Cairns Hot Air Balloon Flight + Bad Fishy Jet Boating Cairns

About this tour

Start your day drifting above the Atherton Tablelands in a hot air balloon, catching the sunrise over rainforest valleys with a qualified pilot guiding the way. Touch down to sparkling wine or juice and a light spread, then transfer to Trinity Inlet for a 35-minute jet boat charge—expect tight turns, high speeds, and a local's-eye view of Cairns and surrounding waters. Total time spans 4–6 hours depending on conditions and passenger numbers.

Highlights

• Sunrise drift over rainforest-covered Atherton Tablelands
• Digital photo package captures the entire experience
• Celebratory glass of sparkling or orange juice post-flight
• 35-minute jet boat ride with spins and adrenaline-rush speeds
• Hotel pickup included; captain narrates regional history and geography
• Commemorative flight certificate to take home

What to expect

You'll be collected from your hotel pre-dawn, then driven to the launch site. The balloon ascends smoothly into cool morning air; expect silence broken only by wind and the occasional burner flame. The basket holds a small group, and you'll float for roughly an hour watching the landscape unfold below. Back on solid ground, you'll toast the flight with a beverage and snack. Then it's off to the marina, where you board a jet boat crewed by someone who knows the inlet well. The captain throttles hard, banks sharply, and weaves through the water at pace—thrilling but controlled. You'll motor between local landmarks while commentary fills in details about the region.

Good to know

Wear long trousers, closed shoes, and a jacket; avoid white clothes and heels. Leave large bags behind—only small items fit in the basket. Children under 4 cannot fly; jet-boat riders must be at least 110cm tall. Those with spinal issues, pregnancy, or poor cardiovascular health should skip this. After the boat ride, arrange your own transport back to accommodation.