Ultimate Great Barrier Reef and Rainforest 45-minute Helicopter Tour
5
Ultimate Great Barrier Reef and Rainforest 45-minute Helicopter Tour
By Nautilus Aviation
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About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-99, max of 6 per group
Duration: 45m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More
- 45-minute helicopter flight
- Informative commentary during the flight
- Entry/Admission - Nautilus Aviation
What's not included- Food and drinks
- Pick up and drop off from Cairns and Northern Beaches hotels
- Start:
- 2 Pier Point Rd, Cairns City QLD 4870, AustraliaWe recommend you are checked in 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time. Check-in will close 30 minutes before departure and you will not be able to check in after this time. Failure to adhere to check-in times, may result in you missing your flight and forfeiting the fare paid.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Infants must sit on laps
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3262REEF_RAIN- Most travelers can participate
- Weight Policy: Individual passenger weights and accompanying carry-on luggage MUST be advised at time of booking. Weight variances greater than 10% may incur an addition fee. Maximum single seat payload of 130kg. For passenger comfort and aircraft weight and balance, passengers exceeding 130kg are required to purchase an additional seat at 50% of ticket price - this is non-commissonable and payable to Nautilus Aviation on day of travel.
- Child Policy: Children 3 years and above are legally required to be seated in their own seat and are therefore required to pay the full ticket price. Subject to conditions, children under 3 years may travel free of charge when seated on a parents/guardians lap. For bookings of more than one infant (under 3 years), conditions apply - please contact reservations.
- All product requires a minimum number of passengers to proceed. Our Reservations team will reach out to confirm availability within the shortest possible time after we receive your order. For instant confirmation please call the team on 07 4034 9000.
- We recommend you are checked in 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time. Check-in will close 30 minutes before departure and you will not be able to check in after this time. Failure to adhere to check-in times, may result in you missing your flight and forfeiting the fare paid.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3262REEF_RAIN
From
$335.42
per adult
Select date and travelers
Similar experiences
Itinerary
- 2 Pier Point Rd, Cairns City QLD 4870, AustraliaWe recommend you are checked in 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time. Check-in will close 30 minutes before departure and you will not be able to check in after this time. Failure to adhere to check-in times, may result in you missing your flight and forfeiting the fare paid.
- 1We recommend you are checked in 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time. Check-in will close 30 minutes before departure and you will not be able to check in after this time. Failure to adhere to check-in times, may result in you missing your flight and forfeiting the fare paid. You'll then board the helicopter for your scenic flight.Pass byBarron Gorge National ParkGreat Barrier ReefGreen Island
About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- B1174FRgeraldm0 contributionsDiscovering the REEFFantastic 45 minutes tour over the Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas. Nautilus aviation was very professional in handling our reservation and the preparation for the flight. Brooke, our pilot, was great to point out détails on the Reef as well as showing us rays manta and little shark. She was very helpful in answering all of our questions and did a great job helping us discovering the Reef. I would recommend Nautilus Aviation and this great tour over the Reef to really see and understand the beauty of the Great Barrier. It's well worth it.Written September 30, 2024
- JoseKevo0 contributionsOnce-in-a-Lifetime OpportunityThis one is definitely worth the splurge and was the Grand Finale for my week in Cairns! What an incredible experience seeing The Great Barrier Reef from above after snorkeling below. The 30-minutes passed in a flash! Everyone at the agency from check-in to getting us onboard was fantastic, and special thanks to pilot John Nelson! What a privilege riding shotgun next to you!!!Written July 29, 2024
- susanfA4824WP0 contributionsOutstanding helicopter tourFabulous reef tour! I decided to go at the last minute after reading other reviews, and it was even better than I expected! I had a front row seat with all clear glass in front and below. Spectacular views! And the pilot did a nice job explaining what we were seeing.Written July 10, 2024
- michaelh5380 contributionsOutstanding Famiky Experience thanks to Kai and Shawn…..Outstanding Experience with Kai and Elevator Pilot. We took a tour out of Cairns and went to the reef and an island. We paid for the Helicopter Ride for our family of 4. What a great experience and both the boat driver Kai and Helicoper Pilot Shawn were simply awesome. Highly recommend it to anyone. What a great experience for our Family of four from the United States. Thank you Kai and Shawn!Written June 14, 2024
