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40 minutes
Mobile ticket
This 40-minute reef scenic helicopter flight is incredible. By extending the flight by another 10 minutes, we take in all the highlights of the 30-minute product, but extend the flight path out to the east, passing Green Island and tracking to the outer edge of Arlington Reef – one of the largest reefs in the northern section of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. We traverse the very edge of the reef pushing toward the edge of the Australian continental shelf where the water clarity is unsurpassed, and the ocean floor drops away to over 1,000 feet.
The additional time allows us to push further north past sandy Vlasoff Cay and on to the outer reaches of the Reef to immerse yourself in the colours and textures of the reef and clear blue waters. The massive North Queensland skies provide unforgettable backdrops for the keen photographer to capture once in a lifetime images. Our local pilot/guides provide commentary and insights into the reef and its abundance of marine inhabitants.
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.
40 minute reef scenic flight
All Fees and Taxes
Informative, in-flight commentary
Unique, collectable 'Zoomy' Merchandise - optional
Personalised 'in-flight' video - optional
Great Barrier Reef
A fabulous scenic helicopter flight. In forty minutes, we’ll go beyond the inner reef, to the outer regions of the Great Barrier Reef where the frequency of coral structures is outstanding. The additional time allows us to explore more widely, watching out for the incredible reef wildlife flourishing in this World Heritage listed icon.
Make own way: No transfer included - make own way to Zoom Helicopters base at 21 Bush Pilots Avenue, General Aviation, Cairns Airport.
65 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Tamara P,
Aug 9, 2025
- Viator
Amazing, Haley was very attentive, friendly and a super quiet flight... She was explaining everything to us during the journey. I recommend the DE 40 min flight because the time there flies by. Spectacular views.
Jeffrey T,
Apr 13, 2025
- Viator
The pilot was fantastic! From start to finish an all around great experience! I highly recommend this trip!!!
Sharon R,
Apr 6, 2025
- Viator
Well worth the trip! It was awesome and let us see what we were going to be snorkeling yesterday.😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆🐠🐠🐠🐠🐠🐠
Lesley M,
Mar 15, 2025
- Viator
Niels was a great pilot and explained the whole process well and answered any questions we had in detail. Seeing the Great Barrier Reef from the air was a great and unique experience that we are very happy that we decided to do.
James B,
Jan 19, 2025
- Viator
Great trip. Only 40 minutes but worth every penny. Chris was terrific and very informative answering all our questions.
Operated by Zoom Helicopters