Great Barrier Reef Helicopter Tours
Experience the Ultimate Reef Adventure: Combine a Helicopter Flight with a Reef trip
At Cairns Discovery Tours, we believe that exploring the Great Barrier Reef should be an unforgettable experience, both above and below the water. That's why we've designed the perfect package to give you the best of both worlds: a breathtaking helicopter flight over the reef combined with an immersive snorkelling, diving or coral viewing adventure. Some of the Great Barrier Reef Tours also offer a 10-minute Scenic Flight option from $199.00 per person when you are out on the Reef.
Up-Close Reef Experience: After your flight, dive into the crystal-clear waters to experience the reef’s marine life up close. Whether you choose to snorkel, scuba dive or keep your feet dry in a coral viewing boat, you'll encounter colourful corals and abundant tropical marine life.
Save Time, Maximise Your Day: Combining a helicopter flight with a reef tour allows you to see more in a single day. Fly to or from the reef in style, and experience its beauty underwater and take a relaxing cruise to or from Cairns, soaking up the sun and enjoying the stunning ocean views.
Please call Maryanne or Katie on (07) 4028 3567 or email us to discuss the many options and times available for Great Barrier Reef Helicopter Tours . Flights require a minimum of 2 people to operate. Solo travellers' bookings accepted.
Reef Adventure Cruise-Fly
$585 per person
Departs Daily Cairns 10.30am - 3.20pm
Discover the Great Barrier Reef as you cruise in fast catamaran comfort with Great Adventures to the activity platform moored at Norman Reef. Includes lunch, snorkelling equipment, semi-submersible coral reef viewing tour with commentary, Underwater Observatory and Eco Reef Talk. Return to Cairns on a 25 minute scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef.
Great Barrier Reef - Pontoon
Located off Cairns, just 90 minutes by fast catamaran or 25 minutes by scenic helicopter, the Great Adventures Outer Reef activity platform is a stable, all-weather base allowing visitors to explore the reef in comfort. Whatever your age, swimming ability or activity level there is something for everyone at Great Adventures. Snorkel, scuba dive or stay dry and visit the underwater reef observatory for a fun and informative Eco Reef Talk from a local marine expert. The Semi-Submersible is a great activity providing views of the reef from below the waterline without setting foot in the water and includes live commentary with fascinating insights into this complex ecosystem. You won’t go hungry either with morning & afternoon tea plus a hot and cold buffet lunch included in the day. Dine in comfort aboard the air-conditioned catamaran or pull up a lounge on the upper sundeck and soak up the tropical ambience.
Helicopter Flight
The 25 minute scenic flight from Cairns takes you to a reef activity platform located on one of two premium Outer Reef locations, Moore Reef or Norman Reef. Enjoy stunning panoramic views extending from the tropical rainforest clad coastline, across the azure waters of the Coral Sea and into the very heart of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Your highly skilled pilot will share their local knowledge of the region while on the lookout for Turtles, Dolphins, Manta Rays, large schools of pelagic fish and even majestic Humpback Whales (Jul-Sep). Maximum individual seat weight limit of 130kg applies
Great Barrier Reef Fly-Cruise Adventure
$585 per person
Departs Cairns daily 12.30pm - 5.30pm
Take in 25 minutes of breathtaking aerial views from the lush tropical coastline across the blue waters of the Coral Sea as you soar into the heart of the Outer Great Barrier Reef. Disembark at Great Adventures Outer Reef Pontoon and enjoy lunch, snorkelling, semi submersible coral viewing craft and underwater observatory before cruising back into Cairns at 5.30pm. This gives you the best of the reef from above and below.
Checkin Cairns 11.50am Return Cairns 5.30pm
Please make your way to Pier Heliport - Nautilus Aviation 45 minutes before your flight.
Helicopter Transfer
Enjoy a stunning 25 minute scenic flight with panoramic views of the Great Barrier Reef and islands. Your highly skilled pilot will share their local knowledge of the region while on the lookout for Turtles, Dolphins, Manta Rays, large schools of pelagic fish and even majestic Humpback Whales (Jul-Sep).
