Reef Sleep: 2-Day Great Barrier Reef Pontoon & Gourmet Meals

Reef Sleep offers a unique opportunity to take in the stunning beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. After a thrilling high-speed boat journey, guests arrive at a floating pontoon where they can explore the vibrant underwater world through guided snorkeling and diving. But the experience goes beyond just the reef – it’s a chance to indulge in gourmet meals, witness breathtaking sunsets, and even stargaze under the night sky. With so much to discover, it’s no wonder Reef Sleep has become a sought-after destination for those seeking an unforgettable adventure in this natural wonder.

This experience made our list of the 7 Best 2 Day Tours In Airlie Beach.

Key Points

• The Reef Sleep pontoon experience offers a 2-day, 1-night stay on the Great Barrier Reef, with opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and underwater viewing.
• Guests can witness a stunning sunset, stargaze, and enjoy delicious, chef-prepared meals during the unique reef immersion experience.
• The 3-hour high-speed boat journey to the remote Hardy Reef pontoon provides the opportunity to spot whales at certain times of the year.
• Guided snorkeling and diving tours allow visitors to discover the vibrant marine life and coral formations of the Great Barrier Reef.
• Guests must bring suitable sun protection, change of clothes, and a small overnight bag for the pontoon stay, which is not suitable for children under 12.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Pontoon Experience Overview

The Reef Sleep pontoon experience allows guests to spend two days and one night immersed in the stunning Great Barrier Reef, sleeping under the stars on the custom-built floating pontoon.

After a 3-hour high-speed boat journey, guests arrive at the pontoon situated at Hardy Reef, a breathtaking stretch of the Great Barrier Reef. During the day, they can explore the reef through snorkeling and diving, or take a semi-submersible underwater viewing tour.

At night, they’ll witness a stunning sunset over the water and stargaze before retiring to their comfortable accommodations on the pontoon.

With delicious chef-prepared meals included, this unique experience offers an unforgettable way to discover the natural wonder of the Great Barrier Reef.

Highlights of the Trip

Guests can enjoy a range of activities and experiences during their 2-day Great Barrier Reef pontoon stay.

They’ll have the chance to witness a stunning sunset over the water, followed by stargazing under the night sky.

Throughout the day, visitors can explore the reef through guided snorkeling and diving tours, or take a semi-submersible vessel for an underwater viewing experience. From swimming and snorkeling to spotting whales at certain times, the highlights of this trip are plentiful.

Guests will also savor delicious, chef-prepared meals, including a gourmet dinner, breakfast, and buffet lunches, ensuring they’re well-nourished for their reef adventures.

Travel and Transportation

Visitors embark on a 3-hour high-speed vessel journey to reach the remote Hardy Reef, a stunning section of the Great Barrier Reef.

The vessel transports guests to the pontoon, a floating platform situated right on the reef. This journey provides an opportunity to spot whales at certain times of the year.

Once at the pontoon, guests can fully enjoy the incredible underwater world. The pontoon serves as a base camp, allowing visitors to explore the reef through a variety of activities such as snorkeling and guided diving trips.

This unique mode of transportation and accommodation offers a truly exceptional Great Barrier Reef experience.

Exploring the Great Barrier Reef

Once guests have made their way to the remote Hardy Reef on the high-speed vessel, they can fully enjoy the incredible underwater world surrounding the pontoon. On the floating platform, visitors have the opportunity to explore the Great Barrier Reef through a variety of activities, including guided snorkeling and diving trips. For those who prefer a more relaxed approach, the underwater viewing chamber aboard the semi-submersible vessel offers a unique perspective of the vibrant marine life. Whether it’s swimming alongside schools of colorful fish, witnessing the graceful movements of sea turtles, or simply marveling at the intricate coral formations, the Great Barrier Reef experience is truly unforgettable.

Activity	Description
Snorkeling	Explore the reef’s shallow waters and discover the vibrant marine life up close.
Diving	Dive deeper to witness the full underwater splendor of the Great Barrier Reef.
Underwater Viewing	Observe the reef’s wonders from the comfort of the semi-submersible vessel.
Whale Watching	Spot whales during certain times of the year (additional cost may apply).
Seabob	Experience the thrill of maneuvering through the water on a Seabob (additional cost).

