Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Pontoon, Travel by Helicopter

Exploring the Great Barrier Reef is a bucket-list adventure, and this tour offers a truly memorable way to see it. The combination of a helicopter flight and marine activities at Moore Reef makes for an exciting, scenic, and educational experience that appeals to many travelers.

What we love about this experience includes the breathtaking aerial views, the variety of activities suitable for all, and the seamless transfer process. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour might not be ideal for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights. This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers wanting a blend of luxury, exploration, and education.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Stunning helicopter flights provide a bird’s-eye perspective of the reef and surrounding islands.
• Multiple activity options cater to both swimmers and non-swimmers, ensuring everyone can enjoy.
• High-quality guides and marine experts enhance the learning aspect and overall experience.
• Flexible travel options (Cruise Fly, Fly Cruise, Fly Fly) allow you to customize your day.
• Convenient transfers from Cairns streamline the journey, saving you time.
• Limited group sizes (up to 6 people) offer a more intimate experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An All-Inclusive Day on the Reef with a Scenic Twist

This tour stands out because it combines the thrill of a helicopter flight with the laid-back fun of marine activities at Moore Reef. Designed for travelers who want more than just a boat ride, it offers a sense of adventure from start to finish. From the moment you check in at the Reef Fleet Terminal, every detail is geared toward making your day smooth and memorable.

The tour features three main options for travel:
– Cruise Fly (catamaran to reef, helicopter back)
– Fly Cruise (helicopter to reef, boat back)
– Fly Fly (helicopter both ways)

This flexibility is perfect for those who want to tailor their experience based on time, comfort, or preference. The helicopter ride itself is approximately 25 minutes, providing stunning views of the Coral Sea, Whitsunday Islands, and the reef’s shimmering surface.

The Helicopter Experience: A Must-See Perspective

One of the tour’s biggest draws is undoubtedly the scenic helicopter flight. As you soar above Moore Reef, you’ll notice how the vibrant coral formations and the vastness of the reef unfold beneath you. The aerial perspective offers a glimpse that photos simply can’t capture—waves breaking over the reef, the patchwork of colors from soft corals, and the distant rainforest on the mainland.

Guests have shared that the helicopter pilot’s commentary added an informative layer to the flight, making it not just a ride but an overview of the reef’s geography and marine environment. This part of the tour is especially valuable for those who love photography or simply want a unique vantage point.

Reaching Moore Reef: The Multi-Level Pontoon

Once landed at Moore Reef’s multi-level pontoon, you’re greeted with a range of activities designed to suit all levels of comfort and adventure. The facilities are spacious and modern, with a large sun deck to relax, shaded areas, and a waterslide for the kids or the young at heart.

Snorkeling and Marine Encounters

Snorkeling is the centerpiece for many visitors. All equipment is provided, and marine guides are available to give instruction—perfect for beginners or those who need a quick refresher. Reviewers have noted how helpful and knowledgeable the guides are, with one stating, “The marine experts really made the experience informative and fun.”

For non-swimmers or those preferring a dry experience, the glass bottom boat or semi-submarine tours offer close-up views of the reef’s vibrant marine life. These tours include commentary from marine experts, which adds educational value to the sightseeing.

More Great Tours Nearby

Other Activities and Facilities

• Waterslide: For a bit of adventure, the waterslide offers a playful break from snorkeling.
• Fish Feeding Presentations: Watching the daily feeding is a fun way to learn about reef ecosystems.
• Underwater Observatory: See the reef from below without getting wet, ideal for camera buffs or those with limited mobility.

The Food and Comfort on Board

While the tour’s main focus is on marine exploration, the food options are notable. A buffet is available, with most dietary requirements covered. Travelers have mentioned the quality of the food, making the experience feel more like a day at a resort than just a day trip.

The spacious sun deck is a highlight—perfect for sunbathing, relaxing, or simply taking in the views. The crew ensures guests are comfortable and well-informed throughout the day.

Practical Details and Logistics

The check-in process starts at 10:50 am inside the Reef Fleet Terminal, followed by a transfer to the Zoom Hangar at Cairns Airport, where safety briefings are held before boarding the helicopter. The entire process is smooth, with complimentary transfers making logistics easier.

The helicopter departs at around 11:45 am, giving you ample time to soak up the reef’s beauty. The arrival at Moore Reef is around 12:10 pm, providing approximately four hours of reef time—long enough to do multiple activities or just relax and enjoy.

Duration and Small Group Feel

The tour lasts roughly 6 to 7 hours, with the majority spent on the reef. The small group size (limited to six participants) adds intimacy to the experience, allowing for more personalized attention from guides and crew.

What to Bring and What to Know

Guests should pack essentials like sunscreen, hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and a daypack. Remember, passenger weight must be provided at booking, and check-in is strict—missing the window means missing out, with no refunds.

The tour is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for those over 120 kg (264 lbs) or with certain mobility constraints. It’s also not recommended for infants, stroller users, or those prone to motion sickness without medication.

Authentic Insights from Past Participants

One reviewer highlighted the knowledgeable guides as a real highlight, sharing that marine experts provided engaging commentary during the glass bottom and semi-sub tours. Another noted how the helicopter pilot’s narration made the flight more than just sightseeing—it was educational and fun.

A common theme among feedback was appreciation for the seamless transfers and clear instructions, which minimized stress on the day. Many also appreciated the flexibility of the three travel options, allowing them to customize based on their preferences for comfort and adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who love aerial views and marine life. It suits those looking for a luxury, all-in-one day trip with plenty of activities. Families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a small-group atmosphere will find it particularly appealing.

However, it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights. The cost reflects the premium nature of the helicopter ride combined with a comprehensive reef experience, so budget-conscious travelers might want to explore more economical options.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded, immersive, and visually stunning way to experience the Great Barrier Reef. The highlight remains the scenic helicopter flight, which sets it apart from typical reef excursions. The variety of activities—snorkeling, glass-bottom tours, fish feeding—ensures everyone can participate comfortably, regardless of swimming ability.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides contribute to a personal, educational experience that stands out. While the logistics require some planning, the smooth transfers and clear instructions make it manageable. This is a fantastic choice for those seeking a memorable, premium reef adventure that combines aerial views with marine exploration.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter flight?
The helicopter ride lasts approximately 25 minutes, offering expansive views of the reef and surrounding islands.

What activities are included at Moore Reef?
Guests can snorkel with provided equipment, enjoy fish feeding presentations, take glass bottom or semi-submarine tours, or relax on the sun deck.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, non-swimmers can enjoy the reef via glass bottom boats and semi-sub tours, with marine experts providing commentary.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license, sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and a daypack.

Are transfers included?
Yes, complimentary transfers from Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal to the helicopter departure point are included in the tour.

Can I choose different travel options?
Absolutely. You can opt for Cruise Fly, Fly Cruise, or Fly Fly based on your preference for boat or helicopter travel.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for electric wheelchairs or those over 120 kg (264 lbs).

This experience combines adventure, education, and luxury in one package—perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive and unforgettable Great Barrier Reef outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: