Big Fury, Snorkel And Lunch

Whitsunday: A Day @ Whitehaven/Hill Inlet/Snorkeling & Lunch runs through Big Fury Whitsundays. Rated 4.7 across 671 reviews. Runs 7 hours. From A$240.

Overview

Big Fury Whitsundays runs a seven hour day built around three things: snorkelling a fringing reef of the Great Barrier Reef, a buffet picnic on Whitehaven Beach, and the view from Hill Inlet Lookout. The boat is a speedboat, and one reviewer noted their boat was faster than any other on the water that day, leaving more time for activities.

The running order is straightforward. After hotel pickup from selected locations in the Whitsunday area, the first stop is an offshore snorkel site for roughly an hour among the reef and its marine life. Next comes Whitehaven Beach, where the crew lays out a fresh buffet: salad, shrimp, a meat platter, fruit salads, bread rolls and wraps, with afternoon cakes later in the day. The final stop is Hill Inlet Lookout, again for about an hour, before the boat returns to shore.

It suits people with moderate fitness who can swim and follow safety instructions for the snorkelling. Crew commentary runs throughout the day, and from July to September humpback whales pass through on migration, so keep watch on the crossing. Stinger suits are supplied from November to May, and wetsuits can be rented in winter.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Hotel pickupBus transfer from selected locations around the Whitsunday area, as detailed at booking.
2. Board the speedboatMeet the crew and head out to the first stop on the water. Expect splashing in wet or windy conditions.
3. Snorkel the fringing reefSpend about an hour snorkelling a fringing reef of the Great Barrier Reef. Gear, stinger suits in season and flotation devices are provided.
4. Whitehaven Beach and lunchRelax on the beach and eat a buffet picnic including salad, shrimp, a meat platter, fruit salads, bread rolls and wraps.
5. Hill Inlet LookoutSpend about an hour at the lookout taking in the panoramic views over the inlet and coast.
6. Return to shoreCruise back and transfer to your pickup point. Afternoon cakes and tap water are served during the day.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will make the day smoother, from what to wear to how the boat ride feels.

• Bring layers. The listing asks for sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and cash. One reviewer also advised bringing something warm, because the speedboat run gets cold even when the day starts mild.
• Cash onboard. Soft drinks, bottled water and chocolate bars are sold on the boat for $3.50, cash only, since they are not included. Bring notes if you want them.
• Fitness and swimming. Moderate physical fitness is required. Snorkellers must be able to swim and understand general safety instructions. Pool noodles and life jackets are available if you want support in the water.
• Weather cuts both ways. Wind can splash riders on the boat and reduce underwater visibility, as one reviewer found on a windy day. Reviewers also say the crew are honest about expectations and pick snorkel locations to suit the ocean conditions.
• Food is generous. Several reviewers singled out the lunch as better than expected, with plenty for everyone. Buffet picnic, afternoon cakes and tap water are all included, along with national and marine park entry fees.
• Photography window. The Hill Inlet stop lasts about an hour, which some travellers find tight for photos. Plan your shots at the lookout early rather than last.

Common issues. The most consistent criticism, echoed in the listing's review summary, is that time at Hill Inlet Lookout can feel rushed for the photo stop. Weather is the other variable: wind can splash the speedboat and cut visibility for snorkelling, though reviewers say the crew adapt the plan. Extras to budget for are drinks and snacks, cash only at $3.50, wetsuit rental at $20 per person in winter, and marina parking at $12 for the day. Soft drinks, bottled water and chocolate bars are not included in the ticket price.

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