The Reef & Rainforest Scenic Helicopter Flight – 45 Minutes tour shows the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics rainforest from the air. The flight includes aerial views of Green Island, Arlington Reef, and Upolu Sand Cay before continuing over the rainforest near Double Island and Palm Cove. The tour then flies inland over Barron Gorge National Park, passing the Barron River and Barron Falls before reaching Kuranda. Marine life is often seen from above.

Features

• 45-minute scenic helicopter flight
• Great Barrier Reef and rainforest views
• Green Island, Arlington Reef and Upolu Sand Cay flyover
• Barron Gorge National Park, Barron Falls and Kuranda flyover
• Voice-activated headsets
• Inflight commentary from local pilot
• Departures from Cairns Helipad

Itinerary

Green Island, Arlington Reef & Upolu Sand Cay
Departing from the Cairns Helipad, the flight heads out over the Coral Sea. Passengers will see Green Island, a coral cay with reef edges, and Arlington Reef, known for its large reef system. The flight also includes views of Upolu Sand Cay, a small sandy cay surrounded by reef and shallow lagoons. From the air, marine life such as sea turtles, rays, and dolphins may be visible.

Double Island & Palm Cove
The route crosses back over the coastline near Double Island and Palm Cove. This section offers coastal views and a look at the beachfront and resort areas from above.

Barron Gorge National Park & Kuranda
The helicopter ascends into the rainforest-covered mountains of Barron Gorge National Park. From above, passengers can view the Barron River winding through the gorge, the Barron Falls waterfall, and the village of Kuranda in the rainforest.

Meeting Point & Times
Nautilus Aviation Helipad, Cairns Esplanade, Cairns QLD 4870
Departs daily
Check-in time provided upon booking
Tour duration: 45 minutes
Returns to Cairns Helipad

What To Bring

• Camera
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Small soft bag with items under 10kg
• Cash or credit card for merchandise
• Photo ID and credit card used for booking

Additional Information
Please advise of any accessibility requirements when booking.

Booking Request
Booking Requests are confirmed manually by our reservations team. Your card will not be charged until the booking is confirmed.