Reef World | Whitsunday's Great Barrier Reef Tour
The Reefworld pontoon, off the coast of Australia’s Whitsunday Islands, provides spectacular viewing opportunities along the Great Barrier Reef. Departing either Airlie Beach, Hamilton Island or Daydream Island, spend a full day exploring the Great Barrier Reef, enjoy swimming and snorkeling amid colorful corals, spot marine life from the underwater observatory, and tuck into a delicious buffet lunch.
The journey here through the lush Whitsunday Islands will have you reaching for your camera – watch for migrating Humpback Whales between July and September – but underwater is really where the magic happens. Incredible numbers of bright tropical fish and more than 1,400 species of coral await.
What makes it Great:
- Incredible views of the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday Islands
- Stellar viewing ops: snorkeling, submarine, underwater observatory
- Family-friendly tour: optional activities suitable for all ages and abilities
- Includes lunch and round-trip transport from Airlie Beach/Hamilton Island
Inclusions:
- Up to 4 hours at the Outer Barrier Reef
- Semi-submersible coral viewing with reef appreciation talk
- Underwater viewing chamber
- Buffet lunch, plus morning and afternoon tea/coffee
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Environmental Management Charge (Reef tax)
Exclusions
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Optional Extras
Make the most of your day at the reef with these exciting optional activities.
SNORKEL SAFARI | A GUIDED SNORKELLING TOUR
Snorkelling is the easiest way to view coral reefs. Snorkelling and scuba diving are completely different activities though and one of the great things about snorkelling is that we can talk to you while we snorkel. Our snorkel tours are ideal for both first-time snorkellers – and experienced snorkellers who want to learn more about what they’re looking at out on the reef.
INTRODUCTORY DIVE | LEARN TO DIVE AT THE GREAT BARRIER REEF
There is no better place to experience the magic of your first scuba dive than at the outer Great Barrier Reef. Our fully certified PADI/SSI instructors will step you through all the training and escort you on your first amazing adventure. The minimum age is 12 years old for this activity.
CERTIFIED DIVE | DIVE AT THE WORLD'S MOST FAMOUS REEF
Experienced divers can enjoy spectacular dives at specially selected sites with a variety of coral formations that are teeming with marine life. All dives are escorted by our experienced crew, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
HELI-SCENIC FLIGHTS | FLY OVER FAMOUS HEART REEF
To truly appreciate the size, scope and beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, a scenic helicopter flight is a must do. You’ll be awed by the stunning beauty of the maze of reefs weaved together to form the Great Barrier Reef, and iconic Heart Reef is a sight to behold. Splash out and treat yourself to this adventure, you will not be disappointed.
Please note that bookings for heli-scenic flights are taken on board the vessel.
Departure times & locations
- Airlie Beach | Departs 08:00 AM | Returns 6:10 PM
- Hamilton Island | Departs 09:00 AM | Returns 05:00 PM
- Daydream Island | Departs 07:45 AM | Returns 5:50 PM
Please note: RETURN times are when the vessel arrives back at the mainland/island resort. COACH TRANSFERS to Port of Airlie are available at an additional cost. Schedule changes may occur.
Your day at a glance
- Make your own way to the port at either Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island. Traveling aboard a high-speed catamaran, set sail across the Coral Sea and enjoy dramatic views of the Whitsunday Islands and the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Great Barrier Reef along the way.
- Arrive at the Reefworld pontoon, anchored along the Hardy Reef, where you’ll have four hours to spend at your leisure.
- Dive in to swim and snorkel, cruise around the coral gardens on a semi-submersible submarine, or spot tropical fish and marine life from the underwater observatory. Morning and afternoon tea, and a delicious buffet lunch, are also included.
- For an even more memorable experience, sign up for one of the many optional activities, such as a guided snorkeling or scuba diving excursion, a thrilling helicopter flight over the reef, or even a relaxing massage.
- After a day discovering the reef, cruise back to Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island, where your tour ends.
Travelling with children
Children between the ages of 4-14 years will be applicable for child rates. Infants 0-3 years travel free of charge. Guests must be able to show valid ID at check in to support their ticket type (i.e Senior or Child ticket).
Family Friendly
We offer special rates for familes. Please check the booking for form for up to date family pricing.
Things To Bring
- Swimwear and towel
- Protective clothing, hat and sunscreen
- Camera
- Light jacket or sweater for a cool or windy day
- Cash/credit card for optional activities (guided snorkelling safaris, scuba diving, heli-scenic flights)
Additional Info
- All diving activities permit adults aged 16 years and over.
- Nearest airports: Fly into Proserpine airport also known as Whitsunday Coast Airport (40 miles from Airlie Beach) or fly into Hamilton Island Airport.
Booking Info
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking.
Instant Booking & Mobile Friendly Tickets
Check availability & book here to secure you spot on Great Barrier Reef Day Cruise to Reefworld. Pre-booking is essential. Please do not turn up on the day without a booking.
About Cruise Whitsundays
Award winning 'Cruise Whitsundays' is the Whitsundays largest and most experienced marine tourism operator offering a range of day cruises and Island Resort connections. Cruises visit the Great Barrier Reef , Whitehaven Beach and island resorts on Hamilton Island and Daydream Island. The multi-award winning Great Barrier Reefsleep overnight experience is one of Australia's most unique places to stay. 'Resort Connections' provide services between island resorts and the Whitsunday Coast and connecting the region's airports arrivals and departures.
Reviews
The price was reasonable considering the variety of activities and meals provided, from breakfast to tea time. While primarily commercial, the experience felt complete and well worth the investment for a full day of exploration and enjoyment in one of the world's most fantastic reef environments.
The staff made our snorkeling experience fantastic, especially Peter, who provided exceptional support and encouragement. Safety was clearly a priority which was great for me. while enjoying the beautiful underwater world. This tour is highly recommended for its professional approach, making it accessible even for nervous swimmers . :)
A wonderful day, the staff at Cruise Whitsunday are outstanding, there are always plenty of staff members and they are all friendly and eager to help. They offer every which way to experience the reef, maybe even perhaps too much as you feel you need to rush to fit everything in.
Airlie Beach | Departs 08:00 AM | Returns 6:10 PM
Hamilton Island | Departs 09:00 AM | Returns 05:00 PM
Daydream Island | Departs 07:50 AM | Returns 6:10 PM
