4 Scenic Flights in Cairns to Build a Day Around

1.Outer Edges of The Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 2,912 reviews · 40 min · from $169Our pick

Take a 40-minute fixed-wing flight from Cairns with a window seat, headset, and live English commentary. You’ll fly over Green Island, Oyster Reef, Vlasoff Cay, Upolo Reef, Pixie Reef, Arlington Reef, and more. Pilots such as Sean, Cameron, and Ethan have been praised for smooth flying and clear explanations. Hotel transfers, food, and drinks are not included.

“Nothing it was amazing. I was totally out of my comfort zone on this small plane and was dreading it but the views are amazing and flight was smooth. Sean was our pilot he gave us commentary on the area. Could not fault it. One helpful tip if you have earrings in take the. out as the headphones are so padded it squashes them into side of yourhead.”

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2.Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Scenic Helicopter Flight

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 1,003 reviews · 8h 30m · from $279

Spend about 8.5 hours aboard the 35-meter Evolution, visiting Saxon and Hastings reefs for snorkeling or an optional scuba session. You’ll get around five hours on the reef, a BBQ lunch, and a 10-minute helicopter flight from Hastings Reef. Crew members such as Luca and Mike are noted for helping nervous swimmers and first-time scuba participants.

“Awesome ship, great crew, excellent lunch. diving on the reef was like an Attenborough documentary. loved the helicopter ride which gave you an idea of how big the reef is *****”

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3.Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 340 reviews · from $283

Cruise from Cairns aboard Evolution, spend about five hours at two outer reef sites, snorkel or choose an introductory or certified scuba session, then take a 10-minute helicopter flight over Hastings Reef. A BBQ lunch, equipment, afternoon wine, cheese, and crackers are included.

“Great experience. Everything was well organized and was over the top. Instructors and whole team are professionals.”

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4.Great Barrier Reef 40 Minute Scenic Flight from Cairns – Reef Hopper

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 207 reviews · from $185

Take a 40-minute high-wing flight from Cairns over Green Island, Double Island, Palm Cove, Arlington Reef, and Upolu Reef. Your pilot provides commentary, and every seat is beside a window. Central Cairns pickup and return are included, with a maximum of seven people aboard.

“Worth every penny. Guaranteed a window seat plus the perfect video/photo shots. Would definitely do it again.”

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