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Guided Snorkeling and Diving

Guided snorkeling and diving expeditions allow adventurous souls to fully enjoy the Great Barrier Reef’s breathtaking underwater realm.

Skilled instructors lead small groups on explorations of the vibrant coral gardens and abundant marine life, catering to both beginner and experienced participants.

Snorkelers can marvel at the kaleidoscope of colors and diverse species that flourish in the shallow waters, while divers can venture deeper to discover awe-inspiring underwater landscapes.

Both activities provide unparalleled opportunities to witness the reef’s incredible natural beauty and fragile ecosystems firsthand.

With additional costs, guests can book these guided tours to enhance their 2-day pontoon experience and create lifelong memories of their Great Barrier Reef adventure.

Meals and Dining

The Reef Sleep experience includes a delectable array of gourmet meals, expertly prepared by the on-site culinary team to delight guests’ palates throughout their two-day adventure.

Theres some good two buffet lunches, showcasing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a variety of options to cater to diverse dietary needs.

A mouthwatering gourmet dinner is served, allowing guests to savor the flavors of the region while gazing out over the serene waters of the Great Barrier Reef.

To start the day, a hearty breakfast is provided, ensuring guests are fueled and ready to explore the wonders of the reef.

With two morning and afternoon teas also included, guests can enjoy an array of snacks and beverages throughout their stay.

Packing and Restrictions

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, guests are required to bring a sun hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, toiletries, weather-appropriate clothing, and a small overnight bag for their Reef Sleep adventure.

This experience isn’t suitable for children under 12, so guests should plan accordingly.

While all meals are provided, including two morning and afternoon teas, two buffet lunches, a gourmet dinner, and one breakfast, guests will need to cover the cost of any additional alcoholic or extra drinks.

Wear sun-protective clothing and apply sunscreen to avoid sunburn during outdoor activities.

Bring a small overnight bag to pack essentials for the overnight stay on the pontoon.

Ensure you have weather-appropriate attire, as conditions can be variable on the open water.

Booking and Availability

Guests can book their Reef Sleep experience through a variety of online travel platforms, with prices starting from $437.70 per person for the 2-day Great Barrier Reef pontoon stay and gourmet meals.

The experience is available year-round, subject to weather and seasonal conditions. Availability can be limited, particularly during peak travel seasons, so it’s recommended to book well in advance.

Guests can choose from a range of departure dates and times, with the high-speed vessel departing from Airlie Beach.

The package isn’t suitable for children under 12, and guests must bring their own personal items and any additional gear needed for the activities offered during the pontoon stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Evening Meals?

There is no formal dress code for the evening meals on the Great Barrier Reef pontoon experience. Guests can wear casual, comfortable clothing that’s suitable for the warm, tropical environment.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Guests are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks, though all meals and beverages on the pontoon are included in the package price. Any additional alcoholic drinks would need to be purchased separately.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The cancellation and refund policy typically allow for full refunds for cancellations made within a certain timeframe, often 24-48 hours in advance. Partial refunds or credits may be offered for later cancellations, subject to the provider’s terms and conditions.

Is There Onboard Medical Assistance Available?

Yes, there is onboard medical assistance available for guests. A qualified medical professional is present on the pontoon to provide first aid and emergency care if needed during the 2-day experience on the Great Barrier Reef.

Can I Request Special Dietary Requirements?

Guests can request special dietary requirements, which the provider will accommodate. Dietary needs should be communicated at the time of booking to ensure the appropriate meals are prepared during the experience.

Recap

Reef Sleep offers an immersive 2-day Great Barrier Reef experience, complete with high-speed boat transport, a floating pontoon, guided snorkeling and diving, gourmet meals, and stunning natural scenery.

Guests can explore the vibrant underwater world and marvel at the diverse marine life, creating an unforgettable adventure in this natural wonder.

With various activities and amenities, Reef Sleep provides an all-inclusive opportunity to fully take in the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.

You can check if your dates are available here: