Snorkel an inner section of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park that is a protected sanctuary for all sorts of marine life. You will sail there on the Island Explorer, a 79-foot catamaran custom-built for snorkeling and diving. The vessel features two air-conditioned levels and plenty of deck space for basking in the sun or relaxing outdoors in the shade, if that is your preference. Along the way, you will pass seemingly endless unspoiled and uninhabited islands that comprise the Whitsundays. Once the catamaran moors at the reef, you will be free to snorkel for several hours and come back on board whenever you wish to relax and enjoy the hearty buffet lunch. While there is no telling what you will see while snorkeling, brightly colored angelfish, parrotfish, groupers and gobies are often spotted. You may even catch sight of green sea turtles and rays gracefully swimming by.

See the wonders beneath the water’s surface by snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef and home to countless species of marine life. A luxury catamaran with a wave-piercer hull for a smoother ride will bring you to the outer reef is known for its vibrant hard coral, dramatic drop-offs, and the extraordinary visibility of the water. Here you can expect to see an incredible variety of colorful fish such as bright neon parrotfish, red emperors, humbug damselfish and blue tangs., you will notice that it features soft corals and seagrass meadows that attract turtles and dugongs. It is uniquely spectacular; the reason UNESCO declared the Great Barrier Reef a World Heritage site.

Discover the wild side of the Whitsunday Islands by zipping across the sea to Whitehaven Beach on a rigid inflatable boat known as a RIB. It will be an exhilarating, adrenaline-charged experience as you race through the water to the idyllic uninhabited beach, which is known for its exceptionally white sand. Because of its high silica content, the sand is extremely fine and soft and doesn’t retain heat like most sand. Feel free to beachcomb, bask in the sun and enjoy a refreshing swim in the remarkably clear waters. Wildlife is plentiful in this remote spot, especially water birds. You will also have access to Hill Inlet Beach, a spectacularly scenic cove where tidal currents swirl the turquoise sea and white sand together to form ever-changing picture-perfect mosaics. This natural phenomenon is especially stunning when viewed from the elevated lookout when the tide is low.

Fly over Whitehaven Beach and other idyllic locales in a fixed-wing aircraft with large windows that allow for optimal views of the gorgeous scenery below. The plane holds a maximum of seven guests, which will make the experience all the more private and pleasurable. The flight will be wonderfully picturesque as you will fly over the Great Barrier Reef and many of the islands in the Whitsunday archipelago. When you spot Whitehaven Beach on the largest of the Whitsundays, you will instantly understand why it is considered one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. The sand there is almost entirely made of silica, giving it a snow-white color. The setting is so dramatic that numerous films, including “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales “Were shot there. You will also fly over photogenic Hill Inlet and Heart Reef, whose distinct heart shape is best seen from the air.

Observe saltwater crocodiles by cruising the Proserpine River and see other indigenous wildlife while crossing the Goorganga Plains in a tractor-drawn wagon train. This quintessential Australian eco-adventure presents a close-up look at Queensland’s most iconic creatures. From the comfort of the boat, you will watch countless crocodiles and perhaps newly hatched babies in the river estuaries and learn about their vital role in helping to balance the wetlands environment. Although much maligned, crocodiles are fascinating reptiles with the ability to hold their breath up to six hours underwater. You will also discover much about the unique habitats that fringe the river by riding through the surrounding melaleuca forests and pastures in an open-air wagon. Birds and kangaroo-like wallabies are particularly prevalent. You can discuss what you’ve seen afterwards while enjoying a BBQ lunch. They offerings include a bread known as damper and billy tea boiled over a campfire.

Step back in time to Airlie’s earlier days on a tour that visits a venue steeped in local history, then surveys the area’s contemporary sights. True time travel may not yet be possible, but this is the next best thing. You’ll begin with a visit to Proserpine Historical Museum, where you can relive the days when sugar was this area’s primary cash crop. The exhibits also highlight the Whitsunday region’s historic cattle industries and the coffee trade that thrived here from the late 1800s until it took a back seat to tea-drinking. Continue to the beautifully located Coral Sea Resort (or similar) to enjoy some beach views. The setting is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a morning tea with views across to Airlie and a peaceful feel. Enjoy a buffet of premium assorted cakes, local produce fruit platters and Australian Damper together with your juice, tea or coffee. On the return drive, get current on a brief sightseeing jaunt through both Cannonvale and Airlie Beach’s local shopping district. You’ll have the option to disembark at the local markets to browse for souvenirs, but if so, you’ll need to make your own way back to the pier.

Travel by catamaran to a pontoon floating atop the Outer Reef, and discover the exquisite beauty waiting below in the world’s richest marine habitat. Your adventure begins with a two-hour waterborne transfer by luxury cat right from the ship, with morning tea and coffee served as you sail to the reef. Once at the pontoon, essentially a floating resort designated for your use, a range of activities are available for experiencing this breathtaking environment. Perhaps you’ll take a spin on the semi-submersible and see the reef’s colorful fish and intricate coral gardens from its underwater viewing windows without getting wet – or have a snorkel in these inviting aquamarine waters to see what’s up down under for yourself. The pontoon itself also has a convenient underwater viewing chamber available whenever you like. Looking for something even more immersive? Sign on for an optional scuba dive or escorted snorkeling tour, offered at an extra charge. While enjoying the reef, an extensive buffet lunch will be set out for you, soft drinks, Australian wine and beer available for purchase. In time, you’ll bid the Great Barrier reef farewell – for now – and return by catamaran to the ship.

Relax on board a covered catamaran designed for socializing and for negotiating waters that most vessels can’t reach. Upon arrival enjoy your welcome drink while cruise Pioneer Bay, the vast body of water just north of Airlie Beach. The views will be spectacular in every direction,staff members will point out and describe the attractions along the way. Because the sea is so clear in this area, you should be able to see a shipwreck and turtles swimming not far below the water’s surface. Although green sea turtles are the most commonly spotted species, you may also observe hawksbills, loggerheads, flatbacks and olive ridleys. The catamaran’s shallow draft allows it to easily travel into places that you would never see otherwise. The atmosphere on board is also one of a kind. It will be a continuous party with live music playing in the background.