Great Barrier Reef Day Trip from Airlie Beach

Highlights

• Day trip to the Outer Great Barrier Reef visiting Hardy Reef or Knuckle Reef
• Departs at 8 am daily from Airlie Beach (returns 6 pm) 
• Snorkelling included
• Semi submersible
• Introductory & certified diving available (additional cost)
• Licensed bar on the board
• Morning tea, buffet lunch & afternoon tea

Description

Australia’s amazing Great Barrier Reef is truly spectacular. As one of the seven wonders of the natural world, this millions year old reef continues to thrive in its protected state, sheltering a dazzling array of brightly coloured corals, tropical fish and other marine life. Now you can experience the thrill of seeing this stunning underwater wonderland for yourself, with Cruise Whitsundays’ Great Barrier Reef Day Trip!

With daily 8 am departures from Airlie Beach (6 pm return), or 9 am from Hamilton Island (5 pm return), you can enjoy the amazing sights of the Whitsunday Islands National Park on your way to the outer Great Barrier Reef – namely, Hardy or Knuckle Reef. Located at these two reefs are custom designed pontoons, built specifically for your enjoyment and to give you the best options for exploring the Reef. These eco-friendly pontoons are strategically located adjacent to beautiful coral walls, allowing you to explore the length of these amazing ecosystems looking for the plethora of marine life that inhabit these sheltered areas.

There is a huge range of options for you to enjoy at the pontoons, such as sun decks for soaking up the rays, undercover seating and tables to enjoy a lovely meal, a fully licensed bar, change rooms, freshwater showers and air-conditioned lounges. In order to get out and explore the reef, you can jump in at the Dive Station, swim or snorkel within the specially marked safe zones, take advantage of the buoyancy aids and instructors for new snorkelers, have a rest at one of the strategically placed Rest Stations and rest assured in the knowledge that you are being constantly observed by a professional Lifeguard. If you want to see the beauty of the reef but don’t feel like getting wet, don’t worry – take advantage of the amazing underwater observatory or semi-submersible submarines without feeling a drop! The friendly and professional Reef Experts on the pontoons are ready to answer all your questions about this amazing place.

After you’ve been delighted by the multi-coloured corals and fish, tickled pink by the turtles and grinned at the Giant Gropers, why not relax by having an on board massage experience or a heli scenic flight? What a perfect way to end a perfect day!

Trip Includes

• Optional transfers from Airlie Beach accommodation to Abel Point Marina
• A full day snorkelling & relaxing at the Great Barrier Reef
• All snorkelling gear & wetsuit usage
• An innovative & spacious reef pontoon
• Semi submersible
• Underwater viewing chamber
• Waterslide & activities for the kids
• All you can eat buffet lunch
• Morning & afternoon tea
• Presentations by reef experts
• Sun deck for topping up your tan
• EMC (reef protection tax)

Duration

• Allow a full day

Departures

• 8 am from Port of Airlie, Airlie Beach (returns 6 pm)
• 9 am from Hamilton Island (returns 5 pm)
• Departs Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island
• Operates daily all year

Other Information

• Child rates apply (4-15yrs)
• Infants under 4 years travel free of charge
• Guided snorkelling tours ($55), introductory diving ($139) & certified diving ($99) are all available for an additional cost payable on board the boat
• Please bring your swimwear, towel, hat, sunscreen, money for optional purchases & your camera
• Licensed bar on board