- Jet619840583650 contributionsGreat way to spend a morning.Terrific flight and the sights were impressive despite being windy and a bit cloudy. Pilot did his best to find and point out marine life with some background information on the condition of the reef.Written April 18, 2024
- NaomiKnight160 contributionsBrilliant barrier reef helicopter tourWe had a fantastic experience .. the pilot and staff were very professional & despite the rain we had a wonderful time and the views were incredible .. well worth it!Written February 24, 2024
- Charles M0 contributionsA great way to experience the Great Barrier Reef and Rainforest in an hourThe flight over the Great Barrier Reef and Rainforest was beautiful and smooth. We were able to get a close look at several reefs, sand cays and islands, mountains, waterfalls and the city and surroundings. The pilot was friendly, knowledgable and narrated the tour very well. The office and heliport staff were friendly and efficient. There was an approximate 15 minute delay before the flight started due to operational issues and waiting for air traffic control. We were not able to visit Lake Morris and the dam (air traffic control wouldn’t allow) so the tour ended up being 50 minutes instead of an hour. We were given a partial refund to compensate us for this unavoidable change.Written January 19, 2024
- whliu20010 contributionsFantastic tour (and good luck)I am lucky to have good weather. The fly over great barrier reef is simply amazing. The pilot spent 30 minutes, compared to 20 minutes per tour, in the air showing us all the reefs along flight path. Cycling around and pointing out details.Written January 16, 2024
- delfias0 contributionsGreat experienceThe experience was incredible. Just wish for more time at the pontoon as we had to miss the submersible tour with the many activities scheduled.Written December 31, 2023
- Lifeisfordancing0 contributionsMost Wonderful Experience Ever!!Unbelievable Experience! Took the 40 minute flight. Well worth the money! The Great Barrier Reef is definitely something to see from the air!! HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!! Niels, our pilot was awesome❤️‼️❤️Written December 4, 2023
- Mickel790 contributionsAn incredible way to get to Green IslandIt was an amazing trip out to Green Island with great commentary and humour from our pilot. All the staff were very helpful from start to finish, even organising a tour for us as we landed at Green IslandWritten November 29, 2023
- RJAdams20180 contributionsAmazing experienceWe added the 10 minute scenic flight to our Great Barrier Reef cruise just a few days beforehand and it was well worth it. Took off from beside the pontoon and the reef and circled for 10 minutes - absolutely stunning views and a completely different perspective than from the pontoon. Took many photos Well organised and shout out to Michael, our pilot for the experience. Sorry, I don't know the name of the person on the boat that ferried us to the floating helipad and back, but he was also polite and professional. If anyone is thinking whether to take a helicopter flight over the reef, then I would whole heartedly recommend this one - you're up above the reef straight away.Written October 1, 2023
- Ross_L630 contributionsHighly recommendedGreen island is beautiful (although food prices while there are extortionate) and the helicopter ride was fantastic! Was a really great day out.Written August 22, 2023
- 178maxp0 contributionsAmazing tripAmazing views, amazing experience. Beautiful memories. Would definitely recommend. We would definitely come back and hopefully see the GBR again.Written July 31, 2023
- Peter J0 contributionsGreat experience!Staff were really warm helpful and encouraging. The flight out was stunning although our later time meant a shorter time in the water. Could not recommend this tour or operator more highly.Written June 28, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
27 reviews
Excellent
23
Very good
3
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Donna C
Tucson, AZ34 contributions
Feb 2024 • Couples
There was low clouds this day so we were not able to go to the rain forest. The pilot added that time to flying over the great barrier reef. The pilot flew in between the clouds so we could get a good view. He made sure everyone on the helicopter could see what he was pointing out. He even found some sea turtles for us to view from the sky.
Written April 13, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Donna,
Thank you for taking the time to leave this lovely review, it is very much appreciated. I am thrilled to hear that you Pilot made a special effort despite the low cloud, which does unfortunately play havoc with our operations at times.
Kind regards
Kel
Written April 18, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
TrekStars
Melbourne, Australia203 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
We couldn't recomment Nautilus more highly.
Our family of four had a 45 minute reef and rainforest tour. It was a truly a breathtaking way to explore the area.
Our pilot Julian was so friendly, welcoming and informative. We were all amazed at how smooth the ride was thanks to his excellent piloting skills, and what a bonus to spot a whale!
Julian really went above and beyond and is an absolute credit to the company. We felt very safe and relaxed in his care.
The girls who helped us organise our booking, check in and board the helicopter were also amazingly efficient, professional and friendly.
It's definitely worth treating yourself to a flight with Nautilus if you are visiting the area. We could not fault them!
Our family of four had a 45 minute reef and rainforest tour. It was a truly a breathtaking way to explore the area.
Our pilot Julian was so friendly, welcoming and informative. We were all amazed at how smooth the ride was thanks to his excellent piloting skills, and what a bonus to spot a whale!
Julian really went above and beyond and is an absolute credit to the company. We felt very safe and relaxed in his care.
The girls who helped us organise our booking, check in and board the helicopter were also amazingly efficient, professional and friendly.
It's definitely worth treating yourself to a flight with Nautilus if you are visiting the area. We could not fault them!
Written July 22, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi TrekStars
What a delight it was to read this lovely review. We are thrilled to hear that you had such an incredible experience on your flight with us. Jules is an incredible Pilot and an even better human being and we are lucky to have him here at Nautilus. I have passed your feedback on to the Res team as well as I think it is important that they see the impact that they have on our customer experience. Thanks again for taking the time to leave this review, it is very much appreciated.
Thanks
Kel
Written August 21, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
LisaBouw
Perth, Australia80 contributions
Absolutely amazing first helicopter experience over the Daintree rainforest and outer reef . Luke our pilot was very informative throughout our flight and ensured everyone go to see the sights. We managed to spot many sharks and turtles while flying over the outer reef, in near perfect conditions. The man who collected us from our accommodation and drop us back was also very professional. All round a wonderful once in a lifetime experience over a special part of Australia.
Written May 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Lisa
Thank you so much for your feedback on both the experience with Nautilus Aviation and our fantastic team members, they certainly do try to go above and beyond to ensure our customers have a wonderful experience. I am so happy to hear that you also got to see some of our beautiful FNQ sea creatures whilst on flight, as this is something our pilots strive for each time, but cannot guarantee.
Kind regards
Kel
Written September 12, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Eden
75 contributions
Sep 2024 • Solo
The view was stunning. I have always wanted to see the reef from above and this was the way to do it. I felt sorry for the guy who had to sit in the middle seat as he had to lean over his partner to see anything. Booked and paid for 30 minutes but got 45 due to availability and booking issues as a bonus. Barron falls are stunning but if you have done the cable car then there is no need to do this part. Organisation-wise this needs work. No one told me how to undo my seatbelt in an emergency and when I asked no one told me. No one showed me how to open the door in an emergency either. Was meant to leave at 10 for a half hour flight. We left at 10:30 or after for a 45 minute flight. I was feeling really sick after the bumps from the extra time in the mountains. I had a canyoning tour going at 12. I was feeling so ill. Had I not rushed for departure on time I would have had breakfast, and might not have been so sick. Nevertheless, the hour and a half I thought I would have to recover between trips, was now 40 minutes, and I still had to get my gear from my hotel and walk to the next meeting point. Needless to say I had to cancel my canyoning last minute, as I wasn't a safe participant, and forfeit the $200 fee, along with the chance of the experience- negating the supposed bonus I had received in my extra 15 minutes of flying.
Written September 6, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback regarding your recent helicopter tour with Nautilus Aviation. We appreciate your business and value your opinion.
We are thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the stunning views of the Great Barrier Reef from above. Our goal is to provide unforgettable experiences for all of our customers, and it's gratifying to know that we achieved that for you. Regarding the middle seat passenger, we appreciate your concern. However, we've recently received positive feedback from him regarding his experience, including his enjoyment of our full-length bubble windows. It seems he had a wonderful time as well.
We understand that you had some concerns about the organisation of your flight. Please accept our sincere apologies for any inconvenience the extended flight time may have caused. Regarding your safety concerns, we would like to assure you that safety is our top priority. Before every flight, passengers are required to watch a comprehensive safety video in a quiet location in our office away from the helicopters to ensure that all instructions are clearly understood. This video covers important topics such as seatbelt usage, emergency door procedures, and other safety protocols.
Regarding the flight schedule, we apologise for the 11 minute delay due to Air Traffic Control. We have carefully reviewed our flight records and can confirm that the helicopter departed at 10:11am and returned at 10:59am. Please note that you had agreed to the extended flight time the day prior.
We are sorry to hear that you experienced airsickness. Unfortunately, we cannot control the weather conditions, and air turbulence can sometimes contribute to discomfort. We recommend that you consult with your doctor before flying if you have a history of airsickness.
Once again, we apologise for any inconvenience you may have experienced during your flight. We value your feedback and will continue to strive to provide the best possible service to our customers.
Thank you for choosing Nautilus Aviation.
Written September 11, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Partick H
Wickford, UK108 contributions
Did a walk-in in the morning and managed to get on a flight in the afternoon, the staff in the office were fantastic explaining everything to us. Went back in the afternoon and had our safety briefing and were told that my wife’s slight mobility issues were not a problem.
Helicopter arrived and we were shown out and seated, only 3 of us so all good seats.
Our pilot, Matt Shosta (not my spelling) gave an excellent commentary as we flew over the various reefs/islands. (Darker is deeper and lighter is shallower) as well as a lovely smooth flight. My wife loved it.
All in all a brilliant experience and would thoroughly recommend.
Helicopter arrived and we were shown out and seated, only 3 of us so all good seats.
Our pilot, Matt Shosta (not my spelling) gave an excellent commentary as we flew over the various reefs/islands. (Darker is deeper and lighter is shallower) as well as a lovely smooth flight. My wife loved it.
All in all a brilliant experience and would thoroughly recommend.
Written October 1, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for the fantastic review!
We're thrilled to hear you and your wife had such a great experience.
Our team works hard to ensure everyone feels comfortable and enjoys their flight. We appreciate your recommendation and hope to see you both again for another adventure!
P.S your spelling of his surname was pretty great for a first shot
Written October 2, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Extraordinary572391
3 contributions
For my friend Sam’s birthday, the two of us took a helicopter scenic flight from Cairns to the Great Barrier Reef and Rainforest.
Our pilot, Mick, put us at ease almost straight away. He gave us terrific commentary and a very, smooth and absolute awesome flight!
The views of the Reef were incredible! So beautiful and clear. The rainforest was also amazing and interesting. The whole experience was breathtaking!! I am out of superlatives!!
Thank you so much Mick and Nautilus Aviation - I very highly recommend this helicopter tour! 😃
Our pilot, Mick, put us at ease almost straight away. He gave us terrific commentary and a very, smooth and absolute awesome flight!
The views of the Reef were incredible! So beautiful and clear. The rainforest was also amazing and interesting. The whole experience was breathtaking!! I am out of superlatives!!
Thank you so much Mick and Nautilus Aviation - I very highly recommend this helicopter tour! 😃
Written August 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wendy D
7 contributions
Nov 2021 • Friends
Wow! What an experience. We did the the hour trip and had great views of the reef and saw dolphins & alone stingrays. Then over pristine rainforests. Ground staff & Piolet (didn't mention his name) did an awesome job. Would certainly recommend this trip.
Written November 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mark W
17 contributions
Did the 60 minute reef and rainforest runde. Simply superb & I totally recommend it. Amy did a great job and got us in the very next day after we called. Only gets 4 stars as flight was delayed for 2 hours due to a malfunctioning AC unit. Superb way to see it all from the sky - you must go.
Written March 10, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Mark
Thank you for taking the time to leave this lovely review. I am sorry to hear that the AC unit malfunctioned on the day you flew, but I am glad they were able to fix it so that you could still enjoy your flight with us -especially in this heat, the last thing you want is to fly with no AC.
Kind regards
Kel
Written March 15, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
jenniferbZ4034BP
Melbourne, Australia14 contributions
Amazing experience. 45 minute helicopter ride went to reef via Green island and returned over rainforest with views of waterfalls. I am afraid of heights but felt safe and secure. Beautiful experience and well worth the cost
Written August 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Jennifer,
Thank you for taking the time to leave this lovely review, it is very much appreciated. I am so glad to hear that you not only enjoyed flying with us, but that you also felt safe as that is extremely important when you put so much trust into our team.
Kind regards
Kel
Written September 1, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
That guy
Melbourne, Australia24 contributions
Mar 2023 • Family
So glad I picked to do a helicopter rather than the boat. To see it from above and all the formations is worth spending that money. However the reef itself pretty much has no colour or life. But we had the whole pontoon just for us when we got here because we went in a helicopter and it was worth it
Written February 27, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Mason, thank you for sharing your experience with us. We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the helicopter tour and found it to be worth the investment.
Kind regards
Kel
Written February 27, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ShannaLousie12
Addison, Texas
Is there any way I can reserve the earliest morning tour?
Written May 27, 2019
I’m reaching cairns on 6th May and checking in at the Shangri-La marina at 11 am,I want to do the helicopter tour for 3 of us,Zia there a possibility of doing this tour post 11 am on 6th may
Written April 30, 2019
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