Viper
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book a ticket for my children on Viper?
Yes, if your child is 130cm or taller at the time of travel. The reason for this height limit is for safety. The vessel travels at incredible speeds, and every seat has a seat belt, that a small child would not be safe in. We do not carry snorkelling gear, wetsuits or life jackets for smaller children.
Is Viper wheelchair accessible?
Viper is only moderately accessible. Guests must be seated in one of the boat seats for travel, with the seatbelt fastened. The toilet is not an accessible toilet. There are steps on entry and throughout the boat.
What other mobility challenges might guests face?
The dock ramp may be steep at low tide. To board the vessel, guests will have to step across from dock to boat. Upon arrival at Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach, guests must climb out of the dinghy, or down the swim steps, and may have to step into shallow water. The Hill Inlet walk to the lookout over Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island is marked by Queensland Parks as ‘moderate’ or grade 2. It has of a combination of sloped, dirt and sand bushwalking trails and large man-made stone and timber steps. Comfortable footwear is advised.
Can I travel if I'm pregnant or injured?
Viper is fast, fun and thrilling, but she is not for everyone. We do not recommend travelling on Viper if you are pregnant, or have any existing injuries, especially neck or back issues, heart conditions, broken bones, etc. All guests will have to sign a health and safety waiver before travelling with us on Viper. Concealment of any conditions that are not compatible with safe snorkelling and high-speed boating is a risk to both yourself and us.
What drinks can I buy on board?
An assortment of soft drinks are available to buy on board. Filtered water is provided free of charge - byo bottle. There is no alcohol for sale on Viper. Consumption of alcohol is not encouraged. Guests found to be consuming alcohol or intoxicated will not be permitted to snorkel afterwards.
What's on the menu?
Viper offers a lunch buffet and morning and afternoon tea. - Morning / afternoon tea: lamingtons and fruit platter - Lunch buffet: 3 seasonal salads, cold meats (ham, salami, chicken), cheese, olives, bread rolls, condimentsYou may byo snacks if you are extra hungry as we do not sell any more food on board.
Can you cater for dietary requirements?
We can cater for some dietary requirements, with advance notice. Please let us know when you book. Vegan options will incur a surcharge.
Do you cancel if the weather is bad?
The only reason we would cancel a tour would be for the safety and comfort of our guests due to high winds or rough seas. Rain does not guarantee cancellation. We would make this decision in the afternoon on the day before travel. You will be notified as soon as possible to reschedule or receive a refund in the event of operator cancellations within 24 hours of travel. Every booking agent has their own terms and conditions which may supersede ours. Please read their terms & conditions carefully to ensure you understand what refund/cancellation policy applies to your booking. Travel insurance is highly recommended, especially in the wet season.
What happens if I have to cancel due to Covid or other illness?
We have a Cancellation Policy which protects both us and the customer. We offer full cancellation of your ticket price (exclusive of CC fees) if you cancel your trip with us 24 hours or more in advance of travel. If you have booked with a travel agent/booking agency their terms & conditions may differ from ours. Travel insurance is highly recommended
What about seasickness?
Viper is custom designed to minimise sea sickness. But if you are prone to seasickness, it is a good idea to check with a chemist for the best preventative motion sickness medication (natural or medicated) for you. We do not sell sea sickness pills on board the boat. Please remember that tablets are a preventative, not a cure, so it’s best to take them before we depart, and bring some with you to take during the day if needed.
Do you pick up from any of the island resorts?
Unfortunately, we are not able to pick you up from any of the island resorts. We depart from and return to Airlie Beach, and it is best if you are staying in local accommodation.
Do you offer transfers?
We offer complimentary transfers within the Airlie Beach area – from Cannonvale to Jubilee Pocket. If you’re staying at a location outside of this area we can provide you with the details of your closest pick up point. You will need to make your own way to this pick up point before the appointed pick up time. Your confirmation email and reminders will contain the time and location of your pick-up. Alternatively, you can make your own way to the marina where there is all day parking, for a fee.
Do you cater for cruise ship visitors?
Our tour departure and return times are not compatible with cruise ship port times. Some cruise ships have a contracted tour booked on Viper for their guests, which is exclusively available to book through the ship's shorex program.
I can't swim, can I still snorkel?
Unfortunately, if you can not swim, you may not be able to snorkel. We have noodles and life jackets available on board, but we only have 3 crew members for up to 36 guests and can not focus on a small handful of non-swimmers only. Viper stops on a wild, remote reef without infrastructure, and guests get off the back of the boat into deep water to begin their snorkel. This can be daunting for inexperienced snorkellers and weak or non-swimmers. Please consider if Viper is the right tour for you.