Tiffany CondeAs the world’s largest reef system, the Great Barrier Reef is home to many incredible sights. But until recently, taking a helicopter tour was the only way travellers could see its most famous highlight: the Heart Reef, a heart-shaped coral formation located northeast of Hamilton Island in Queensland, Australia.
Now, a sightseeing tour called the Journey to the Heart Tour – Heart Reef Experience is available for those who would like to visit this wonder of nature. Not only with a bird’s eye view this time, but also with the opportunity to get close and swim in the crystal-clear waters around this stunning reef.
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Journey to the heart of the reef
Image credit: Hamilton Island Official Facebook Page
Your gateway to the Heart Reef begins with a 30-minute helicopter flight. This journey will carry you over beautiful sights, such as Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, and of course, the Heart Reef itself. Then, you will land on a helipad on a luxury pontoon (a portable float or flat-bottom boat) named Heart Island.
After landing on this exclusive boat, you have 90 minutes to enjoy your surroundings to the fullest. Here, you can immerse yourself in the turquoise waters of a neighbouring lagoon, enjoy the relaxing sea breeze, and embark on a glass-bottom boat around the Heart Reef. Plus, you can even unwind on the private pontoon itself, taking in the breathtaking expanse of the Great Barrier Reef.
Image credit: Hamilton Island Official Facebook Page
Take note, however, that a maximum of six guests can be accommodated in each tour. In addition, only guests who are over 14 years old are eligible to apply for bookings.
Overall, the Journey to the Heart Tour – Heart Reef Experience takes three hours and costs AU$1100 (approximately S$1,498) per person.
Visit the official website of Hamilton Island for more information.