Maximum individual seat weight limit of 130kg applies
Great Barrier Reef - Pontoon
Located off Cairns, just 90 minutes by fast catamaran, the Great Adventures Outer Reef activity platform is a stable, all-weather base allowing visitors to explore the reef comfortably.
Whatever your age, swimming ability or activity level, there is something for everyone at Great Adventures.
Snorkel, swim, or stay dry. Visit the underwater reef observatory for a fun and informative Eco Reef Talk from a local marine expert.
The Semi-Submersible coral viewing vessel is a great activity providing views of the reef from below the waterline without setting foot in the water. It includes live commentary with fascinating insights into this complex ecosystem.
You won’t go hungry either with afternoon tea plus a hot and cold buffet lunch included in the day. Dine comfortably aboard the air-conditioned catamaran or pull up a lounge on the upper sundeck and soak up the tropical ambience.
The friendly and knowledgeable crew are ready to share a wonderful day of discovery and adventure in this very special part of the world.
Please note: departure & arrival times to and from the Outer Reef for Great Adventures listed are a guide only and depend on good cruising conditions.
Fly-Cruise Great Barrier Reef Half Day Tour
$530 per person
Depart daily 12.40pm - return 4.30pm
Ideal for cruise ship passengers or those with limited time who still want to experience the World Heritage Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy a 25-minute scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef to meet the Superyacht Evolution. Spend 1.5 hours at Hastings Reef snorkelling before cruising back to Cairns whilst enjoying a late lunch and a complimentary glass of wine.
Great Barrier Reef 'Highlights' Tour. This tour is perfect for those with limited time and who still want to experience the World Heritage Great Barrier Reef. Check in at 11.50am - Departing Cairns at 12.40pm, enjoy a 25-minute scenic helicopter flight over the reef to meet the luxury yacht, Evolution. Enjoy a late lunch with 1.5 hours at Hastings Reef snorkelling before returning to Cairns at 4.30pm
Cruise-Fly with Sunlover Cruises
Cruise - Fly Great Barrier Reef
Adult $665 |Child 4-15yrs $545
Infant under 3 yrs Free | Child 3yrs $399.00
Family 2A+2C 4-15yrs $2255
Departs daily 10am - 3.55pm
3.5 hours at the Great Barrier Reef
Cruise from Cairns to Sunlover's Pontoon at Moore Reef, 54km away. Ideal for all ages, this ocean base boasts a new sun deck and the Sunlover Sunslide for family fun. The 25 minute scenic flight from Moore Reef delivers stunning panoramic views extending from the tropical rainforest clad coastline, across the azure waters of the Coral Sea and into the very heart of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.
This great upgrade to cruise to or from the reef on a scenic helicopter flight providing reduced travel time and a unique aerial perspective that showcases the vibrant hues and sheer expanse of the reefs thriving coral gardens – an opportunity not to be missed! The 25-minute scenic flight between Cairns and Moore Reef delivers stunning panoramic views extending from the tropical rainforest-clad coastline, across the azure waters of the Coral Sea and into the very heart of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Your highly skilled pilot will share their local knowledge of the region while on the lookout for Turtles, Dolphins, Manta Rays, large schools of pelagic fish and even majestic Humpback Whales (Jul to Sep).
Great Value Reef Day with Scenic Helicopter Flight
Adult $395|Child $330 4-16 years
Great Value !! Save $69
Book Early to avoid disappointment - Popular experience
Departs daily 8.00am - 4.30pm
Experience the ultimate adventure value package on the Great Barrier Reef with views from above and below the Reef. Includes an awesome 10-minute scenic Helicopter flight to see the colours of the Great Barrier Reef from the air! Full day with two locations on the Outer Barrier Reef on board the luxury vessel "Evolution" including snorkelling, lunch and sunbathing. Please be advised that Evolution will not be operating from 22nd August through to 14th September inclusive due to scheduled maintenance.
Experience the ultimate adventure package and best value day on the Great Barrier Reef with amazing views from above and below. Enjoy a full day to two locations on the Outer Barrier Reef on board the luxury vessel "Evolution" including snorkelling, lunch, sunbathing and in the afternoon; you will board a Nautilus Aviation Helicopter for an incredible 10-minute scenic flight to see the magical colours of the Great Barrier Reef from the air! Departs 8.00 am Return 4.30 pm. 7.30 am Check-in at Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence St Cairns
Evolution also caters to both dive beginners and certified divers. Scuba diving packages include a full dive & safety briefing, specialised top-rated dive gear, and a fully qualified dive instructor. Note some medical conditions and medication can exclude you from diving.
Please note:- Please be advised that Evolution will not be operating from 22nd August through to 14th September inclusive due to scheduled maintenance. This is to ensure the highest standards of safety, comfort, and performance.
Fly-Cruise Great Barrier Reef Sunlover Cruises
Adult $665 |Child 3-15yrs $545
Infant under 3 yrs Free | Child 3yrs $399.00
Family 2A+2C 3-15yrs $2255
Departs daily 12.15pm - 5.30pm
3.5 hours at the Great Barrier Reef
Experience the ultimate adventure with a breathtaking 25 minute helicopter flight from Cairns to the Sunlover Pontoon at Moore Reef, located 54 kms offshore. Soar above the tropical rainforest coastline, glide over the sparkling azure waters of the Coral Sea, and marvel at the heart of Australia’s iconic Great Barrier Reef.
The 25-minute scenic flight between Cairns and Moore Reef delivers stunning panoramic views extending from the tropical rainforest-clad coastline, across the azure waters of the Coral Sea and into the very heart of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Your highly skilled pilot will share their local knowledge of the region while on the lookout for Turtles, Dolphins, Manta Rays, large schools of pelagic fish and even majestic Humpback Whales (Jul to Sep).
Perfect for all ages, the Sunlover Pontoon offers a fantastic day out for the whole family. Enjoy snorkelling, semi-submersible coral viewing tour, glass bottom boat and the newly added sun deck and the exhilarating Sunlover Sun water slide, ensuring endless fun and relaxation in the stunning marine environment.
Cruise Fly Great Barrier Reef
$570.00 per person 3yrs+
Departs daily 8am - 3.30pm
4.5 hours at the Great Barrier Reef
Experience the ultimate and best value day on the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy 2 reef locations, BBQ lunch and snorkelling equipment. At Hastings Reef, you will board a Nautilus Aviation Helicopter for a 25-minute scenic flight to see the magical colours of the reef & sand cays from the air while travelling back to Cairns.
Experience a full-day tour to the Great Barrier Reef, including 2 Reef locations where you will snorkel, enjoy lunch, and sunbathing, or you can choose one of our optional activities, such as an Introductory, Certified Dive or Semi submersible coral viewing tour. At Hastings Reef, you will board a luxury Nautilus Aviation Helicopter for a 25-minute scenic flight to see the magical colours of the reef & sand cays from the air while travelling back to Cairns.
Reef Magic Cruise & Fly Adventure
$729.00 per adult
$569.00 per child 3-14 yrs
Family 2A+2C 3-14yrs $2408.00
Infant under 3 - seated on adult lap - Free of Charge.
Departs daily 9am - 3.30pm
Experience the ultimate Great Barrier Reef adventure with our Reef Magic Cruise & Fly tour. Begin your journey with a scenic cruise to the outer reef, where you’ll explore coral gardens, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and witness incredible marine life. After your reef experience, enjoy a thrilling return 25 minute flight, offering breathtaking aerial views of the reef’s stunning beauty. This unforgettable full-day tour combines the best of both worlds – sea and sky – for an unmatched exploration of Australia’s most iconic natural wonder.
This tour also operates in reverse - Fly out & Cruise return - 10.30am - 5.00pm
The all-weather Reef Magic Pontoon is the latest and most technologically advanced structure on the Great Barrier Reef, designed and built with sustainability in mind. Spanning over 1,003 square meters and accommodating up to 450 guests, it limits the number to a maximum of 250 to ensure lots of space and a more intimate experience.
Highlights of Your Day: Click here to see a virtual -video of your day out on Reef Magic
Stay Dry Activities: Relax on the spacious sundeck, or marvel at the marine life from our underwater observatory, glass-bottom boat, or semi-submersible tours.
Snorkeling: Dive into the vibrant coral gardens and explore the underwater wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
Scuba Diving: Whether you're a certified diver or a beginner, discover the reef's depths with our guided scuba diving experiences.
Sea Trek Helmet Diving: A unique underwater adventure exploring to a depth of 3 metres without getting your hair wet. Reef Magic has the longest helmet diving circuit on the Great Barrier Reef. Perfect for non-swimmers or nervous divers. Minimum child age is 12 yrs
Scenic Helicopter Flight to Cairns The 25 minute scenic flight from Cairns takes you to a reef activity platform located at Moore Reef. Enjoy stunning panoramic views extending from the tropical rainforest clad coastline, across the azure waters of the Coral Sea and into the very heart of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Your highly skilled pilot will share their local knowledge of the region while on the lookout for Turtles, Dolphins, Manta Rays, large schools of pelagic fish and even majestic Humpback whales (Jul – Sep).
30 or 40 minute Scenic Reef Flight
30 minutes $415 per person
40 minutes $525 per person
Departs daily from 9am through to 4.00pm
General Aviation Airport Cairns
Experience a breathtaking 30 or 40-minute Cairns scenic helicopter flight to the outer Great Barrier Reef. Marvel at stunning coral formations and vibrant marine life with insightful commentary from our knowledgeable local pilots enhancing your understanding and appreciation for this natural wonder.
30 minute Reef Explorer
$415.00 per person(minimum 2)
40 minute Outer Reef Odyssey
$525.00 per person (minimum 2 )
Helicopter takes maximum 3 persons
Rate is per person from 2 years old - Infants under 2 are free of charge and must be seated on parents lap.
Solo travellers welcome - subject to minimum numbers
Flights depart from Cairns General Aviation Airport - 15 minutes north of Cairns
30-minute Great Barrier Reef scenic flight takes in the highlights of the inner reef. There is simply no better way to appreciate the sheer size and scale of the Great Barrier Reef than from the air. Expect picture-postcard views of the reef and an abundance of wildlife - sharks, turtles, rays and even whales (July to Nov).
A spectacular 40-minute scenic Cairns helicopter flight will take you beyond the inner reef to the outer regions of the Great Barrier Reef, where the frequency of coral structures is outstanding. Explore more widely, watching out for the incredible reef wildlife flourishing in this World Heritage-listed icon. You will pass sandy Vlasoff Cay and on to the outer reaches of the Great Barrier Reef to provide you with the ultimate reef experience. The colours and textures of the reef and clear blue waters framed by the massive North Queensland skies provide unforgettable backdrops for the keen photographer to capture once-in-a-lifetime images. Our local pilots/guides provide informative commentary and insights into the history of the reef and its abundance of marine inhabitants.
Cruise-Fly or Fly-Cruise the Great Barrier Reef with Quicksilver Cruises
$683 per person
Departs daily from Port Douglas
For your experience of a lifetime depart Port Douglas, Quicksilver’s friendly crew will take you to the renowned Agincourt Reef, a jewel-like ribbon reef on the very edge of the Great Barrier Reef. The 35 minute scenic flight between Port Douglas and Agincourt Reef delivers stunning panoramic views extending from the tropical rainforest clad coastline
Includes a 35-minute scenic helicopter flight to or from the reef. Please note this is subject to the availability of the helicopter. We will email you immediately with confirmation.
