• 60 minute fixed-wing scenic flight over the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, including Heart Reef
• Choice of two snorkelling and beach-focused tour options
• The only tour to have direct access to Hill Inlet beaches at Whitehaven. Full day high speed ocean rafting tour to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet  
• Snorkelling at fringing coral reefs around Hook Island, Border Island or nearby reef systems
• Snorkelling equipment, flotation devices and snorkel instruction included
• Capture the sheer beauty of Heart Reef from above as you fly over the Great Barrier Reef on a 60-minute scenic flight.
• Guided walk to Hill Inlet Lookout
• Courtesy transfers from selected Airlie Beach accommodations
• Tropical lunch pack included

A rare combination tour from Airlie Beach pairing a low-level scenic flight over Heart Reef with time on Whitehaven Beach and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, offering both aerial and in-water perspectives of the Whitsundays in one seamless day.

Travellers visiting the Whitsundays often want to see the region from both the air and the water in a single day. 

This experience combines a 60 minute scenic flight with a full day ocean rafting tour, allowing you to see the islands, reef and beaches from multiple perspectives. The flight provides sweeping aerial views over the Whitsunday Islands and reef systems, with Heart Reef included in the flight path when conditions allow. Visitors comparing flight-only options may also be interested in other Whitsundays scenic flights.

This experience includes aerial views of the famous Heart Reef coral formation before continuing to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet as part of the on-water adventure.
After the flight, the day continues aboard a fast semi-rigid inflatable vessel designed to maximise time at the islands rather than travel time.

What to Expect

The day begins with check-in before boarding a fixed-wing aircraft for a 60 minute scenic flight over the Whitsundays and offshore reef systems. Heart Reef is included in the flight path when visibility and weather conditions allow, and the route may adjust on the day.

After the flight, you return to the marina and join the ocean rafting component. Travel between locations is fast and can be bumpy, allowing more time snorkelling and exploring Whitehaven Beach. Snorkelling takes place at fringing reef sites chosen for shelter and conditions, rather than at outer reef pontoons. Guests comparing reef styles may want to review Whitsundays snorkelling tours before deciding if this experience suits them.

Time ashore includes swimming, relaxing on the silica sand at Whitehaven Beach and a guided walk to Hill Inlet Lookout for panoramic views of the shifting sands below. For first-time visitors, understanding how fringing reef snorkelling differs from outer reef pontoons can help set realistic expectations for visibility, coral types and water conditions. 

If you are planning multiple days and want to compare different tour styles, browsing Whitsundays tours can help balance scenic flights, snorkelling and island time. 

Features and Highlights 

• 60 minute scenic flight over islands, beaches and reef systems
• High-speed ocean rafting between key Whitsunday locations
• Snorkelling at sheltered fringing reefs
• Whitehaven Beach time on silica sand with swimming opportunities
• Guided walk to Hill Inlet Lookout
• On-water commentary from experienced crew

Northern Exposure

• Earlier departure
• Two snorkelling locations
• Shorter Whitehaven Beach visit

Southern Lights

• Later departure
• Extended Whitehaven Beach time
• One longer snorkelling location

Itinerary and Timing

Option 1 – Northern Exposure

• Check-in 6:00am at Coral Sea Marna North, Airlie Beach
• Scenic flight departure 7:00am
• Scenic flight duration approximately 60 minutes
• Ocean rafting departure approximately 8:45am
• Return to Airlie Beach approximately 3:30pm

Full sample itinerary flow

Check in at Coral Sea Marina North and complete the scenic flight over the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet and Heart Reef when conditions allow. Return to the marina and board the vessel for the ocean rafting component. Travel through the islands to two snorkelling sessions at sheltered fringing reef sites commonly around Hook Island and Border Island. Continue to Whitehaven Beach with direct access to Hill Inlet beaches, enjoy lunch, then complete the guided walk to Hill Inlet Lookout before returning to Airlie Beach mid-afternoon.

Option 2 – Southern Lights

• Check-in 7:15am at Coral Sea Marina North, Airlie Beach
• Scenic flight departure 8:15am
• Scenic flight duration approximately 60 minutes
• Ocean rafting departure approximately 10:00am
• Return to Airlie Beach approximately 4:30pm

Full sample itinerary flow

After the scenic flight, return to the marina and prepare for the later vessel departure. Travel by high-speed raft to Whitehaven Beach for extended beach time, including swimming and exploration depending on conditions. Lunch is served on the beach before completing the guided walk to Hill Inlet Lookout. Finish with a longer snorkelling session at a sheltered fringing reef site selected for the day, often around Border Island or similar locations, before returning to Airlie Beach late afternoon.

