— Adventure Tours
Montgomery Reef & Horizontal Falls Discoverer from Derby: The Ultimate Kimberley Day Tour
Two of the Kimberley’s greatest natural wonders. One unforgettable day.
Take to the skies and the water on this once-in-a-lifetime Kimberley helicopter tour that showcases the very best in iconic sights. Witness the raw power of the Horizontal Falls from both above and below, fly over the spectacular Montgomery Reef as emerges from the ocean, exploring the cascading waterfall effect from above. With every guest guaranteed a window seat, this is no ordinary scenic flight, it’s an immersive, all-inclusive journey through one of the most untouched and awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth.
From low-level helicopter flyovers and an exciting powerboat ride to relaxing creek cruises and a freshly cooked barramundi lunch served on the water, this tour blends true adventure with natural beauty and unforgettable moments.
This experience is proudly offered in partnership with Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures, combining our scenic helicopter flight with their world-class marine tour for an unforgettable Kimberley adventure.
This tour runs from April to September and does not operate during neap tides.
Maximum single seat weight limit: 136kg
Some of the imagery used on this page is courtesy of Tourism Western Australia.
Tour Details
Departure Location: Derby (or Broome)
Helicopter Flight Time: 155-minutes
Total Tour Duration: 7 hours
Departure Time(s): 7:15am or 8:15am (tide dependent)
Price: $2,660 per person (includes fuel surcharge)
What You’ll See from the Air:
Your journey begins with a helicopter departure from Derby, climbing above the vast Derby tidal mudflats, shaped by tides up to 14 metres high. These ever-shifting patterns are a spectacle in themselves, and you might even spot saltwater crocodiles sunning themselves below.
Next, soar across the ancient Kimbolton and McLarty Ranges, with their rugged red ridgelines stretching across the horizon, a timeless outback landscape shaped by millions of years of wind and erosion. As the coastline comes into view, the scene transforms into brilliant turquoise waters and dramatic sandstone cliffs. This is Talbot Bay and nestled within it lies the mighty Horizontal Falls. From above, watch as immense tidal surges force water through narrow coastal gorges, creating the rare and powerful horizontal waterfall effect; a jaw-dropping natural phenomenon described by Sir David Attenborough as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world.”
But the aerial spectacle doesn’t stop there. Continue over Montgomery Reef, a vast, living reef that appears to rise from the ocean as the tide drops. Cascading seawater, exposed coral platforms, and the movement of turtles, rays, and reef sharks make this an unforgettable moment in the sky.
Tour Highlights
• 155-minute scenic helicopter flight over Derby, Kimbolton and McLarty Ranges, Talbot Bay, Horizontal Falls, and Montgomery Reef
• Exclusive low-level flyovers for the best views and photography
• Landing at a remote pontoon in Talbot Bay
• Exciting powerboat ride through Horizontal Falls
• Freshly cooked barramundi lunch served on a pontoon surrounded by turquoise waters
• Relaxed cruising through islands, creeks, and bays
• Marine viewing platform and shark encounter with optional safe swim experience
• Return scenic helicopter flight to Derby with live commentary
• Every guest guaranteed a window seat
Travelling solo?
While our tours do require a minimum of two paying passengers to book, we often have available seats on already scheduled flights! We know it can be tricky to lock in experiences as a solo traveller, so we’re here to help. Call us on 1300 405 545 or email tours@frontierhelicopters.com.au to check current availability for single passengers. If we can’t find a suitable tour to book you on, we will add you to a waitlist. Please note: all bookings are subject to weight limits.
How long is the tour?
This experience lasts 7 hours.
Where do we depart from?
This tour departs from Derby Airport, Hangar 5. You’ll receive exact details in your confirmation email. Please note that we are unable to provide a pick up and drop off service in Derby.
What’s included?
- 155-minute return scenic helicopter flight from Derby
- Flyovers of Horizontal Falls, Montgomery Reef, Talbot Bay, and inland Kimbolton ranges
- Pontoon landing at Talbot Bay
- Morning tea and fresh barramundi lunch on the water
- Powerboat cruise through Horizontal Falls
- Relaxed cruise and creek exploration with expert commentary from passionate and experienced guides
- Access to the marine viewing platform and swim opportunity in shark-free enclosure
- In-flight commentary from your experienced pilot
- Headsets for clear two-way communication
- Safety briefing before departure
- Window seats for every passenger
How much does it cost?
This Derby helicopter tour is: $2,660 per person (includes fuel surcharge)
Can I book if I’m a solo traveller?
Yes! While we require a minimum of 2 passengers to operate the tour, solo travellers can sometimes join existing bookings. Contact us at 1300 405 545 or tours@frontierhelicopters.com.au to check availability.
What should I wear or bring?
- Wear comfortable clothing
- Sunglasses and/or cap that will fit under a headset
- A small backpack
- Sun protection
- Water bottle
- Camera
- Change of clothes
- Closed in, flat shoes (no sandals or flip flops/thongs)
- Swimwear and a towel
- Any personal medication or essential toiletries you require
- Debit/Credit Card for souvenirs
- Please note, alcohol is NOT permitted on day tours
Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is only suitable for children aged 4 and over.
Will I hear the pilot during the flight?
Yes, all passengers wear headsets so you can clearly hear the pilot’s commentary throughout the flight.
What if my preferred date is unavailable?
Contact us on 1300 405 545 or email us at tours@frontierhelicopters.com.au and we’ll do our best to accommodate or place you on a waitlist.
Are there weight restrictions?
Yes, the maximum single passenger weight: 136kg. All bookings are subject to weight and balance/combined limits.