Inner Reef Explorer - 30 minute Reef Scenic Flight
Overview
Available languages
30 minutes
Mobile ticket
This 30-minute scenic helicopter tour departs Cairns airport and tracks out from the mainland with views of the city of Cairns and Trinity inlet, passing False Cape where you can see the remnants of WWII defences, Mt Yarrabah, Mission Bay and Cape Grafton. From there we strike out to the inner edge of the Reef and Green Island, a 6,000 year-old coral sand island that boasts its own native rainforest eco-system. Tracking to the north, we explore the western side of Arlington Reef, home to a diverse range of marine creatures – turtles, sharks and sting rays.
Continuing north we’ll circle Vlasoff Cay a tiny sand island in the middle of the reef that reduces to only a few hundred square metres in size at high tide. From Vlasoff Cay we head west, over Upolu Cay and back to Cairns taking in fantastic views of the North Queensland coastline framed by the lush rainforest-covered eastern slopes of the Great Dividing Range.
Additional Info
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
30 minute reef scenic flight
All Fees and Taxes
Informative, in-flight commentary
Unique, collectable 'Zoomy' Merchandise - optional
Personalised 'in-flight' video - optional
What To Expect
Great Barrier Reef
This 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).
Options
No Transfers
Make own way: No transfer included - make own way to Zoom Helicopters base at 21 Bush Pilots Avenue, General Aviation, Cairns Airport.
Reviews
40 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Truely a boyhood dream come true
Mark E,
Apr 4, 2025
- Viator
5.00Professional from the moment we walked into the air conditioned office and enjoyed a complimentary soft drink, through the safety briefing given by Hayley. Through to Niels skillful piloting and description of the wonders below…. Rays and seals were visible from 500ft.
Awesome experience!
Eva H,
Apr 2, 2025
- Viator
5.00Would highly recommend, stunning views. Amazing experience. The colours of the reef are spectacular.
Should not be missed!
Naghmeh K,
Feb 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00Incredible experience! Had a wonderful time. Professional and courteous Pilots. Highly recommend Zoom Helicopters.
Great
Konstantinos G,
Jan 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00Great flight over the ocean and reef👍 Great flight over the ocean and reef. I really wanted to see some big fish, but it didn't work out. 👏
JUST DO IT!!😎👍🌈
William S,
Dec 10, 2024
- Viator
5.00Chris is the BEST! AWESOME !!! Best thing we have done in Australia!! Quiet and safe. Great way to see the reef. Neil was a excellent and professional pilot. Don’t miss this🚁
Related Experiences
Operated by Zoom Helicopters