Ocean Rafting – Northern Exposure Whitsundays Tour

Provider:
Ocean Rafting

Quick Overview

Duration

All day

Group Size

32

Activity Level

About this experience

Each ocean rafting trip is like three experiences in one day: a speedy ride to the famous Whitehaven Beach and the spectacular Hill Inlet, snorkeling on the pristine reefs of the Whitsundays and guided hikes through Whitsunday Island National Park.

The Northern Exposure eco-adventure is particularly popular with snorkeling enthusiasts – it is the only Whitsunday adventure with two different snorkeling stops. Discover the colorful underwater world around Hook Island, with hotspots such as Mantaray Bay, Maureens Cove and other specially selected reefs. This experience guarantees you unforgettable encounters with tropical fish, corals and perhaps even sea turtles.

Highlights of this experience

  • Experience the Whitsundays in a small group and discover hidden places away from the crowds
  • Speedy drive to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet - with exclusive access to the beaches of Hill Inlet
  • Possibility to enjoy a fresh tropical packed lunch directly on the beach
  • Swimming in crystal-clear, turquoise waters or relaxing on the snow-white sandy beach
  • Two snorkeling stops at untouched reefs around Hook Island, e.g. Mantaray Bay or Maureens Cove
  • Guided hike through Whitsunday Island National Park

What's included

  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Accommodation transfer

What's excluded

  • $8 wetsuit (free for children up to 14 years)
  • $20 Mask with prescription
  • $20 Lunch
  • $20 surcharge on public holidays

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Itinerary

Exact itineraries vary depending on the tour type. 

Your day begins with a short safety briefing before you board the specially developed ocean rafting boats. These 12-metre-long, semi-rigid inflatable boats, originally designed as lifeboats, take you through the island world of the Whitsundays at speeds of up to 30 knots full of adrenaline – fast, lively and yet comfortable.

The first stop takes you to the snorkeling hotspots around Hook Island. You have the opportunity to go into the water at two different reefs such as Mantaray Bay, Maureens Cove or other specially selected snorkeling spots and experience the colourful underwater world up close.

The tour then continues to the northern end of Whitehaven Beach, where you have exclusive access to the beaches of Hill Inlet. There you’ll enjoy a guided national park hike to the famous Hill Inlet Lookout, known for its spectacular sand formations. Afterwards, you’ll have time to relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters or enjoy your optional tropical packed lunch right on the beach.

Thanks to the small group size, you will experience this tropical paradise away from the crowds – a day full of adventure, nature and unforgettable impressions.

Where we’ll meet

Pick-ups are possible from selected accommodation. You can easily select your accommodation at check-out. 🔹 Haven't booked your accommodation yet? No problem - just select TBA (to be advised). 🔹 Your accommodation is not on the list? Write to us - we'll take care of it! We'll be happy to help you and make sure your trip gets off to a smooth start!
Shingley Drive, Airlie Beach, Queensland, 4802, Australia

Cancellation Policy

  • Cancellations within 1 day before the start date will be charged a fee of 100%.
Additionally, the terms and conditions of Ausventure Travel apply.
From $209 /person
  • Australia
    Queensland
    Whitsundays
  • 7:45 a.m.
  • 3:30 pm

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Experience FAQs

The main difference lies in the emphasis: the Northern Exposure Tour offers more time for snorkeling, while the Southern Lights Tour allows more time on the beach. Northern Exposure: Departure at 08:45, return around 15:30. Visit two snorkeling spots around Hook Island with 45-60 minutes in the water each and 1-1.5 hours at the northern end of Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet. Southern Lights: Depart at 10:00 am, return around 4:30 pm. A snorkeling stop for about one hour and two full hours at the southern end of Whitehaven Beach with its 7 km long, snow-white sandy beach. If you want to focus on snorkeling, we recommend the Northern Exposure Tour. If your focus is on beach time, the Southern Lights Tour is more suitable. The journey from Airlie Beach to Whitehaven Beach takes 1-1.5 hours, depending on wind, weather and tide.

Yes, the Northern Exposure, Southern Lights, Scenic Flight, Full Day Eco Adventure and Half-Day Dash tours are generally suitable for guests aged 6 months and over (weather permitting).

The tours are not suitable for guests with existing back, neck or hip injuries or for pregnant women (especially in unsettled weather conditions).

Thanks to the open design and high speed of the boats, seasickness is very rare. Unlike on slower boats, there is hardly any of the rocking sensation that can cause nausea. Those who are sensitive can take medication as a precaution.

The specially built ocean rafting boats reach speeds of up to 30 knots, making for an exciting, fast and safe ride.

On the Northern Exposure Tour there are two snorkeling stops around Hook Island, each with about 45 minutes in the water.

During the jellyfish season (usually from the end of October to April/May), wearing a stinger suit is strongly recommended. This covers around 90% of the body, leaving only a minimal amount of skin unprotected. In winter, wetsuits are available that provide additional warmth. Both can be hired at check-in.

Yes, there are special masks with prescription on site that can be rented for $20.

On the Northern Exposure Tour you spend between 1 and 1.5 hours at the northern end of Whitehaven Beach and at Hill Inlet.

Yes, there are day parking lots at both the north and south ends of Coral Sea Marina (fees range from $6 to $14). The office is located in the Northern Village of the marina.

Yes, you can bring your own lunch if you do not book a packed lunch. Please stow it in a small, closed bag. We can store it for you in our cool box on request.

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Availability

Ocean Rafting – Northern Exposure Whitsundays Tour

Valid for 12 months

Each ocean rafting trip is like three experiences in one day: a speedy ride to the famous Whitehaven Beach and the spectacular Hill Inlet, snorkeling on the pristine reefs of the Whitsundays and guided hikes through Whitsunday Island National Park. The Northern Exposure eco-adventure is particularly popular with snorkeling enthusiasts – it is the only […]

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Ocean Rafting – Northern Exposure Whitsundays Tour
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