Reefworld Pontoon is a floating multi-activity hub moored permanently at the edge of stunning Hardy Reef on the Great Barrier Reef, 39 nautical miles off the Whitsunday coast. This purpose-built pontoon offers direct shore-free access to a kaleidoscope of hard and soft corals, teeming with marine life. Snorkellers can swim straight from the platform into crystal-clear waters over coral gardens, while the semi-submersible and underwater observatory provide dry views of the reef ecosystem. The sheltered lee side of the pontoon offers calm, protected snorkelling conditions perfect for all ages, making it one of the most accessible outer-reef experiences in the Whitsundays.
Reefworld Pontoon
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Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 2.6 sWind Speed 8.6 knPrecipitation 1.7 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Marine stingers
Stingers (box jellyfish and Irukandji) may be present in Whitsunday waters, particularly during the summer wet season.
Low risk: Reef currents
Strong currents can occur on the outer reef edge; snorkelling is restricted to the sheltered lee side of the pontoon.
Low risk: Intense sun exposure
Sun exposure is extreme on the open-water pontoon with limited shade.
Low risk: Sharp coral
Sharp coral formations are present in shallow areas near the reef edge.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
Departs from Airlie Beach, Hamilton Island, or Daydream Island via Cruise Whitsundays catamaran. The pontoon is moored 39 nautical miles offshore at Hardy Reef. Journey takes approximately 2 hours from Airlie Beach.
Parking & facilities
Paid parking available at Port of Airlie (Airlie Beach) or complimentary for same-day guests at some island resorts. Private valet parking options available through Whitsunday Parking.
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Day tour adult price approx. AU$329 (children AU$249) including snorkel gear, buffet lunch, semi-submersible tour, and underwater observatory access. Overnight Reefsleep packages available.
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports