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. To minimise risk reef shoes will no longer be available to borrow at the Information Centre. To participate in the guided reef discovery tour we request guests to please bring along their own reef shoes. Alternatively reef shoes are available for sale at the Heron Island Shop for $20. 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 the constellations of the night sky, or schedule your own private tours!

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. Inquire at Reception or the Marine Centre for availability when you arrive, or pre-book by contacting activities@heronisland.com.

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. Book at the Marine Centre. Duration: approx. 1 hour

Adults $60 AUD
Children $40 AUD

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. Of course a sunset isn’t complete without some fine Australian wines and cheeses to go along with the friendly conversation. This is an adults only tour. Duration: approx. 1 hour

Adults $50 AUD
An optional cheese platter can be added to your booking at $15 (Gluten Free is available at $16)

KAYAKING & 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. Duration: approx. 1 hour

Single Kayak $40 AUD
Double Kayak $70 AUD
Paddle Boards $40 AUD

UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND RESEARCH STATION TOURS - CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE

Subject to availability. Researchers associated with the University of Queensland Research Station discuss their current investigations and experiments in and around Heron Reef.

Adults $10 AUD
Children $3 AUD

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
Duration: approx 1.5 hours

Children $30 AUD

GUIDED FISHING TOUR - CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE

The Great Barrier Reef offers exceptional opportunities for fishing in a number of areas close to Heron Island. Tour includes boat trip, bait and tackle. Best of all, our chef will gladly prepare your catch for evening dinner.
There is a minimum age of 7 years old on Fishing Tours, and your self-caught evening meal in the Shearwater Restaurant is charged at $35 AUD per adult, $20 AUD per child. Duration: approx. 3 hours

Adults $180 AUD
Children $120 AUD

FISHING — PRIVATE CHARTER - CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE

For friends or family groups, we offer the choice of private boat charter fishing excursions.
Half Day (3 hrs) — $920 AU

Rates in effect to March 31, 2021. 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. Cancellation fees will apply. Please ask staff about terms and conditions when making your booking.