WE SLEPT OVERNIGHT IN AN UNDERWATER HOTEL REEFSUITES, QUEENSLAND
Visiting the Great Barrier Reef in Australia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But spending the night in an underwater hotel in the middle of the ocean is truly a bucket list item worth checking off! Thankfully, we had the opportunity to do so at the spectacular Reefsuites pontoon.
We’d love to share our experience with you, so here's our experience on Australia’s first underwater hotel! Check out our YouTube video below to watch our full experience and keep on scrolling for more info.
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What is Reefsuites?
Anchored 40 nautical miles from the mainland, Reefsuites is an $8 million pontoon moored right in the middle of the beautiful Hardy Reef. It features an underwater observatory, a restaurant and bar, and a hotel.
While most guests come for a day of snorkelling or scuba diving, only a lucky few will get the opportunity to spend the night aboard. Once the day guests leave, you and just a handful of others will have the pontoon (and this unspoiled section of the ocean) all to yourselves!
Where You Can Sleep
Reefworld has several different accommodation options. The most affordable option is Reefsleep, a tent located on the deck of the pontoon. It's spacious enough to fit two people, with storage, USB chargers, and a canopy that can be unzipped so you can sleep under the stars.
However, the underwater Reefsuites are utterly amazing. They have floor-to-ceiling windows in the bedroom and a private bathroom where you can watch fish, turtles, and any other marine creatures swim by. Unfortunately, there are only two rooms available, so you'll want to book your spot in advance (we're talking months in advance)!
Reefsleep Accommodation
Reefsuite Accommodation
What's Included with Your Stay
All guests will get to enjoy all the amenities offered onboard. That includes snorkelling gear, access to the underwater observatory, meals (breakfast, morning and afternoon tea, lunch, and dinner), drinks (wine and beer included).
Scuba diving is an additional cost, although Reefsuite guests are treated to a private snorkelling tour during their stay.
The trip to the pontoon from the Port of Airlie is also included. This three-hour cruise through the Whitsundays is a tour in itself since you'll be able to just kick back and admire the scenic views of the open ocean.
What is There to Do?
You're in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef, so of course, you'll want to spend time snorkelling or scuba diving in the water. Reefworld also offers helicopter rides (for an extra fee) where you can marvel at the reef from above. If you'd rather stay on board, you can visit the underwater observatory to see the marine creatures up close.
The restaurant onboard is also delicious, with plenty of seafood, vegetarian, and even vegan options available. Of course, you can always just grab an ice-cold beer or soda and spend your afternoon sunbathing on the deck.
Is Reefsuites worth it?
Yes, yes, and yes – Reefworld is an otherworldly experience that's worth every penny. It doesn't matter if you're visiting for the day, sleeping in the upstairs tent, or relaxing in your private underwater suite. Being able to enjoy this tranquil section of the Great Barrier Reef is a must-do for any traveller.
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