Important notes

• All timings are approximate
• The order of stops and snorkelling sites may change due to weather, tides and sea conditions
• Heart Reef visibility is weather dependent

Who This Tour Is For

This tour suits travellers who want a true one-day combination of scenic flight views and on-water exploration, including snorkelling and time at Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet. It is best for guests who are comfortable with fast vessel travel, open-water snorkelling and moderate walking.

Travellers building a multi-day itinerary may want to compare other Airlie Beach tours to balance reef, island and sailing experiences. 

Essential Tour Information

• Departure location
• Coral Sea Marina North, Airlie Beach

Physical requirements

• Guests must be able to step on and off vessels, hold on during high-speed travel, swim in open water and walk on sand and uneven paths. The Hill Inlet Lookout walk includes steps and inclines.

Accessibility

• This tour is not suitable for wheelchairs or guests requiring mobility assistance.

Sea conditions and comfort

• High-speed travel can be bumpy. Guests should consider motion sensitivity and existing injuries before booking.

Expert Questions About This Tour

Is this tour suitable for pregnant guests?

• No. Due to high-speed vessel travel and potential impact, this tour is not suitable for pregnant guests.

Is this tour suitable for guests with back, neck, hip, knee or spinal injuries?

• No. This tour can be physically jarring and is not suitable for guests with back, neck, joint or spinal injuries, chronic pain conditions or recent surgery.

Is this tour suitable for guests with disabilities or limited mobility?

• No. Guests must be able to step on and off vessels, move on sand and complete the Hill Inlet walk. It is not wheelchair accessible.

Is the boat ride similar to a jet boat?

• It is a high-speed ocean rafting vessel. Conditions determine how smooth or bumpy the ride feels.

How rough is the ride?

• It varies daily. Wind and swell can make the ride bumpy, particularly during high-speed sections.

I get motion sick easily. Is this tour suitable?

• This tour may not be suitable for guests prone to seasickness due to vessel speed and movement.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer to snorkel?

• You do not need to be a strong swimmer, but you must be comfortable in open water. Flotation devices and instruction are provided.

Is snorkelling guaranteed?

• Snorkelling is planned, but sites and duration can change due to weather and safety conditions.

Is this an outer Great Barrier Reef tour?

• No. Snorkelling is typically at fringing reefs around the Whitsunday Islands rather than outer reef pontoons.

How do the two itinerary options differ?

• Northern Exposure generally includes more snorkelling and an earlier finish, while Southern Lights allows more time at Whitehaven Beach with one longer snorkelling session.

Will I definitely see Heart Reef?

• Heart Reef is included in the flight path when conditions allow, but visibility depends on cloud cover and weather.

Is this tour suitable for young children?

• Children must be comfortable on fast boats and in open water. Minimum age requirements apply and should be confirmed before booking.

BARRIER REEF AUSTRALIA — LOCAL KNOWLEDGE & SUPPORT

We live and work in the Whitsundays and base our recommendations on real conditions and firsthand experience, not generic itineraries.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT EXPERIENCE

Barrier Reef Australia helps travellers compare tours and charters based on comfort, timing and expectations so you book what actually suits you.

SUPPORT AND DISCOVERY CALLS

We are available seven days a week, excluding Christmas Day. If you’d like help choosing the right tour or charter, speak with our team or request a Discovery Call.

WHY BOOK THROUGH BARRIER REEF AUSTRALIA

You’ll deal with real people who know the region, understand seasonal conditions and enjoy helping travellers plan meaningful experiences.

Fly and Raft

Departing daily at 7.00am (Northern Exposure) and 8.30am (Southern Lights) from Coral Sea Marina North, Airlie Beach, this Whitsunday Islands scenic flight and high speed ocean rafting snorkel tour package offers the best of the Whitsundays from above, on and below the water!

Soar above the Great Barrier Reef on a breath-taking 60-minute scenic flight over the Whitsunday islands and famous Heart Reef, then take the ride of your life to Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet and pristine snorkelling reefs, on your choice of two ocean rafting snorkel tours.

• The Whitsundays Snorkel Adventure (Northern Exposure): departs early and offers more snorkelling time, including two special snorkel sites at Hook Island and Border Island.
• The Whitehaven Beach Adventure (Southern Lights): offers more time on Whitehaven Beach’s famous 7km stretch of white silica sand.

