Great Barrier Reef Full Day Adventure

From $295 PP

About The Tour

Departing either Port of Airlie, Daydream or Hamilton Island, cruise through the gorgeous Whitsunday Islands to our permanently moored pontoon, located 39 nautical miles from shore at Hardy Reef. Jump right in with a snorkel and explore the reef, or if you’d prefer to stay dry, head to the underwater observatory or take a guided semi-submarine tour. Complete your experience with a delicious buffet lunch and, as the day fades into sunset, you’ll head home with lifelong memories of one of the world’s natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef.

Snorkelling Hardy Reef

Highlights & Inclusions

Great Barrier Reef Adventure Underwater Observatory

What to bring

  • Swimwear and towel
  • Protective clothing, hat and sunscreen
  • Camera
  • Light jacket or sweater for a cool or windy day
  • Credit card for optional activities (guided snorkelling safaris, scuba diving)
Snorkelling

Winter Offer

Enjoy 20% Off Your Great Barrier Reef Adventure!

Use code WINTERGBR20 at checkout to get 20% off your Great Barrier Reef Full Day Adventure.

Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer – book now and experience the beauty of the Outer Great Barrier Reef at a great price!

Offer valid for Bookings and travel between 1 May and 31 August 2026*

*Blockout dates will apply, subject to availability, and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

Prices

Pricing is subject to change based on demand, availability, and seasonality. Prices may vary during peak and off-peak travel periods. Please check the final price carefully before completing your payment.

Great Barrier Reef Adventure

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Prices
Adult From $295
Senior From $269
Child (4-14) From $145
Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) From $809
Pricing is subject to change based on demand, availability, and seasonality. Prices may vary during peak and off-peak travel periods.

*Infants 0-3 years travel free of charge on all tours, however no infant meals are included.

Prices are in AUD and per person. Please note a non refundable credit card surcharge fee of 1.42% (Mastercard & Visa), 1.1% (WeChatPay), 2% (China Union Pay) or 1.54% (Alipay) applies to all bookings. This fee is not included if payment is made via POLi.

Great Barrier Reef Environmental Management Charge (EMC)
Included in your cruise fare is a per head fee which goes to the Government. The money collected is used by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) for the management and protection of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
Coach Transfers
Adult $13.00
Child (4 - 14) $7.00
NOTE: most Airlie accommodation is within walking distance to Port of Airlie. Coach transfers are however an option. Please note 12 hours of notice is required for coach transfers.
*Optional Extras Prices
Introductory Scuba Dive $175
Second Intro Dive $85
Certified Scuba Dive $135
Second Cert Dive $85
Snorkel Safari (Adult) $85
Snorkel Safari (Child) $49
Snorkel Safari Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) $188
These prices are valid from 01/01/2026

Departures

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Departures
Daily Departs Returns
Port of Airlie 8:00am 6:10pm
Daydream Island 7:35am 6:00pm
Hamilton Island 9:00am 5:00pm
NOTE: Changes may occur due to flight schedule changes and other factors. Where a Day Cruise is cancelled we will send notification to the contact details provided at the time of your booking. Itinerary is subject to prevailing weather and sea conditions including tides, wind, swell, sun and rain. The vessel's Master must at his discretion determine the most appropriate course to ensure acceptable levels of safety and comfort for passengers, crew and other vessels.

Great Barrier Reef Adventure FAQs

Question: What is included in Great Barrier Reef Adventure?

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Answer:

Your Great Barrier Reef experience includes a scenic return cruise through the Whitsunday Islands, time at Hardy Reef, snorkelling equipment, wetsuits and stinger suits, access to the underwater observatory, a guided semi-submarine tour, and morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea.

Question: Do I have to get in the water to enjoy this tour?

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Answer:

No. The Great Barrier Reef Adventure is suitable for both swimmers and non-swimmers. Guests who prefer to stay dry can still enjoy the underwater observatory and guided semi-submarine tour.

Question: Can I scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef Adventure?

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Answer:

Yes. Introductory and certified scuba diving are available at additional cost, subject to medical requirements, availability and operator conditions. 

Question: Is the Great Barrier Reef Adventure suitable for children?

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Answer:

Yes, this tour is family friendly and suitable for children. 

However, participation in water activities such as snorkelling should always be considered based on a child’s age, confidence, and comfort in marine environments.

Question: What happens on a rainy day for the Great Barrier Reef Adventure?

