lady elliot island day trip by boat

Lady Elliot Island Day Trip (All You Need to Know)

Are you seeking a tropical paradise, vibrant marine life, and an eco-friendly adventure on the Great Barrier Reef? Consider booking a Lady Elliot Island Day Trip to experience the best of nature and relaxation.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this stunning (and relatively untravelled) destination and how to make the most of your visit – all within one day!

book a day trip here

Lady Elliot Island Day Trip Adventure

Book a once in a lifetime adventure to Lady Elliot Island on Queensland’s Southern Great Barrier Reef. Swim with turtles, manta rays, dolphins and so much more in the protected and tranquil lagoon of this island paradise. Book your day trip today!

There are a few islands in Australia I’d really recommend visiting, and this happens to be one of them. Lady Elliot Island is a once in a lifetime experience, and if you’re short on time, it’s totally possible to do it all in a day!

Other islands in Australia I’d recommend:

• Heron Island
• Fitzroy Island
• Kgari (Fraser) Island
• Moreton Island
• North Stradbroke Island

Let’s dive into an ‘all you need to know’ post on your Lady Elliot Island day trip.

Where is Lady Elliot Island?

Lady Elliot Island, a pristine coral cay, is part of the southern Great Barrier Reef. Nestled in the waters of Queensland, Australia, it offers an unspoiled sanctuary for travelers seeking an immersive encounter with nature. When I say immersive, I mean it!

Think manta rays, turtles, fish, reef sharks, dolphins, marine birds and much, much more!

With its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and vibrant coral formations, Lady Elliot Island is a haven for snorkelers, divers, and nature enthusiasts.

Brief History and Features of the Island

• Lady Elliot Island emerged from the sea about 3,500 years ago when seabirds brought guano and seeds, kickstarting its vegetation.
• Guano miners arrived in 1863 but damaged the island, leaving only eight Pisonia trees near the bistro. They removed around 3 feet of topsoil.
• In 1969, aviator Mr. Don Adams started a reforestation project using native plants, turning Lady Elliot into a wildlife sanctuary with a now diverse seabird population – the 2nd largest on the Great Barrier Reef.
• The Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort was established in 1984, making a huge commitment to a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to tourism ever since.
• The island is environmentally significant due to its importance for nesting loggerhead and green sea turtles, as well as the 1200 other marine species that inhabit the island and the surrounding waters.

How to Get to Lady Elliot Island

Reaching this remote paradise is easier than you might think. You can access Lady Elliot Island via a scenic flight from Hervey Bay , Bundaberg or Brisbane (Redcliffe) .

These flights offer breathtaking aerial views of the Great Barrier Reef and its sparkling waters. After landing, the island’s eco-friendly infrastructure ensures that you leave a minimal carbon footprint during your visit.

Day Tour Flight Options to Lady Elliot Island

Day trips & tours run every day with the exception of Christmas Day, subject to booking numbers and weather.

I’d recommend booking here and well in advance as places book out quickly.

Hervey Bay to Lady Elliot Island Day Trip

• Hervey Bay is located approximately 3.5 half hours north of Brisbane with day trips to Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort operating daily (excluding Christmas day 25th December).
• You’ll depart Hervey Bay/Fraser Coast airport at approximately 8:10am and arriving on the island at 8:50am upon a short 40-minute scenic flight.
• Departure is 4:00pm from Lady Elliott Island.

Bundaberg to Lady Elliot Island Day Trip

• Bundaberg is located approximately 4.5 hours north of Brisbane with day trips to Lady Elliot Island operating daily (excluding Christmas day 25th December).
• Check in at the Lady Elliot Island/QantasLink counter at Bundaberg Airport. You’ll depart Bundaberg airport at approximately 8:40am and arriving on the island at 9:10 am upon a short 30-minute scenic flight.
• Departure is at 4:00pm from Lady Elliott Island.

Brisbane to Lady Elliot Island Day Trip

• Flights operate daily (excluding Christmas Day) from Redcliffe to Lady Elliot Island with a duration of approximately 80 minutes.
• You’ll depart Redcliffe at 7:15am and arriving at 8:45am.
• Departure from the island is at 2:30pm and arrive back in Redcliffe at 4:00pm.

What to do on Lady Elliot Island

There’s a real variety of adventure activities & relaxation choices to accommodate every traveller to the island. Here’s a list of some of our favourite activities:

• Guided kayak tours
• Swim with turtles in the lagoon
• Spot turtles nesting at sunrise
• Guided reef walks
• Scuba diving
• Swim with manta rays
• Relax seaside from the Lady Elliot Island eco resort
• Glass bottom boat tour
• Sunset drinks by the lighthouse

Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort

When you arrive on the island, you’ll discover the unique charm of the Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort. Nestled amid pristine surroundings, this eco-friendly resort provides a sustainable accommodation option.

Experience eco-conscious living in harmony with nature, including solar power, rainwater harvesting, and guided eco-tours. By staying here, you directly contribute to the island’s conservation efforts.

Room Options

• Glamping Tents
• Family Beachfront Units

Overnight rate includes:

• Full buffet dinner and breakfast
• Use of snorkel equipment (mask, snorkel & fins) & snorkel lesson if required
• Glass bottom boat/guided snorkel tour (one per person/stay)
• Range of guided tours and activities
• Environmental Management Charge

What is the Best Time to Visit Lady Elliot Island?

The best time to plan your Lady Elliot Island day trip depends on your preferences. However, to witness the island’s rich marine life, the period between November and March is ideal. During this time, you can observe turtles nesting and their hatchlings making their way to the sea. Keep in mind that weather conditions are more unpredictable during these months.

If you prefer calm seas and milder temperatures, plan your visit between May and October. The waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving during this period, and the weather is generally more stable.

Remember, the Great Barrier Reef offers different experiences throughout the year, so choose a time that aligns with your interests.

Final thoughts on Lady Elliot Island

A day trip to Lady Elliot Island is your ticket to an eco-friendly adventure in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you’re eager to snorkel among vibrant coral or witness nesting turtles, this destination offers a unique blend of natural wonders and sustainable travel.

Choose the best time to visit based on your interests & conditions and embark on a journey of discovery, conservation, and adventure. Lady Elliot Island is calling – your day trip adventure awaits.

Disclaimer: These are my experiences, honest opinions and stories. We are proud to partner with many beautiful digital education & travel products and services as an affiliate. On some occasions, we may benefit from a commission when you make a purchase with these links. This commission helps to support the ongoing publication of free and readily available content designed for those who wish to get started in the online business and creator space. This is not financial advice.

Scott is a travel & lifestyle creator from the Sunshine Coast, Australia. After travelling to some of the world's most remote and bucket list worthy destinations, Scott now writes, photographs and documents his travels for others to enjoy, draw inspiration from and experience for themselves.

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Lady Elliot Island Day Tour

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Lady Elliot Island Day Tour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Explore the Great Barrier Reef on this one day tour of Lady Elliot Island

• 6-7 hours to explore the island and reef
• Hot & cold buffet lunch
• Guided reef walk tour at low tide (tide dependent)
• Combined glass bottom boat tour / Guided boat snorkel tour
• Island Tours
• Fish feeding in the lagoon fish pool
• Use of snorkelling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins)
• Snorkel lesson in the resort pool (if required)
• Use of day guest facilities – showering facilities, towels, reef walking shoes)
• Reef walking (tides permitting)
• Environmental Management Charge

Dates & Times

Departing daily from Hervey Bay , Bundaberg, Brisbane & the Gold Coast

No flights available Christmas Day

Check in Hervey Bay Airport 7:40am – Returning 4:40pm (approx) Check in Bundaberg Airport 8:10am – Returning 4:30pm (approx) For more information regarding Bundaberg, Brisbane & the Gold Coast give us a call on (07)4128 9800.

Ex Hervey Bay and Bundaberg

***Please plan and book ahead so you don’t miss out!

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Simply fill in this booking form and we will email or call you within 24 hours to verify your preferred booking day is available!

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Day Trip To Lady Elliot Island From Gold Coast, Australia

Visiting Gold Coast in Queensland? Don’t miss a day trip to Lady Elliot Island — the most picturesque highlight!

As I carefully trod on a million broken shells, I experienced a soft touch of the residual waves caressing my feet and playfully slipping the sand from underneath my sole. 

I looked at the chirpy turquoise blue waters around me and suddenly realised why Lady Elliot Island is considered as a mecca for snorkels and divers.  I was not even 10 steps away from the beach and the beautiful coral life had already started. It stretched for as far as I could see. A few dozen colourful, tiny fishes had moreover approached me before suddenly disappearing into nothingness!

I remember when an invitation from Queensland Tourism landed in my inbox, asking me if I would be interested in exploring the Gold Coast region during a few days of an action-packed journey, the first thing that came to my mind, before even checking out the itinerary, was snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef.

For any scuba diver, exploring the Great Barrier Reef is the holy grail, and I was no different. Then a quick read of the itinerary and my anticipation turned into a sweet reality. On the last day of our 5-day trip, we were going Gold Coast to Lady Elliot Island.

It was quite an experience – almost as much fun as my scuba diving experience in India .

Lady Elliot Island Trip

And then the last day happened, and I found myself sitting groggily at the hotel reception waiting to be picked up around quarter to 6.

The hotel transfer to the private flight terminal of Lady Elliot Island, in Gold Coast, was a total blackout, but as soon as we got into our charter plane and took off, things became interestingly unavoidable.

The surreal ariel views of the entire Gold Coast, North and South Stradbroke Islands, Moreton Island and Fraser Island as we slowly made our way to Lady Elliot Island kept hold of me.

We flew over white sand beaches, beautiful suburbs, periodic cliffs and of course, an eternal turquoise sea. And since it was a small chartered plane and didn’t fly much higher (like big planes do) spotting life on land was easier.

It was much better than having a business-class flight experience .

Located about 450km north of the Gold Coast the flight to Lady Elliot Island takes almost 100 minutes from the Gold Coast, and 80 minutes from Redcliffe in Brisbane.

Snorkeling At Great Barrier Reef: Lady Elliot Island

Located at the southernmost tip of the Great Barrier Reef , Lady Elliot Island is known (among those who know about it!) for its unspoiled coral life. Its remote location on the edge of the continental shelf gives it the clearest water on the reef and also some of the best marine life.

Lady Elliot Island is moreover particularly popular for its manta rays — in fact, there are consistently more resident manta rays here than virtually anywhere else on the planet. But during our visit to the island, and two equal 30-minute snorkelling episodes we, unfortunately, could not spot any.

On a brighter note, however, we got to swim with a turtle — and that too, not just once but thrice. As unreal as it may sound, the experience of floating with the turtle and even going underwater with it for a few brief seconds (as I held my breath) was an experience of a lifetime.

It appeared that the turtle was not at all afraid or bothered to be swimming right beside me — after all, I was in his world, and he was the king!

If you end up visiting Lady Elliot Island between February to April, you can even experience turtle hatching.

Other than turtles, we explored the beautifully diverse coral of the Great Barrier Reef with fishes of all colour and sizes and shapes appearing suddenly before gracefully disappearing into the vast sea. The visibility was also as good as 20+ meters away.

Day Trip To The Lady Elliot Island: The Itinerary

Upon arrival at Lady Elliot Island (after a 15 min hotel to Lady Elliot Island’s private flight terminal in the Gold Coast and a 100min flight) our guide took us on a brief orientation tour of the island before escorting us to the Day Guest facilities to collect our snorkel equipment.

Please note that all snorkelling equipment (for day-trippers as well as those who are staying at the island) is included in the price so no need to carry anything with you but just your daily essentials and a swimsuit. Even sunscreen and flip-flops are provided so wear shoes if you want to and forget about them getting wet.

Once done, we had a 20-minute boat ride to the snorkelling spot, in the glass-bottom boat, making the journey interesting to another level. As we finished the snorkelling tour and got back to the island (which took a total of 2 hours) we had time to either explore more of the island, relax on a beach, play volleyball or snorkel at another destination. We chose to snorkel (for another half an hour) — following which was a hot and cold buffet lunch waiting for us.

Post lunch, we had a guided stroll across Lady Elliot Island’s nursery — the very reason for any vegetation on the island and a brief fish-feeding session.

The entire tour started around 8.45 in the morning (after our arrival at Lady Elliot Island) and finished at 2.30 in the afternoon (before catching our flight back to the mainland).

How Much Does Lady Elliot Island Trip Cost

If you’re wondering how much Gold Coast to Lady Elliot Island trip costs, let me tell you that during my visit it was 800AUD per person. Though this price for a day trip from Gold Coast may sound too much given the experiences I found it worth the money.

I mean if you Google how much it cost to fly to Lady Elliot island, you will probably see huge money for a return ticket for a 100 min flight. Now if you compare the cost to fly to Lady Elliot Island and the experiences you get to do there on a day trip with 800AUD, it won’t seem that high. Gold Coast to Lady Elliot Island trip to Lady Elliot Island is certainly worth it.

Also, note…

• All-day Lady Elliot Island trips can be booked directly from their website (ladyelliot.co.au)
• For day trips, you get your in-flight breakfast, a buffet lunch and a tea snack after the finish of the tour, so no need to bring any packed lunch.
• You also don’t need to carry thing extra than your swimsuit and a towel. All necessary snorkelling gear as well as sunscreen and reef walking shoes are included in the price and provided happily.
• You can start your tour from one destination (say from the Gold Coast) while in return, choosing to be dropped off at a different destination (eg Brisbane) if informed in advance.

Scared Of Snorkeling?

Though snorkelling is certainly the best part of the entire day trip to Lady Elliot Island, if you’re scared of the waters, it’s still worth a visit. And there are two reasons for it. Actually, there are three:

One reason is the scenic flight to the island, which is a great treat for all the views it has to offer.

The second reason is that the 15-minute boat ride to the snorkelling location (and back) is done in the glass-bottom boat, making it possible for even those who are not getting into the water to explore life underwater in the Great Barrier Reef.

And third, is the nature calendar: visiting during winter to experience feeding the Mantra Ray, visiting between November and March to experience Turtle nesting, and visiting between February to April to experience Turtle hatching. If visiting from June to October, however, you can spot some migrating whales.

