From Airlie Beach: Whitsundays Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

Embark on a stunning glass-bottom boat tour to explore the Great Barrier Reef from two unique perspectives: basking in daylight or discovering the underwater world by night.

Getting started

Arrive at the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, where you’ll check in with your ticket and ID. After a brief safety rundown from your guide, step aboard the fully shaded glass-bottom boat, complete with large viewing panels.

What to expect

• Lions Lookout (Day Tour only): Begin your day with a scenic stop at Lions Lookout for panoramic views of Airlie Beach, the Whitsunday Islands, and the sparkling coastline—perfect for photos.

• Shute Harbour reef flats: Cruise over shallow reef flats that are home to vibrant marine life, including rays, fish, and sea turtles, giving you clear, unobstructed views through the glass bottom.

• The reef after dark: If you’ve opted for the night tour, the boat’s UV lights will reveal the hidden nocturnal marine life. Watch as tiny bioluminescent creatures, like coral polyps and shrimp, light up the ocean floor.

• Expert commentary & comfortable ride: Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating facts about the reef’s diverse ecosystem, making this a fun and informative outing for all.

Whether you join during the day or night, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of the Great Barrier Reef’s underwater world, seen like never before.

From Airlie Beach: Whitsundays Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

Sailing out from Airlie Beach, explorers embark on a tranquil journey to uncover the underwater secrets of the Great Barrier Reef fringing reefs. With each paddle of the glass-bottom boat’s gentle waves, visitors dive into an aquatic world teeming with life below without ever getting wet, crafting memories that shimmer like the sun-dappled surface of Shute Harbour. This tour is crafted for families seeking adventure, first-timers yearning to explore, and anyone who prefers the comfort of dry feet while enjoying the wonders beneath the waves. As you cruise through the vibrant marine ecosystem, expert commentary illuminates the colorful coral gardens and bustling fish communities, inviting guests to gaze upon a realm where turtles glide effortlessly among the corals. For those venturing into the night, soft UV lighting reveals nocturnal creatures in their most ethereal states, weaving a tapestry of glowing sea life that captures the imagination like stars dancing above the ocean.

Marveling at Shute Harbour’s Inner Fringing Reefs

Access Shute Harbour inner fringing reefs during the tour highlight segment where you'll be captivated by the lush underwater landscapes. These vibrant coral gardens are teeming with life, offering a mesmerizing view through the boat glass floor. The fringing reefs here support a diverse array of marine species, from graceful turtles to brightly colored fish that dart and weave in the clear waters like dancers in an aquatic ballet.

Exploring Shute Harbour’s Coral Gardens

Explore Shute Harbour coral gardens as part of the comprehensive itinerary featuring underwater marvels. The coral formations here are a testament to nature resilience, creating intricate structures that house myriad species of fish and other marine life. Each nook and cranny reveals stories of survival and adaptation, painting a vivid picture of the reef ecosystem’s complexity.

Visiting Lions Lookout for Scenic Views

Experience Lions Lookout during this tour as it offers panoramic views of the Whitsundays' stunning landscape. This scenic spot provides a perfect vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding Shute Harbour, making it an essential stop for those seeking to understand the broader context of their reef adventure.

Tour Highlights

• Step aboard stable glass-bottom boat for relaxed reef exploration
• Spot vibrant coral and fish through crystal-clear glass floor viewing area
• Enjoy shaded deck with bar available for beverage purchases
• Cruise around Shute Harbour’s inner fringing reefs teeming with marine life
• Visit Lions Lookout for panoramic scenic views of the Whitsundays landscape
• Discover nocturnal marine creatures illuminated by soft UV lighting during night tours

Sailing forth on this enchanted journey, adventurers embrace the allure of the Great Barrier Reef underwater splendor. Whether you're a family seeking shared moments of wonder or an individual yearning to explore the hidden depths, this glass-bottom boat tour weaves together adventure and serenity, offering memorable encounters to forge lasting bonds while understanding that nature’s wonders are both breathtakingly beautiful and ever-changing.