This week, Australia’s leading experiential tourism group, Journey Beyond, celebrated “Reefworld Reimagined,” a special event that brought together leading travel media and trade industry figures in the Whitsundays for the official reopening of Reefworld.
Guests first stayed overnight on Hamilton Island, dining against the breathtaking backdrop of Catseye Bay, at renowned chef Josh Nyland’s Catseye Pool Club at recently opened The Sundays, before cruising to Hardy Reef the following morning.
Proceedings opened with a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country by Robbie Congoo, a proud Ngaro and Gia traditional owner.
Cruise Whitsundays General Manager Shaun Cawood welcomed guests to a new era of overnight reef stays, saying: “The reopening of Reefworld marks an exciting new chapter for overnight stays on the Great Barrier Reef. Our iconic pontoon, permanently moored at Hardy Reef, has undergone an extensive transformation and is now exclusively dedicated to overnight guests. With its sophisticated coastal-chic design, enhanced spaces to relax and unwind, and uninterrupted views of the reef, Reefworld offers guests a truly immersive way to experience one of Australia’s most extraordinary natural wonders.”
Alicia Triggs, Executive General Manager Sales & Partnerships, reinforced the significant investment, saying, “Reefworld Reimagined forms part of Journey Beyond’s $42 million investment in the region and reflects the continued premiumisation of its Cruise Whitsundays portfolio – alongside the build of a new 36-metre catamaran. The refurbishment of Reefworld represents Journey Beyond’s commitment to taking guests further and elevating their experience of the Great Barrier Reef.”
Jennifer Vandekreeke, newly appointed Managing Director, Experiences & Attractions, opened the pontoon with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. She said:
“Reefworld is a globally unique, reef-immersive stay. Overnight guests have the reef here entirely to themselves from the first snorkel of the day to the champagne moment, watching the sunset in this most remote, iconic, breathtaking destination before retiring for the evening under a canopy of stars in the spacious and well-appointed Reefbeds, each with its own view of the reef.
This transformation reflects Journey Beyond’s commitment to creating experiences that go beyond visiting the reef offering guests a genuine connection to it.”
Guests enjoyed a seafood lunch before taking part in a range of marine activities, including a guided snorkel tour, with some opting to scuba dive. Mother Nature also put on a spectacular show with whales breaching as they swam by, to a sunset that won’t be forgotten. After such a fun-filled day, guests retired to the redesigned Reefsleep accommodation, featuring spacious, four-poster Reefbeds.
Reefworld is an all-inclusive experience, with an enhanced menu featuring a signature, chef-led three-course dining experience featuring fresh local seafood and paired with premium Australian wines.
Guests enjoy guided snorkelling adventures with marine experts and learn from knowledgeable hosts who bring the reef’s stories to life. Whether relaxing on deck, exploring vibrant underwater worlds, or retreating to their unique overnight accommodation, guests can unwind, connect and experience the reef in a way that is truly intimate, immersive and unforgettable.
Journey Beyond continues to lead the way in creating journeys that inspire, connect, and stay with travellers long after they return home.
