SEE CAIRNS & THE REEF FROM OUR PERSPECTIVE

Only from the air can you truly appreciate the beauty, variety and sheer scale of the stunning natural landscapes that comprise the Cairns and Port Douglas region. 

This is  the only place on earth where two UNESCO World Heritage Listed sites exist side by side, being Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropical Rainforest. 

Witness a vast panorama of sprawling coral reefs, tropical islands and sand cays merging seamlessly into lush rainforest covered mountains housing vast river systems and spectacular seasonal waterfalls with breathtaking views as far as the eye can see.

NB: All flights are on a shared basis and are not on a private basis unless machine has been chartered.

30 MINUTE SCENIC FLIGHT – GREAT BARRIER REEF

A scenic helicopter flight over the reef is an opportunity not to be missed! You will be amazed by the stunning blue and green hues of these pristine coral sea waters and their thriving coral gardens. This flight includes incredible photo opportunities of picturesque Green Island, Arlington Reef and Upolu Sand Cay. 

Many of the larger marine species can be most easily spotted from the air.  Inflight sightings have included Sea Turtles, Sharks, Manta Rays, Dolphins, Dugong and even majestic Humpback Whales (Jul-Sep) during their annual migration from Antarctica, stopping by briefly to give birth and raise their calves in our warm tropical waters.    

45 MINUTE SCENIC FLIGHT – REEF & RAINFOREST

Our most popular scenic flight combining the beauty of our 30 minute reef scenic with a birds eye view of the oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest on earth. 

Commencing over the reef, we then cross back over the coast near double island and the resort township of Palm Cove before ascending the coastal rainforest clad mountains into the heart of the Barron Gorge National Park. 

Emerging from the canopy below you will see the Barron River and quaint rainforest village of Kuranda. Keep an eye out for the tracks of the historical Kuranda Scenic Rail and the gondolas of the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.  From the top of the gorge we descend over the 250m rock face of the mighty Barron Falls which, while impressive year round, provides an awe-inspiring photo opportunity after heavy green-season rain (Dec-Apr). 

We follow the Barron River for the next 5km as it snakes its way back down the gorge towards the ocean, providing hydro electricity to the city of Cairns and thrills for rafters riding on it’s rapids.  

60 MINUTE SCENIC FLIGHT – REEF & RAINFOREST

Our most comprehensive scenic flight, combining all the highlights of the 45 minute Reef & Rainforest flight with a further 15 minute extension along the rainforest covered escarpment of the Lamb Range including the beautiful Lake Morris.    

ADD A VLASOFF SAND CAY TOUCHDOWN!

Upgrade your 30, 45 or 60 minute scenic flight by adding a 20 minute touchdown on idyllic Vlasoff Cay. Enjoy an exhilarating landing and insta-worthy photo opportunity with your private charter helicopter in the very heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Subject to tides and cay availability. Cost:$80.00pp

Terms & Conditions:  Bookings must be made in advance of travel and upgrade cant be added at the time of travel due to flight plans and fuelling.  If touchdown is successful payment can be made direct on the day post your scenic to our Heliport staff. 

Also see our signature Vlasoff Cay experience including 2 hours on the cay plus use of snorkelling equipment and gourmet picnic hamper.  

“HELI EXPERIENCE”

There is no better feeling than lifting off and flying in a helicopter. Nautilus Aviation are giving you the chance to have a taste before upgrading to one of our 30,45 or 60 minute Reef and Rainforest experiences.  We are offering 5 minute flights between our General Aviation and Pier Heliports.  These flights take in the Cairns airport and Cairns Esplanade.

There are set departure times for the “Heli Experience”