Thrilling Whitehaven Beach rafting tour, snorkelling and Island bushwalks. The only Airlie Beach tour to see all of Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet in a day. Super-fast boat to iconic Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet, and snorkel new reefs.
More Whitehaven Beach time and Hill Inlet Lookout
Ride, beach, snorkel and bushwalk…all in one day!
Southern Lights tour offers the perfect Whitehaven Beach tour, visiting both ends of the world famous beach and enjoying approximately two hours relaxing at the southern end of the 7km stretch of Whitehaven Beach.
Travel to three iconic Whitsunday Islands destinations in one day on one of the fastest boats in the Whitsundays with a maximum of only 32 adventure seeking passengers.
Departing from Abell Point Marina at Airlie Beach, you’ll experience the ride of your life aboard our custom-built, super-fast 12-metre semi rigid inflatable vessels, travelling at speeds of up to 35 knots (65 km/hour). Originally designed and built as rescue craft and driven by a 500hp engine, you’ll find getting to our Whitsunday Islands destinations is half the fun.
Plus, speedy travel means more time for Whitehaven Beach adventures!
Your Skipper and Eco Host will provide some fascinating Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Island facts along the way.
Visit iconic Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet – Southern Lights
This is the only Great Barrier Reef tour to visit both ends of beatiful Whitehaven Beach, enjoying approximately two hours relaxing at the southern end of the 7km stretch of famous white silica sand.
At the northern end of Whitehaven Beach, take a guided bushwalk to Hill Inlet Lookout and view the stunning swirling silica sands and aquamarine waters of Whitehaven Beach below.
Snorkel pristine coral reefs at Border Island or Dumbell Island
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:
If you’re visiting between July and October, you’ll be amazed by the sight of Humpback whales as they breach and play in the azure waters of the Great Barrier Reef.
There’s no need to bring any gear as snorkelling equipment and flotation devices are included and wetsuits can be hired if required. Never snorkelled before? No problem! Snorkelling lessons are included, and our small group numbers mean you’re assured of personal attention.
At the end of the day, enjoy more heart-pumping fun as the boats speed back to Abell Point Marina in Airlie Beach, often racing each other on the way.
More action-packed Whitsundays tours
We also offer the Northern Exposure tour, view here.
The main difference between the two tours is that the Southern Lights has more beach time and the Northern Exposure offers more snorkelling time.
Departing daily at 10.00am from Abell Point Marina North, Airlie Beach and returning at 4.30pm, this ‘3 days in 1’ Whitsundays tour offers the opportunity to enjoy three iconic Whitsunday Islands destinations, two hours of relaxation at the southern end of iconic Whitehaven Beach, and a range of reef, beach and bush activities in just one day.
Our Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef tour includes an optional lunch at an additional cost. If you have chosen not to have our buffet-style lunch, please ensure that you bring your own as we do not visit any resorts during the day.
Afternoon tea cake is included in tour cost.
Cold drinks and chocolates are available to purchase onboard.
Tropical Lunch
Morning or Afternoon Tea
Special Dietary Options
Departing : Daily at 10.00am
Returning : Daily at 4.30pm
9.00am - 9.30am: Courtesy pick-ups
Courtesy pick-up is included for guests from local Airlie Beach accommodations between 8.45am and 9.30am.
9.00am: Check-in
Check-in at 9.00am at Abell Point Marina North, Airlie Beach (next to Sorrento Restaurant & Bar) then get ready for an action-packed day exploring the pristine islands, beaches and bays of the Whitsundays.
10.00am: We’re on our way
Depart the marina at 10.00am on our super-fast semi-rigid inflatable raft and enjoy a fun, high-speed ride amongst the natural beauty of the Whitsunday Islands.
Mid-morning: Whitehaven Beach
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.
Lunchtime: Hill Inlet
Enjoy exclusive access to all areas of Hill Inlet where you can enjoy a delicious buffet-style lunch (optional) on the swirling sand bars.
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: Snorkel pristine coral reefs at Border Island or Dumbell Island
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 Abell Marina, often racing each other on the way.
4.30pm: Return to Airlie Beach
Arrive back at Abell Point Marina North, Airlie Beach at 4.30pm.
Please note: The above tour itinerary is a guideline only and is subject to change depending on tide, wind and other weather conditions.
See more Whitehaven Beach Great Barrier Reef tour options.
Airlie Beach
Departs/Returns: 10.00am (check in at 9.00am) from Airlie Beach / 4.30pm to Airlie Beach
Tours depart daily from Coral Sea Marina North (previously known as Abell Point Marina), Airlie Beach (next to Sorrento Restaurant & Bar).
January - December
Daily
6.5 hours (approx.)
Medium
All cancellations must be in writing.
Please note that all cancellations will incur an administration fee.
Please see our terms and conditions for details prior to booking.
100% cancellation fee applies for cancellations after midday the day prior.
au$191.00
Prices are AUD, per adult and include all levies fees and taxes.
Child:
au$125.00
Family: au$580.00
Tour Code: 690