Ocean Rafting Tour to Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet Lookout & Top Snorkel Spots

Highlights

  • Fast boat to the Whitsunday Islands lets you make the most of your time

  • Two tour options cater to both beach lovers and avid snorkelers

  • Guided snorkeling sessions and nature walks ensure your comfort and safety

  • Marine park fees included

  • Talks from a naturalist help explain the unique environment

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off make for a seamless tour

  • Afternoon tea provided

Summary

Choose from two tour options when booking; both include a foray into the Whitsunday Islands, one with more snorkeling time, and one with more beach time. Regardless, begin with pickup at your Airlie Beach hotel and transfer to the marina for check-in and a quick orientation. On board the boat, take in the scenery while racing toward the Whitsunday Islands' Whitehaven Beach. The sturdy vessel makes getting to the islands much quicker and provides a sun shade to protect you from the elements. Once there, choose to lounge and explore the beach or dive in for a snorkeling adventure with the provided equipment. Your guide is on hand for snorkeling pointers relevant to beginners and experts alike. Beach lovers should opt for the "Southern Lights" tour that spends more time on both the northern and southern ends of Whitehaven Beach, with a stroll to the Hill Inlet lookout for views of Pentecost Island. For avid snorkelers, the "Northern Exposure" option takes you to two different destinations: Border Island, Dumbell Island, or another snorkel spot known only by locals. Afternoon tea is included. Return to Airlie Beach for drop-off at the end of your journey.

Tour info

Duration
7 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Make the most of your time exploring the Whitsunday Islands' Whitehaven Beach aboard a motorized raft on this full-day tour. Choose between tours that offer a snorkeling expedition or extended beach time at secluded spots you wouldn't be able to access on your own. Listen to your naturalist guide talk about the flora and fauna of the area during nature walks and guided snorkeling expeditions (use of snorkel equipment is included). Afternoon tea and cake, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off, make this tour a convenient option.

What’s included?

  • Visit to Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet and guided National Park walks

  • Inner fringing coral reef snorkelling

  • Reef and island naturalist talks by our Master Reef Guides,Eco Host and Marine Biologist

  • Courtesy bus transfers

  • Tropical lunch (AU$17) payable direct. Please add in booking notes if you would like to add.

  • Hire sunsuits/wetsuits - $8pp to hire on check in (Students with ID, Senior & Children FREE))

  • Assorted Alcoholic and NON Alcoholic Drinks and snacks (available to purchase - Cash or Credit Card)

  • Prescription Mask hire Available - $15 pp on check in

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 7h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

  • Instant confirmation

Covid Policy

  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands
  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

Ocean Rafting

About operator:

Ocean Rafting visits the “Wild Side” of the Whitsunday Islands, the uninhabited islands with beautiful natural scenery brimming with marine, bird and animal life. There are two exciting tour options, the Northern Exposure and Southern Lights, and each Ocean Rafting day includes an exhilarating ride to Whitehaven Beach, pristine snorkelling reefs and guided Whitsunday Island National Parks walks. Ocean Rafting is the only tour to have direct access to the stunning and iconic Hill Inlet beach, and special snorkel sites at Hook Island and Border Island ensure a memorable underwater experience.The semi rigid inflatable vessels are super fast allowing guests to experience a fun ride, adventure and education amongst the natural beauty of the Whitsundays. The vessels were originally designed and built as rescue crafts and are driven by 450hp engines. 70% of the vessel is shaded, providing comfort from the tropical sun. Small groups allow guests to experience tropical paradise away from the crowds.Ocean Rafting has been operating since 1997 and is proud to have special permits allowing its vessels to visit protected areas in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The Skipper and Eco Host will ensure guests have a fun filled adventure and personalised service, from the courtesy bus pick up in the morning to snorkel lessons and a guided National Park walk in the Whitsunday Islands.

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