Features:

• 60-minute scenic flight over the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef, including Heart Reef
• Ocean rafting adventure to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet - choose from 2 ocean rafting snorkel tours
• Enjoy exclusive direct access to stunning Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach
• Inner fringing coral reef snorkelling
• Personal snorkel instruction, snorkelling equipment and floatation devices provided
• Swim in the turquoise waters or laze on the white silica sand at Whitehaven Beach
• Take a guided national park walk to iconic Hill Inlet Lookout
• Listen to reef and island naturalist talks offered by your Skipper and Eco Host
• Enjoy a delicious tropical lunch served on beautiful Whitehaven Beach (Additional cost)
• Courtesy pick-up/drop-offs and yummy cake for afternoon tea are included.

What to bring:

• Swimmers
• A beach bag with a towel, hat and shoes
• A jacket during winter to protect you from wind and for warmth after snorkelling
• Sunglasses
• Cameras in a waterproof case or Tupperware
• Cash for water, soft drinks, fruit juices and chocolates for sale onboard
• Everything you need for the day as you will not return to your accommodation between tour

Tropical Lunch

• POTATO SALAD: Potato, mayonnaise (does not contain egg or dairy and is also suitable for vegans), salt and pepper. GF LF VEG VGN NF 
• ASIAN NOODLE SALAD: Angel hair pasta, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sweet chilli sauce, salt and pepper, topped with roasted vegetables including carrot, zucchini, capsicum and onion mixed in Italian herbs and paprika. LF VEG VGN NF
• GARDEN SALAD: Mesclun lettuce, cheese cubes, cherry tomatoes, Spanish onion, cucumber, capsicum, julienne carrots, stuffed green olives with a vinaigrette dressing. GF VEG
• FRESH BAKED BREAD ROLL: Topped with cheese, sweet chilli sauce, spices. VEG NF
• COLD MEATS: Sliced ham GF LF NF, sliced salami GF NF, sliced chicken breast. GF LF NF
• CHICKPEA SALAD (FOR DIETARY PACKS – SEE BELOW): Chickpeas, fresh tomato, parsley, lemon juice, salt and pepper. GF VGN

Morning or Afternoon Tea

• SELECTION OF SEASONAL FRUITS
• LAMINGTONS VEG

Special Dietary Options

• GLUTEN FREE: Noodle salad replaced with chickpea salad.  Dinner roll replaced with gluten free bread.
• LACTOSE FREE: No cheese or salami provided. Plain dinner roll provided.
• VEGETARIAN: No meat provided. Extra salad and dinner roll provided.
• VEGAN: No cheese or meat provided. Extra salad and chickpea salad provided.
• NUT FREE: No salad dressing or olives

Sample Itinerary: Option 1

Timings will be confirmed upon booking. Please note this is a sample itinerary and may be subject to change. 

Option One : Whitsundays Scenic Flight & Ocean Rafting Snorkel Tour (Northern Exposure)

Departing : Daily at 7.00am
Returning : Daily at 3.30pm

Courtesy pick-ups: included for guests from local accommodations. 

6.00am: Check-in

Check-in at 6.00am at Coral Sea Marina North, Airlie Beach (next to Sorrento Restaurant & Bar). 

7.00am: Whitsundays scenic flight

Depart Airlie Beach at 7.00am for a 60-minute scenic flight over the Whitsundays. You’ll fly over Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet before heading out to the Great Barrier Reef and over famous Heart Reef.

8.00am: Back to the Marina

Back to Airlie Beach. Get ready for an exhilarating afternoon ocean rafting snorkel adventure.

8.45am: Ocean rafting snorkel adventure

We depart Coral Sea Marina at Airlie Beach and head to two exclusive locations off Hook Island where you can snorkel the pristine reefs, explore the colourful corals and discover an array of unique marine life. Personal snorkelling lessons are also included. 

After our amazing snorkelling adventure, we head to iconic Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet in the Whitsunday Islands. Enjoy exclusive access to Hill Inlet beaches where you can swim in the clear blue ocean, laze on the silica white sand and enjoy a delicious tropical lunch on the beach.

After lunch, take a guided national park walk to Hill Inlet Lookout where you’ll encounter stunning views of the swirling sands below.

Mid-afternoon: Time to head home

There’s more fun to be had as we make our way back to Airlie Beach! Indulge your sweet tooth with some cake for afternoon tea and enjoy adrenaline-fuelled fun as the boats speed back to Coral Sea Marina, Airlie Beach often racing each other on the way.

