great barrier reef tours gold coast

Great Barrier Reef from the Gold Coast

Living on the Gold Coast or you find yourself holidaying there and you’re seeking the next great holiday destination – why not discover The Best Experience on the Great Barrier Reef.

It’s so close to you, it’s not even funny. There’s no need to fork out for expensive airline tickets to Cairns or some tourist island on the Great Barrier Reef – you’re are only a leisurely five hour drive from the Gold Coast from reef paradise and being able to join TheBest Experience on the Great Barrier Reef Lady Musgrave Experience.

One of, if not the highest rated Great Barrier Reef Experience in Queensland and you are just a short trip away from the Gold Coast, make Lady Musgrave Experience, your next Queensland holiday.

Lady Musgrave Experience prides itself on the full guest experience. With us you’re not another tourist on a big boat, you’re not another tourist staying at a resort, you’re not another person filling capacity on an aeroplane, we will give you an absolutely unparalleled Great Barrier Reef Guest Experience.

Be our guest and join us on the Reef Empress, a beautifully appointed 35 metre catamaran luxuriously taking you to the Lady Musgrave Lagoon the only navigable lagoon on the Great Barrier Reef. Lady Musgrave Island the 2 nd southernmost island on the Great Barrier Reef is located 22 nautical miles to the north of Lady Elliot Island.

You’re at the Gold Coast chasing the gold and wonders of Queensland, well out at the Lady Musgrave Island and Lagoon you will be completely mesmerised with the different blues, the turquoises, the greens, the colours will literally just blow you away.  A full colour range to explode the senses before you even immerse yourself in The Best Experience on the Great Barrier Reef.  

Picture the joy of snorkelling over some of the most pristine corals on the Great Barrier Reef with so many species and so many colours to discover.

Find yourself making friends with our resident turtles in the lagoon, they just love a swimming partner like yourself to glide along together.

Float alongside the thousands of fish species we have in the Lady Musgrave Lagoon all of this is just a five hour drive from the Gold Coast. The perfect family getaway or paet of your extended Queensland holiday.

Want to discover the Great Barrier Reef like never before, then no problem we have a host of extraordinary qualified dive experts just waiting to show you the best the reef has to offer in our underworld playground.

From novice divers to highly experienced divers it doesn’t matter we can show you the Best Diving Experience on the Great Barrier Reef.

Maybe you want to see the Great Barrier Reef but are not sure snorkelling or diving is for you.  That’s absolutely fine if you don’t want to get wet, we will be able to show you the best the reef has on offer in our brilliant glass bottom boats.

Our glass bottom boat gives you a first-hand Great Barrier Reef experience as you float over the majestic coral bommies and turtle cleaning stations – let our underwater world come to life right in front of your eyes.

You will be amazed at what you see on the Best Experience on the Great Barrier Reef without even getting wet!  

Lady Musgrave Experience is fully eco-certified and we take the environmental world we live in very seriously.  We particularly enjoy showcasing the pristine beauty of everything on the Great Barrier Reef, our extraordinary coral species, our colourful tropical fish and our abundant marine life all in their natural unspoilt habitat.

Our guided tours on Lady Musgrave Island our very own coral cay is teeming with flora and fauna from rare bird species to turtle hatchlings to hermit crabs all at your fingertips on beautiful little unspoilt island.

Just five hours drive from the Gold Coast and Lady Musgrave Experience can show you the most complete Best Eco-Friendly Experience on the Great Barrier Reef.

Diving, snorkelling, day tour experiences all within reach just up the road from the Gold Coast. Combine The Best Experience on the Great Barrier Reef with a host of brilliant local options we have here in the expanding Bundaberg region.

We can partner you up with the amazing Bundaberg Rum Distillery experiences.

The extremely informative Mon Repos Turtle Centre open 12 months of the year.

Bundaberg Brewed Drinks – learn how Australia’s fastest growing range of soft drinks are made.

The Hinkler Hall of Aviation, see how Bert Hinkler a Bundaberg aviation pioneer overcame adversity to achieve world notoriety.

The Taste Bundaberg festival provides so many delectable options – combine your visit with an amazing Great Barrier Reef Experience.

Join us at the Lady Musgrave Experience the Best Experience on The Great Barrier Reef – the perfect holiday from the Gold Coast. Make it a great a holiday on it’s own or as part of an extended Queensland trip where you can stay and enjoy many of the amazing experiences.

How To Get Here

Travel to Bundaberg

A 45 minute flight or 4 hour drive from Brisbane.

Length of stay

Lady Musgrave Experience departs from Bundaberg Port Marina at 7am and arrives back at the marina at 5pm daily. We recommend staying in Bundaberg accommodation the night before for early departure the next morning.

Accommodation options

Located 10kms from our departure point is Bargara – with an array of beaches, cafes and accommodation options.

