Glass Bottom Boat Airlie Beach

Ticket Costs

From just $89 AUD per person, this affordable 70-minute adventure includes:

• Free hotel pickup from selected Airlie Beach locations
• Fully guided glass-bottom boat tour
• Funny, knowledgeable commentary about the Great Barrier Reef
• All safety equipment provided
• Restrooms onboard

Kids, grandparents, and everyone in between are welcome — it’s a perfect multi-generational experience! Infants under 2 are usually free (lap seat), but check when booking.

Overview

Want to explore the magical world beneath the waves without even getting your toes wet? The Airlie Beach Glass Bottom Boat Tour is the perfect low-stress, high-fun way to experience the Great Barrier Reef. Glide over colourful coral gardens, spot playful turtles, and watch vibrant tropical fish darting below — all from the comfort of a shaded, purpose-built boat.

Perfect for families, cruise ship visitors, non-swimmers, and anyone who fancies a chill, easy-going adventure. Plus, you’ll get the insider scoop from our local guides, who know these waters like the back of their hand!

Key Details

• Duration: 70 minutes
• Fitness Level: Moderate — you’ll need to board/disembark unaided
• Age Limit: All ages welcome
• Meals: No meals included — bring a water bottle
• Restrooms: Yes, onboard
• Group Size: Maximum 36 people
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible
• Extras: Fully shaded seating, free hotel transfers from selected spots

Itinerary

🌊 Your adventure kicks off at Shute Harbour, a peaceful little pocket just outside Airlie Beach. After a quick welcome and safety briefing, we head out towards the fringing reefs that hug the Whitsunday coastline.

🐟 As the boat cruises through calm waters, you’ll pass between a few of the gorgeous Whitsunday Islands — 72 slices of tropical paradise. Keep your eyes peeled for turtles popping up for air and colourful fish schooling beneath the boat!

🐠 Peering through the glass bottom, you’ll spot living coral gardens, spiky sea cucumbers, vibrant clownfish, and maybe even a cheeky reef shark or two. The guides will keep you entertained with fun facts and local yarns about the reef’s creatures and conservation efforts.

🚨 After about an hour exploring this underwater wonderland, it’s a smooth ride back to Shute Harbour — just enough time to snap a few last pics and soak up those salty sea breezes.

Reviews

Travellers rave about the Airlie Beach Glass Bottom Boat Tour for its relaxing vibe, family-friendly setup, and the chance to see reef life without needing to snorkel. Guests especially love the knowledgeable commentary, shaded seating, and the fact that little ones can spot “Nemo” fish and turtles up close! Some note that visibility depends on tides and weather, so early morning tours often offer the clearest views.

What to Bring

• Camera or smartphone (for reef selfies through the glass!)
• Hat and sunnies (yes, it’s shaded, but the tropics are fierce)
• Refillable water bottle
• Light jacket or windbreaker (it can get breezy on the water)
• Comfortable thongs or sandals — no fancy shoes needed
• Sense of adventure and a curious eye!

Local Tip: Book an earlier tour if you can — the water tends to be clearest before midday!

Top 5 Reasons to Book This Tour

• 🐢 See the Great Barrier Reef — no swimming, snorkelling, or getting wet required!
• 🧒 Fun for the whole family — kids, parents, and grandparents all love it.
• 🎤 Engaging commentary — learn quirky reef facts from passionate local guides.
• 🚘 Hassle-free pickups — free transfers from most Airlie Beach hotels.
• 🌴 Short and sweet — perfect if you’re short on time or visiting from a cruise ship.