Spend At Least A Night

Though most international travelers visiting Lady Elliot Island do only a day trip to Lady Elliot Island, I found that the best charms of the island can be explored only by going a little slower. Plan a one-day trip, and experience the serenity of the place. Though the island has a total occupancy of 150 people (and 100-day visitors) it still feels pretty deserted at all times, offering its guests a near-experience of staying on an island with no life around.

A few days of holiday with your family and friends, as you do nothing and lose yourself in the oblivion and the beauty of Lady Elliot Island, you find a world far unparalleled and beautiful.

And hey, did I tell you that there is no phone reception on the entire island? Makes it even better, right?

If you are looking for cheap flight tickets from India (or someplace in Southeast Asia) to the Gold Coast, I will suggest checking out fares for Scoot Airlines. They’ve been flying to the Gold Coast in addition to a few other destinations in Australia for amazingly cheaper prices. I am sure their prices will give you another reason to be planning a holiday to Australia, and to the Gold Coast in particular!

Continue planning your trip to the Gold Coast with my ideal  Gold Cold Travel Itinerary

Disclaimer : I was invited by Queensland Tourism for a 5-day trip to the Gold Coast. Though the trip was completely hosted, all recommendations and suggestions are solely  my own . I only recommend what I personally try and find worth appreciating.

Thank you very much for these beautiful pictures and information 🙂 Best regards

Hey Dev, a day trip to Lady Elliot Island sounds fascinating. Snorkeling, scuba diving, and turtle nesting are the best part of this trip. I really need a vacation so thanks a lot for sharing this amazing itinerary.

Great articles. It is really awesome and and the writing skills are amazing.

Awee, you have showed picture experience of a big trip to the lady Elliot island. You are just blessed to enjoy the great trip. Thanks for sharing all the experience and valuable tips that will help us. I have been searching for the best packages to visit coral sea. I had been relying on MMT and other portals to find the best offers.

800 dollars per person is quite a bit of money. Do you really think it is worth it? Any comparatively cheaper day trip to the barrier reef you know of?

The flight certainly looks scenic.

What lovely pictures Dev. I can clearly see that you had a great time in Australia. Following your journey on instagram. Good luck.

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Lady Elliot Island: Your ultimate guide to this marine wonderland

If you are heading to the manta ray disco on Lady Elliot Island, here is all you need to know before jumping in the water for a dance with these giant kites of the sea.

Lady Elliot Island is a coral cay situated at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef. It is approximately 80 kilometres northeast of Bundaberg and nestled in between Fraser Island and Lady Musgrave Island.

The journey there is a scenic one, and technically you can brag to your mates that you have travelled overseas (well over the ocean at least). To reach this island gem, you will need to take a chartered Sea Air Pacific flight from a regional airport in Queensland, including the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Hervey Bay and Bundaberg.

Leaving Australia’s coastline, the small plane heads out across the open ocean. In the distance, a tiny speck on the horizon grows larger by the minute. The views from the window are incredible. With the island in full view, the rather small, grassed airstrip that runs the length of the island is clearly visible. The surrounding fringing reef forms a mosaic of blues and greens. If you are lucky, you may even be able to spot the famous manta rays from the air on your descent.

Touching down on the grass runway is just the start of your environmentally positive stay. The remote location is part of the attraction and means the limited access ensures minimal impact. The number of people on the island is never more than 50 guests, so overcrowding will never be an issue. It is often possible that you could have a stretch of beach or a part of the reef to yourself.

Such a small island but so much to do

Lady Elliot Island is a sanctuary for over 1,200 species of marine life, known for its abundance of manta rays, turtles, amazing array of spectacular marine life and the surrounding unspoilt coral reef. So you can bet your bottom dollar that a majority of your stay will be spent in the water.

Scuba diving here is out of this world, with many dive sites scattered around the island delivering a superb experience. You don’t need to deep dive to be drawn into this watery wonderland though. The snorkelling is just as phenomenal and can be done straight off the beach in the protected reef lagoon. It is here that the turtles love to hang out, and you can be sure to spot a few with ease.

While the manta rays are a big drawcard for guests, the island is a treasure trove of experiences. For those who prefer to stay on the surface, take one of the daily glass-bottom boat tours. With a master-reef guide to answer all your questions, you will come back knowing more about the reef than can be taught in Finding Nemo.

There is just as much going on above the ocean surface too. Lady Elliot Island is also home to thousands of seabirds, making it an ideal location for birdwatchers. Keep your eyes out for Shearwaters, Noddy birds and the rare Red-tailed Tropicbird. If you are lucky enough to visit between November to March, you will also experience Green and Loggerhead Turtles nesting and hatching on the island.

If history is more your thing, you may be surprised to learn about the Lady Elliot Island Lightstation. While it sits as a grand backdrop for the afternoon sundowner drinks on the western side of the island, there is more to it than meets the eye. Established in 1866, it forms an integral part of history in aiding navigation along the Queensland coast through the Great Barrier Reef. Stories of the old lighthouse keepers circulate on the island, and there is even a tale of a ghost that still graces the shores.

Go for the day

Day trips to Lady Elliot Island offer an excellent opportunity for people with limited time to explore Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Daytrippers will get return scenic flights to the Island and an orientation tour on arrival. Included in this jam-packed day is a glass bottom boat/guided snorkelling tour, snorkel equipment use (mask, snorkel & fins), full use of day guest facilities, lunch available at the cafe and an afternoon of snorkelling, leisure or joining the experienced guides for a guided activity/tour. Departures for the day trips leave from Bundaberg, Hervey Bay/Fraser Coast, Brisbane (Redcliffe) or the Gold Coast

Stay a little longer

The coral cay island houses a leading eco-resort, Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort. Not only does it have an Advanced Eco-Certification, but the ongoing dedication to maintaining a sustainability policy within the resort to protect the environment ensures guests can continue to have life-changing encounters with nature.

The resort is a family run and operated eco-tourism business. Peter Gash, family and several partners have held the lease from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority to operate the resort since 2005.

Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort offers a range of comfortable accommodation options, with each unit, tent and cabin designed to minimise the impact on the Island. The resort recently added glamping tents, a very popular choice for ultimate eco-style camping, and new eco-cabins. In keeping with the natural, eco-friendly practices, there are no telephones, television, radios or wi-fi available in the rooms. Only limited wi-fi is available in the restaurant.

All accommodation options include full buffet dinner and breakfast, use of snorkel equipment (mask, snorkel & fins) & snorkel lesson if required, glass-bottom boat/guided snorkel tour (one per person/stay), range of guided tours and activities and the Environmental Management Charge.

Dine-in or take away

The Beachfront Café offers a selection of snacks and beverages, including salads, burgers, coffee, and alcoholic beverages. It is here that guests dine for breakfast and dinner also. Meals come with a side of scenic views over the lagoon and, depending on the season, an added extra of passing humpback whales playing just beyond the reef. The Lagoon Bar overlooks the Great Barrier Reef and is the perfect place to wind down after a day’s adventure on the reef.

I opted for the take away lunch and enjoyed a beach picnic sat under the shade of a tree, with hermit crabs trying to crash the party. I washed my hamburger down with a Ray XPA beer. Brewed by Bargara Brewing Company in partnership with Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort, the beer was launched to raise awareness of the sea’s majestic kites. It seemed only fitting.

Why not dine under the stars? Take a Sunset Platter of cheeses, biscuits, antipasto and a nice bottle of wine to the west side of the island and enjoy an epic sunset beside the lighthouse.

What to pack

Daytrippers just need to pack a day bag – towel, light jacket (depending on weather), daytime essentials and swimmers of course. No need for anything else as you can hire snorkelling gear. For those staying overnight and longer, there is a 15kg luggage limit per person. Due to the size of the plane, soft bags are preferred and must not exceed 70cm x 40cm x 30cm.

As an avid scuba diver, my packing may have been a little extreme. I opted for the dive gear (I do like to use my own snorkel, mask and fins) and camera equipment over multiple clothes items. I found that I didn’t need all that resort wear anyway, as I lived in my swimmers and towel most of the day. Two shirts, a pair of shorts, a pair of long pants and a jumper for the cooler nights was all I needed. The resort supplies eco-friendly toiletries, and I highly recommend getting yourself some reef-friendly sunscreen and zinc. After all, you want to protect what you came to enjoy.

I also packed a book as there are no TVs or wi-fi on the island, so you can forget the Netflix. I didn’t even get the chance to open my book though, for when bedtime rolled around, I was lights out before my head hardly hit the pillow. Something about the fresh ocean air and the sound of gentle lapping waves on the beach is like a lullaby sending you off to sleep.

PUBLISHED ON AWOL JUNKEE

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1 Day Lady Elliot Island Southern Great Barrier Reef Tour (from Gold Coast)

The Day Trip to Lady Elliot Island, located on the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef, offers a great opportunity to explore Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.This tour allows visitors to experience one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World from the air, land and water… all in one day!

TOUR INFORMATION (7P001)

Operates daily (1 jul 2021 - 17 dec 2021), adult - au$959, child (3-12 yrs old) - aud $599 pp, infant (under 3 yrs old) - free.

T OUR DURATION (ON ISLAND):

• 5.5 hours to explore Lady Elliot Island
• Return scenic flight (approx. 105 min)
• 5 hours to explore Lady Elliot Island
• Welcome drink
• Orientation/Island tour
• Glass bottom boat/guided snorkel tour
• Guided reef walk (tide dependent)
• Fish feeding in the Lagoon
• Snorkel equipment (mask, snorkel & fins)
• Snorkel lesson if required
• Use of Day Guest facilities (lockers, shower facilities, towels, sunscreen & reef walking shoes)
• Guided tour

** Please note lunch is served in line with our CovidSafe Plan, buffet lunch currently not offered due to COVID Safe protocols.

** Lunch served from the BeachFront Cafe – prawns, beer, wine & soft drink remain included.

• Guests to make own way to airport
• $100 single passenger surcharge for flights from Brisbane (Redcliffe)
• Other personal expenses
• The Lady Elliot Island Great Barrier Reef all-inclusive Day Tour is the only one of its type in Australia. The visit allows you to view one of the most pristine sections of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef from the air as well as from above and below the water all in one day.
• Your tour commences with a pickup from your Gold Coast hotel at approx. 6.00 am and a complimentary transfer to our private terminal to board your scenic flight to the coral cay of Lady Elliot Island. Lady Elliot is regarded as one of the best snorkelling and diving locations on the reef, famous for its unspoilt coral reef and an amazing array of marine life! On the way enjoy the aerial views of the Gold Coast, North and South Stradbroke Islands, Moreton Island and Fraser Island. Upon arrival on Lady Elliot Island, your guide will take you on a brief orientation tour of the island and escort you to the Day Guest facilities to collect your snorkel equipment.
• You will then join a glass-bottom boat & guided snorkel tour to view a large variety of coral and brilliantly coloured fish, with the possibility to encounter turtles, dolphins and the resident manta rays. A hot & cold buffet lunch is served in the Beachfront Dining Room and includes a choice of wine, beer and soft drink. After lunch, join your guide for fish feeding in the Fish Pond and at 2.30 pm depart on a scenic flight back to the Gold Coast. The tour concludes at approx. 4.30 pm with a return transfer to your hotel. A light breakfast and afternoon tea (water & biscuit) are served inflight.
• LUGGAGE LIMIT: Small backpack (max 4kg) or personal items e.g. handbags/purse, tablet or laptop in a thin case, camera, coat/wrap. Items must be carried on the lap or put in the baggage compartment as there are no overhead lockers and there is no storage facility under the seats
• Swimsuit, comfortable walking shoes/crocs, hat, sunscreen and camera
• Reef walking shoes (covered toes)/crocs are highly recommended (reef walking shoes available on the island)
• $10 deposit for day guest locker
• Check-in at 14-16 Lores Bonney Circuit, Coolangatta
• Please check in 15 minutes prior to your departure
• Complimentary guest transfers for the Great Barrier Reef Day Tour includes Surfers Paradise Hotels and Resorts and properties located along the Gold Coast Highway between the Sundale Bridge and Coolangatta with the exception of Mercure Resort Gold Coast and the Royal Pines Resort. Guests staying outside this area can be picked up from a designated meeting place within these perimeters.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

• Valid until 17 December 2021
• Flights are subject to change and may include transit stops
• Flight times vary depending on weather, aircraft type and possible transit stops
• All activities are subject to weather an tide conditions
• Cancellation fees apply
• Subject to availability
• Price is per person
• Full payment requires to confirm booking
• No change, no cancel
• Non-refund after booking confirm, payment received & voucher issued
• Please prefer to our general terms & conditions

Flight Times

⏰ 06:45 AM depart Gold Coast (Approx.120-minute flight)

Why book with QueenTours?

• No booking fees
• We will do all the hard work. Our team will make all reservation on your behalf. You don’t have to do anything!!
• We will send you your ticket voucher with details, all you need to do is turn up and enjoy the fun

Is Lady Elliot Island Worth Visiting & 19 Things to do?

When searching for island destinations along the Queensland coast, you might consider budget, ease of access, somewhere to stay, or a snorkelling Paradise in the Great Barrier Reef. But is Lady Elliot Island worth visiting for all these reasons, or just some of them?

Since living in Queensland most my life, I’ve been lucky to visit most of the offshore locations and there could a several reasons why Lady Elliot would be the prefect destination for you. Therefore, today’s post will involve why I like it and some of the best activities to entice you.

So, please read on below and start exploring why is could be your next holiday destination!

This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Please read my blog disclaimer, terms and conditions & privacy policy here for details.

Is Lady Elliot Island Worth Visiting

Key Takeaways: Whether you have 1 day or a few days to spend, Yes, Lady Elliot Island is worth visiting for several reasons. For one of the best spots to snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef, it use to be a guano harvesting area and holds a lot of history, and being an ideal place to swim with turtles and Manta Rays.

Although the flight there can be expensive, I think it’s one of the easiest islands to get to from southern Queensland. Along with the island being relatively small and simple to walk around.

My visit left from the Bundaberg terminal on a day trip, which allowed me enough time to snorkel with turtles, see the birds nesting, have lunch, and take a short tour. Both Matt and I were completely exhausted after the entire day’s activities, but we would go back again in a heartbeat. 

Activities on Lady Elliot Island that make it worth visiting.

Lady Elliot Island is situated around the Southern Great Barrier Reef and classed as a coral cay. It’s just 80 kilometres from Bundaberg and about midway between Lady Musgrave and Fraser Island .

(Please click here for the Map Directory Link to open or apply directions from your location)

1. Snorkelling from the beach

Lady Elliot Island is an ideal spot to go snorkelling and probably one of the more popular activities. This is the Southern area of the Great Barrier Reef and full of exciting creatures to discover. You can walk out straight from the beach in many places, and there are both shallow and deeper areas to explore.

You’re likely to see turtles, sharks, plenty of different tropical fish, coral gardens and Manta Rays (in season). The walk out from the beach is easy, and the water is clear and beautiful. There are also snorkelling tours available for a charge or included in Day trip Ticket package. Obviously, this can be a good option if you’re nervous and new to snorkelling. 

2. Diving experiences

Looking for an amazing diving experience? Lady Elliot is home to over 20 dive sites, making it a perfect destination for both novice and experienced divers. Manta rays are especially popular here, and so many divers come from far and wide to specifically to see them.

Depending on the weather, dives generally depart twice daily, and all divers must be certified. Otherwise, If you’re on a more extended stay, then you could take advantage of the onsite instructors and learn to dive while you’re there. 

3. Reef Walking to find interesting creatures

One of the best family-friendly things to do on Lady Elliot Island is Reef Walking from the shores. It’s amazing what you can find just by strolling along the shore at low tide.

But, of course, you need to be careful where you walk, which makes Reef shoes a must to protect your feet. You can find all sorts of fascinating creatures, like sea cucumbers, large and small clams, starfish, sea urchins, and crabs.

4. Taking a Glass-bottom Boat & Snorkelling Tours

The Glass-bottom Boat & Snorkelling Tours take you further out from shore than you would experience yourself. This helps you explore the stunning bommie sites that are teeming with marine life.

You’ll be able to see stingrays, turtles, and a variety of other fish up close and get an unparalleled view of the colourful coral. Generally, these tours will take about 1 hour, with half of it listening to the commentary and looking through the glass Bottom.

5. Experience the Night Glass Bottom Boat

The night Glass Bottom boat tour is the same as during the day, just different creatures around. The difference here is you’re not jumping into the water snorkelling but viewing through the glass bottom boat with the UV lights.

Many of your underwater sea life glow under these lights and gives a whole different perspective to what you’re seeing during the day. The Great Barrier Reef is a fascinating ecosystem you don’t want to miss it at night.

6. Swimming off the beach, or the Resort Pool

Swimming around Lady Elliot Island is an ideal way to enjoy the warm waters and tropical climate. The resort has a saltwater pool, and the ocean is just a short walk away. Just make sure you check the tide times and the best places to swim before leaving from the beach.

7. Guided Clear Bottom Kayaks Tours

The Guided clear bottom Kayak Tours are perfect to see the beautiful underwater world without getting wet! And, you can join a qualified guide for a 1-hour tour of the reef (Single or Double Kayaks available).

You’ll learn about the different species of fish, turtles, rays, and reef sharks, all from the comfort of your kayak. And because the kayaks have clear bottoms, you’ll have an uninterrupted view of the vibrant coral and marine life below.

8. Enjoy a romantic Sunset Cruise.

The sunset cruise on Lady Elliot Island is the perfect way to end a day of exploring. Enjoy an hour-long tour of the island, complete with snacks and drinks. As the sun sets, you might even catch a glimpse of some of the local wildlife, including migrating humpback whales.

9. Watch the Fish Feeding

On Lady Elliot Island, you can watch fish feeding in the rock pools for 15 minutes at the end of every day. You’ll see a variety of different small fish caught in the shallow section of the reef.

The tour guide will tell you all about the different fish and their habitats and it’s a superb activity for the whole family to enjoy.

Check out my Photo Gallery for sample tourism images needed for websites, blog posts, magazines articles, Marketing and/or Advertisement’s.

10. Join the Island Discovery Tour

The Discovery Tour is a lovely way to learn more about this incredible island. Led by one of the island’s knowledgeable guides, the 30-minute tour takes you around the island, pointing out all the unique features that make it a special place.

You’ll find out why Lady Elliot Island is home to such a diverse range of marine life, and you might even spot a turtle or two! The tour is the perfect way to get orientated when you first arrive on the island, and it’s also a outstanding way to learn more about the island’s history and ecology.

11. Check out the Bird Watching Tour

I will long remember the chirps and echoing bird noises from my entire time on the Island. Surprisingly, the area has become one of the most important seabird nesting sites in the Great Barrier Reef and is popular for bird watchers.

The birdwatching tours are roughly 45 minutes long and you’ll have the chance to see hundreds of birds (and their baby’s). The guides are very experienced and can answer any questions you have about the birds you’re seeing.

12. See Turtles Nesting/ Hatching or Take a Turtle Trek Tour

There are 1-hour tours available to help you see nesting turtles up-close from November to February and hatching turtles until April!

It’s an incredible experience to witness these huge creatures lumbering up the beach to lay their eggs. And each turtle can lay anywhere from 80 to 180 eggs at a time – which is a lot of hatchlings scampering down the beach!

13. Explore the Reef Education Centre

The Reef Education Centre is one of the best ways to learn about the fascinating creatures that call Lady Elliot Island & the Great Barrier Reef home. The Centre is full of wall graphics, facts sheets, and touch-and-feel displays, so there’s plenty to keep you entertained.

14. Night time Star Gazing

One of the best reasons to stay overnight on Lady Elliot Island with be to view the magnificent Night Sky. The dark zone or low light pollution on the Island is well worth it and one of the best places for stargazing. And all you have to do is look up!

You can also join the Night Explorer Tour looking for Nocturnal animals such as frogs, crabs, and birds, and you can end this tour lying on the Airstrip looking at the stars. The guide will fascinate you with stories of the stars and the different constellations you can see.

15. Learn How the ECO Resort works “Behind the scenes.”

The “behind the scenes” tour on Lady Elliot Island is a great way to learn about the solar panels power the island, how they get water, and how they get rid of waste. You’ll also get to see some of the equipment they use to keep the island running.

16. Hear about the Island on a Historical Tour

The 45-minute historical tour on Lady Elliot Island focuses on the island’s past as a guano mining site and, later, a lighthouse. Guests will learn about the difficult conditions faced by the workers, as well as the daily life of the lighthouse keepers.

17. Nightly talks & Presentations

Nightly presentations on Lady Elliot Island are held in the Reef Education Centre and cover a range of topics relating to the Great Barrier Reef. These include pollution, turtles, sharks, manta rays , and whales. After the presentation, you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions.

18. Have fun with Quiz Nights, Bingo, and Games Evenings

Quiz Nights, Bingo, and Games Evenings are held in the Lagoon Bar. This is way to meet other guests while enjoying some fun and entertainment. Trivia questions are asked based on your knowledge of the Great Barrier Reef or Lady Elliot Island and a fun way to learn.

19. Learn how to Survive on an Island

Take the 45-minute Island Survival Tour on Lady Elliott Island and learn ways to “live off the land” while on an island. During the tour, you will learn about available resources and how to use them to find food, water, and shelter.

How do you get to Lady Elliot Island?

Lady Elliot Island is accessible by small light aircraft, and regular flights depart from Coolangatta in the Gold Coast, Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, and Redcliffe in Brisbane.

The flight time is around 20 minutes to 1.5 hours, and the journey is scenic, offering stunning views of the reef below. So whether you’re going for a Day trip tour or staying for a few nights, this is the only way to get to Lady Elliot Island.

NOTE: Hervey bay and Bundaberg are closer and a little cheaper in price. Where as  Brisbane and the Gold Coast are a little further away, a longer flight (less time on the Island) and a little more expensive.

Where to Stay?

There are various accommodation options available at the Lady Elliot ECO Resort, from Glamping Tents to private bungalows. This include:

• Beachfront Units – These come with 2 bedrooms and air conditioning and are suited for 4 guests
• Glamping Tents – Suited for 2 adults, private bathroom and secluded balcony.
• Reef Units – Mainly suited for couples or families with en-suite bathrooms with Ocean views
• Gardens Units – Again for Couples or families with en-suite bathrooms in a Garden setting
• Eco Cabins – Safari style tents and shared bathroom facilities

When is the best time to visit?

The Best time of year to visit Lady Elliot Island, really depends on what you’re hoping to see. If you’re interested in seeing nesting turtles, then you’ll want to visit during their season from November to March. Manta Rays will be seen around June to October and if you’re hoping to see whales, then visit between May and November.

Summer Months from November to April

• Rainfall from 60ml to 160ml per month
• Temperature from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius
• Water Temperature is around 24 / 25 degrees

Winter Months from May to October

• Rainfall from 30ml to 110ml per month
• Temperature from 16 to 20 degrees
• Water Temperature from 19 to 22 degrees

Suggested Packing Ideas

When your flying into Lady Elliot Island you are limited for luggage (4kg per person for a Day trip). Most visitors can easily stick to this but I do recommend a few essentials!

• Snorkelling Mask
• Money for Drinks & Souvenirs

Whilst you can obtain some of this equipment on the Island like Reef shoes, Snorkelling equipment and Lockers (which is included in your ticket price). Sometimes (especially me) you can feel more comfortable with your own gear.

Facilities available at the Resort

• Cafe and Lagoon Bar
• Dining Room
• Day guests Shower and Toilet Facilities
• Departure Lounge
• Drinking Water
• First Aid room
• Guest laundry
• Manta Lounge
• Padi Dive Shop
• Safe deposit Facility

Packages Available

If you after a weekend away or package deals involving a few tours and accommodation then please visit the Lady Elliot Island website HERE for more details on what they have available at the time you would like to travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do you need on lady elliot island.

Lady Elliot Island is a day trip destination for many, and this is perfectly sufficient to get a taste of what the island offers. But if you can, its recommended for two nights on Lady Elliot Island . This way, you can spend a whole day on the island exploring all her nooks and crannies and many hours snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef.

Divers could easily stay for a week on Lady Elliot and not get bored, as there are many dive sites close by.

Are there Stingers (Jelly Fish) at Lady Elliot Island?

Lady Elliot Island is a beautiful place to visit, and it’s not just because of the stunning views. It’s also because you don’t have to worry about getting stung by a jellyfish! That’s right, you’re not likely to encounter stingers in the summertime.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you should let your guard down completely and always be aware of your surroundings. For example, I have found coral spawning season (in the summer) and sea plants floating around on the surface will cause skin irritations and sometimes blisters.

Are there sharks at Lady Elliot Island?

Many people come to Lady Elliot Island hoping to see sharks, and they’re not disappointed! Sharks can be found in the waters around Lady Elliot Island, although they are more common in some areas, than others. Reef sharks are often seen near the reef, while tiger sharks can sometimes be spotted in the deeper waters further offshore.

Is there WIFI on Lady Elliot?

No data access is available on Lady Elliot Island, but the resort offers guests Wi-Fi. So, if you want to stay connected while you’re on the island, ask reception for the resort’s Wi-Fi service.

Is it a green zone?

Lady Elliot Island is also a Green Marine National Park (Green Zone), which means that no fishing or collecting of natural items is allowed. This helps protect the reef’s delicate ecosystem and ensures that future generations can enjoy its beauty.

Are dogs allowed?

Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on Lady Elliot Island. This policy is in place to protect the local wildlife and the reef and to ensure that visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Wrap up – Is Lady Elliot Island Worth Visiting?

Queensland has plenty of Island options to explore along the east coast of Australia, and Lady Elliot would have to be in my top 5. Thanks for reading this blog post today to find out if Lady Elliot Island is worth visiting and the best things to do there. I hope you found the information you were looking for. 

While in the area you might also like to see:

Is Surfers Paradise worth visiting & the best Things to do?

Is Brisbane worth visiting & the best things to do?

The Mount Coot Tha Lookout in Brisbane & things to do

Best Things to do on Bribie Island

“Hi, travel enthusiasts! I’m Chris Fry, The Aquarius Traveller Blogger. I’ve been exploring the world since 2007, documenting my journeys through the lens of my camera. Having visited over 37 countries (including my home Australia), I’ve gained first-hand experiences that help you plan your adventures.

So, whether you need insider tips, or want to live vicariously through my escapades – You’ll find something to love in my blog.”

This place looks really inviting. Would love to go there sometime but at present I am over 3000 km away.

You can fly out of Brisbane the next time your up 🙂

Wow you are a wonderful advert for Elliot Island!!!! Sure makes me want to visit!!!!! Thank you

Your welcome Ally 🙂

We’re a group of volunteers and starting a new scheme in our community. Your site provided us with valuable information to work on. You’ve done a formidable job and our entire community will be grateful to you.

It’s difficult to find knowledgeable people on this topic, but you seem like you know what you’re talking about! Thanks

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• Barrier Reef Australia
• Things To Do

Lady Elliot Island Tours - Day Trip - Scenic Flight

Tour Code: 745

Departing: Hervey Bay

Tour Highlights

• Experience a full day on Lady Elliot Island to explore the Island and pristine coral reef.
• See the Great Barrier Reef from a spectacular scenic flight from the air as well as below the waters surface with guided snorkel tour and glass bottom boat tour.
• Snorkel the pristine World Heritage Listed southern Great Barrier Reef at Lady Elliot Island and observe the huge variety of marine life and seabird life. See turtles, dolphins, whales and manta rays!
• Witness the majestic Humpback Whales during whale season from May - November!
• This will be one very spectacular Great Barrier Reef tour you will never forget - a scenic flight - amazing variety of marine life and birdlife on an eco accredited Lady Elliot Island. 

Description & Tour Inclusions

Included in price.

• Return Scenic Flight to Lady Elliot Island
• Glass bottom boat tour/guided snorkel tour
• Welcome Drink/Island Orientation
• Hot and Cold Buffet Lunch
• Use of Snorkel equipment (mask, snorkel & fins)
• Fish feeding in the lagoon fish pool
• Snorkel lesson in resort pool (if required)
• Use of day guest facilities (showers and towels)
• Environmental Management Charge

Spectacular Lady Elliot Island Tour - Lady Elliot Island Day Trip fly from Agnes Water, Seventeen Seventy, Hervey Bay/Bundaberg/Brisbane/Gold Coast

New scenic flights departing Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy to Lady Elliot Island.

Home of the Manta Ray and the Great Eight on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia

Southern Great Barrier Reef day tour scenic flights to Lady Elliot Island:- 

• Agnes Water / 1770 Seventeen Seventy,
• Hervey Bay / Fraser Coast, 
• Bundaberg ,
• Brisbane Redcliffe
• Gold Coast (Coolangatta), 

A beautiful eco island with a huge variety of marine life and birdlife and o ne of the most treasured islands located on the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef just north of K'gari (Fraser Island), Lady Elliot Island is situated within a highly protected 'Green Zone' and home to over 1,200 species of marine life.

These include the giant  Mantra rays that attract guests from all over the world to see their graceful underwater ballet, the green and loggerhead sea turtles, the huge variety of seabirds and unspoilt coral reef.  

Enjoy an unforgettable day exploring Lady Elliot Island including return scenic flights, welcome drink, hot and cold buffet lunch, guided glass bottom boat and snorkel tour, plus guided island activities or snorkelling and relaxing on the beach.

Visitors during the whale season (from May - November) may also be fortunate enough to witness the spectacular Humpback Whales as they breach and slap their fins during their annual migration.

There is no boat access to Lady Elliot Island, just an enjoyable scenic flight across the Great Barrier Reef of Australia departing from Hervey Bay (Fraser Coast), Bundaberg as well as options from Brisbane and Gold Coast and now Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy .

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Lady Elliot Island Day Trip ex Agnes Water/ Seventeen Seventy/Hervey Bay / Bundaberg / Gold Coast / Brisbane

Experience the pristine waters of the southern Great Barrier Reef surrounding Lady Elliot Island in this all inclusive one day Great Barrier Reef tour departing Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy/ Hervey Bay / Bundaberg / Brisbane or Gold Coast.

Agnes Water Scenic Flight Departure: 8:45am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 4pm - 25 minute flight approx. Bundaberg Scenic Flight Departure: 8:40am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 4pm - 30 minute flight approx. Hervey Bay Scenic Flight Departure: 8:10am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 4pm - 40 minute flight approx. Brisbane (Redcliffe) Scenic Flight Departure: 7.15am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 2.30pm - 90 minute flight approx. Gold Coast (Coolangatta) Scenic Flight Departure: 6:45am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 2:30pm - 120 minute flight time

Flights departing Agnes Water / 1770 require a minimum of 6 passengers to depart. Departing from the east coast your day begins with a stunning  scenic flight over the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef as you make your way to Lady Elliot Island. 

On arrival you will be greeted with a refreshing welcome drink and brief island orientation tour and able to explore the island at your leisure.  

Enjoy a guided glass bottom boat tour and guided snorkel tour to explore the reef and view the beauty of spectacular coloured fish and large variety of coral. 

Ensure to keep a look out for the abundant manta rays, turtles and dolphins which live in the protected green zone of Lady Elliot Island.

Sit back and refuel with a tasty hot and cold buffet lunch served in the restaurant as you reflect on your morning adventures.

During your day at Lady Elliot Island ensure to join one of the island's guided activities of fish feeding display, reef walk or enjoy the afternoon snorkelling and relaxing on the island before your return scenic flight.

See more scenic flights across the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

Tour Details

Tour languages offered.

Departs From

Departure time.

• Agnes Water Scenic Flight Departure: 8:45am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 4pm - 25 minute flight approx.
• Bundaberg Scenic Flight Departure: 8:40am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 4pm - 30 minute flight approx.
• Hervey Bay Scenic Flight Departure: 8:10am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 4pm - 40 minute flight approx.
• Brisbane (Redcliffe) Scenic Flight Departure: 7.15am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 2.30pm - 90 minute flight approx.
• Gold Coast (Coolangatta) Scenic Flight Departure: 6:45am / Depart Lady Elliot Island 2:30pm - 120 minute flight time

Departure Instructions

Please ensure to check in for flight 30 minutes prior to scheduled flight departure time

Destinations

• Lady Elliot Island

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Flights not available Christmas Day Flights are subject to change and may include transit stops from southern ports Flights departing Agnes Water / 1770 require a minimum of 6 passengers to depart

Available for Purchase / Hire

• Lockers available for hire

Fitness Level Required

Restrictions.

Luggage Limit – Small backpack (max 4kg) or personal items e.g., Handbag/purse, tablet or laptop in thin case, camera, coat/wrap. Items must be carried on the lap or put in the baggage compartment as there are no overhead lockers and there is no stowage facility under the seats.

Eco Certifications

What to Bring

• Camera (charged)
• Swimsuit, hat, sunscreen and sunglasses
• Reef walking shoes (covered toes)/crocs are highly recommended. Alternatively some are available for use on the island.
• Luggage Limit - small backpack/bag (max 4kgs). Items must be carried on the lap as no overhead or under seat baggage stowage facilities.

Child Policy

Infant 0 - 2 years free of charge

Cancellation Policy

All cancellations must be in writing.

We understand things may change, so we have made cancellations very easy.

In every instance we always recommend you purchase travel insurance for life’s last-minute hiccups.

Please see our   terms and conditions  for details prior to booking.

Operators policy:

• No cancellation fee applies if the booking is cancelled outside 48 hours prior to departure
• Cancellation within 48 hours of travel – 50% cancellation fee applies  
• Cancellation within 24 hours of travel – 100% cancellation fee applies 
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended. If you are unable to travel for medical reasons, weather events, flight cancellations or any other reason, refunds will not be given. 
• A letter of support for your insurance claim can be obtained from the Reservations Team. 
• Day guests please be aware that Lady Elliot Island cannot be responsible for the weather. 
• Should weather conditions result in cancellation of the tour by the operator, you will be able to transfer your trip to another date at no additional cost. 
• If your travel plans do not allow you to postpone, a full refund will be issued. 
• Please note that weather conditions may vary whilst on the island and result in cancellation of water activities. 
• Once the day trip has commenced no refund will be issued. 

Prices are AUD, per adult and include all levies fees and taxes.

Child: au $399.00 Family: au $1,888.00

Choose Your Option

13 yrs & over

Ages of Children

(discounts may apply), 1300 231 118, +61 427 074 745, you may also like.

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Lady Elliot Island Day Trip From 1770 including Scenic Flights

Southern Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

Visit the pristine Lady Elliot Island on a one of a kind day trip with return scenic flights and a guided glass bottom boat snorkel you’ll never forget.

