The 74 Whitsunday Islands in north Queensland are surrounded by some of the bluest waters covering the massive stretch of coral reefs teeming with marine life.
This island paradise on the Great Barrier Reef is formed by mostly uninhabited islands, dense vegetation, hiking trails and white sand beaches, making it the perfect place to explore by ocean.
Setting of from the region’s central hub town of Airlie Beach on the mainland, here are some of the best ways to experience the Whitsunday Islands by sea.
Bareboating
Step on board a million dollar boat and sail your way around the Whitsundays with Portlands Roads. On day one you will have a full maritime briefing and will be taught how to handle the boat. You will also be privileged to have the wonderful Aunty Sue, an elder from the local Ngaro peoples, join you for the day and open your eyes to understanding the region’s past and those traditional owners of the land who walked these shore and sailed the waters long before white people arrived. This will set you off on a sailing adventure where you make a connection with the land in a more immersive experience.
Dinner Cruise
What a better way to experience the best of this region than stepping on a boat for a sunset cruise and a feast of local delights. Renowned for first class experiences, the Ocean Dynamics team will take you on a cruise to explore the beautiful Whitsundays on the Taste of the Tropics Sunset Dinner Cruise. The menu is designed to showcase Queensland and Whitsunday seasonal produce. Experience the beauty of the stunning Airlie Beach coastline for the ultimate dinner indulgence. Ocean Enigma has plenty of space to relax and unwind and maintain social distancing on both the upper and lower decks. The 2.5 hours cruise includes a three course dinner on board, with drinks available for purchase.
Day Trippin’
Jump on Redcat Adveture’s Thundercat for an exhilarating ride around the Whitsunday Islands all in one day. Visit the world famous Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet lookout and stop off for two snorkelling opportunities on the fringing Great Barrier Reef. Thundercat is one of the fastest catamaran in the Whitsundays and has been designed for stability and speed so it’s perfect for passengers who are concerned about seasickness. The all-inclusive package departs from Airlie Beach and is suitable for families, couples and groups wanting to experience once in a lifetime moments.
Kayak around the islands
Explore the awe-inspiring Whitsunday Islands by sea kayak with Salty Dog Sea Kayaking. Immerse yourself in the tropical wilderness of the Whitsunday Islands. Explore the fringing coral reefs and turquoise waters nestled in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Sea kayak the Whitsundays and become part of nature from mangrove fringed coastline to the brilliant white silica sands of Whitehaven Beach. Explore, enjoy, relax, energise. From a Half Day or Full Day Tour to an adventurous 6 Day Tour. Alternately, “freedom rentals” are an option if you wish to venture out and do your own thing.
Need to know
With all the changes currently going on with COVID-19 travel restrictions easing and new rules and regulations, it is important to stay abreast of what is happening. The Whitsundays are ensuring guest’s safety is of utmost concern, in addition, of course, to ensure you have the most enjoyable time! The Whitsundays tourism operators are using the Queensland Tourism and Accommodation Industry COVID Safe Plan, which is the approved industry plan and has been developed by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council with the support of the Department of Innovation and Tourism Industry Development (DITID) and in collaboration with industry stakeholders. For more information on what is included as part of that plan please click here.
For more, visit Tourism Whitsundays website https://www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au/ or check out what is open, closed and COVID clean by clicking here.
