Ocean Rafting (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Ocean Rafting?
What makes it 78% Kids-Friendly: Children 2-12 pay child rate, receive free wetsuits and lesson-led snorkels, yet 7-hour schedule, high-speed bumps, stairs at Hill Inlet and patchy shade can exhaust or unsettle some kids.
Positives:
- Free child wetsuits: All children ≤14 get free sunsuits or wetsuits for added safety.
- Included transfers: Courtesy bus picks you up and drops you off at Airlie Beach.
- Shaded deck: Boat has covered seating to protect kids from sun or light rain.
Challenges:
- Uneven lookout path: Steps and coral sand can be tricky—bring sturdy shoes.
- Tour length: Expect 2–3 hours on boat and stops; younger kids may tire.
- Stinger suits: Wearing full suits can feel warm on summer days.
What is Ocean Rafting?
- A marine tour operator based in Airlie Beach, deploying high-speed rigid-inflatable rafts for outer reef access
- Fleet of eight purpose-built vessels certified under Australian maritime regulations and equipped for snorkel operations
- Integrated fixed-wing flight and raft-transfer packages linking Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet
What is so special about Ocean Rafting for with kids?
- High-speed fun with captain-driven “donuts”
- Safe, guided snorkel at a gentle reef site
- Scenic Hill Inlet lookout with family-friendly walk
- Relaxing beach time on Whitehaven’s white sand
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Lets the family enjoy the boat ride, beach stop, snorkel and lookout without rushing young kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Ocean Rafting
Captain-driven “donuts”:
Kids love the playful high-speed turns on calm bays.
Tip: Sit mid-boat for the best spray and smooth ride.
Short reef snorkel:
Swim at an easy inner-fringing site with guide support.
Tip: Use child-sized gear and stay close to guides.
Hill Inlet lookout walk:
Climb to the lookout for reef and beach panorama.
Tip: Bring a carrier for the 200-step climb and sturdy shoes.
Whitehaven Beach time:
Relax on white silica sand, split over north and south ends.
Tip: Pack a beach umbrella and small toys for sand play.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Ocean Rafting
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen: Use sunscreen on boat and reapply after snorkeling.
- Pack extra clothes: Kids change after snorkeling to stay warm and dry.
- Reserve front seats: Board early to let kids sit at the front for best views.
Reviews of Ocean Rafting
Arron Orlando
Did the full-day Ocean Rafting tour around the Whitsundays and honestly, what a day! The perfect mix of snorkelling, beach time and a bushwalk with views that don’t look real. The crew were incredible full of energy, so knowledgeable and just made the whole day fun from start to finish. We actually had a bit of a scary medical situation while on the bushwalk and they were unbelievable. Calm, car...
Laura Subačė
We had the most incredible day with Ocean Rafting in Airlie Beach! Our adventure started with a semi-private flight over the stunning Whitsunday Islands and the breathtaking Whitehaven Beach, followed by a flyover of the Great Barrier Reef and the iconic Heart Reef — absolutely unforgettable! The second part of the day was an ocean rafting experience with the amazing crew, Ella and Skipper Daisy....
Dean Kay
Did the Southern Lights tour at the end of September. Had a brilliant day with the family. Lots of fun and an experience we will never forget. Scenery and snorkeling were expceptional on our day. Crew were informative and professional whilst keeping a fun atmosphere the whole time. Did one other tour with another group on Hamilton and this was the better of the two.
Maria Luiza Giordano
My partner and I had the best time on Thrilla! The winds were strong, but that wasn’t a downside at all. It actually made the ride even more fun with all the bumps! The crew was friendly, attentive, and helpful. A big shout-out to Gus and Ben, who were so nice and enthusiastic! The whole team made our trip unforgettable. Whitehaven Beach is a paradise-like place. The Hill Inlet lookout looks lik...
Dan Grant
Amazing day with the Ocean Rafting crew! Picked up from our accom and transported to the Port where we sorted the gear we needed. I was on crutches and the team were super helpful to me. We loved the speed boat stunts and the diving - absolute magic! We got lunch included and it was high quality and fresh. Harry, Chris and Brad were legends and took good care of us all and made sure we had a good ...
When is the best time to visit Ocean Rafting (Great Barrier Reef Area, Australia)?
November–May is stinger season; use provided stinger suits. Winter months bring calmer seas and fewer crowds.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Prescription mask hire | AUD 20 |
| Wetsuit hire (ages 4+) | AUD 8 |
| QLD public holiday family surcharge | AUD 50 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 78 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Ocean Rafting
Address: Coral Sea Marina North Village, Shingley Dr, Airlie Beach QLD 4802, Australia
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About Ocean Rafting
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 7 4946 6848Explore Popular Things to Do
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