DESCRIPTION

Lady Elliot Island is a jewel in the Southern Great Barrier Reef, famous for its incredible population of turtles, manta rays and pristine coral reef. Visit the island paradise for a one-of-a-kind day trip that begins with a spectacular scenic flight over the glistening waters of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Landing directly on the island, you’ll be mere footsteps from the shore. Hosts will welcome you with an island orientation tour before you set out on a glass bottom boat for a guided snorkelling adventure. Swim alongside turtles and watch tropical fish darting in and out of the coral gardens as you discover a magical underwater world.

A buffet lunch is served in the restaurant and the island’s guided activities or head out for another afternoon swim or snorkel before your return flight back to Agnes Waters/1770.

• Return ‘scenic’ flight
• 6-7 hours to explore Lady Elliot Island
• Welcome drink on arrival
• Orientation/Island tour
• Combined glass bottom boat/guided snorkel tour
• Hot & cold full buffet lunch
• Use of snorkel equipment (mask, snorkel, fins & short wetsuit)
• Fish feeding in the Lagoon Fish Pool
• Snorkel lesson (if required)
• Use of Day Guest facilities (storage facilities, shower facilities, towels, sunscreen, reef walking shoes)
• Experience the wonders of Lady Elliot Island on the Great Barrier Reef
• Tour the reef in a glass-bottomed boat
• Learn to snorkel, feed the fish, take a guided reef walk or stroll to a deserted beach
• Scenic flight departs Agnes Water/1770 at 8:45am
• Scenic flight departs Lady Elliot Island at 4pm
• Flight may include transit stop
• Please allow approximately 5 hours to explore Lady Elliot Island.
• This experience takes place in Lady Elliot Island.

Departure Location

• This experience departs from the Agnes Waters/1770 airstrip.

Additional Information

• Minimum 6 passengers are required for tour to run
• All activities are subject to weather and tide conditions
• Subject to availability and minimum numbers apply
• Transfers not included, guests to make own way to airport
• Hotel transfers available at additional cost
• No flights available Christmas day
• Sole traveller surcharge $100 return from Brisbane (Redcliffe) (non-commissionable or refundable)
• Luggage limit 4kg per person
• Includes fuel levy of $45pp
• Valid for travel until 31 March 2024
• Cancellation conditions apply

Cancellation Policy

• Change your booking up to 48 hours before the start time of your experience
• Changes are not permitted within 48 hours of your experience
• Late arrivals or no shows may result in you forfeiting your experience

Booking Information

• Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
• Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience
• Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction
• Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control
• For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher
• We strongly suggest reconfirming your booking with the tour operator within 24 hours of making your booking and prior to making other travel arrangements

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Short note to thank you for a terrific itinerary and choice of accommodations. We got back from Australia having had the best 'real' holiday in years. Loved it! The order of the trip was perfect and all the hotel bookings worked seamlessly.

We had a wonderful time! We so appreciate your arranging everything for us. It all went very smoothly. We just had to show up where and when you told us to. It took away any stress to this leg of our journey.

At long last & very overdue, we wish to thank you very much for all the bookings you made on our behalf for our adventure. We were pleased with all the accommodation bookings you made, we particularly noted we got what we asked for, walk in showers, twin beds & all clean & tidy. Thanks Madi, well done!!

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Lady Elliot Island Boat

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Quick Links

• Sustainability
• Things To Do In Bundaberg
• Accessibility

Great Barrier Reef

• What We Are Doing To Help The Reef
• Nature’s Calendar
• Turtle Season
• The Great 8
• Great Barrier Reef Fish
• Great Barrier Reef – Facts And Figures
• Lady Musgrave Island Day Tour
• Snorkelling
• Scuba Diving
• Whale Watching
• Swim With Turtles
• Glass Bottom Boat
• Guided Island Walks
• Schools and Education
• Junior Reef Keeper Program
• Reef Keeper Program
• Bird Watching

Contact Information

Lady Musgrave Experience acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land and seas on which we work, play and live; the Taribelang Bunda, Gooreng Gooreng, Gurang, and Bailai Peoples. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and future; and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

Day Tour ex Brisbane (Redcliffe)

The Lady Elliot Island Great Barrier Reef all-inclusive Day Tour is the only one of its type in Australia. The visit allows you to view one of the most pristine sections of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef from the air as well as from above and below the water all in one day.

Your tour commences with a pickup from your city hotel at approx 6.30 am and a complimentary transfer to Redcliffe Airport for a scenic flight to the coral cay of Lady Elliot Island. Lady Elliot is regarded as one of the best snorkelling and diving locations on the reef, famous for its unspoilt coral reef and an amazing array of marine life! Upon arrival on Lady Elliot Island, the guide will take you on a brief orientation tour of the island and will escort you to the Day Guest facilities to collect your snorkel equipment.

You will then join a glass-bottom boat & guided snorkel tour to view a large variety of coral and brilliantly coloured fish, with the possibility to encounter turtles, dolphins and the resident manta rays. A hot & cold buffet lunch is served in the Beachfront Dining Room and includes a choice of wine, beer and soft drink. After lunch, join your guide for fish feeding in the Fish Pond and at 2.30 pm depart on a scenic flight back to Redcliffe. The tour concludes at approximately 4.15 pm with a return transfer back to your hotel. A light breakfast and afternoon tea (water & biscuit) are served inflight.

$1,090* per adult & $805 per child *Sole Adult ex Redcliffe $1,190 (1 April 2024 – 31 March 2025)

$1,099* per adult & $820 per child *Sole Adult ex Redcliffe $1,199 (1 April 2025 – 31 March 2026)

Depart Brisbane (Redcliffe): 07:15 am

Depart Lady Elliot Island: 02:30 pm

Approx. 90-minute flight. Flight duration may vary depending on weather, aircraft type and possible transit stop.

• Hotel transfers (inner-city hotels only)
• Return scenic flight to Lady Elliot Island
• Orientation tour/welcome drink
• Glass bottom boat/guided snorkel tour
• Snorkel equipment (mask, snorkel & fins) and short wetsuit
• Hot & cold buffet lunch including prawns, beer, wine and soft drink
• Towels, sunscreen and reef walking shoes provided
• Use of day guest facilities (storage and shower facilities)
• Fully guided tour
• Environmental Management Charge

Operates Daily – except Christmas Day (25 December)

• LUGGAGE LIMIT: Small backpack (max 4kg) or personal items e.g. handbags/purse, tablet or laptop in a thin case, camera, coat/wrap. Items must be carried on the lap or put in the baggage compartment as there are no overhead lockers and there is no storage facility under the seats
• Swimsuit, comfortable walking shoes/crocs, hat, sunscreen and camera
• Reef walking shoes (covered toes)/crocs are highly recommended (reef walking shoes available on the island)
• Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure (07:00am). Click here for more information on getting to Brisbane (Redcliffe) 
• Children 3-12 years child rate / under 3 years free of charge
• $100 single person surcharge (sole passenger surcharge)
• Flights are subject to change and may include transit stops
• Flight times vary depending on weather, aircraft type and possible transit stops
• All activities are subject to weather and tide conditions
• E & OE – The above prices were correct at the time of publication and should be used as a guide only. Please contact our Reservations Team for an accurate quote
• Please see cancellation policy