About Getting there
Getting to Gladstone
Heron Island Resort lies on the Tropic of Capricorn, 72 kilometres off the Queensland coast NE of Gladstone (view map). Regular flights to Gladstone are available from both Brisbane & Cairns.
Qantas flies to Brisbane and Cairns from all capital cities. Once at Gladstone, you have a choice of transfer options to get to Heron Island itself.
By Boat
Transfer duration: approx. 2 hours
At 34 metres, The Heron Islander is specifically designed to provide a comfortable and spacious transfer from the Queensland mainland to Heron Island. Launched in 2007, she comfortably seats 170 and has a top speed of 30 knots (55kph).
Gladstone to Heron Island
A courtesy coach will pick you up from the airport at 10.00am and arrive at the Marina approximately 10 minutes later. The Heron Islander departs Gladstone Marina at 11.00am.
If you’re making your own way to Gladstone Marina you’ll find it at Bryan Jordan Drive, Gladstone. Security car lock-up facilities are available for approximately $11 per day ($55 per week) for a covered spot or $9 per day ($45 per week) for an uncovered spot.
Heron Island to Gladstone
Upon your return, The Heron Islander departs Heron Island at 2.00pm Island time (1.00pm EST) and arrives into Gladstone at approximately 3.45pm EST. From the Marina, a courtesy coach will pick you up and take you directly to Gladstone Airport.
A small number of Gladstone flights arrive after 10.00am and depart before 5.00pm. If you are booked on one of these, the Heron Island Helicopter Service is your best transfer option.
By Helicopter
Transfer duration: approx. 30 minutes
You can get your holiday off to a stunning start by taking a Great Barrier Reef scenic helicopter flight. Australian Helicopters operate amazing scenic flights between Gladstone Airport and Heron Island. From up high, it looks like just a drop in the ocean. It really is the ultimate way to see just how unique the Island’s location is.
Availability permitting, the helicopter service operates during daylight hours, which are generally between 8am and 6pm. Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 30 minutes prior to departure to allow for check in procedures. Naturally, a baggage allowance applies for helicopter transfers.
Please note: Helicopter flight times and schedules are subject to change, based on operational requirements.
A property of Delaware North Australia Parks & Resorts Pty Ltd