The iconic Heart Reef has appeared in many an Instagram post, and now a new island – named Heart Island – has become accessible in the same lagoon. Albeit, only by helicopter for those staying on Hamilton Island.

And, it’s as exclusive as you’d expect. Developed by Hamilton Island Air, a split-level pontoon where your helicopter can land caters for only six guests at a time.

From Hamilton Island, a 30-minute scenic flight will take you over the Whitsunday Islands and Whitehaven Beach before nearing the Great Barrier Reef. Then, once you’ve landed on Heart Island, you can board a glass-bottom boat before heading to Heart Reef itself.

There, guests can opt to snorkel around the coral in neighbouring lagoons before heading back to Heart Island for a swim and refreshments.

Heart Island commenced construction following a two-year environmental impact study by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. Its pontoon has been designed to be ecologically sustainable, is moored in sand and is powered by wind and solar.

Hamilton Island’s Heart Island experience costs $999 per person, aged 14 years and above. and includes a return scenic helicopter flight, tour of Heart Reef, snorkelling equipment and light catering.