3.30pm: Arrive Airlie Beach

Arrive back at Coral Sea Marina North, Airlie Beach.

Sample Itinerary: Option 2

OPTION TWO: Scenic Flight and Whitehaven Beach Adventure (Southern Lights)

Departing : Daily at 8.15am
Returning : Daily at 4.30pm

Courtesy pick-ups: included for guests from local accommodations. 

7.15am: Check-in

Check-in at 7.15am at Coral Sea Marina North, Airlie Beach (next to Sorrento Restaurant & Bar). 

8.15am: Whitsundays scenic flight

Depart Airlie Beach at 8.15am for a 60-minute scenic flight over the Whitsundays. You’ll fly over Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet before heading out to the Great Barrier Reef and over famous Heart Reef.

9.15am: Back to the Marina

Back to Airlie Beach. Get ready for an exhilarating afternoon ocean rafting beach and snorkel adventure.

10.00am: We’re on our way

Depart the marina at 10.00am on our super-fast semi-rigid inflatable vessel and enjoy a fun, high-speed ride amongst the natural beauty of the Whitsundays.

We visit both ends of beautiful Whitehaven Beach, enjoying approximately two hours relaxing at the southern end of the 7km stretch of famous white silica sand. Explore the beach, swim in the turquoise ocean or sunbathe on the soft silica sand - the choice is yours.

Enjoy exclusive access to all areas of Hill Inlet where you can enjoy a delicious tropical lunch on the beach.  

After lunch, take a guided national park walk to Hill Inlet Lookout where you’ll encounter stunning views of the swirling sands below.

Snorkel for over an hour at the stunning fringing reefs at Border Island, Dumbell Island or one of our “secret” snorkel spots. As you explore the colourful corals you’ll encounter an array of unique marine life, including:

• turtles
• dolphins
• an array of colourful tropical fish
• giant clams

Personal snorkelling lessons, snorkelling equipment and floatation devices are included. 

Afternoon: It’s time to head home

There’s more fun to be had as we make our way back to Airlie Beach! Indulge your sweet tooth with some cake for afternoon tea and enjoy adrenaline-fuelled fun as the boats speed back to Coral Sea Marina, Airlie Beach often racing each other on the way.

4.30pm: Return to Airlie Beach

Arrive back at Coral Sea Marina North, Airlie Beach at 4.30pm.

See more Great Barrier Reef tours from Airlie Beach 

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Airlie Beach

Departure Time

• Our flights depart from Whitsunday Airport, located only a short 8 minute drive from Airlie Beach.
• Flight times: 7am and 8.30am, followed by Ocean Rafting tour.

Destinations

• Heart Reef
• Hill Inlet
• Whitehaven Beach
• Whitsunday Island
• Hook Island

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Daily

Duration

Full day (1-hour flight, 6 ½ hours ocean rafting adventure)

Available for Purchase / Hire

• Prescription Mask Hire - $15
• Water
• Soft Drinks/Juice
• Beer/Cider
• Chocolate

Fitness Level Required

Medium

Restrictions

Tours are not suitable for guests with pre-existing back, neck or hip injuries or who are in their third trimester of pregnancy (other pregnancy stages are weather dependent).

Weight: Up to 125 Kg / 276 Lb

Additional Information

• Minimum numbers of four passengers for flights/flight packages apply.
• Flights are subject to pilot discretion, weather and air traffic control.
• For legal and safety reasons, all passengers are weighed prior to boarding. Individual weights in excess of 110kg will incur an extra seat surcharge.
• Maximum per seat weight is 130 kgs.
• Full names and exact weights per passenger must be advised when booking due to flight weight availability.
• We recommend you take out travel insurance. Whilst we make every effort to safeguard our clients, we cannot be held responsible for personal injury or loss due to the actions of the clients which are beyond our control. A signed release will be required from all participants on departure. Not suitable for pregnant women
• Sites are weather and tide permitting.
• The operator reserves the right to charge its customers a fuel levy if fuel is over $1.50 per litre and the right to arrange alternative itinerary when necessary.
• The operator may use photographs of our clients in promotional material, including but not limited to social media, however if you do not consent please advise operator.

Eco Certifications

• Swimmers
• A beach bag with a towel, hat and shoes.
• A jacket during winter to protect you from wind and for warmth after snorkelling.
• Sunglasses
• Cameras in a waterproof case or Tupperware.
• Cash for water, soft drinks, fruit juices and chocolates for sale on board.
• Everything you need for the day as you will not return to your accommodation between tours.