Great Barrier Reef Pontoon Day Tour from Airlie Beach

• Scenic return cruise through the Whitsunday Islands to the Outer Reef
• 4 hours at Hardy Reef
• Snorkelling with all gear provided, including wetsuits and stinger suits
• Access to underwater observatory
• Semi-submarine guided tour
• Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea

• Hotel transfers
• Optional activities (own expense): guided snorkelling safaris and scuba diving, Scenic Helicopter
• Drinks from the bar

Meet at 24 The Cove Road, Airlie Beach (Port of Airlie)

Check availability to see starting times.

Not allowed

• Sun hat
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Camera
• Credit card
• Biodegradable sunscreen
• Jacket
• Cash

• A full refund will be offered for customer-requested cancellations made up to 6 days prior to travel. Cancellations made within 5 days of travel will incur a 100% cancellation fee, including no-shows.
• Should supplier be required to cancel or the operation of the tour for any reason, including on the rare occasions due to inclement weather, an alternative date or itinerary will be offered to the passenger. If the alternative date or itinerary cannot be arranged or agreed upon, a full refund will be authorised. If the passenger accepts the alternative date or itinerary, no refunds will be issued.
• Please note that credit card processing fees paid at the time of booking are non-refundable.
• Tour itinerary may be subject to change without notice due to weather conditions or operational requirements.
• Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control
• Mobile Vouchers are accepted! – Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction

No. The underwater observatory and guided semi-submarine tour both let you see coral and marine life while staying dry. This makes the day suitable for groups that include both swimmers and non-swimmers.

You will have approximately four hours at the Hardy Reef pontoon. The journey from Port of Airlie takes around three hours each way and travels through the Whitsunday Islands before crossing to the outer reef. Travel time can vary with sea and weather conditions.

Lifejackets and pool noodles are available free of charge, and prescription masks are available for hire. Snorkelling guests should still be comfortable entering open water and must follow crew instructions. Anyone who prefers not to snorkel can use the dry reef-viewing activities instead.

Yes. Introductory scuba dives are available for guests who do not hold a diving certification, while separate dives are offered for certified divers. Diving costs extra and is subject to medical requirements and availability.

Yes. The pontoon gives families several ways to enjoy the reef together, including snorkelling, the underwater observatory and the semi-submarine tour. The four-hour stay and included meals also make it easy to alternate between activities and rest. A child’s participation in water activities should match their confidence and comfort in a marine environment.

The journey crosses open ocean, so the amount of movement depends on the wind and sea conditions. If you are prone to motion sickness, take your usual preventative medication before departure according to the product directions or advice from a pharmacist. Seasickness tablets are also available onboard.

Access to the day-tour vessel and the semi-submarine at Hardy Reef involves stairs. The experience is therefore not accessible to guests who are completely wheelchair dependent.