Published on Jan, 2025
This is a once in a lifetime experience, not to be missed! I booked the experience for my husband's 60th birthday on Boxing Day. From the time of booking through to the end of our stay the service we received from everyone at Cruise Whitsundays was first class, which was a significant factor as to why our stay on the reef was so wonderful. Those staying on the reef were given priority boarding on the boat and a reserved seating section so it was nice not to have to worry about rushing to get a seat as it was a peak time of year, although the boat was plenty big enough. It was also an opportunity to get to know the other guests who were staying overnight, who were all lovely.
As it was for my husband's birthday, I had booked one of the underwater suites. It was absolutely fabulous ! - like staying in a 5-star hotel, with lovely eco friendly toiletries and bathrobes in the ensuite for us. It was air conditioned so made sleeping easy. We were checked in to our suite as soon as we arrived on the pontoon so were able to sit in our suite and watch all the many species of fish swim past our windows, including a large turtle, which was magical, while waiting for all the day visitors to leave.
Once all the day visitors had left, we had the pontoon to ourselves which was brilliant. We could snorkel easily - my husband and I went on the snorkel safari (which was included with our package), led by Jess who was excellent. My husband also went on his first scuba dive and absolutely loved it. All the equipment and the stinger suits were of excellent quality, although we were lucky not to see any jellyfish!
The staff who looked after us on the pontoon, Charlotte, Grace and Hayley, couldn't do enough for us - they were so helpful and friendly at all times. We had dinner, breakfast and lunch on the pontoon, cooked by the resident chef. All meals were absolutely delicious and the wines were excellent and plentiful. In between, snacks were served - we certainly didn't go hungry!
The weather was perfect too - we got to see a gorgeous sunset and sunrise.
All in all, this was an absolutely amazing experience, never to be forgotten. I would definitely recommend booking the underwater suite if budgets allow.
Thank you all at Cruise Whitsundays - you did an amazing job!
