Inner Reef Explorer: Scenic Helicopter Tour of Cairns and Inner Edge of the Great Barrier Reef

Embark on a thrilling 30-minute helicopter tour from Cairns to explore the inner edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Marvel at stunning views of Cairns, Trinity Inlet, Green Island, Arlington Reef, and more!

Duration: 30 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Great Barrier Reef - This 30-minute Great Barrier Reef scenic flight takes in the highlights of the inner reef. There is simply no better way to appreciate the sheer size and scale of the Great Barrier Reef than from the air. Expect picture-postcard views of the reef and an abundance of wildlife - sharks, turtles, rays and even whales (July to Nov).
What's Included
  • 30 minute reef scenic flight
  • All fees and taxes included
  • Informative, in-flight commentary
What's Not Included
  • Unique, collectable ‘Zoomy’ Merchandise - optional
  • Personalised ‘in-flight’ video - optional
Additional Information

Embark on a thrilling half-hour helicopter trip which starts from Cairns airport, steering away from the mainland to enjoy vistas of Cairns city and Trinity inlet. You will pass False Cape, containing remains of WWII defences, Mt Yarrabah, Mission Bay, and Cape Grafton. Next, we head to the Reef’s inner rim and Green Island, a six millennia old coral…

Location
Zoom Helicopters
Turn off the Captain Cook Highway into the General Aviation entrance to Cairns Airport, turn right and you will find us opposite the Aviation Skills Centre on the left hand side of Bush Pilots Avenue.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(38 Ratings)
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Mossquad
Apr 28, 2025
Zoom zoom! - We got off the ship and hopped aboard our zoom helicopter for a ride over the reef. It was a great adventure. There was a full safety briefing and it was clear that this company knows what they are doing. We did a 30 minute ride which was plenty for us. Much better to book directly rather than do a ship excursion where everything is marked up. It was easy to get an uber there and back to the ship.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Mark_e
Apr 4, 2025
Truely a boyhood dream come true - 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.
Review provided by Viator
Mre1963
Apr 2, 2025
Fulfilled a boy hood dream. - From meeting Hayley at the Air Conditioned office, for the safety briefing and complimentary soft drinks we were treated to a fabulous experience. Great description of what we were doing on the journey to the reef from pilot Neil. Then the view was even better than I had dreamed of at school after learning about the reef in Geography!! Thank you Zoom team M&J
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Eva_h
Apr 2, 2025
Awesome experience! - Would highly recommend, stunning views. Amazing experience. The colours of the reef are spectacular.
Review provided by Viator
Naghmeh_k
Feb 14, 2025
Should not be missed! - Incredible experience! Had a wonderful time. Professional and courteous Pilots. Highly recommend Zoom Helicopters.
Review provided by Viator
Konstantinos_g
Jan 25, 2025
Great - 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. 👏
Review provided by Viator
Samanthare2754bx
Jan 5, 2025
Great Barrier Reef From Above - I was terrified of doing this at first, but I am SO glad I did! The helicopter is small, but it felt fine when we were up there. The views you see are views that are impossible to see unless you're in a helicopter. Just book it!!! My sister and I were pleasantly surprised with our experiences, and Brendan was super knowledgeable and made us feel safe. Would 100% do it again.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
William_s
Dec 10, 2024
JUST DO IT!!😎👍🌈 - 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🚁
Review provided by Viator
Marcel_b
Oct 27, 2024
Superb Experience - Splendid experience with amazing views. Zoom Heli is very organized and safe. I can highly recommend them.
Review provided by Viator
Andrewbz1728lp
Sep 19, 2024
AN ABSOLUTE MUST GO!!! - WHAT AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE! Johno was a fantastic pilot that explained the reef so well and was just a personable guy. We appreciated him getting us in early on the schedule to enjoy the views. We HIGHLY recommend this experience for ANYONE!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $267
up to 3 guests
2 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).