Zoom Helicopters | Outer Reef Odyssey
Departure Times
Departure Point: Bush Pilot's Avenue, Cairns Airport QLD 4870.
Pricing Options
Fly to the edge of the Great Barrier Reef on this 40 minute Outer Reef Odyssey with Zoom Helicopters!
- Get a birds-eye view over Green Island, Arlington Reef, Vlasoff and Upolu Cays
- Venture further out to the continental shelf and see where the reef drops off
- Experience a more exclusive tour with only 4 passengers per flight
- See the gorgeous rainforest ranges of the lush North Queensland coastline
Overview
Venturing from the inner reef to the very edge of the Australian continental shelf, this Outer Reef Odyssey with Zoom Helicopters, provides an awe-inspiring exploration. Start your journey with all encompassing highlights, soaring over Green Island, sandy cays of Vlasoff and Upolu and vibrant coral reefs before adventuring further east from the coastline. Enjoy in-flight commentary from your pilot as they offer insights into the history of the reef and marine life.
This exceptional journey takes you to some of the most remote regions of the Great Barrier Reef, where the colours are vivid and virtually untouched. Keep your eyes peeled for sharks, turtles, rays, and even whales if travelling in July and August. This 40 minute scenic heli-ride is the ultimate way to experience a once-in-a-lifetime trip!

Highlights
- 40-minute scenic helicopter ride to the Great Barrier Reef
- Admire views of the vast Outer Reef
- Explore Green Island, East Arlington Reef, Sandy Cays and beyond
- See where the continental shelf drops off into the deep blue
- Comfortable seats and spacious windows
- Enjoy full guided commentary from your local expert pilot
- Only 4 passengers per flight, allows for a more intimate experience
- Multiple HD video cameras to capture the ride

Important Information
- There must be a minimum of 2 passengers required for this tour.
- Infants must sit on parents' lap to receive free travel.
- Weight variances greater than 10% of that advised at the time of booking may incur additional fees and/or allowances being reduced.
- The single seat weight limit for Zoom Helicopters is 130kg.
- Zoom Helicopters reserves the right to refuse travel and charge a 100% cancellation fee.
What To Bring
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Small soft bag only
What's Included
- 40-minute scenic helicopter tour to the Outer Reef
- Guided commentary
- Spacious windows for unobstructed views
What's Extra
- Personalised in-flight video - $75
Cancellations
No shows or client cancellations made within 72 hours of departure forfeit 50% of the total ticket price. No shows or client cancellations made within 48 hours of departure forfeit 100% of the total ticket price.
A refund in the event of cancellation is subject to both our Cancellation Policy and the terms of the supplier.
Terms and Conditions
Our Terms & Conditions apply to this experience. Please review them before booking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any weight restrictions?
The single seat weight limit for Zoom Helicopters is 130kg.
What time do I need to arrive at the airport?
Zoom Helicopters requires passengers to arrive no less than 20 minutes prior to planned departure time.
Where is the airport located?
Please make your way to the Zoom Helicopters office located at Cairns Airport, 21 Bush Pilot's Avenue, Cairns Airport QLD 4870.
Are accommodation transfers available?
Transfers are currently not operating at the moment. But getting to the Zoom office at Cairns Airport is easy and located just a short 10 minutes drive from the Cairns City centre.
How many people are on the helicopter?
Zoom Helicopters can seat a max of 4 passengers per flight, with a minimum of 2 passengers required for a tour to go ahead.
Is the helicopter suitable for those with limited mobility?
It’s a decent step up into the helicopter, but Zoom Helicopters have steps to assist with anyone with mobility issues. There are also recessed areas in the ceiling that are useful to hold on to as you get into the helicopter. Zoom have flown just about every age there is from 1 to 100 and everyone has been able to get in and out without any problems.
What if the weather is cloudy? Can we still see the Great Barrier Reef?
Yes – absolutely. Zoom don’t just fly a standard flight path, they fly the BEST flight path suitable for the conditions of the day. Cloudy days are an unavoidable reality, but that doesn’t mean you can’t see the reef! Your pilot knows the best way to go in any weather condition. They will make sure you get the very best flight that they can provide.
Can I talk during the flight?
Yes you can. Zoom is fitted with Bose noise-cancelling headsets for extreme comfort. Before every single flight your pilot will check that you can all talk to each other, as this is a fundamental part of the customer experience. Your pilot doesn’t want to parrot commentary to you during the flight, they want you to join in, too!
What happens if I get sick?
Zoom pilots are professional pilots who love what they do. They fly very smoothly. If you do feel sick during a flight, there are sickbags on board should that be necessary.
Are scenic flights available on public holidays?
With the exception of Christmas day, Zoom Helicopters operate every day of the year! There is no surcharge for flying on a public holiday.