Reefworld

Close encounters of the watery kind are what you'll experience on a trip to Reefworld. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and this is where you'll have the opportunity to snorkel, dive and swim amongst the vibrant living reef formed millions of years ago, a place that is home to hundreds of different types of fish.

Reefworld is a large floating pontoon adjacent to the coral walls. It has areas for relaxing, sun decks for topping up the tan, an undercover seating and bar area, freshwater showers and changing rooms. From the pontoon you can enter the water safely and enjoy snorkelling and diving, but it's not only for swimmers and for divers, non swimmers can also experience the colourful underwater world of the reef from an underwater viewing chamber and a semi-submersible submarine. Also onboard the pontoon you will find naturalists who can help you identify both the corals and the fish, there are also fully trained lifeguards and dive instructors, so you'll be in safe hands.

Getting to the reef couldn't be easier. You can choose one of the high-speed catamarans which leave from Abel Point Marina in Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island and give you a fast cruising experience out to the reef. Or you can opt for an arrival by helicopter, a trip that will also give you incredible aerial views of Whitsunday Island and the famous Whitehaven Beach and Hill inlet.

Which ever way you choose to arrive, morning and afternoon tea and a mouth-watering all you can eat buffet lunch are also included as well as tea and coffee. So, whether you're a first timer or an experienced diver, the fully certified instructors and the whole team aboard the pontoon will ensure you have an unforgettable day out on the Great Barrier Reef.

Operators: Hamilton Island Air, Cruise Whitsundays

Operates: Daily, cruises depart at 9am and return at 5pm

Includes: Up to 4 hours at the Outer Barrier Reef

Semi-submersible coral viewing with reef appreciation talk

Underwater viewing chamber

All snorkelling equipment

Buffet lunch, plus morning and afternoon tea and coffee

Waterslide and activities for the kids

FREE wetsuits available

Environmental Management Charge (Reef tax) and Australia's Goods and Services Tax (GST)

Excludes: Guided snorkel tours with Reef Interpreters

Introductory or certified dives

Scenic Helicopter Flights over Heart Reef

Photography, video or DVD of day

What to bring: Swimsuit and towel, protective clothing from the sun including a hat and sun block, light jacket or sweater during the cooler months, money or credit card for optional purchases, camera

Prices from: Adults $210, Children $95

Fly Cruise Adults $399, Children (3-14 years) $349

How to Book: Call the Tour Desk on +61(0)7 4946 8305 or email

tourdesk@hamiltonisland.com.au.

Websites: Hamilton Island- Reefworld by Helicopter

Cruise Whitsundays