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Union announces industrial action against 'Cruise Whitsundays' after breakdown in negotiations

Published: 14 Sep 2023

MEDIA RELEASE

Workers employed by North Queensland maritime transport company ‘Cruise Whitsundays’, a subsidiary of multinational cruising company Hornblower, will stop work TODAY, 15 September, for 24 hours for Protected Industrial Action after the good-faith bargaining process between the employer and the workforce was ended by company representatives.

Cruise Whitsundays – which is understood to be being prepared for sale by the parent company – is a major transport supplier for Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays region and the largest marine tourism company in Airlie Beach.

Amidst a spiralling cost of living and inflation crisis, the company’s HR representatives have pursued what amount to significant wage cuts for a workforce which already receives below-market rates of pay compared to direct competitors performing similar work in the Whitsundays region.

At the commencement of negotiations, the Union and its members sought pay parity with other operators doing the same or similar runs and charters, but Cruise Whitsundays have refused to participate in further bargaining meetings with the Union and have even declined to engage in bargaining meetings assisted by the Fair Work Commission.

“This is a profitable company being fattened up for market by a global shipping outfit that doesn’t want to give its Australian workforce a fair-go,” said MUA Queensland Branch Secretary Jason Miners. “The company’s reputation was built on the hard work of a workforce that delivers a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the most beautiful part of the world, but the crews are being paid barely more than the legal minimum wages while the company generates exorbitant profits greater than any of their five other businesses combined!” Mr Miners said. 

The company put forward a draft agreement that included a 3% wage increase for 2023, below inflation, and a 0% wage increase for 2024 – this ridiculous proposal was rejected by 87.4% of staff at a recent ballot.

The 24 hour work stoppage that will occur from 6am this morning, Friday 15 September, will be backed up by further industrial action including the wearing of campaign t-shirts, additional work stoppages from the 20 th  of September (up to 7 days total stoppage) and work bans on charging passengers for alcohol or cleaning vessels.

“Cruise Whitsundays are ripping off their workers and conducting themselves disgracefully throughout this bargaining process. They claim to pay “above Award rates”, but in many cases identified by the Union this is just 1 cent per hour above the legal minimum, which demonstrates the shamefully cynical attitude that underpins this company,” Mr Miners said.

“It’s high time the workers at Cruise Whitsundays caught up with their peers, kept up with the rising cost of living, and were paid a fair amount for the hard work they do, but this company now wants to sink negotiations by refusing to meet with us at the bargaining table,” Miners added.

In addition to the breakdown in negotiations caused by Cruise Whitsunday’s refusal to meet, the MUA is also in the process of lodging proceedings for breaches of the current employment agreement and crew underpayments that amount to multiple hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Authorised by P Crumlin, Maritime Union of Australia, Sydney

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Union announces industrial action against Cruise Whitsundays after breakdown in negotiations

• 15 Sep 2023 5:06 am AEST Date Time

Workers employed by North Queensland maritime transport company ‘Cruise Whitsundays’, a subsidiary of multinational cruising company Hornblower, will stop work TODAY, 15 September, for 24 hours after the good-faith bargaining process between the employer and the workforce was ended by company representatives.

Cruise Whitsundays – which is understood to be being prepared for sale by the parent company – is a major transport supplier for Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays region and the largest marine tourism company in Airlie Beach.

Amidst a spiralling cost of living and inflation crisis, the company’s HR representatives have pursued what amount to significant wage cuts for a workforce which already receives below-market rates of pay compared to direct competitors performing similar work in the Whitsundays region.

At the commencement of negotiations, the Union and its members sought pay parity with other operators doing the same or similar runs and charters, but Cruise Whitsundays have refused to participate in further bargaining meetings with the Union and have even declined to engage in bargaining meetings assisted by the Fair Work Commission.

“This is a profitable company being fattened up for market by a global shipping outfit that doesn’t want to give its Australian workforce a fair-go,” said MUA Queensland Branch Secretary Jason Miners. “The company’s reputation was built on the hard work of a workforce that delivers a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the most beautiful part of the world, but the crews are being paid barely more than the legal minimum wages while the company generates exorbitant profits greater than any of their five other businesses combined!” Mr Miners said.