Quick Links

• Sustainability
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Great Barrier Reef

• What We Are Doing To Help The Reef
• Nature’s Calendar
• Turtle Season
• The Great 8
• Great Barrier Reef Fish
• Great Barrier Reef – Facts And Figures
• Lady Musgrave Island Day Tour
• Snorkelling
• Scuba Diving
• Whale Watching
• Swim With Turtles
• Glass Bottom Boat
• Guided Island Walks
• Schools and Education
• Junior Reef Keeper Program
• Reef Keeper Program
• Bird Watching

Contact Information

Lady Musgrave Experience acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land and seas on which we work, play and live; the Taribelang Bunda, Gooreng Gooreng, Gurang, and Bailai Peoples. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and future; and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

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Great Barrier Reef 3-Day Tour (from Gold Coast or Brisbane)

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Tour ID: 10034315

Join us on a 3 day tour from Brisbane, Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast to the beautiful Bundaberg region, incorporating a day on the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Spend a full day on Lady Musgrave Island, swimming, snorkelling and enjoying a glass bottom boat tour on the reef. Learn about the wildlife, particularly the turtles, of the Bundaberg region, and relax at night in comfortable accommodation on Kellys Beach.

To book this tour please visit Australian Sunset Safaris - https://www.sunsetsafaris.com.au/ or call 1300 553 606.

• Full day tour to the Great Barrier Reef
• Visit Mon Repos Turtle Centre
• Up Close encounter with the Whales (in season only)
• Snorkel School for beginners
• Comfortable beachside accommodation

We take you on the most amazing Great Barrier Reef experience ever created. Enjoy the world’s most exotic wildlife experience as we take you to the world’s Largest Reef, to see the world’s Largest Turtle Research Centre, and to swim with one of the world’s Largest Animals - the mighty HUMPBACK WHALE. Join us on the Great Barrier Reef where we will see migrating birds, turtles and coral, in a place that many would call “Nirvana.” Snorkeling and scuba diving is what this place is famous for, as we encounter colours and beauty unsurpassed anywhere in the world. You can even go for a swim with the turtles as they wait patiently at a cleaning station for the little fish to clean their bodies. The Southern Great Barrier Reef is known for its Stinger Free environment - allowing us to swim without worry all year. VALUE FOR MONEY Departing from the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Sunshine Coast, Sunset Safaris offers the best value & most comprehensive Great Barrier Reef experience ever made. Enjoy a FULLY GUIDED tour, and take all the worries out of your Great Barrier Reef experience with our carefully planned itinerary & Tour Guides. Our package includes all accommodation, food and the Great Barrier Reefs most exciting itinerary, making this tour #1 for VALUE and FUN. MON REPOS TURTLES Live Turtle Encounter - November to early March Only Sunset Safaris offers the MON REPOS Live Turtle Encounter on the Great Barrier Reef. See nature at its wildest as migrating turtles crawl up the beach and lay eggs in the sand. From February, you will also see the baby hatchling turtles crawl out of the sand and make their way down to the beach. For many, this experience is one of the highlights in Australia and is guaranteed to leave lasting memories. Off Season Turtle Centre - April to October In the off season, Sunset Safaris offers an informative turtle experience at the Mon Repos Turtle Conservation Centre. Learn all about the life cycle of these magnificent creatures, and the conservation efforts that are being made for the protection of the endangered Loggerhead Turtle. This is an interactive display that is both educational and impressive. Swim with the Whales Swim with the WHALES Experience- June to November ONLY Sunset Safaris offers a up close whale watching option as part of your Great Barrier Reef Experience. Encounter the majestic grace of the singing Humpback Whales as they curiously investigate our snorkelers hanging onto a line at close range. (*during whale season only) Accommodation – Kelly’s Beach Resort Our resort accommodation is right beside Kellys Beach with swimming pools, restaurant, bar, & easy beach access for that moonlit walk. We offer comfortable accommodation to suit your budget & lifestyle with 4 - 6 bed Multi-share ECO Villa accommodation, including single beds in the loft, or Queen & single beds on the ground floor. Choose a Villa for yourself, or save money & share with others from the tour. All ECO Villas have lounge room, bathroom, toilet, air-conditioning & balcony with outdoor setting. Enjoy the spacious gardens, lakes & entertainment areas in this beautiful ECO resort. Tennis, pool-table, air-hockey & other games also available.

Spectacular Sunsets

Underwater Viewing

Dolphins off the Bow

Snorkeling is FUN

Lady Musgrave Lagoon

Manta Rays frequent the Reef

Diving around a big Bombie

Scorpion Fish

Lazing on the Beach

Snorkelling The Reef

Have Fun Diving (optional)

Turtles galore

Diving with Coral (optional)

Catch the BIG Ones (optional)

The THUNDERCAT (optional)

Scootaroo MINI Harley Davidson Tour (optional)

Amphibious LARC (optional)

Surf Kayaking (optional)

Glasshouse Mountains

Tour Details

Included in price:.

Fully guided tour and return coach transfers, Standard Multi-share Eco Villa Accommodation (4 – 6 Share), Most Meals (2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners), Wildlife Park Entry, Mon Repo Turtle Conservation Entry, FREE Guided Snorkel School, Full day Great Barrier Reef Tour including wetsuit hire, Snorkelling equipment, Glass bottom boat cruise.

Available for purchase/hire:

Optional scuba diving; optional surf lesson.

3 days / 2 nights. MONDAY DEPARTURE: Monday morning to Wednesday evening. FRIDAY DEPARTURE Friday morning to Sunday evening.

No Specific Times Mon, Fri

4.40pm Big Pineapple 6.30pm Brisbane 7.30pm Gold Coast

Departure points:

Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Surfers Paradise

Pickup/departure instructions:

BRISBANE: 7:15 am Pick-up & Drop off: Brisbane Coach Terminal, located on Parkland Crescent, adjacent to platform 10 of Roma Street train station, Brisbane. GOLD COAST: 5.45am (Additional Gold Coast transfer fee applies) Pick-up & Drop Off: Mantra on View Surfers Paradise, 22 View St, Surfers Paradise (Please wait at the loading zone outside main entrance). SUNSHINE COAST: 8.30am (Additional Sunshine Coast transfer fee applies) Pick-up & Drop Off: Big Pineapple - Nambour Connection Rd Woombye. Additional pick ups may be available from Cooroy or Maryborough on application. Please contact tourstogo.com for details. Be ready to go by the departure times, but allow time for your bus to arrive. Unpredictable traffic conditions heading out of Brisbane can slow us down. After Tour Transfers: pick up and drop off in different regions may attract additional fees. Please contact tourstogo.com for further information.

What to bring:

Bath/Shower Towel, Small torch & Batteries, Sunscreen & Hat, Walking Shoes, Water Bottle, Film & Camera, Warm Clothing (it may get cool any time of year), Toiletries, One Change of clothing per day, Rain Coat.

Fitness level required:

Child policies:.

Children are only taken under the supervision of parents. Parents are advised that if travelling with minors aged 16 years and under, you will be required to upgrade your accommodation to a private room, as children are not allowed in the shared backpacker accommodation under Queensland Duty of Care Legislation. Children are classed as 13 years and under to receive child prices. Children between 14 and 17 are eligible for the student discount - Please contact tourstogo.com on 07 40413244 to receive discount.

Additional Information:

Departures from now up to 31-Mar-2020: $210 per adult / $120 per child 13 years & under Boat Access and National Park Fees payable to driver in cash upon departure. Departures from 01-Apr-2020 onwards: $220 per adult / $120 per child 13 years & under Boat Access and National Park Fees payable to driver in cash upon departure. LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS: Luggage size is restricted due to lack of luggage room on buses, and government legislation. Max Bag Size - 40cm wide x 30cm deep x 60 cm high. MUST CONTACT US PRIOR for OVERSIZE Luggage. A surcharge may be applied to large luggage with prior written consent. No refunds will be given as a result of luggage refusal.

Destinations:

Great Barrier Reef, Lady Musgrave Island and Seventeen Seventy (1770)

Booking dates

The above prices include $220.00 per person, which is payable direct to the operator on the day of travel.

Prices are listed in Australian dollars and include GST.

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We are almost out of seats, please contact tourstogo.com to confirm availability

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IMPORTANT NOTICE FROM TOURSTOGO.COM

Welcome to Tourstogo.com. We are currently working on bringing you a greater variety of Adventures and activities in Australia. We will also be introducing a new Backpackers section which will provide these adventurers details about Accommodation, Work and travel Companions.

Please stand-by, we will be re-opening bookings again soon under new management!

Should you have a query about an existing booking, please email the tour operator (details included on your confirmation) in the first instance.

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Great Barrier Reef Day Tour to Lady Elliot Island from Coolangatta (Gold Coast)

14-16 Lores Bonney Circuit, Seair Pacific Hangar Bilinga, Queensland 4225

Lady Elliot Island is a coral cay located at the southern tip of Australia's iconic Great Barrier Reef (north of Fraser Island). The Island is regarded as one of the best snorkelling and diving destinations in Australia. It is famous for its unspoilt coral reef and an amazing array of spectacular marine life. The Great Barrier Reef Day Tour to Lady Elliot Island provides guests with a unique opportunity to explore the reef from the air, glass-bottom boat and the water, all in one day! The day tour includes hotel transfers, return scenic flight, use of day guest facilities, snorkel equipment, glass-bottom boat/guided snorkel tour and lunch, including prawns and beverages served in the Beachfront Dining Room. The glass bottom boat/guided snorkel tour is the best way to explore this wonderful underwater world of incredible marine life, including coral gardens, fish, sea stars, turtles, reef sharks, dolphins and manta rays. The Great Barrier Reef Day Tour is a fully guided tour daily from the Gold Coast (Coolangatta), making the Great Barrier Reef easily accessible for visitors to south-east Queensland.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

Destination Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.    We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland. 

