Whitehaven Beach Tour

Ocean Rafting has been operating since 1997 and is proud to have special permits allowing its vessels to visit protected areas in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The Skipper and Eco Host will ensure guests have a fun filled adventure and personalised service with snorkel lessons and a guided National Park walk in the Whitsunday Islands. Tours depart from Coral Sea Marina, Northern Village and courtesy coach pickups are included.

📍 Ocean Rafting, Shingley Drive, Airlie Beach QLD, Australia

1. What time is check in: 9-9.15am.
2. Pick Up: A courtesy pick up from mainland hotels is available for all Ocean Rafting Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet tours, as well as Fly Raft Package and Scenic Flights
3. Car Parking: There is a car park at both the northern and southern end of Coral Sea Marina (our office is located at the Northern Village). The car parks are between $6 – $14 to park for the day.
4. Is the tour suitable for children: These boats are suitable for most ages from 6 months upwards (weather permitting).
5. Will I get sea sick: Due to the open-style design and speed which our vessels travel, it is very rare for Ocean Rafters to experience sea sickness on board, unlike slower vessels where you experience a slow-rocking motion that can cause sea sickness. The most common time for passengers to ever feel nauseous on the water would be when the vessel has stopped. Anyone hat is prone or worried about seasickness is welcome to take any necessary medication prior to travelling.
6. Do I need a stinger suit: Certain times of the year in the Whitsundays are stinger season (usually between late October – April/May). At this time of the year we do highly recommend hiring a stinger suit.
7. How long will I spend on the boat: The longest part of the journey is just over an hour, which is the ride out to the Whitsunday Islands and the return journey back to the mainland. Between the other stops the journey will be anywhere from 10 – 20 minutes, depending on where the skipper chooses next, given conditions on the day.
8. How long do I spend snorkeling: The Southern Lights tour visits just one snorkelling location around either Border Island or Dumbell Island for approximately 1 hour.
9. What do I need to bring: Bring along a small bag with things that you would usually take to the beach i.e. a towel, swimmers, sunscreen and a hat. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the Hill Inlet tours and walk to the lookout. A jacket during the winter period is recommended to protect you from the wind and warmth after snorkeling. Cash for any drinks or snacks on board is recommended and if you haven’t chosen to purchase lunch, please ensure that you BYO, as there are no shop stops during the day.
10. Dietary Requirements: Yes dietary requirements are catered for, please ensure you notify the operator 48hours prior to the tour.
11. Are bathroom facilities available: Six out of eight vessels have toilets on board. These are not to be used whilst the boat is in motion. There are toilets at Coral Sea Marina, at the Hill Inlet Lookout and at the southern end of Whitehaven Beach.