The company put forward a draft agreement that included a 3% wage increase for 2023, below inflation, and a 0% wage increase for 2024 – this ridiculous proposal was rejected by 87.4% of staff at a recent ballot.

The 24 hour work stoppage that will occur from 6am this morning, Friday 15 September, will be backed up by further industrial action including the wearing of campaign t-shirts, additional work stoppages from the 20 th of September (up to 7 days total stoppage) and work bans on charging passengers for alcohol or cleaning vessels.

“Cruise Whitsundays are ripping off their workers and conducting themselves disgracefully throughout this bargaining process. They claim to pay “above Award rates”, but in many cases identified by the Union this is just 1 cent per hour above the legal minimum, which demonstrates the shamefully cynical attitude that underpins this company,” Mr Miners said.

“It’s high time the workers at Cruise Whitsundays caught up with their peers, kept up with the rising cost of living, and were paid a fair amount for the hard work they do, but this company now wants to sink negotiations by refusing to meet with us at the bargaining table,” Miners added.

In addition to the breakdown in negotiations caused by Cruise Whitsunday’s refusal to meet, the MUA is also in the process of lodging proceedings for breaches of the current employment agreement and crew underpayments that amount to multiple hundreds of thousands of dollars.

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Thursday, September 21, 2023

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

CRUISE ON STRIKE

Marine workers strike for fairer pay.

For the second week in a row, marine staff from Cruise Whitsundays are on strike and, while their right to protest is acknowledged, many are frustrated that their behaviour has disrupted countless travel plans during the busy school holiday period.

Three vessels are unable to operate, multiple subsidiary local businesses and suppliers have been impacted and workers commuting to nearby resort islands have been unable to transit.

The strike is expected to last for seven days, for the school holiday period, impacting holiday plans for thousands of holiday makers and possibly the overall reputation of the Whitsundays as a holiday destination.

Frustrated marine workers are striking once again this week to demand fairer pay, requesting a 30 per cent wage increase to align with “industry standards”.

Meanwhile, the marine company they work for is scrabbling to accommodate disgruntled tourists and manage disrupted ferry timetables during one of the busiest weeks of the year.

Timed to cause maximum impact during a busy school holiday period, there is no doubt the workers have made their point, but their actions in causing such significant disruption to many innocent holiday-maker’s plans is sitting uneasily with many members of the community.

The initial protest began last Friday morning when about 30 Cruise Whitsundays staff members held a peaceful picket line at the marine terminal.

A representative, who requested to stay anonymous, said that the motivations for the strike are a last resort at the end of a long battle to ask for fairer pay.

“The right of the employees to negotiate a different agreement has been refused time and time again,” they said.

“They left us no choice but to engage with the maritime union and with the fair work commission.

“A lot of workers are literally one cent above minimum wage – they’ve had a year to get on the negotiation table and they’ve put us less than a dollar up.”

Meanwhile, Adam Hosie, Cruise Whitsundays General Manager said that since July 2022 they have implemented pay increases totalling six per cent and have now proposed an immediate further average increase of over five per cent and higher for those with longer tenure.

“The new wage offer, which was proposed to take immediate effect, would see crew pay rates between 4.8 per cent to 44.4 per cent above award, depending on their position, skill level, and tenure,” he explained.

A meeting between Cruise Whitsundays and the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) took place on Monday, but no resolution was reached.

“Workers left the meeting in bewilderment at a pay offer from the company that amounted to between $1 and $1.50 per hour for a small percentage of staff,” said MUA Queensland Branch Secretary, Jason Miners.

“The company’s offer is completely unacceptable, an unfair and indefensible position, so we have no choice but to take further industrial action,” he said.

Protestors also allege that the Current Enterprise Agreement expired in March 2022 and that Cruise Whitsundays are refusing to negotiate reasonable terms on any matters.

In response, Cruise Whitsundays says it acknowledges it has reached “its nominal expiry date” but contests that “the agreement continues to apply until a new agreement comes into effect”.

They also state that “over the course of these negotiations, Cruise Whitsundays has put forward multiple proposals for review by our Bargaining Committee and MUA representatives”.

“We have agreed to and resolved almost all matters presented, however we have not received any reasonable or sustainable wage proposals for review. Despite invitations for feedback from the MUA, we have not received any,” said Mr Hosie.

