Inner Reef Explorer - 30 minute Reef Scenic Flight

About this tour

Fly by helicopter from Cairns across Trinity Inlet and the inner [Great Barrier Reef](/places/great-barrier-reef) in 30 minutes, spotting WWII relics at False Cape and the rainforest-covered Green Island before banking north over Arlington Reef's marine life hotspots. You'll circle Vlasoff Cay's shifting sandbanks and return via the lush Great Dividing Range, with a pilot providing local insight throughout.

Highlights

• WWII defence ruins at False Cape from the air
• Green Island's ancient coral sand and native rainforest
• Arlington Reef turtles, sharks and stingrays below
• Vlasoff Cay's tiny shifting sand island at high tide
• North Queensland coastline framed by tropical ranges

What to expect

You'll board a helicopter at Cairns airport and climb out over the city and Trinity Inlet, passing historical military sites before heading seaward. The aircraft banks over the inner reef edge, where Green Island's rainforest sits on coral foundations laid 6,000 years ago. Expect to peer down at Arlington Reef's western slopes—genuinely rich with marine movement. The highlight is circling Vlasoff Cay, a sandbank barely bigger than a football field at high tide. From there it's westward over Upolu Cay and back to base, with the Great Dividing Range's green wall rising inland. The pilot talks you through landmarks and wildlife sightings as you go.

Good to know

Infants sit on laps; specialised seats available. All taxes and fees included. The flight departs Cairns airport. Service animals welcome. No minimum fitness level required. Optional in-flight video and souvenir merchandise available for purchase.

Frequently asked

How long does Inner Reef Explorer - 30 minute Reef Scenic Flight take?

Inner Reef Explorer - 30 minute Reef Scenic Flight runs for approximately 30 min.

How much does Inner Reef Explorer - 30 minute Reef Scenic Flight cost?

Prices start from AUD $464 per person. Final pricing varies by date, group size and any add-ons — confirmed at checkout via Viator.

Where does Inner Reef Explorer - 30 minute Reef Scenic Flight run?

This tour operates around Australia. Specific meeting points and pickup options are listed by the operator at checkout.

Who runs Inner Reef Explorer - 30 minute Reef Scenic Flight?

The tour is sold and operated by its supplier through Viator. AU & NZ Travel earns a small commission on bookings made via the link, which keeps this site free for travellers.

Is the tour confirmed at the listed price?

The price shown is the operator's "from" price as of our last sync. Final price, currency conversion, group discounts and cancellation policy are confirmed at checkout — always review before paying.