The most incredible way to experience Heart Reef up close

Nestled approximately 60km northeast of Hamilton Island (one of The Whitsundays' holiday hotspots), Heart Reef sits like a love letter written in coral within the turquoise canvas of the Great Barrier Reef. At 17 metres wide, this perfectly formed heart isn't just a lucky snapshot angle – Mother Nature really did create the ultimate landscape.

But here's the twist: for years, this iconic landmark could only be admired from above during scenic flights. No swimming. No snorkelling. No getting up close and personal with Queensland's most famous piece of coral real estate.

That's where Hamilton Island Air's once-in-a-lifetime tour changes everything.

The experience: Journey to the Heart

Forget ordinary reef experiences. The Heart Island tour kicks off with a 30-minute helicopter flight from Hamilton Island that'll have you pressing your face against the window like an excited five-year-old.

You'll soar over the white swirls of Hill Inlet and the impossibly perfect shores of Whitehaven Beach before arriving at your exclusive destination – a mirrored pontoon that reflects the surrounding ocean so perfectly it nearly disappears.

Once the helicopter touches down on the floating helipad, a secret staircase reveals itself, leading you down to what might be the fanciest "boat shed" ever created. Pop the champagne – you've got 90 minutes of paradise all to yourself.

Want to see Heart Reef up close? Your guide will ready the glass-bottom boat for your private tour around the famous coral formation. While you can't swim or dive at Heart Reef itself (it's protected for good reason), you'll have the opportunity to snorkel among impressive coral walls nearby– without another tourist in sight.

Back at the pontoon, options abound. Take a dip in the undercover shallow pool, snorkel directly off the back of the pontoon in absurdly clear water, or simply lounge with bubbles in hand as the Great Barrier Reef stretches endlessly before you.

The best part? You're sharing this slice of heaven with just five other guests. That's it.

How to snag your spot on this ultra-exclusive tour

Warning: This isn't your average reef day trip.

The Journey to the Heart experience by Hamilton Island Air is exclusively available to guests staying at Hamilton Island (sorry, day-trippers). Participants must be at least 14 years old, and with only six spots available per tour, booking ahead is essential.

Tours depart daily and include the return helicopter flight, glass-bottom boat tour of Heart Reef lagoon, snorkelling equipment, and refreshments. At three hours total, it's a short but spectacular experience that justifies every cent.

The heart behind Heart Island: a passion project with purpose