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scenic · Gladstone

Southern Great Barrier Reef Scenic Helicopter Flight

Soar over the impossibly blue waters of the Southern Great Barrier Reef in a private helicopter, tracing coral ribbons, isolated cays and turquoise lagoons in one of Australia's most awe-inspiring aerial perspectives.

What to expect

Lift off from Gladstone Airport and bank south-east over the Coral Sea as the reef's iconic patchwork of cobalt, jade and white unfolds beneath you. Your pilot points out coral bombies, reef sharks circling the shallows, and the ribbon formations of Lady Musgrave and Lady Elliot Islands. On select routes, the helicopter descends low over uninhabited cays where sea turtle nesting tracks stripe the sand. The flight concludes with a sweeping arc over Gladstone Harbour and its spectacular coastal backdrop.

Book it with
Gladstone Helicopters
AUD 350–AUD 650 per person depending on flight duration (30–60 min scenic routes)
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Good to know

Book well in advance as private charter slots fill quickly on cruise-ship days. Transfer from the cruise terminal to Gladstone Airport takes under 10 minutes by taxi. Flights operate subject to weather — the operator will confirm conditions on the morning of departure.

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at Gladstone — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Azamara · Azamara Pursuit
10 nights · calls at Gladstone
from $5,536
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Regent · Seven Seas Explorer
12 nights · calls at Gladstone
from $10,299
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See all cruises to Gladstone →
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