For your experience of a lifetime, Quicksilver’s friendly crew will take you to the renowned Agincourt Reef, a jewel-like ribbon reef on the very edge of the Great Barrier Reef. From the spacious activity platform, discover an underwater world filled with a dazzling kaleidoscope of colour and brilliance.
Quicksilver departs from Port Douglas and takes you to Agincourt Reef, at the very outer edge of the Barrier Reef. Here, special reefs known as ‘ribbons’ run parallel to the Continental Shelf. Adjacent to the Coral Sea trench, these ribbon reefs are recognised as the most pristine eco-systems in the reef’s environment. Clear water provides the best possible underwater visibility, encourages rich coral growth and supports spectacular marine life. As the region’s outer reef pioneer, we chose the best location available to show you nature’s finest.
It’s a day that engages all your senses, lifts your spirit and takes you into another realm. Sharing the wonder of the world’s largest living entity, realising its breathtaking colour and majesty, seeing nature at its most perfect is an awakening and, quite simply, the memory of a lifetime. Come and experience nature’s finest with Australia’s best. At Agincourt ribbon reef, you’ll feel as if you’ve embraced paradise.
Reef-Rainforest Scenic Helicopter Flight
30 minutes $415 per person 3yrs+
45 minutes $515 per person 3yrs+
Departs daily from Cairns Heli pad -The Pier Cairns
The most popular scenic flight combines 30-minute Great Barrier Reef scenic with an additional 15 minute bird's eye view of the oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest on earth. Commencing over the reef, we cross back over the coast near Double Island and the resort township of Palm Cove before ascending the coastal rainforest-clad mountains into the heart of the Barron Gorge National Park.
This is the only place on earth where two World Heritage Listed icons exist side by side. Australia’s Great Barrier Reef & Wet Tropical Rainforest. The sheer scale and beauty of these incredible natural assets must be seen from the air! You will be amazed by the stunning blue and green hues of these pristine coral sea waters and their thriving coral gardens. This flight includes incredible photo opportunities of picturesque Green Island, Arlington Reef and Upolu Sand Cay. Many of the larger marine species can be most easily spotted from the air. Inflight sightings have included Sea Turtles, Sharks, Manta Rays, Dolphins, Dugong and even majestic Humpback Whales (Jul-Sep) during their annual migration from Antarctica, stopping by briefly to give birth and raise their calves in our warm tropical waters.
Please note flights operate with a minimum of 2 people - Solo traveller bookings are accepted and will be confirmed once minimum numbers are reached. Please note the tour is subject to availability at the time of booking. Please make your way to The Cairns Pier Heliport -45 minutes before your flight.
Return Scenic Great Barrier Reef Heli Flight
$1189.00 per person
Departs Daily from Port Douglas
11.10am - 3.30pm
Short on time or want to experience the Great Barrier Reef on a return scenic flight. Takes in the highlights of the inner reef. There is simply no better way to appreciate the sheer size and scale of the Great Barrier Reef than from the air. Expect picture-postcard views of the reef and an abundance of wildlife – sharks, turtles, rays and even whales (July to Nov).
Spend 2 hours - 15 minutes at the Quicksilver pontoon to enjoy snorkelling, semi submersible coral viewing tour, underwater observatory and a delicious buffet lunch.
The 35 minute scenic flight between Port Douglas and Agincourt Reef delivers stunning panoramic views extending from the tropical rainforest clad coastline, across the azure waters of the Coral Sea and into the very heart of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.
The flight path includes famous 4 Mile Beach, Cape Kimberley, Daintree River Mouth, Snapper Island, stunning Undine Sand Cay and St Crispins Reef (refer map below and terms and conditions).
Your highly skilled pilot will share their local knowledge of the region while on the lookout for Turtles, Dolphins, Manta Rays, large schools of pelagic fish as well as Dwarf Minke and majestic Humpback Whales (Jul-Sep).