Cruise ship passengers can also discover additional shore tour options in Cairns to ensure they experience the very best this stunning region has to offer.
• See all helicopter and reef combo package tour deals.

Please note due to limited seat capacity you must book helicopter flights in advance.

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

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Cairns

Departure Time

Departure time can be selected during booking

Departure Instructions

Please arrive 20 minutes prior to departure

Destinations

• Great Barrier Reef
• Sudbury, Elford & Moore Reef
• Arlington Reef & Vlassof Cay
• Great Barrier Reef
• Fitzroy Island
• Green Island

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Daily

Duration

60 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).
• Please notify us at the time if booking advise if passengers are travelling with infants
• Only one (1) infant is permitted to travel in an aircraft