Australia’s first underwater accommodation is officially open

Cruise Whitsundays has opened Australia’s first underwater accommodation, releasing never-before-seen visuals of this highly anticipated and exclusive offering on the iconic Great Barrier Reef.

‘Reefsuites’ are the centrepiece of Cruise Whitsundays and the Queensland government’s newly developed Reefworld pontoon, located on Hardy Reef.

Offering two premium underwater hotel suites with adjoining en suites, Reefsuites enjoy panoramic floor-to-ceiling views into the blue with an array of marine life.

When night-time falls, guests are offered the option to turn on a light, further illuminating their outer surroundings.

Each Reefsuite has a two-person capacity, and an all-inclusive experience starts from $799 per person.

Luke Walker, chief operating officer at Journey Beyond (parent company of Cruise Whitsundays), said the new Reefsuites are a landmark moment for Australia.

“We are extremely privileged to have access to such a truly breathtaking and remote part of Australia and to provide both local and international guests the chance to gain a deeper appreciation of our wonderful Great Barrier Reef,” he said.

“A stay at our newly developed Reefsuites offers an all-inclusive experience like no other.

“It includes a return cruise to our Reefworld pontoon, outstanding marine activities, premium beverages, onboard chefs using local produce and, of course, access to an unforgettable stay underwater and alongside Australia’s heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef.

The development of Reefsuites has been part of an $10 million project for Cruise Whitsundays’ Reefworld pontoon. The development began in 2017, with the pontoon being meticulously constructed after damage sustained in 2017’s Cyclone Debbie.

Queensland’s minister for Tourism Industry Development, Kate Jones, said: “The redevelopment of the Cruise Whitsundays pontoon and the subsequent opening of Reefsuites is an absolute game-changer for our local tourism sector.

“This will be one of the most iconic tourism experiences in Australia.”

Jones said the project team had ensured the Reef was protected at every stage of the redevelopment, including the replanting of 4,000 pieces of coral from old moorings onto existing reef walls to rejuvenate Hardy Reef.

“Tourism is crucial to this region. It’s important that we promote investment in great projects like this to stimulate the economy,” she said.