Great Barrier Reef Tour Departs Airlie Beach




Tour overview
This Great Barrier Reef Tour departs Airlie Beach from the Port of Airlie. See close-up views of the remarkable coral reef and unusual ocean life at Australia's Great Barrier Reef on a full-day tour to the Reefworld pontoon at Hardy Reef, 39 nautical miles from shore.
The comfortable pontoon provides snorkelling gear, training and professional guides for snorkelling and scuba diving in the tropical waters of the Whitsundays. Not keen on entering the water? See the reef up close without getting wet on a semi-submersible ride, with commentary from reef professionals. The tour suits all levels of experience.
Tour Highlights
- Up to 4 hours at the Outer Barrier Reef
- View the rich underwater system on a semi-submersible tour with a reef knowledge talk
- Free use of snorkelling equipment
- Presentations by reef experts throughout the day
- Underwater viewing chamber and lots of activities for the kids
- Morning tea, smorgasbord lunch and afternoon tea
- Guided snorkel tours and scuba diving available at added cost
- Plenty of photo moments
Itinerary
*Example itinerary only. The order, timing and stops may change on the day due to weather and operating conditions.
Port of Airlie, Airlie Beach
Depart the Cruise Whitsundays terminal. The tour also picks up from Daydream Island (7:35am) and Hamilton Island (9:00am).
Through the Whitsunday Islands
A scenic cruise through the islands to the Outer Reef, with morning tea and reef presentations on the way.
Reefworld Pontoon, Hardy Reef
Snorkel from the pontoon, ride the semi-submersible, visit the underwater viewing chamber and enjoy a smorgasbord lunch. Optional guided snorkel tours, scuba dives and helicopter flights are payable direct.
Port of Airlie, Airlie Beach
Afternoon tea on the cruise home. All returns are to the original departure point.
Good to know
Getting here: The nearest airports are Proserpine (Whitsunday Coast Airport), about 40 kilometres from Airlie Beach, and Hamilton Island Airport.
Is This Tour Suitable For You?
Great Barrier Reef Tour Departs Airlie Beach, What's Included?
Included
- Up to 4 hours at the Outer Barrier Reef
- Semi-submersible coral viewing with reef knowledge talk
- Underwater viewing chamber
- Smorgasbord lunch, plus morning and afternoon tea and coffee
- Use of snorkelling equipment, wetsuits and stinger suits
- Environmental Administration Charge (reef tax)
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Not included (payable direct)
- Guided snorkel tours with Reef Interpreters (adult $85, child $49)
- Introductory scuba dive ($175) or certified dive ($135)
- Scenic helicopter flights over world-famous Heart Reef
- Photography and video of the day's activities
What To Bring
Bring a sense of fun, plus the following.
- Swimsuit and towel
- Sun-protective clothing, hat and sunblock
- Light jacket or jumper in the cooler months
- Money or credit card for optional purchases
- Camera
Departure and Returns
Departure points: Airlie Beach QLD 4802 (Port of Airlie, 8:00am), Hamilton Island (9:00am) and Daydream Island (7:35am).
Return points: All returns are to the original departure point. Port of Airlie about 6:10pm, Daydream Island 6:00pm, Hamilton Island 5:00pm.
Further Information
Confirmation is received at the time of booking. All diving activities are for adults aged 16 years and over. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and travellers should have a moderate level of physical fitness.
This Great Barrier Reef Tour departs Airlie Beach with a maximum of 300 travellers and is operated by Cruise Whitsundays.
Tour Video
Great Barrier Reef Tour Departs Airlie Beach Reviews On Google
Terms and Conditions Of Travel
Cancellation policy: Strict cancellation warning. This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount paid will not be refunded.
Health & safety: All guests complete a medical declaration, and anyone with health concerns should seek advice before travelling. Diving is for ages 16 and over. Travellers should have a moderate level of fitness.