Cairns: Tandem Skydive Experience over Reef & Rainforest

Imagine jumping out of a plane at 15,000 feet with nothing but a professional instructor strapped to your back, then floating gently down while taking in the best views of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforests. This tour, priced at roughly $236.62 per person, lasts about 3 hours and offers an adrenaline rush combined with spectacular scenery. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced thrill-seeker, this adventure promises a unique way to see the Tropical North Queensland landscape.

What we love most about this experience is how personalized it feels—you’re tandem jumping with a trained instructor who ensures your safety and guides you through every step. Plus, the views are genuinely breathtaking, with key sights including Fitzroy Island, Green Island, the Daintree Rainforest, and the Coral Sea. On the downside, the cost of photos and videos is extra, so if preserving your memory is important, be prepared for that additional expense.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a safe, guided, and spectacular introduction to skydiving—especially if you’re eager to see the reef and rainforest from above. It’s accessible for first-timers, with no previous experience needed, and suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime thrill or searching for a bucket list adventure that combines natural beauty and adrenaline, this activity is likely to be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Spectacular views of the Great Barrier Reef and rainforests from high altitude
• No experience required, with a comprehensive safety briefing
• Professional guides ensure safety and a smooth, enjoyable jump
• Photos and videos available for purchase to remember the thrill
• Duration of around 3 hours, including training and jump
• Suitable for first-timers and those comfortable with moderate physical activity

If you’re considering a skydive over Cairns, you’re looking at an activity that blends thrilling adventure with breathtaking scenery. This tour, operated by Skydive Australia, offers a tandem jump from up to 15,000 feet, providing an unbeatable bird’s-eye view of the Great Barrier Reef and the lush rainforests that surround Cairns. With a duration of roughly 3 hours, it combines a short safety briefing, the flight to altitude, and the actual free-fall—a combination that many review as unforgettable.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The experience begins at the meeting point on Spence Street in Cairns, where you’ll meet your highly trained tandem instructor. The tour includes a 15-minute safety briefing, where you’ll learn about the parachuting process, what each step involves, and how to breathe and relax during your free-fall. This is designed to ensure you feel fully prepared and confident before your jump.

Next, you’ll board a small plane that climbs to your jump altitude of 15,000 feet. During the approximately 20-minute flight, you’ll get a chance to enjoy the stunning views from the window—think green rainforest canopies, coral reefs, and the blue expanse of the Coral Sea. For many, this part alone is worth the price of admission, as the aerial perspective of this natural wonderland is spectacular.

Once at altitude, your instructor will attach you securely, and together you’ll take the leap. The free-fall lasts about 60 seconds, during which you’ll experience adrenaline like never before. Many reviewers mention that the thrill is amazing, with some commenting that the free-fall is the best part. After the adrenaline rush, your instructor will deploy the parachute, and you’ll enjoy a peaceful glide down, taking in panoramic views of the reef, rainforest, and surrounding islands.

The landing is smooth and controlled, and you’ll walk away with a personalized dive certificate to commemorate the occasion. If you’d like to capture the moment, photo and video packages are available for purchase, with some reviewers emphasizing that these are well worth the extra cost.

Safety and Professionalism

One aspect that consistently comes up in reviews is the professionalism and friendly attitude of the guides and staff. Reviewers frequently mention how safe and cared for they felt, with guides like Sam and Brant making sure everyone stays calm and enjoys the experience. The safety equipment provided is comprehensive, and the guides are attentive to every detail, from checking harnesses to providing clear instructions.

The risks involved with parachuting are openly acknowledged, with the tour provider emphasizing that parachuting is inherently dangerous and that participants do so at their own risk. This transparency helps set realistic expectations and reassures those concerned about safety.

The Views: What Makes the Experience Special?

Travelers consistently highlight how stunning the scenery is from the sky. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef are truly awe-inspiring when seen from above. Reviewers like one who said, “the jump itself was wonderful and the free fall absolutely amazing,” underscore the emotional impact of witnessing such a natural masterpiece from the air.

Many also appreciate the convenience of the activity being based in Cairns—close to the Atherton Tablelands, Daintree Rainforest, and Coral Sea, making it easy to combine with other activities or stay in the area for a few days.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The tour caps at 20 travelers, which contributes to a more personalized experience. While some mention that timing can be flexible, it’s good to keep in mind that the schedule may vary, so patience might be necessary if your jump gets scheduled at a different time. The group atmosphere is usually described as friendly and enthusiastic, with many reviews expressing a desire to do it again.

Cost and Value

At $236.62, this skydive isn’t cheap, but when you consider that it includes all safety gear, a personalized certificate, and the once-in-a-lifetime views, many see it as value for money. The extra cost for photos and videos—roughly $80—is often considered well worth it by those wanting to relive the experience.

Practical Considerations

• Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, as last-minute spots fill up quickly.
• Travelers should be comfortable with moderate physical activity and be at least 16 years old.
• Weight limits are over 242 pounds (110 kg), with surcharges for those over 94 kg.
• The experience is weather-dependent, so bad weather could lead to rescheduling or cancellation—hence the importance of flexible plans.
• Remember to remove jewelry and personal belongings before the jump, as safety is paramount.

This tandem skydive suits adventure seekers eager for exhilarating views of Australia’s natural wonders. It’s great for beginners because no experience is necessary, and safety measures are thorough. If you love stunning scenery and want a thrill that’s as scenic as it is adrenaline-fueled, this is a perfect fit. However, if you’re nervous about heights or have certain health concerns, it’s prudent to review the safety info and consult your doctor.

For those craving a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this Cairns skydiving adventure offers breathtaking views, professional guides, and an adrenaline rush that’s hard to beat. It’s a fantastic way to see the diversity of Tropical North Queensland from a perspective few get to enjoy—whether soaring above the Rainforest or the Reef.

The tour’s high safety standards, combined with stunning scenery and enthusiastic reviews, make it a standout activity. While the additional cost for photos/videos can add up, many agree that capturing the experience is worthwhile. It’s a costly activity but one that delivers memorable moments and epic stories.

If you’re looking for a thrilling, scenic, and professionally run adventure that offers excellent value, this skydive over Cairns is definitely worth considering. Perfect for first-timers or seasoned adrenaline junkies, it guarantees a memory that will stay with you long after you’ve landed.

Is this activity suitable for first-timers?
Yes, no prior experience is necessary. The tandem jump includes a safety briefing and is led by highly trained instructors, making it accessible for beginners.

How long does the whole experience last?
The total duration is about 3 hours, including safety briefing, flight to altitude, the jump itself, and debriefing.

What are the views I’ll see during the jump?
You’ll enjoy views of the Great Barrier Reef, UNESCO-listed rainforests, Fitzroy Island, Green Island, and the Coral Sea.

Are photos and videos included?
No, these are optional extras available for purchase on the day, often costing around $80 for a package of photos and a professionally edited video.

What safety measures are in place?
All safety equipment is provided, and guides are highly trained. Participants are briefed thoroughly, and safety checks are performed before the jump.

What is the minimum age?
Participants must be at least 16 years old and weigh less than over 242 pounds (110 kg), with surcharges for those over 94 kg.

Can I reschedule or cancel?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled activity. Cancellations made within 24 hours are not refundable.