Tourists in a Research Station tour at Heron Island Resort

Tours and Programs at Heron Island

Great Barrier Reef Excursions

COVID Update
Due to COVID-19 restictions some of our activities are currently unavailable. Activities and presentations will be limited to a maximum number of participants. Additional changes may be implemented without notice based on government and health regulation updates.

Tours & Programs

Opportunities abound on Heron Island for group activities, eco excursions and boat tours! Join one of our resident Naturalist Guides to learn about the fascinating Great Barrier Reef ecosystem, the flora and fauna of the island, or schedule your own private tour!

To get the most out of your visit to the Great Barrier Reef and Heron Island, a number of exciting and informative activities are possible for an additional charge. To cater for changes in weather conditions, the activities schedule is released one week in advance. Inquire at Reception or the Marine Centre for availability when you arrive, or pre-book some activities prior to your arrival.

Activities near Heron Island Resort in Queensland, Australia

SEMI-SUBMERSIBLE “I-SPY” TOUR

Perhaps you’re not so comfortable putting on a mask and fins? Not a problem, the I-Spy semi-sub is perfect for you. Turtles, sharks and rays are often seen from the I-Spy. Your Naturalist Guide will commentate on the many species of marine animals that are encountered, and provide information about the biology and ecology of coral reefs.

The I-Spy normally operates once a day, 5 days a week, subject to demand and weather conditions. To check availability and pre-book your activity, please contact the Marine Centre at dive@heronisland.com

Adults $60 AUD
Children $40 AUD
Duration: approx. 1 hour

GUIDED KAYAK & PADDLE BOARDING TOURS

Another active way to explore the waters and reefs around Heron Island. Your guides will take you to areas where you’ll glide above abundant coral life, sharks (small ones!), and rays. To check availability and pre-book your activity, please contact the Activity Centre at activities@heronisland.com. Please note that individual hire is not available for health and safety reasons.

Single Kayak $40 AUD
Double Kayak $70 AUD
Paddle Boards $40 AUD
Duration: approx. 1 hour

Kayak Indemnity Form

Junior rangers group in the beach near Heron Island Resort

JUNIOR RANGERS PROGRAM

Always a hit with the kids, our Heron Island Junior Rangers Program is an exciting nature based program for kids between the ages of 7 to 12 years. The Program offers a range of nature-based activities designed to nurture a sense of exploration and caring for the environment, subject matter includes activities such as bird watching, island walks and reef walks. The Program has been developed by Heron Island's experienced team of marine biologists, with the cooperation of the University of Queensland and QLD Parks and Wildlife Service.

The Program is very interactive and topics covered may vary seasonally to include: reef, ecology, forest awareness, coral cay formation, turtle nesting and whale watching. Kids will receive a Junior Rangers Workbook, embroidered badge and hat. The Junior Rangers Program runs during the Queensland school holidays. for days and times or to make a booking, please contact Reception or our Activities team; activities@heronisland.com

Children $30 AUD
Duration: approx. 1.5hours

UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND RESEARCH STATION TOURS - Currently only limited tours operating

Subject to availability. Researchers associated with the University of Queensland Research Station discuss their current investigations and experiments in and around Heron Reef. To check availability and pre-book your activity, please contact Reception at reception@heronisland.com

Adults $20 AUD
Children $6 AUD

Guide showing corals in Research Station at Heron Island Resort

Sunset view from a boat near Heron Island Resort

SUNSET CRUISE

Enjoy a peaceful end to the day aboard one of our launches watching the sun set over The Great Barrier Reef and Heron Island. Your tour begins with drinks, including fine Australian wines at the scenic Wistari Terrace before joining our crew onboard the boat. Relish in the picturesque view of sunset over the reef as you cruise through the crystal clear waters around Heron Island. To check availability and pre-book your activity, please contact the Marine Centre at dive@heronisland.com

Adults $50 AUD
Children $35 AUD (8yrs & over)
An optional cheese platter can be added to your booking at $15 (Gluten Free is available at $16)
Duration: approx. 1.5 hours

Rates in effect to March 31, 2023. Heron Island reserves the right to discontinue or alter services and rates without notice. Most activities and tours are subject to weather and tide and schedules may vary week to week. Most activities will require a minimum number of participants to operate. Children are aged 3-12 years. Guests over the age of 12 years are considered adults.

Cancellation fees will apply. Please ask staff about terms and conditions when making your booking.