Great Barrier Reef 40 Minute Scenic Flight from Cairns - Reef Hopper
Overview
Available languages
40 minutes
Mobile ticket
See the best of the Great Barrier Reef on this 40-minute scenic flight in our high wing aircraft. You'll see Cairns, Green Island, Arlington Reef, Upolu Reef, Double Island and Palm Cove. After exploring the Reef you’ll head back toward the mainland, with views of the North Queensland coastline. With window seats guaranteed, take in the stunning views as your professional pilot provides you with expert commentary along the way. Your flight also includes free transfer courtesy bus from your Cairns centrally located accommodation.
Bus tranfers are subject to availability, and GSL will advise you if this service is not available
Additional Info
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Individual weight restriction 125 KG
Not recommended for travelers with mobility issue, passenger must be able to get in and out of the plane without assistance
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
GSL Aviation
Starting point
Great Barrier Reef
Bird's eye view of Great Barrier Reef
What‘s Included
Guaranteed window seats
In-flight commentary
Hotel pickup and drop-off only from Cairns city centre area
40-minute high wing aircraft scenic flight
Hotel pickup and drop-off outside Cairns city center area (eg, Palmcove, Yorkeys Knob)
Food and drinks
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Departure
40-minute reef hopper scenic flight
Free transfer from for Cairns city centre ONLY.
Pickup included
Reviews
223 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Excellent trip with friendly staff
Passport15384902470,Mar 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent trip with friendly staff
Another perspective!
Rodica S,Mar 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Another perspective on the coral reef that perfectly completes the vovage by glass bottom boat and snorkeling. Very well organized activity with a transfer provided from Cairns to the place of flight and back. Knowledgeable staff, pleasant and smooth flight.
Amazing
Sara D,Mar 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had great confidence in our pilot! The reef was amazing - never seen anything like it! Only complaint is difficulty understanding pilot due to other noise from the airport traffic
Trip of a lifetime
stellapD8956CD,Mar 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Trip of a lifetime. Ethan our pilot was excellent. My hubby got to sit in the co-pilot seat. Fabulous views of the reef.
Excellent trip
W3382KUricharda,Mar 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent experience and highly recommended. Would recommend doing this before swimming on the reef. Shout out to our pilot Hanner.
Once in a lifetime experience
Moldovan C,Feb 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The flight is just amazing over the reef, it is truly something spectacular that will leave you speechless. Our pilot Ben was great, you can see that he loves flying and has lots of fun facts about the reef and the history of it. If you fly with him you might have the change to be in the same plane as Matthew McConaughey as it was used in the filming of the movie Fool’s Gold. Greetings from Romania, Ben!
Experience...
Charles P,Feb 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Exceptional experience, to do absolutely. Very friendly driver and the view of the Great Barrier Reef is beautiful
Well worth doing this experience
Anthony F,Feb 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent experience. Good communication from company. Picked up on time and returned to hotel. Full safety briefing and great information from our pilot. Very pleased with experience
Very affordable and great...
Dean M,Feb 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very affordable and great trip for the money. Breathtaking views with commentary from the pilot. Worthwhile trip.
Exceptional service.
Beata P,Feb 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It's a beautiful sight to see the reef from above. The crew was courteous, prompt, very professional, and super-helpful. I hope to come for the ride again!
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Operated by GSL Aviation