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Answer:

Tours to the Great Barrier Reef operate in all weather conditions, including rain. Light rain does not usually affect the experience, and scheduled activities continue as normal unless conditions are deemed unsafe. 

We recommend checking the local weather forecast 72 hours prior to your departure, so you know what conditions to expect and have the flexibility to amend your booking if required. 

Question: What fitness or mobility level is required for the Great Barrier Reef Adventure?

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Answer:

All guests are required to complete a medical declaration before travelling on the Great Barrier Reef Adventure. 

The experience is generally suitable for a wide range of guests, however those with health, fitness, or mobility concerns are encouraged to speak with our crew or reservations team prior to travel to ensure the day is appropriate and comfortable. 

If you have recently experienced illness, injury, surgery, or have an existing medical condition, we recommend seeking medical advice before joining the tour. Our team is also available to discuss any special requirements or assistance needed to help you enjoy the day safely.

Question: How can I help protect the Great Barrier Reef during my visit?

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Answer:

The Great Barrier Reef is a protected World Heritage Area, and we ask all guests to help preserve its natural beauty and marine life. 

To protect the reef, please: 

  • Avoid touching or standing on coral and marine life  
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen where possible  
  • Take only photos and leave only bubbles behind  

By following these simple guidelines, you’re helping protect the reef for future generations to enjoy.

Question: Are flotation aids and prescription masks available on the Great Barrier Reef Adventure?

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Answer:

Yes, flotation aids such as lifejackets and pool noodles are available free of charge for all guests. For safety, if a crew member advises you to use a flotation aid, this instruction must be followed. 

Prescription masks are also available for hire onboard. A valid photo ID or credit card is required at the time of hire, which will be returned when the mask is returned in good condition. If a credit card is not available, a refundable deposit is required. Please note that charges may apply for any loss or damage. 

Question: Will I get seasick on the Great Barrier Reef Adventure?

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Answer:

As the journey to the Great Barrier Reef involves open ocean travel, some guests may experience motion sickness. 

If you are prone to seasickness, we recommend taking preventative medication before your trip, which can be purchased from most chemists. Seasickness tablets are also available onboard if required. 

Conditions on the day vary depending on wind strength. As a general guide: 

  • 10–15 knots: generally a smooth ride  
  • 15–20 knots: some light movement  
  • 20+ knots: a more active, bumpier journey  

Our crew are always available to assist and help make your trip as comfortable as possible. 

Question: How long does it take to get to Hardy Reef?

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Answer:

Travel time is approximately 3 hours from Airlie Beach and around 2 hours from Hamilton Island on our large, motorised catamaran, depending on sea and weather conditions. 

Question: How long do we spend at the reef?

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Answer:

Guests spend approximately 4 hours at Hardy Reef, free to explore at their own pace. 

Question: Can I snorkel if I am not a strong swimmer?

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Answer:

Many guests choose to snorkel at their own comfort level; however all guests should be confident entering the water safely and must follow crew instructions. If you are unsure, speak with crew on the day. 

Question: Are meals included on the Great Barrier Reef Adventure?

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Answer:

Yes. Morning tea, a delicious buffet lunch, and afternoon tea are all included.

Question: Are stinger suits provided on the Great Barrier Reef Adventure?

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Answer:

Yes, stinger suits are provided free of charge for all guests year-round. 

These lightweight, full-body suits are worn while swimming to help protect against marine stingers such as box jellyfish and Irukandji. They also offer sun protection and minor protection from coral or other marine irritants. 

Your skipper will advise onboard if stinger suits are mandatory on the day; however, they are always recommended and typically required during the warmer months or when stinger activity is present

Question: Will I have phone reception or WiFi on the Great Barrier Reef Adventure?

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Answer:

Phone reception is only available intermittently at the start of the journey before being lost as the vessel travels further offshore. 

There is no WiFi available on board Cruise Whitsundays vessels, allowing guests to disconnect and fully enjoy their time on the Great Barrier Reef. 

Question: What are the bar rules on the Great Barrier Reef Adventure?

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Answer:

The onboard bar opens at 8:00am for snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, with alcoholic beverages available from 10:00am, remaining available for the duration of the tour. 

For safety reasons, guests are asked to consume alcohol responsibly, particularly before entering the water. Crew may restrict water activities if a guest is considered unfit or intoxicated, to ensure the safety of all passengers. 

Question: What optional extras are available?

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Answer:

Optional extras may include scuba diving, guided snorkel safari experiences, and scenic helicopter flights, depending on availability. 

Ready to book?

Book Now
or call +61 7 4846 7000