Your journey begins with a cruise to the outer reef through the gorgeous Whitsunday Islands – keep an eye out for migrating Humpback Whales between July and September. Out on the reef, go swimming and snorkelling, ride in a semi-submarine and visit the underwater observatory – followed by a generous buffet lunch. Optional upgrades include guided snorkel safaris and scuba-diving.
After the day-trippers head back to shore, the pontoon and the reef are exclusively yours. Enjoy a sunset drink before your evening meal is served on deck, featuring fresh and delicious local produce. Afterwards, head for the pontoon’s top level and slip into your cozy Reefbed– it’s just you, the ocean and a galaxy of stars.
Dawn on the reef is peaceful and unhurried. There’s time for some more snorkelling after breakfast – the reef is all yours to enjoy – or return to the underwater observatory and watch the reef come to life. After lunch, your Cruise Whitsundays vessel returns you to the mainland. Your night on the reef may be over, but your Reefsleep memories will stay with you forever.
Highlights
- Scenic return cruise through the Whitsundays to the outer reef
- Snorkelling with all gear provided, including wetsuits and stinger suits
- Access to underwater observatory
- Semi-submarine guided tour
- Two morning and two afternoon teas, two lunches, dinner and breakfast
- All beverages including beer and wine (cocktails and spirits at an additional cost)
- Overnight accommodation in Reefbeds under the stars
- Optional activities (own expense): guided snorkelling safaris and scuba diving
Itinerary
Day One
Travel to Hardy Reef as part of the Great Barrier Reef Adventure onboard one of our high speed vessels. By day, all the amazing activities offered on our Great Barrier Reef Adventure are there to be enjoyed – diving, snorkelling, massages and scenic helicopter flights. By 3pm the day guests depart and you get the pontoon all to yourself and your fellow Reefsleep guests.
A Night at the Reef
As dusk approaches watch for turtles surfacing or coming to nibble the seaweed around the pontoon. Watch as the sun sets over the reef while you sip your sundowner and then see the reef really come to life in the darkness of the night. Gaze up at a gazillion stars from your comfy swag set up on the top deck of the pontoon before the tranquillity of being in the middle of the ocean lulls you to sleep.
Day 2
In the morning, enjoy more time with the reef before the day guests join you. Optional guided snorkelling and diving trips during this exclusive time at the pontoon with your group will see you visit very special spots – giant Maori Wrasse, spectacular coral formations, a myriad of tropical fish, turtles and reef sharks all might make an appearance. If you’re not a keen swimmer then have the underwater viewing chamber to yourself and watch your fellow guests swim around, or look at the coral from the comfort of our semi-submersible vessel. You’ll head home with the day guests onboard the reef vessel in the afternoon, taking home plenty of memories and stories to tell.
*Single supplement rate applies.
#Reefsleep requires a minimum of 2 Guests to operate, You will be advised at time of booking if your departure is not confirmed.
What to bring
- Small overnight bag
- Toiletries
- Change of clothes
- Swimwear
- Protective clothing, hat and sunscreen
- Camera
- Light jacket or sweater for cool or windy days
- Cash/credit card optional activities (guided snorkelling safari and scuba diving)
Departure & Return Times
Port of Airlie
- Depart: 8:00am, Return: 6:10pm
Dream Island
- Depart: 7:50am, Return: 5:40pm
Hamilton Island
- Depart: 9:00am, Return: 5:00pm
Note: CHILDREN must be 12 years and older to do Reefsleep
Map