If you only have limited time but still want to experience the magic of the Outer Great Barrier Reef, this half-day Great Barrier Reef highlights tour is the perfect option!
Departing Cairns, fly by scenic helicopter over the reef to meet superyacht Evolution. Spend 1.5 hours at Hastings Reef with time for a quick snorkel followed by a late lunch and a complimentary glass of wine on the magical cruise back to Cairns.
Departs: daily
Departure for bookings until 30 November 2026: Check in at 12 pm at the Nautilus Aviation office, Marina Point, 2 Pier Point Road, Cairns City, for a 12:30 pm helicopter departure.
Departure for bookings from 1 December 2026: Please meet the Nautilus Aviation crew at Bus Bay 6, Reef Fleet Terminal (1 Spence Street, Cairns), by 11:40am. You will then be transported by van to the Cairns General Aviation departure lounge for a 12:40pm helicopter departure to the Outer Reef.
Return by reef cruise: arrival back 4:30pm at Reef Fleet Terminal, Marlin Marina, 1 Spence Street, Cairns. This is the same for all bookings.
Additional transfers: Hotel transfers from Reef Fleet Terminal can be arranged with reservations for an additional cost.
Departure for bookings until 30 November 2026: Check in at 12 pm at the Nautilus Aviation office, Marina Point, 2 Pier Point Road, Cairns City, for a 12:30 pm helicopter departure.
Departure for bookings from 1 December 2026: Please meet the Nautilus Aviation crew at Bus Bay 6, Reef Fleet Terminal (1 Spence Street, Cairns), by 11:40am. You will then be transported by van to the Cairns General Aviation departure lounge for a 12:40pm helicopter departure to the Outer Reef.
Return by reef cruise: arrival back 4:30pm at Reef Fleet Terminal, Marlin Marina, 1 Spence Street, Cairns. This is the same for all bookings.
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Enjoy a scenic helicopter flight over the Reef and Sand Cays, then arrive at our exclusive helicopter pontoon.
​Enjoy a spectacular scenic flight onboard a luxury 6-seater aircraft from Nautilus Aviation. Experience the sheer size and beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and gain a true appreciation of one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Sightings of manta rays, turtles and other marine life are not uncommon on the reef scenic flight, and if you’re flying with us in the winter months, there is even a chance of spotting whales.
Your scenic helicopter flight will take you to meet our boat, Evolution, to join our afternoon reef tour and journey home. You will enjoy 1.5 hours at Hastings Reef. After your safety briefing, it's time to discover the underwater world of snorkelling with all of the colourful fish, coral and marine life. Take time to relax on three spacious deck levels or in the air-conditioned saloon. Snorkel the Outer Great Barrier Reef with all gear and tuition included.
Then, with a complimentary glass of wine in hand, enjoy a late lunch as you cruise back to Cairns, arriving at approximately 4.30 pm.
Helicopter: 130kg weight restrictions apply for helicopter rides.
Diving: unfortunately as this is a half-day tour, there is no time to scuba dive. You will have time to snorkel and swim.
(07) 4052 8300