Whitsunday Islands and Heart Reef Scenic Flight

1.5 hoursHotel pickup · Selected hotels (check when booking)Guided in CM, English, SpanishRated 4.8/5 · 863 reviews
From $242 per personRated 4.8/5 · 863 reviewsFree cancellation up to 24 hours before
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About Whitsunday Islands and Heart Reef Scenic Flight

This scenic flight leaves Whitsunday Airport at Shute Harbour and flies over the Whitsunday Islands, Hill Inlet, Whitehaven Beach and the Great Barrier Reef, including Heart Reef. It has 863 reviews and a 4.8 rating.

The flight itself is about 60 to 70 minutes, and the whole experience about 1.5 hours, with prices from about $242 per person. Every passenger gets a window seat.

Itinerary

  1. Airlie Beach
  2. Whitsunday Islands
  3. Heart Reef
  4. Hill Inlet
  5. Great Barrier Reef

What’s included

  • GST (Goods and Services Tax)
  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Courtest bus pick up and drop off service available on request from 2 locations in Airlie Beach
  • Landing and facility fees
  • Airport/Departure Tax
  • Live commentary on board

Meeting point

Fly Australia Charter, Whitsunday Airport (Shute Harbour Airport) Meeting Time is 30 minutes before your booked flight departure time. Please ensure you arrive on time. There is free car parking at the airport while you take the scenic flight.

What to expect on the day

You fly in a high-wing, fixed-wing plane with large windows, so the view below is not blocked. The pilot gives live commentary and points out landmarks so everyone has time to take photos. The route covers the islands, Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach, then the Great Barrier Reef and Heart Reef.

Prices and extra costs

  • Included: The scenic flight with live commentary, all taxes, landing and facility fees, and a courtesy bus on request from 2 pickup points in Airlie Beach.
  • Not included: No extra costs are listed for the flight itself.

What to bring

  • A camera or phone with a charged battery.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Suitable clothing and closed shoes.

Tips for a better day

  • Check-in: Arrive at Fly Australia Charter at Whitsunday Airport (Shute Harbour) 30 minutes before your flight. Parking at the airport is free.
  • Weigh-in: Every passenger is weighed at check-in, and the seat limit is 130 kg.
  • Seating: People in the same group may not sit together, because seats are set by the plane’s weight and balance.

Who it’s best for

Best for: Photographers and anyone who wants to see Heart Reef, which is best seen from the air.

Consider another option if: You want to swim and walk on Whitehaven Beach. The Ocean Rafting tour spends the day on the water and the sand.

Restrictions

Suitable for all fitness levels. The maximum passenger weight is 130 kg, and passengers over the limit cannot fly and are not refunded. Infants must sit on an adult’s lap, and infant seats are available. Passengers with medical conditions should check with a doctor first. Flights depend on the weather, and flight times can vary.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

FAQ about Whitsunday Islands and Heart Reef Scenic Flight

How long is the scenic flight?

The flight is about 60 to 70 minutes.

Will I see Heart Reef?

Yes. The route includes the Great Barrier Reef and Heart Reef.

Where does the flight leave from?

Whitsunday Airport at Shute Harbour, about 9 minutes' drive from Airlie Beach.

Is there hotel pickup?

A courtesy bus is available on request from 2 locations in Airlie Beach.

Does everyone get a window seat?

Yes. Every passenger has a window seat.

Is there a weight limit?

Yes. The seat limit is 130 kg, and everyone is weighed at check-in.

When should I arrive?

30 minutes before your booked flight.

Is parking available?

Yes. Parking at the airport is free during your flight.

Can we sit together?

Not always. Seats are set by the plane's weight and balance.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancel at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.