UPDATE - Important Information Coronavirus Travel Update -->

Good News, Lockdown ended. We are accepting bookings for the school holidays.

Currently we are only running Moreton Island Tours

Currently We are only running the Moreton Island Get Wrecked 1 Day Tour

The Cape Moreton Scenic Day Tour and Moreton Island 2 Day Get Wrecked Explorer Tour are temporarily suspended until further updates. We are currently working on new exciting products and will keep you updated on the progress of this new project!

Moreton Island Get Wrecked 1 Day Tour is running EVERY DAY (Friday 18th Sept – Monday 5 Oct.)

IMPORTANT UDPATES: 3 DAY BRISBANE LOCKDOWN The QLD Chief Health Officer has orderd a snap 3 day lockdown of the Greater Brisbane area, commencing at 5pm AEST Mon 29 March 2021 restricting all non-essential travel. All guests who hold bookings arriving between Mon 29 Mar & Thu 1 Apr are required to postpone & reschedule your visit (dates may change as the situation evolves). As we are currently experiencing high call volumes, we would respectfully like to ask guests not to call us. If you had planned travel between 29 Mar - 1 Apr 2021, please click here for more information.

Great Barrier Reef

Great barrier reef 3-day tour.

Great Barrier Reef TOUR CODE : GBR3

Starting from $ 589.00 all inclusive

Hiring of NON-GUIDED equipment is only available on Moreton Island and would not be available for Online booking from 15th Dec 2021 – 31st Jan 2022.-->

Sunset Safaris has long been recognised as having the BEST value tours to Fraser Island by tour agents and customers alike. And now with our FREE Cooloola Tour and FREE HOTEL UPGRADE added to your adventure, Sunset Safaris offers far superior value for money compared to any other multi day tour to Fraser Island. Sunset Safaris offers you Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, LUXURY 4WD go anywhere vehicles, the most sought after locations on Fraser Island, the BEST tourGuides from Gold Coast and Brisbane, and all at Budget prices. 

Conditions of Booking

Sunset Safaris makes every effort to include ALL activities and destinations listed. However due to weather unpredictability, some activities are subject to Tides and weather conditions, and Sunset Safaris cannot be held liable due to these factors. Due to the extreme weather and oceanic conditions of the Great Barrier Reef, it should be noted that the Itinerary can occasionally be affected due to cases of tidal issues and other operational issue unique to the Great Barrier Reef, and while every effort and care is taken, Sunset Safaris takes no responsibility for such factors affecting tour activities. We do not encourage customers to rely heavily on return times due to traffic and the factors mentioned above, and Sunset Safaris takes no responsibility for the missing of flights and bus connections if customers choose to book connections and flights close to the normal return times. By continuing to proceed with making a booking on this website, you indicate that you agree to not hold Sunset Safaris responsible due to the above conditions should they occur, and that you accept the inherent risk of these operational anomalies as outlined above. 

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Great Barrier Reef Tours & Trips

Admire the white-washed coral beaches of Fitzroy Island, tackle a scenic hiking trail on Magnetic Island, or fly high above a UNESCO rainforest on the iconic Skyrail in Palm Cove. Whilst a magical underwater world awaits you, there's so much to discover on a Great Barrier Reef adventure.

139 Great Barrier Reef tour packages with 313 reviews

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Brisbane to Cairns Experience: Sand Dunes & the Whitsundays

Thoroughly recommend this tour. The Whitsundays are beautiful, and Fraser Island is a truly special place. Our guide Claire is a gem!

East Coast Explorer: 5 Week | ULTIMATE

Had the best time travelling the east coast with our tour guide Zoe. Very approachable, fun and organised accompanying guide for our five weeks.

• €35 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Best of Australia

Loved traveling with G adventures. Great trip

Brisbane to Cairns Adventure (8 Days) (14 destinations)

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Sydney to Cairns Adventure (14 Days) (26 destinations)

Oz East Coast Adventure 28 Days

I had an amazing time with Intro Travel in Australia, the 28 days were packed but that ensures you see the most and do the most worthwhile activities around the east coast! All the activities included (as well as optional) were outstanding. Travelling for the first time can be scary, but everything was well taken care of especially due to our amazing tourguide Zack. He was always able to keep the group together, set a good mood, joker around helped out / fixed issues if needed and thus provided everyone with a sense of security. Honorable mention: 10/10 at card tricks and playing ****head, dad jokes and really bad puns

Learn To Dive (5 Days)

Great dive instructors.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Snorkel to Adventure (3 Days)

This experience really exceeded my expectations. The staff are helpful and friendly, the whole experience of snorkeling and scuba diving is fantastic. Definitely an unforgettable memory.

• Wildlife & Nature Photography
• Kayak & Canoe

Best of the Coast - Sydney to Cairns 16 Day Flashpacker Adventure Tour

I recently did a 16 day tour from Sydney to Cairns with Via Travel Australia. We had a small group and I had so much fun. The places we visited were beautiful. The entire group felt super safe and relaxed the whole time. We got to explore all of these amazing parts of Australia and learn about the culture. I highly recommend this tour and will travel with them again one day! Thanks Via Travel.

3 Day / 2 Night Whitsunday Islands Maxi Sailing Adventure

The sailing organized adventure was an absolute blast! Our group consisted of 24 young people from all around the world, and the boat crew was not only incredibly professional but also quite funny. Sailing through the Whitsundays is a must-do when you're in the area. And let's face it, if you don't have a private yacht, this organized adventure is the best way to experience this breathtaking paradise on Earth! This was my second time in the Whitsundays, and despite the unlucky weather, it was still super worth it! We saw thousands of fish while snorkeling, encountered 3 turtles and a dozen stingrays and Whitehaven Beach was simply spectacular! Honestly, I would go for a third time. Kudos to Prosail, and a big thank you to TourRadar for the smooth booking process!

• Coach / Bus

Contrasts of Australia (9 Days)

Nellie was an amazing tour guide and I had the best time ever! Great trip! The only thing I would Recommend is booking restaurants with more of a vegetarian variety but everything was great! My favourite part was swimming the Great Barrier Reef I was nervous but Nellie took me out and showed me and stayed with me until I was comfortable! Thank you for such a great experience!

Sydney to Cairns Best of Australia – 17 Day Boutique Comfort Tour

I'm in my 60s...this tour was a mix of comfortable accommodation and enjoyable light activities. It was a small group of like minded people. We loved it !!

15 Day Dingo Adventure Tour: Brisbane > Cairns

I loved my tour with Kayla because she doesn’t make it feel like a tour guide-tourist relationship but more of a friendship! She was always down to have a good time and put her passengers first. Her knowledge about the areas were travelling in was also fab.

• Sightseeing

Oz East Coast + Work 20 Days

19-Days Australia Surf Camp and Ultimate East Coast Adventure

What people love about great barrier reef tours.

The trip was great. However, I didn’t like the hostel in Airlie Beach. It was the worst one in this trip. Overall was great

Had the best 5 weeks of my life traveling the east coast with ultimate travel, our tour guide Zoe was amazing and always happy to help us with anything and had the most fun I couldn’t recommend enough made so many amazing friends and memories to last a lifetime , Zoe your were amazing x

Cool group, great guide, some long drives. Would need a driver and a guide A flight from Byron Bay to avoid 2 long drives on the bus

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During this time, it is hard to keep the website fully up to date with all the changes.  In the meantime here are some resources for visitors. Our main booking partners for hotels and for tours, tickets, theme parks and activities are keeping everything up to date, so please use those resources in the meantime.

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Lady Elliot Island Tours - Day Trip - Scenic Flight

Tour Code: 745

Departing: Agnes Water

Tour Highlights

• Experience a full day on Lady Elliot Island to explore the Island and pristine coral reef.
• See the Great Barrier Reef from a spectacular scenic flight from the air as well as below the waters surface with guided snorkel tour and glass bottom boat tour.
• Snorkel the pristine World Heritage Listed southern Great Barrier Reef at Lady Elliot Island and observe the huge variety of marine life and seabird life. See turtles, dolphins, whales and manta rays!
• Witness the majestic Humpback Whales during whale season from May - November!
• This will be one very spectacular Great Barrier Reef tour you will never forget - a scenic flight - amazing variety of marine life and birdlife on an eco accredited Lady Elliot Island. 

Description & Tour Inclusions

Included in price.

• Return Scenic Flight to Lady Elliot Island
• Glass bottom boat tour/guided snorkel tour
• Welcome Drink/Island Orientation
• Hot and Cold Buffet Lunch
• Use of Snorkel equipment (mask, snorkel & fins)
• Fish feeding in the lagoon fish pool
• Snorkel lesson in resort pool (if required)
• Use of day guest facilities (showers and towels)
• Environmental Management Charge

Spectacular Lady Elliot Island Tour - Lady Elliot Island Day Trip fly from Agnes Water, Seventeen Seventy, Hervey Bay/Bundaberg/Brisbane/Gold Coast

New scenic flights departing Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy to Lady Elliot Island.

Home of the Manta Ray and the Great Eight on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia

Southern Great Barrier Reef day trip to Lady Elliot Island ex Agnes Water / 1770 Seventeen Seventy, Hervey Bay / Fraser Coast,  Bundaberg , Brisbane Redcliffe or Gold Coast (Coolangatta), a beautiful eco island with a huge variety of marine life and birdlife.

One of the most treasured islands located on the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef just north of Fraser Island, Lady Elliot Island is situated within a highly protected 'Green Zone' and home to over 1,200 species of marine life.

These include the giant  Mantra rays that attract guests from all over the world to see their graceful underwater ballet, the green and loggerhead sea turtles, the huge variety of seabirds and unspoilt coral reef.  

Enjoy an unforgettable day exploring Lady Elliot Island including return scenic flights, welcome drink, hot and cold buffet lunch, guided glass bottom boat and snorkel tour, plus guided island activities or snorkelling and relaxing on the beach.

Visitors during the whale season (from May - November) may also be fortunate enough to witness the spectacular Humpback Whales as they breach and slap their fins during their annual migration.

There is no boat access to Lady Elliot Island, just an enjoyable scenic flight across the Great Barrier Reef of Australia departing from Hervey Bay (Fraser Coast), Bundaberg as well as options from Brisbane and Gold Coast and now Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy .

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Lady Elliot Island Day Trip ex Agnes Water/ Seventeen Seventy/Hervey Bay / Bundaberg / Gold Coast / Brisbane

Experience the pristine waters of the southern Great Barrier Reef surrounding Lady Elliot Island in this all inclusive one day Great Barrier Reef tour departing Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy/ Hervey Bay / Bundaberg / Brisbane or Gold Coast.

Agnes Water Scenic Flight Departure: 8:45am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 4pm - 25 minute flight approx. Bundaberg Scenic Flight Departure: 8:40am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 4pm - 30 minute flight approx. Hervey Bay Scenic Flight Departure: 8:10am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 4pm - 40 minute flight approx. Brisbane (Redcliffe) Scenic Flight Departure: 7.15am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 2.30pm - 90 minute flight approx. Gold Coast (Coolangatta) Scenic Flight Departure: 6:45am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 2:30pm - 120 minute flight time

Flights departing Agnes Water / 1770 require a minimum of 6 passengers to depart. Departing from the east coast your day begins with a stunning  scenic flight over the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef as you make your way to Lady Elliot Island. 

On arrival you will be greeted with a refreshing welcome drink and brief island orientation tour and able to explore the island at your leisure.  

Enjoy a guided glass bottom boat tour and guided snorkel tour to explore the reef and view the beauty of spectacular coloured fish and large variety of coral. 

Ensure to keep a look out for the abundant manta rays, turtles and dolphins which live in the protected green zone of Lady Elliot Island.

Sit back and refuel with a tasty hot and cold buffet lunch served in the restaurant as you reflect on your morning adventures.

During your day at Lady Elliot Island ensure to join one of the island's guided activities of fish feeding display, reef walk or enjoy the afternoon snorkelling and relaxing on the island before your return scenic flight.

See more scenic flights across the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

Tour Details

Tour languages offered.

Departs From

• Agnes Water

Departure Time

• Agnes Water Scenic Flight Departure: 8:45am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 4pm - 25 minute flight approx.
• Bundaberg Scenic Flight Departure: 8:40am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 4pm - 30 minute flight approx.
• Hervey Bay Scenic Flight Departure: 8:10am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 4pm - 40 minute flight approx.
• Brisbane (Redcliffe) Scenic Flight Departure: 7.15am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 2.30pm - 90 minute flight approx.
• Gold Coast (Coolangatta) Scenic Flight Departure: 6:45am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 2:30pm - 120 minute flight time

Departure Instructions

Please ensure to check in for flight 30 minutes prior to scheduled flight departure time

Destinations

• Lady Elliot Island

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Flights not available Christmas Day Flights are subject to change and may include transit stops from southern ports Flights departing Agnes Water / 1770 require a minimum of 6 passengers to depart

Available for Purchase / Hire

• Lockers available for hire

Fitness Level Required

Restrictions.

Luggage Limit – Small backpack (max 4kg) or personal items e.g., Handbag/purse, tablet or laptop in thin case, camera, coat/wrap. Items must be carried on the lap or put in the baggage compartment as there are no overhead lockers and there is no stowage facility under the seats.

Eco Certifications

What to Bring

• Camera (charged)
• Swimsuit, hat, sunscreen and sunglasses
• Reef walking shoes (covered toes)/crocs are highly recommended. Alternatively some are available for use on the island.
• Luggage Limit - small backpack/bag (max 4kgs). Items must be carried on the lap as no overhead or under seat baggage stowage facilities.

Child Policy

Infant 0 - 2 years free of charge

Cancellation Policy

All cancellations must be in writing.

Please note that all cancellations will incur an administration fee.

Please see our  terms and conditions  for details prior to booking.

Operator’s Cancellation Policy:

Day Tours 

Travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover unforeseen circumstances. 

The below deposit & cancellation policy is for direct bookings. These terms can be amended and may be subject to change. The group cancellation policy will be advised at the time of booking as applicable. Travel agents, please refer to your agreed deposit & cancellation terms. 

Payment Policy:  Full payment is due 14 days prior to travel. If travel is within 14 days full payment is due at the time of booking Cancellation Policy:  No cancellation fee applies if the booking is cancelled outside 48 hours prior to departure Cancellation within 48 hours of travel – 50% cancellation fee applies   Cancellation within 24 hours of travel – 100% cancellation fee applies 

Travel insurance is strongly recommended. If you are unable to travel for medical reasons, weather events, flight cancellations or any other reason, refunds will not be given.  A letter of support for your insurance claim can be obtained from the Reservations Team.  Day guests please be aware that Lady Elliot Island cannot be responsible for the weather.  Should weather conditions result in cancellation of the tour by the operator, you will be able to transfer your trip to another date at no additional cost.  If your travel plans do not allow you to postpone, a full refund will be issued.  Please note that weather conditions may vary whilst on the island and result in cancellation of water activities.  Once the day trip has commenced no refund will be issued. 

Prices are AUD, per adult and include all levies fees and taxes.

Child: au $380.00 Family: au $1,800.00

Choose Your Option

13 yrs & over

Ages of Children

(discounts may apply), 1300 231 118, +61 427 074 745, you may also like.

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Glass Bottom Boat Tours, Great Barrier Reef

Trying to work out where to stay at the Great Barrier Reef? Discover a great selection of accommodation, the length and breadth of the Great Barrier Reef and beyond. Search for hotel rooms and book online.

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Queensland is unique amongst the Australian states in that it has a number of genuine coastal capitals.

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Glass Bottom Boat Tours See the Great Barrier Reef without getting wet!

Glass bottom boat tours allow passengers to admire the underwater beauty of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef without touching a drop of water. Although some glass bottom boats have sections of real glass beneath the waterline, other boats use another form of transparent material instead.

Most glass bottom boats are designed to accommodate as many passengers as possible while still allowing all passengers to look down and enjoy clear views of the tropical sea creatures and coral of the Great Barrier Reef .

Popular Glass Bottom Boat Tours

Some glass bottom boats also come with tour guides who provide detailed descriptions of the different types of coral and marine life in the Great Barrier Reef.

The jetty at Green Island is a popular departure point for glass bottom boats because its access ramp is so easy to use. Green Island’s glass-bottom boat prototype dates from the 1930s and is commonly used by many more boat companies today.

Cairns , the largest city in northeastern Australia, plays host to the largest number of companies offering glass bottom boat tours. However, these tours are also available from one company in Mission Beach and three more companies in Port Douglas .

Some glass bottom boat tours also include scuba diving or snorkelling excursions for those wishing to get even closer to the Great Barrier Reef’s coral and marine creatures. Night glass bottom boat tours are another popular option thanks to special ultraviolet lights that allow visitors to see the coral polyps awaken after dark.

Benefits of Taking a Glass Bottom Boat Tour

Taking a glass bottom boat tour is an amazing way to explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef without risking your safety or the environment. It’s also an ideal option for people who are unable or unwilling to go scuba diving or snorkelling. Those with mobility issues will find glass bottom boats provide easy access and allow them to experience the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, the underwater world and marine life, stunning tropical fish, and diverse coral reef in a safe and comfortable way.

A glass bottom boat tour is also more affordable than many other forms of reef exploration, making them an ideal option for people on a budget. And because glass bottom boats don’t disturb the delicate ecosystem of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, you can be sure you’re helping to protect one of the world’s most amazing natural wonders, and the soft coral reef.

Finally, a glass bottom boat tour provides spectacular views of the reef that can be enjoyed from a comfortable seat on the boat. Whether you want to spot sea turtles, stingrays or beautiful coral formations, there’s no better way.

Great Barrier Reef Departure Points

The most popular departure point for glass bottom boats is Green Island. This small island, located near Cairns in Queensland, is the traditional starting point for a variety of reef exploration activities, including scuba diving and snorkelling.

Cairns is another popular destination for glass bottom boat tours. There are a number of companies offering tours from Cairns, some of which also offer special excursions to the outer Great Barrier Reef.

Mission Beach is home to one company offering glass bottom boat cruises, Airlie Beach also offer a great trip on a glass bottom boat, as well as Port Douglas’ three companies make it a popular destination for reef exploration as well.

Additional Activities Available on Tour

In addition to seeing the reef up close, some glass bottom boat trips also offer additional activities such as scuba diving and snorkelling. These activities allow passengers to get even closer to the marine life while still enjoying the safety of a glass-bottomed boat.

Glass Bottom Boat Alternatives

For those looking for an alternative to the glass bottom boat tour, snorkelling trips are available in many areas along the Great Barrier Reef. These trips allow passengers to explore the soft corals in shallow waters and often come with experienced guides who can provide interesting facts about the diverse marine life.

Semi submersible cruises are also available in some areas, allowing passengers to stay dry while viewing the reef below. These tours are ideal for those who want to experience the underwater world without having to get in the water.

Nighttime Tours

Night tours are another popular option on many glass bottom boats. With the help of special ultraviolet lights, passengers can experience the Great Barrier Reef’s marine life coming to life after dark. On some tours, passengers also have the option of swimming with bioluminescent creatures such as jellyfish and sea stars.

Tips for booking the best Glass Bottom Boat Tour

When booking a glass bottom boat tour, it’s important to consider the type of experience you would like. Choose a company that offers tours specifically tailored to your needs and preferences. Make sure they offer safety briefings and provide all necessary equipment for passengers before embarking on their journey.

No matter which type of tour you choose, it’s important to consider your safety when going on a glass bottom boat ride. All companies offering these tours must adhere to strict safety and environmental guidelines. Be sure to check with the company you’re considering booking with to ensure your tour meets all safety requirements.

Once you have booked your glass bottom cruise, make sure to arrive early so you have time to register and get settled. It’s also important to dress appropriately – beachwear is generally appropriate.

Finally, keep your camera handy! You never know when you will spot amazing sea turtles or manta rays, or a spectacular view of nature at the bottom of the reef. With glass bottom boats, you will be sure to create lasting memories of your time exploring Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

No matter where you choose to depart from, a glass bottom boat tour is the perfect way to explore Australia’s pristine Great Barrier Reef without getting wet. These trips are very popular as they are suitable for everyone from kids of all ages to grandparents, so don’t miss out on this unique opportunity and book a trip today!

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what is better to visit Great Barrier reef or Gold Coast or - Great Barrier Reef Forum

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what is better to visit Great Barrier reef or Gold Coast or

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BTW, we are not the ones who loves snorkeling too much... we are looking for great views and nature.

7 replies to this topic

Great views and nature = Tasmania or Blue Mountains,

For 5 days, Tasmania would be my choice.

After a few days in Melbourne, drive to Phillip Island and spend the night (penguins, pelicans, seals). Then drive the Great Ocean Road with overnights in Lorne and Port Campbell (koalas, parrots, cockatoos and spectacular coastal scenery). Consider visiting Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve on your way to the Grampians, 2 nights in Halls Gap (which gives you a full day there - kangaroos, emus, kookaburras, cockatoos and more kangaroos plus spectacular mountain scenery and views). Back to the airport then fly to Sydney.

If you don’t snorkel or swim, then it is pointless to try to see the GBR, but Cairns region has a lot to offer that is land based. Again, you need a car or tours.

Tasmania- small regions are doable without a car , but to get the most out of the island, it’s car hire or tour.

The other question is “when”?

The weather and ocean conditions make a big difference to where is optimal to visit.

Cairns is best May-October, Tasmania is best November- March, and Fold Coast usually has great weather year round, but is less humid March-November.

From Sandeep's other post, seemingly having settled on Tasmania, it is Jan 5 to 9. Certainly not the GBR and they will have trouble getting accomodation for that time anywhere now although I think #2 has the best suggestion.

Depends what you’re already doing. If you’re just visiting cities, do what Loki suggested in post #2.

I’d scratch the GBR at this time of year. Hot, humid, can be wet and it’s 2300km long and expensive to get there.

https://www.tripadvisor.com.au/ShowTopic-g255074-i1309-k14583284-Tour_to_Tasmania-Great_Barrier_Reef_Queensland.html

If you are not very interested in snorkelling, for what reason did you shortlist the reef?

The whole country has great views and nature, so you do not necessarily need to take the flights in your shortlist to enjoy views and nature. What uniquely appeals to you about the places you have listed?

Tasmania is very far from the Great Barrier Reef, and none of the other places you mention are near the reef either.

You can start again with a post on the Australia forum

https://www.tripadvisor.com.au/ShowForum-g255055-i120-Australia.html

and include as much information as possible about who is travelling, when, if anything is booked already, what places you are thinking about and why, your interests and travelling style and transport preferences. We need more to work with to help you.

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