Inner Reef Explorer Helicopter tour – A 30-Minute Adventure Over Paradise
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- Bird’s-eye view of the Great Barrier Reef: Soar over iconic landmarks like Green Island and Vlasoff Cay.
- A blend of history and nature: Fly past WWII remnants at False Cape, Mission Bay, and Mt Yarrabah.
- A rainforest and Reef combo: Witness Green Island’s unique ecosystem, combining lush rainforest with vibrant coral sand beaches.
- Spot diverse marine life: Keep an eye out for turtles, stingrays, and even Reef sharks.
- Stunning coastal vistas: Enjoy panoramic views of Cairns, Trinity Inlet, and the majestic Great Dividing Range on your journey.
Experience the Inner Reef Like Never Before
Take off on a journey that’s as thrilling as it is breathtaking. The Inner Reef Explorer Helicopter tour offers a rare opportunity to experience the best of the Great Barrier Reef from the sky. In just 30 minutes, you’ll uncover a world of natural wonder, historic intrigue, and marine splendour.
Departing from Cairns Airport, the adventure starts with sweeping views of Cairns and its glittering Trinity Inlet. Flying past False Cape, you’ll glimpse WWII defence remnants amidst stunning landscapes.
From there, the tour heads towards Green Island, a 6,000-year-old coral sand wonder boasting a native rainforest ecosystem unlike anywhere else. Imagine centuries of growth and evolution culminating in a pristine island surrounded by the dazzling blue of the reef.
Venture to Arlington Reef and Beyond
Your journey takes a fascinating turn as you hover over the western edge of Arlington Reef. This coral paradise is teeming with life – from graceful stingrays to sea turtles lazily drifting below. Spotting a shark or two is not uncommon either, so keep your eyes peeled!
Next, it’s time to feast your eyes on Vlasoff Cay, a postcard-perfect sand island nestled in the heart of the GBR. Depending on the tides, this magical cay might shrink to just a few metres.
As the helicopter turns west, you’ll see Upolu Cay, another Reef gem, before returning to Cairns. The final stretch offers unforgettable views of the North Queensland coastline framed by the lush, rainforest-covered Great Dividing Range.
Why Choose the Inner Reef Explorer Tour?
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a unique way to experience the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO heritage-listed site, this tour ticks every box. It’s one of the most popular helicopter tours in Cairns for good reason. In just 30 minutes, you’ll encounter beauty, diversity, and unforgettable moments – all from the best seat in the house.
Ready to Fly?
Book your Inner Reef Explorer tour today and take the ultimate journey across the skies of the Great Barrier Reef. Don’t just see the Reef – experience it like never before!
Highlights
Soar over the stunning inner Great Barrier Reef, featuring Green Island, Arlington Reef, and Vlasoff Cay, with unmatched views of marine life and coastal beauty.
Itinerary
Tours depart between 8am and 6pm (Subject to change at anytime).
Passengers must arrive no less than 20 minutes prior to planned departure.
During check-in, passengers will be given a mandatory safety briefing and for Covid19 screening purposes, undergo thermal screening and a be asked to respond to a brief wellness questionnaire.
Included
- Scenic helicopter flight
- Informative, in-flight commentary
- Complimentary refreshments – tea, coffee, bottled water
Optional Extras
- Pick-ups/drop-offs – optional extras – (Cairns City $50 / Palm Cove and Northern Beaches $100)
- Personalised in-flight video optional extra ($75)
- Collectable ‘Zoomy’ merchandise – optional extras
How to get there
This tour departs from 21 Bush Pilots Avenue, General Aviation, Cairns Airport, Cairns, Queensland 4870
Important Information
- All flights are confirmed subject to availability, weather and booking minimums (passenger numbers).
- Single passenger bookings are welcomed; however, all listed tours require a minimum of two (2) passengers.
- In accordance with CASA regulations, all passengers are required to provide full name, accurate weight and baggage details prior to their flight.
- Seat allocation for flights is determined at the discretion of pilot / ground crew based on aircraft weight and balance to ensure the safety of all passengers.
- Reservations are only confirmed when passenger weights have been advised
Passenger Weight Policy
- Weight variances greater than 10% of that advised at the time of booking may incur additional charges and/or luggage allowances being reduced. Zoom Helicopters reserves the right to refuse travel and charge a 100% cancellation fee.
- The maximum single-seat weight limit/payload for Zoom Helicopters’ fleet of aircraft is 130 kg.

















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