6Hr Ocean Rafting Whitehaven Beach Southern Lights Tour

• Two full hours at the southern end of Whitehaven Beach — the most beach time on any Ocean Rafting day tour
• Direct access to Hill Inlet Lookout via guided National Park walk ;  the single most iconic viewpoint in the Whitsundays
• Snorkelling with guided instruction at a secret inner reef site near Border Island or Dumbell Island
• Island transfers on one of the fastest day boats in the Whitsundays, giving you more beach time and less boat time​

Tropical Lunch
Creamy Potato Salad with Dill: potato, mayonnaise, dill. GF / NF / VGN on request
Fresh Slaw: carrot, red and green cabbage. GF / NF / VGN
Quinoa & Chickpea Salad: cucumber, red onion, capsicum, lemon, parsley. GF / NF / DF
Fresh Baked Bread Roll: with cheese, sweet chilli and spices. VEG / NF
Teriyaki Marinated Chicken GF / DF / NF

*Dietary requirements can be catered for with advance notice. Please advise at time of booking.

Water, soft drinks, beer, fruit juices, and chocolates available for purchase on board.
No BYO alcohol policy. Soft drinks and bottled water may be brought on board. 

What is the difference between the Southern Lights and Northern Exposure tours?
The Southern Lights prioritises beach time, offering two hours at the southern end of Whitehaven Beach and one snorkel site. The Northern Exposure tour focuses more on snorkelling, visiting two separate reef sites around Hook Island, with 1–1.5 hours at the northern end of Whitehaven Beach. Choose Southern Lights for maximum beach time; choose Northern Exposure for maximum snorkel time.

Is seasickness a concern on this type of vessel?
It's much less common than on traditional cruise boats. The semi-rigid inflatables travel at speed with an open design, you don't get the slow, rolling motion that tends to trigger nausea. Though if you know you're sensitive, a non-drowsy seasickness tablet taken before departure is a sensible precaution.

How much time will I actually spend travelling on the boat?
The transit from Airlie Beach out to the Whitsunday Islands takes just over an hour each way—that's the longest stretch you'll be aboard without stopping. Everything in between is time at the beach, the lookout or the reef.

What if I'm nervous about snorkelling or not a strong swimmer?
Let the crew know at check-in and they'll look after you. Flotation devices and pool noodles are available on board, and the crew provides personalised instruction before you enter the water. 

Where do I park if I'm driving to the marina?
Coral Sea Marina has car parks at both the northern and southern ends. You'll find the Ocean Rafting office in the Northern Village. Expect to pay between $6 and $14 for a full day's parking.

How long will I have on Whitehaven Beach?

Two hours at the southern end of Whitehaven Beach. It's enough time to walk the shoreline, swim, find a quiet spot and properly soak it in rather than feeling rushed back to the boat. Lunch is also served here.

Will there be photos from the day, and how do I get them?

The crew shoots with GoPros throughout the tour. Within 72 hours of your return, you'll receive an email with a link to preview the gallery. Single photos are $8, or drop to $4 each when you buy four or more.

How much shade is there on Whitehaven Beach?
Very little, particularly around midday. The beach is exposed and the light reflects off the white silica sand; SPF50+ sunscreen, a hat and a rash vest are all strongly recommended. Reapply regularly throughout your two hours on the beach.

Are there any facilities or shops on the island?
Whitsunday Island is a protected National Park — there are no shops, cafes or permanent buildings on the beach beyond basic toilet facilities. Everything you need for the day is either included in your tour or available for purchase on board before you reach the island.

Can I bring my own alcohol?
No BYO alcohol is permitted on board. You're welcome to bring your own soft drinks or bottled water if you prefer, and a full range of drinks including beer, juices and soft drinks is available for purchase on the vessel throughout the day.

Please refer to our full passengers terms and conditions on the following link;

https://www.australiancruisegroup.com.au/national-terms-of-services