Cairns & the Tropical North
Cairns Hot Air Balloon Flight and Jet Boat Ride
Sunrise balloon views over the Atherton Tablelands followed by a fast 35-minute jet boat ride on Trinity Inlet.
1 to 4 hours
A$555.00
Up to 1 hour
This is a one-hour scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef, designed for travellers who want a big-picture view of the reef from above. The flight covers two large reef clusters, giving you a sense of the reef’s scale that you simply do not get at water level. It is a higher-priced option, but if you are short on time or want a different perspective from a boat trip, it offers a fast and visually impressive way to see the reef.
Why backpackers love it
For backpackers who want reef views without committing to a full-day tour, this is a simple, time-efficient option. The main draw is the aerial perspective, which gives you a very different look at the Great Barrier Reef than snorkelling or cruising. It is not the budget pick at this price, but for a special treat or a shorter stay, it packs a lot into one hour.
You’ll take off for a 60-minute flight over wide stretches of reef, with the route focused on two major reef clusters. From the air, you can expect broad coral formations, shifting colours in the water and a clearer sense of just how vast the reef is. Rays, turtles and sharks are commonly seen on these flights, so there is a decent chance of spotting marine life during the trip. The experience is suitable for all fitness levels, and the accessibility notes provided indicate wheelchair access is available.
Additional details
Prices, availability, and cancellation policies are managed by the tour provider and may change. Please confirm all details on the booking page before purchasing.
From A$829.00
BookCairns & the Tropical North
Sunrise balloon views over the Atherton Tablelands followed by a fast 35-minute jet boat ride on Trinity Inlet.
1 to 4 hours
A$555.00
Cairns & the Tropical North
A scenic flight covering both the reef and rainforest, with views of Green Island, Vlasoff Sand Cay, Kuranda and Barron Falls.
1 to 4 hours
A$619.00