Ocean Rafting's Northern Exposure is the most popular adventure-style day tour out of Airlie. The boats are rigid-hulled inflatables that bounce across the water at 30+ knots — exhilarating, occasionally bumpy, and not for everyone. You hit four spots in one day: Hill Inlet lookout, Whitehaven Beach, and two snorkel sites in the protected bays of Hook Island. The pace is intentionally fast so you cover more ground than a standard catamaran day tour. Lunch is taken on Whitehaven. Smaller boats mean smaller groups (around 30 people max) and you arrive at Hill Inlet ahead of the slower catamarans, which makes a real difference for the lookout photos.
Highlights
- ✓Beat the catamarans to Hill Inlet
- ✓Two snorkel sites at Hook Island
- ✓30-knot adventure boat ride
- ✓Group size capped at 30
- ✓Picnic lunch on Whitehaven
What to expect
Before
Take seasickness tablets — the ride out is fast and bouncy.
During
High-speed transit, Hill Inlet hike, beach time on Whitehaven, two snorkel stops, return.
After
Salt-encrusted but happy. Showers at Port of Airlie if you need them.
Practical info
- Best time to go
- May to October. Avoid if you've had recent back or neck issues.
- What to bring
- Strap-on sunglasses, swimwear, rashie, light snack to supplement lunch.
- Booking tips
- Books out a week ahead in peak season. Northern Exposure is preferred over Southern Lights for first-timers.
- Accessibility
- Not suitable for pregnant women, anyone with back or neck issues, or limited mobility.
