Reefworld Pontoon, Hardy Reef
A large pontoon moored on Hardy Reef on the outer Great Barrier Reef, offering snorkelling, diving, semi-submersible trips and an underwater observation room, the best way to experience the reef in a day.
Reefworld is a large floating platform run by Cruise Whitsundays, moored in the lagoon beside Hardy Reef on the outer Great Barrier Reef. A high-speed catamaran takes about 2 hours from Port of Airlie, and there are also flights from Hamilton Island and Daydream Island. The pontoon has changing rooms, shaded rest areas, a lunch buffet and an underwater observation room. Visitors can: (1) snorkel in designated areas along the reef, seeing hard and soft corals, giant clams, Maori wrasse, clownfish and sea turtles, with snorkelling gear and stinger suits provided free of charge; (2) take a semi-submersible or glass-bottom boat to view the coral without getting wet; (3) try a guided introductory dive, which requires no certification and is accompanied by an instructor, or go on a certified dive at an extra cost; (4) add a helicopter scenic flight over Heart Reef; (5) book Reefsleep, sleeping overnight on the pontoon's deck under the stars, with limited places available. A day trip on the pontoon costs about AUD 250–300 (check the official website for current prices) and lasts about 7.5–8 hours. Note: those prone to seasickness should take medication in advance. Coral bleaching has occurred in parts of the reef, so the views vary by area and season. Do not touch corals or marine life, and use reef-safe sunscreen.
Opening hours
One departure daily (approx. 08:00 out, 17:30 return; check timetable)
Nearby sights
- Heart Reef
- Bait Reef
- Hook Island (Manta Ray Bay & Butterfly Bay)
- Hayman Island & Blue Pearl Bay
- Langford Island
- Whitsunday Cairn
- Hill Inlet Lookout
- Chalkies Beach