Helicopter Cairns Discover Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef from the Sky
Embark on a helicopter Cairns aerial adventure that allows you to fully grasp the breathtaking beauty, diversity, and sheer grandeur of the Cairns and Port Douglas regions. Only from the vantage point of a helicopter can you truly appreciate the magnificence of this remarkable natural landscape. This region is the only place on earth where two UNESCO World Heritage Listed sites coexist: Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropical Rainforest.
As you soar through the skies, you’ll witness a panoramic display of expansive coral reefs, tropical islands, and sandy cays seamlessly merging into the lush rainforest-covered mountains. These mountains cradle vast river systems and seasonal waterfalls, offering awe-inspiring views that stretch as far as the eye can see.
All flights are shared experiences, unless you have arranged for a private charter.
30-Minute Scenic Flight: Great Barrier Reef
A 30-minute scenic helicopter flight over the reef is an opportunity you shouldn’t miss! Marvel at the stunning shades of blue and green in these pristine coral sea waters, adorned with thriving coral gardens. This flight provides fantastic photo opportunities, including picturesque Green Island, Arlington Reef, and Upolu Sand Cay. The annual migration season offers an excellent opportunity to spot larger marine species from the air, including sea turtles, sharks, manta rays, dolphins, dugongs, and even majestic humpback whales (July–Sep).
45-Minute Scenic Flight: Reef and Rainforest
Our most popular scenic flight combines the beauty of the 30-minute reef scenic with a bird’s-eye view of the world’s oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest. Departing over the reef, we cross the coast near Double Island and the resort town of Palm Cove.
Then, we ascend over the coastal rainforest-clad mountains into the heart of Barron Gorge National Park. Emerging from the rainforest canopy, you’ll see the Barron River and the charming rainforest village of Kuranda, with glimpses of the Kuranda Scenic Railway and the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway gondolas.
Descending over the 250-metre rock face of the Barron Falls, you’ll witness a truly awe-inspiring photo opportunity. Following the Barron River for the next 5 kilometres, you’ll trace its path through the gorge back towards the ocean, where it provides hydroelectric power to Cairns and thrilling experiences for rafters navigating its rapids.
60-Minute Scenic Flight: Reef and Rainforest Extended
Our most comprehensive scenic flight includes all the 45-minute Reef and Rainforest tour highlights, with an additional 15-minute extension along the rainforest-covered escarpment of the Lamb Range, showcasing the picturesque Lake Morris.
Add a Vlasoff Sand Cay Touchdown!
Enhance your 30-, 45-, or 60-minute scenic flight with a 20-minute touchdown on the idyllic Vlasoff Cay. Experience an exhilarating landing and capture Instagram-worthy photos with your private charter helicopter in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Subject to tides and cay availability ($80.00 per person).
Heli Experience” – Taste of Helicopter Flight
Nautilus Aviation offers a 5-minute “Heli Experience” between our General Aviation and Pier Heliports for those curious about helicopter flight. These flights provide a glimpse of Cairns Airport and the stunning Cairns Esplanade.
30-Minute Scenic Flight: Reef
Depart Cairns on demand for a 30-minute scenic flight over the reef. Pricing starts at $399 per passenger (minimum of two passengers). You can request set departure times for the “Heli Experience.
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