• Exclusive access to Reefworld with a select few guests (conditions apply)
• Fly out to the reef and fly back from the reef for maximum impact in minimal time
• Limited to 6 helicopter seats daily and must be booked in advance
• Weight and weather restrictions apply
• Underwater viewing chamber available for non-swimmers
• Sparkling wine and water included
• Land directly at Reefworld pontoon for reef access without a long boat transfer
• Snorkelling gear and wetsuits provided at Reefworld
• Aerial views of Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, Whitsunday Island and Hook Island
• 2 x 30-minute scenic helicopter flights (return) from Airlie Beach  

Fly over Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet, land at Reefworld to snorkel and explore the reef, then return to Airlie Beach by helicopter. Limited seats daily.

This premium helicopter and reef combo is designed for guests who want the Whitsundays’ most iconic sights from the air, followed by time on the reef at Reefworld, all in a streamlined fly-out, fly-back experience.

Your helicopter flight showcases the Whitsunday Islands from above, including Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet’s shifting silica sands, before tracking out to the Great Barrier Reef to circle Heart Reef for photos and then land at Reefworld for snorkelling and reef viewing.

What to expect

This tour starts with check-in at Coral Sea Marina Airlie Beach,  followed by a safety briefing with your pilot before departure. You’ll then take a scenic helicopter flight over the region’s signature landmarks, land at Reefworld for snorkelling and underwater viewing, and return to Airlie Beach by helicopter.

Reefworld is a floating pontoon experience moored on Hardy Reef, giving you a stable base to snorkel directly above coral gardens or stay dry and still see marine life from the underwater viewing chamber. This is why the tour works well for mixed groups, including non-swimmers who want a reef experience without pressure to get in the water.

Features and highlights

Scenic helicopter flights

Your return flights total approximately 60 minutes in the air and include aerial views of:
• Heart Reef
• Whitehaven Beach
• Hill Inlet
• Whitsunday Island
• Hook Island

Reefworld pontoon experience

After landing at Reefworld, you’ll have time to enjoy the pontoon facilities and choose how you spend your reef time. Depending on your preferences and conditions, you can:
• snorkel directly from the pontoon
• use provided wetsuits and snorkelling equipment
• relax on deck between activities
• enjoy sparkling wine and water
• stay dry and view marine life from the underwater viewing chamber

Snorkelling at Reefworld

Snorkelling equipment and wetsuits are provided. Staff at Reefworld can assist with fitting gear and helping first-time snorkellers get comfortable. This section of reef is ideal for seeing coral structure and reef fish in clear tropical water conditions.

Underwater viewing chamber

For guests who prefer not to swim, the underwater viewing chamber offers reef viewing below the waterline, allowing you to watch marine life and coral without getting wet.

Pre-booking note

Only 6 helicopter seats are available daily. Bookings must be made in advance. Helicopter operations are subject to weather and weight restrictions.

Sample itinerary and timing (approximate)

Morning option

• Check-in 8:00am
• Depart 8:20am
• Arrive Reefworld 8:50am
• Depart Reefworld 10:20am
• Return Airlie Beach 10:50am

 Afternoon option

• Check-in 2:00pm
• Depart 2:20pm
• Arrive Reefworld 2:50pm
• Depart Reefworld 4:20pm
• Return Airlie Beach 4:50pm

Check-in and departure instructions

Check in to Shop 14, Coral Sea Marina, at least 20 minutes prior to departure. Your pilot will provide a safety briefing before boarding.

Tour details

Tour languages offered

English

Departs from

Airlie Beach

Duration

Approx. 2.5 hours total (including flights and time at Reefworld)

Months of operation

January to December

Days of operation

Subject to availability and weather conditions

Fitness level required

Low

Safety, suitability and restrictions

Non-swimmers

• Suitable. You can enjoy the underwater viewing chamber and pontoon facilities without entering the water.

Pregnancy

• Please discuss with us before booking. Conditions can vary and helicopter operations are weather dependent. Snorkelling participation should be assessed case-by-case. Scuba diving is not recommended during pregnancy.

Mobility and accessibility

• Not suitable for wheelchair users due to helicopter boarding requirements and pontoon access.

Weather and operational changes

• This tour is weather dependent. Flight paths, timing and activities may change due to conditions and operational requirements.

Frequently asked questions

Who is this tour best suited to

• Travellers who want the biggest visual highlights of the Whitsundays from the air plus reef time at Reefworld, without a long boat transfer. Ideal for couples, photographers, and time-limited itineraries.

Do I need snorkelling experience?

• No. Equipment is provided and staff can assist. You can also choose the underwater viewing chamber instead.

How far in advance should I book?

• As early as possible. Only 6 helicopter seats are available daily.

Can I do this tour without getting wet?

• Yes. The underwater viewing chamber allows reef viewing without swimming.

Are helicopter flights guaranteed?

• Flights operate subject to weather, visibility, safety requirements and weight restrictions.

Barrier Reef Australia local knowledge and support

Barrier Reef Australia works directly with local reef and aviation operators and understands how conditions impact flight paths, visibility and reef access.

We are available seven days a week, excluding Christmas Day. If you want help selecting the best session time or confirming suitability for your group, speak with our team or request a Discovery Call.

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Airlie Beach

Departure Time

• Morning tour check in 8.00am, departs 8.20am, arrives at Reefworld 8.50am, departs Reefworld 10.20am, arrives back in Airlie Beach 10.50am
• Afternoon tour check in 2.00pm, departs 2.20am, arrives at Reefworld 2.50am, departs Reefworld 4.20am, arrives back in Airlie Beach 4.50am
• These are approximate times

Departure Instructions

Check in to Shop 14, Coral Sea Marina, 20 minutes prior to departure. Our friendly pilot will take you through our safety briefing and get you ready for your tour.

Destinations

• Heart Reef
• Hill Inlet
• Whitehaven Beach
• Reefworld Interactive Floating Pontoon
• Hardy Reef
• Heart Reef
• Whitehaven Beach
• Hill Inlet
• Whitsunday Islands

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Daily

Closed on Christmas Day

Duration

Approx 2 hours at Reefworld
2 x 30 minute flights

Fitness Level Required

Low, Medium

Restrictions

Weight: Up to 130 Kg / 287 Lb

• Camera (charged)
• Swimming costume
• Towel
• Cash for drinks and snacks

• 3 – 13 years inclusive
• As per aviation policy one child per flight
• Our tours are designed to accommodate adults, some tours are not suitable for infants, if in doubt please ask. Infants are classified as 0-2 years, and may travel on a parent lap in the rear of the aircraft on private flights only. Children are classified as 3 – 13 years of age inclusive, must be accompanied by an adult on the flight.