Why Travellers Ask About This Tour
The Whitsundays are famous for two icons: Heart Reef and Whitehaven Beach. Travellers often wonder if it’s possible to see both in one day without compromising on snorkelling or relaxation. The answer is yes — with the Heart Reef and Whitehaven Beach Flight + Snorkelling Combo, you’ll experience the Whitsundays from above, on the water, and below the surface. This all-in-one adventure is one of the region’s most popular tours, and for good reason.
What’s Included in the Combo Tour
This carefully designed combo package deal brings together the highlights of the Whitsundays in a single unforgettable day:
- A 60-minute scenic flight over the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef, including the famous Heart Reef.
- Pilot commentary and guaranteed window seating for clear views.
- A full-day Ocean Rafting adventure with a choice of two itineraries.
- Direct access to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet’s swirling sands.
- Snorkelling at fringing reefs with equipment, flotation devices, and snorkel instruction included.
- A tropical picnic lunch served on Whitehaven Beach.
- Courtesy transfers from Airlie Beach accommodation.
- Naturalist talks from experienced skippers and eco hosts.
What You’ll See from the Air
The scenic flight is the only way to view Heart Reef — a naturally formed coral bommie in Hardy Reef shaped like a heart. From above, the sight is breathtaking, especially at low tide when the coral outline is sharpest.
The flight also showcases:
- Whitehaven Beach’s 7 km stretch of silica sand.
- Hill Inlet, where tidal currents create mesmerising sand patterns.
- The 74 islands of the Whitsundays, dotted across turquoise seas.
- Hardy Reef, Hook Reef, and outer reef lagoons in vivid colour.
Every passenger has a window seat, so no view is missed.
What You’ll Experience on the Water
After the flight, the day continues with Ocean Rafting — the fastest boats in the Whitsundays, designed for both adventure and access to exclusive locations.
You’ll choose between two full-day itineraries:
Northern Exposure – Snorkelling Focus
- Two snorkel sites at Hook Island and Border Island, rich in marine life.
- Short stop at Whitehaven Beach.
- Guided walk to Hill Inlet Lookout.
- Perfect for travellers who want maximum snorkelling time.
Southern Lights – Beach Focus
- Around two hours relaxing on Whitehaven Beach.
- Guided walk to Hill Inlet Lookout.
- One snorkel stop at a fringing reef.
- Ideal for travellers who want more time to swim, sunbathe, and explore Whitehaven.
Both options include tropical lunch, snorkelling gear, wetsuits or sunsuits, and commentary from passionate local guides.
Why This Tour Is Different
Many tours in the Whitsundays cover parts of this itinerary, but few combine them all in one day. Here’s why this combo stands out:
- The only tour that pairs a flight over Heart Reef with direct access to Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach.
- Ocean Rafting vessels are the fastest in the region, giving you more time at the destinations.
- Small group numbers make for a more personal experience.
- Exclusive beach access ensures you explore quieter parts of Whitehaven.
- A perfect balance of adventure, sightseeing, and relaxation.
How This Combo Compares to Other Tours
Visitors often compare the options for seeing Heart Reef and Whitehaven Beach. Here’s how this combo stacks up:
- Scenic flights only: You’ll see Heart Reef, Whitehaven, and Hill Inlet, but you won’t set foot on the beach or snorkel.
- Great Barrier Reef pontoons: Fantastic for snorkelling and diving, but you won’t see Heart Reef unless you add a helicopter flight.
- Sailing tours: Beautiful and relaxed, but limited to islands and beaches — no Heart Reef aerial view.
- This combo tour: The only one that combines a Heart Reef flight with Hill Inlet, Whitehaven Beach, and snorkelling in a single seamless package.
Insider Tips for Travellers
- Tours depart from Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach. Courtesy transfers are available.
- Flights are limited — book early, especially in peak holiday periods or on cruise ship days.
- Heart Reef is most striking at low tide. If you can, check tidal charts before booking.
- For photography, flights around midday give the most vibrant reef colours.
- Bring swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, and a light jacket for the boat ride.
- Families are welcome. Snorkelling instruction and flotation gear make it easy for beginners and children.
FAQs About the Heart Reef & Whitehaven Combo Tour
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts a full day, with a 60-minute scenic flight and a 6-hour Ocean Rafting tour.
Where does the tour depart from?
All departures are from Coral Sea Marina, Airlie Beach. Courtesy coach transfers are available from most local accommodation.
What’s the difference between the Northern Exposure and Southern Lights itineraries?
Northern Exposure prioritises snorkelling with two reef sites and a shorter beach stop. Southern Lights offers more beach time at Whitehaven and Hill Inlet, with one snorkel stop.
Can I snorkel at Heart Reef?
No. Heart Reef is strictly protected and only visible from the air. Snorkelling is offered at fringing reefs around Hook Island, Border Island, or other locations chosen for the best conditions on the day.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a tropical picnic lunch is served on Whitehaven Beach. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
Do flights operate year-round?
Yes. Flights operate daily, weather permitting, throughout the year. The dry season (May–October) has the clearest skies, while the green season (November–April) brings lush rainforest backdrops.
Why Book with Barrier Reef Australia
- Over 20 years’ experience connecting visitors to the best Whitsundays tours.
- Locally based team available 7 days a week.
- Hand-picked operators with proven safety and eco-credentials.
- Clear, detailed tour notes so you know exactly what to expect.
Exclusive access to packages that sell out quickly
Book Seats Early to Ensure Availability
If you only have one day in the Whitsundays, this is the tour that delivers it all. Fly over Heart Reef, walk the swirling sands of Hill Inlet, relax on Whitehaven Beach, and snorkel fringing reefs — all in one seamless experience. Seats are limited, and this tour is one of the first to sell out during peak season. Book with Barrier Reef Australia today and secure the Whitsundays’ ultimate day tour.
Book your Ocean Rafting Tours Here:-
- Heart Reef - Whitehaven Beach - Snorkel Tour
- Whitehaven Beach & Snorkelling Tour
- Whitehaven & Snorkelling Two Reefs
Read the Barrier Reef Australia Blog for all the things you need to know before you go:-
Whatsapp
Facebook
Instagram