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.
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
All Fees and Taxes
30 minute reef scenic flight
Informative, in-flight commentary
Unique, collectable 'Zoomy' Merchandise - optional
Personalised 'in-flight' video - optional
Make own way: No transfer included - make own way to Zoom Helicopters base at 21 Bush Pilots Avenue, General Aviation, Cairns Airport.
38 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Mark E,
Apr 4, 2025
- Viator
Professional 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.
Eva H,
Apr 2, 2025
- Viator
Would highly recommend, stunning views. Amazing experience. The colours of the reef are spectacular.
Naghmeh K,
Feb 14, 2025
- Viator
Incredible experience! Had a wonderful time. Professional and courteous Pilots. Highly recommend Zoom Helicopters.
Konstantinos G,
Jan 25, 2025
- Viator
Great 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. 👏
William S,
Dec 10, 2024
- Viator
Chris 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🚁
4.71
4.82
4.28
4.38
4.04
4.65
4.68
4.61
4.94
4.87
4.81
4.54
Operated by Zoom Helicopters