Cairns: Tandem Skydive Experience over Reef & Rainforest

Getting a chance to leap out of a plane and look down on the Great Barrier Reef and the lush rainforests of Tropical North Queensland sounds like pure adventure. This tandem skydive tour promises just that — an adrenaline rush combined with some of the most stunning scenery Australia has to offer. We haven’t personally jumped (yet!), but based on glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, this experience seems to hit the sweet spot for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

What we love most about this tour? First, the spectacular views from 15,000 feet that include the UNESCO-listed reef and rainforests, offering an unbeatable perspective. Second, the professional staff—reviewers frequently mention how safe and well-handled the jumps are, with guides like Sam and Brant making sure everyone feels confident. Third, the value for money — considering the included safety gear, personalized certificate, and option to buy photos and videos, the cost of $236.62 seems fair for what’s an unforgettable life experience.

A potential consideration? The weather dependency of skydiving means cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t ideal, and the optional photo/video packages add extra cost. This tour is best suited for adventurers with moderate physical fitness who aren’t afraid of heights, and with a minimum age of 16 — perfect for first-timers with a sense of adventure but clear safety expectations.

Overall, if you’re after an authentic, adrenaline-filled way to see the reef and rainforest from above, this skydiving trip could become one of your most memorable travel moments. It appeals to both solo travelers, couples, and groups who want a taste of Australia’s wild, beautiful side.

Key Points

• Breathtaking aerial views of the Great Barrier Reef and rainforests from 15,000 feet.
• Professional, friendly guides ensure safety and a smooth experience, even for first-timers.
• All safety equipment and a personalized dive certificate are included, adding value.
• Optional photo and video packages let you capture the moment for memories or sharing.
• Weather-dependent activity—cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t suitable.
• Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness aged 16 and over.

The Itinerary in Detail

The adventure begins with a brief 15-minute safety briefing, where your experienced instructor will explain what to expect and review safety procedures. This is a good chance to ask questions and ease any nerves. Once you’re suited up, you’ll board a plane that takes off from Cairns, soaring over some of the most iconic scenery in the area.

The drop zone sits between the rainforest and the reef, which means you’ll be treated to exceptional views throughout the flight. Reviewers mention that the surrounding area includes Atherton Tablelands, Daintree Rainforest, and even the Coral Sea with sights of Fitzroy Island and Green Island — all from your window.

The jump itself lasts only a matter of seconds — but those seconds pack an adrenaline punch. Reviewers describe the freefall as the “best part,” with one noting how “the free fall is the best part” and others mentioning the feeling of safety thanks to guides like Sam and Brant. The parachute deployment offers a peaceful float down, giving you ample time to take in the scenery, which is described as “absolutely amazing” by previous jumpers.

The landing is surprisingly gentle, with guides ensuring a smooth touchdown. Afterward, you’ll receive a personalized skydive certificate, a nice keepsake that adds value to the experience.

If you opt for it, you can purchase professional photos and videos. Many reviewers highlight how much they cherish their captured moments, with some describing the footage as “well worth” the extra cost of around $80 for photos and a professionally edited video.

The Value of the Experience

At $236.62, this tour offers good value for an adrenaline-filled adventure combined with stunning scenery. The price includes qualified jumpers, safety equipment, and a commemorative certificate, which adds a layer of authenticity and keepsake. The Australian Parachuting Levy and admin fee are included, so there are no hidden costs in that regard.

Compared to other tours, this isn’t just about the thrill — it’s a comprehensive package that balances safety, scenic beauty, and memorable extras. The optional photo/video packages are a common point of praise, with many reviewers saying they’re “definitely worth it” to relive the memories.

The tour’s duration of approximately 3 hours makes it manageable for most travelers, including those with tight schedules. You start with the briefing, then the flight and jump, and finish back at the meeting point, making it a well-organized experience.

What Makes It Special?

The views are undeniably the highlight. From thousands of feet up, you’ll see the reef’s intricate patterns and the emerald canopy of rainforests stretching in every direction. Several reviewers mention how “unbelievable” the scenery is, with some even saying they are considering doing a solo jump next time.

Professional staff and safety are recurrent themes in reviews. Guides like Brant and Phil get particular praise for making nervous first-timers feel comfortable, explaining procedures clearly, and keeping the atmosphere fun and reassuring.

The free fall is described as “absolutely exhilarating” and “the best part” by many. For those who worry about safety or nerves, reviewers stress how “completely safe” they felt in the hands of their guides — an essential reassurance for first-timers.

Flexibility and convenience are also appreciated. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, and the process from booking to jumping is straightforward. Many reviewers appreciated how quickly they could collect their photos after the jump, often within an hour.

Practical Tips for Your Jump

• Book in advance as the tour is popular, with over 10 bookings last month alone.
• Be prepared for weather cancellations — it’s a risk with skydiving, but the company offers a full refund or rescheduling.
• Wear comfortable clothing — most wear shorts or quick-drying gear. Avoid loose jewelry or anything that could fly off.
• Pockets should be emptied — you can’t take personal cameras, but guides will take high-quality shots with GoPros attached.
• Physical fitness should be moderate; the process involves some bending and flexing, but reviewers mention that even those with knees issues managed it well.
• Age limit is 16+, with parental approval for minors, and maximum weight is 110 kg (242 pounds), with surcharges for those over 94 kg (207 pounds).

The Review from Travelers

Many reviewers highlight the professionalism and safety standards. Sam, a guiding figure, was praised for calming nerves, and Brant was described as “absolutely wonderful.” The scenery, especially from the sky, leaves a lasting impression, with some saying they want to do it again — “even solo next time,” one reviewer admitted.

Others mention the experience’s emotional impact, describing it as “the most amazing tour ever” and “a once-in-a-lifetime.” A few points out minor inconveniences, like the rude reception staff or changes in jump timing, but these were considered minor compared to the overall thrill.

The Sum Up

This tandem skydive from Cairns offers a perfect blend of adrenaline, awe-inspiring scenery, and professional guidance. It’s ideal for first-timers who want a safe, well-organized adventure, and for those eager to tick off a bucket-list item with minimal fuss. The included safety gear, certificates, and optional photo/video options add to the experience’s value, making it more than just a jump — it’s a memory to cherish.

While weather can be unpredictable, the team’s professionalism and flexible policy help ensure you’ll get a clear shot at seeing the reef and rainforest from above. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a group, this adventure guarantees a story worth sharing.

In short: if you crave that once-in-a-lifetime rush and breathtaking views, this Cairns skydiving trip is a fantastic choice, combining safety, scenery, and excitement in one unforgettable package.

FAQ

Can I book this tour if I’ve never skydived before?
Absolutely. First-timers are more than welcome, and the guides are experienced in making beginners feel safe and comfortable.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers qualified jumpers, all safety equipment, a personalized skydive certificate, and the Australian Parachuting Levy and admin fee.

Are photos and videos included?
No, they’re optional extras. You can purchase professional photos and a video on the day, which many past jumpers say is worth the cost.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Skydiving is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, your jump will be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund or alternative date offered.

What’s the maximum weight for participation?
The maximum weight is 110 kg (242 pounds), with surcharges for those over 94 kg (207 pounds).

How long does the entire experience last?
It takes about 3 hours, including safety briefing, flight, jump, and return to the meeting point.

Is there an age limit?
Yes, participants must be at least 16 years old. Minors under 18 need parental approval.

In the end, this skydiving adventure in Cairns combines the thrill of freefall with some of the most stunning scenery Australia offers, making it a must-do for anyone looking to add an unforgettable chapter to their travels.