The biggest point of contention for protestors, however, is their perceived rate of pay compared to other marine staff operating similar tours in the same area.

Cruise Whitsundays’ marine workers protesting outside the terminal on Friday last week. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

An unusually quiet Cruise Whitsundays terminal that would normally be a hive of activity over the busy school holiday period. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Holiday Plans Disrupted

“We are over at South Whitehaven Beach every day and SeaLink and Cruise Whitsunday are doing exactly the same thing, except there is a 30 per cent disparity in wages between the vessels across the board,” said the anonymous protestor.

“At least match SeaLink – come to industry standard, we are not asking for millions - for them to be able to afford to pay us properly it will be a dollar and a half to $13 extra on different tickets. We’ve done the maths, and it will mean putting the ticket price to Whitehaven up by just $7.50.”

Cruise Whitsundays alleges that despite repeated requests, the MUA is yet to produce any supporting documentation that demonstrates this claim.

The company also states that a 30 per cent increase is unsustainable for the business.

“The MUA claims a "30 per cent disparity in wages" between Cruise Whitsundays and other workers in the same industry but has provided no data or wage comparisons to other local businesses with Marine Tourism as their core business,” said Mr Hosie.

“While Cruise Whitsundays has continued to negotiate in good faith, presenting fair and sustainable offers, the MUA is steadfast in demanding an uplift of 30 per cent in pay rates across the board. “

Mr Hosie also asserts that increasing ticket prices does not directly correlate to wage increases.

“These ticket price calculations have been discussed with MUA officials and it was agreed that a number of factors had been overlooked in the calculations, resulting in significantly substantial increases being required to cover the requested wage increases,” he said.

In regard to accusations that staff are only being paid “literally one cent above minimum wage”, Cruise Whitsundays stated that “this as a result of current negotiation of pay rates being underway, and increases to our lowest level roles were applied from 1 July 2023 to ensure that everyone is paid at or above award until the new rates would take effect.  

“Subsequent discussions have seen agreement on a rates calculation that achieves well above award rates,” explains Mr Hosie.

While both parties are looking for a swift and positive outcome, it seems they remain poles apart in terms of what they are able or willing to agree to.

“Although only a minority of our staff are taking protected action, all of our staff are feeling the effects,” said Mr Hosie.

“From the Reservations team who must call and disappoint our guests, to the catering team who are unsure how to plan for the coming weeks, to the marine staff who are happy to accept the fair proposal and get on with their jobs, everyone is affected.

“Additionally, we are also mindful of the many local suppliers who rely on the consistent weekly work that Cruise Whitsundays provides.”

Rick Hamilton, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays said he deeply regrets the timing of the strike during the school holidays, when our beautiful Whitsundays are at their prime.

“It's disheartening to see this disruption during such a busy time, with many of our operators running at capacity,” he said.

“The Whitsundays have been thriving with 90 per cent occupancy and it's disappointing that this action has coincided with a time when guests had planned to make the most of their Whitsundays experience.”

Hundreds of families can no longer enjoy a day out on Whitehaven Beach with Cruise Whitsundays because of the strike. Photo credit: supplied

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THE STRIKE action being carried out by Cruise Whitsundays staff doesn’t seem to be going away, with the latest round set to last for seven days.

The latest strike action started on Wednesday (September 20) and follows previous industrial action last week (Friday, September 15), which lasted for 24 hours.

Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) representative Dave Lyon said staff contacted the union for advice after the company ‘flatly refused’ to enter into negotiations with staff, when the current enterprise agreement expired about 18 months ago.

“We were issued bargaining orders around about Christmas, and it took another three months, being March 2023, to get a meeting,” Mr Lyon, who is assistant branch secretary, said.

Mr Lyon said the company had sent out a proposed employment contract to all staff, which was voted on and rejected by 87% of staff members, according to Mr Lyon.

“That’s a pretty outstanding no,” he said.

The union and the company met again on Monday (September 18) where an offer was made by the company and rejected by the union.

“So, we went to protected industrial action,” Mr Lyon said.

The second lot of strike action started on Wednesday (September 20) with a number of staff members turning out to picket alongside their colleagues.

At first, they were positioned close to the Maritime Terminal and then they progressed into the Airlie Beach main street.

A 19-year-old deckhand, who did not want to be named, said there were a ‘multitude of different reasons’ he was striking.

“I would like to be paid closer to, or equal to the amount of, other companies in the area,” the deckhand, who has worked for Cruise Whitsundays for two years, said.

“I’d like to be paid a similar amount to them…something more than the bare minimum.”

The strike action has led to the cancellation of several Cruise Whitsundays tours, due to ‘staff shortages’.

In a statement, Cruise Whitsundays said the company had been in ‘active discussions’ with employees and MUA for the past 12 months to negotiate a new enterprise agreement.

“During this time, Cruise Whitsundays has implemented pay increases totalling six per cent,” the statement read.

“The new wage offer, which was proposed to take immediate effect, would see crew pay rates between 4.8 per cent to 44.4 per cent above award, depending on their position, skill level and tenure. Further increases have also been proposed across the life of the agreement.

“The MUA claims a ’30 per cent disparity in wages’ between Cruise Whitsundays and other workers in the same industry but has provided no data or wage comparisons to other local businesses with Marine Tourism as their core business.

“While Cruise Whitsundays has continued to negotiate in good faith, presenting fair and sustainable offers, the MUA is steadfast in demanding an uplift of 30 per cent in pay rates across the board.”

The statement went on to say that the company was ‘saddened for the many holidaymakers who have been left disappointed by the extreme measures taken by the MUA’.

“We endeavour to keep critical services in operation as a priority and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause,” the statement said.

“We remain hopeful that we can reach a positive resolution with our employees soon.”

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Luxury Escapes Guide to Airlie Beach & the Whitsundays

Introducing the world-famous whitsundays — a place of protected turquoise waters, unforgettable scenery, extensive marine life and natural wonders..

At the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, just off the beautiful tropical coast of Queensland, you’ll find the Whitsundays — a group of 74 jewel-like islands ranging from well-developed holiday hubs to mostly uninhabited national parks. Among them you’ll find tropical havens such as Hamilton Island, Hayman Island, Daydream Island, Long Island and Hook Island — each offering their own stunning scenery, beautiful discoveries and unique snorkelling and diving conditions.

Back on the mainland you’ll find Airlie Beach — a relaxed resort town known for its palm-fringed beaches and aquatic adventures. Launchpad to the Whitsunday Region and the Great Barrier Reef, Airlie Beach offers plenty of action, as do northern country gems such as Bowen, Collinsville and Proserpine.

The Whitsundays is an unmatched playground for adventurers and resort-loungers. Australia’s dreamiest destination is home to turquoise water, sheltered coves, white-sand beaches, abundant marine and plant life, and endless gems to discover. Don’t miss one of the region’s major drawcards — Whitehaven Beach. Considered one of the most beautiful beaches on earth, its 98 percent silica sand is so white it appears surreal.

Whether you come for the tranquil scenery, to sail the rarely ruffled waters, snorkel with the whole ocean at your fingertips or simply sink your toes into a fusion of white sand and iridescent water, there is a Whitsundays experience for you.

Why not check out Luxury Escapes Guide to Hamilton Island for more inspiration.

Please note that due to current restrictions some operators may be temporarily closed. Check their websites for the most up-to-date information.

Featured escape

Things to see and do, enjoy a quick dip in the airlie beach lagoon.

Located on the foreshore of Airlie Beach, Airlie Beach Lagoon is the perfect spot for a day of relaxation. Providing an environment that is completely safe from stingers all year round, this patrolled haven was constructed on a raised breakwater, allowing excellent views of the Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands. As well as featuring several pools for all ages and fitness levels, this man-made watering hole is surrounded by lush grassy knolls and landscaped gardens, perfect for a spot of sunbathing. Best of all, there is no admission fee.

Get away from it all on the Honeyeater Lookout Trail

Home to some of the most diverse and impressive landscapes in the world, Australia is spoilt for choice when it comes to spectacular hiking destinations. Located just outside the Whitsundays, the tropical refuge of Conway National Park features one of the finest: the Whitsundays Great Walk. If you’re not quite ready for a 30-kilometre hike, tackle just part of the walk with the shorter Honeyeater Lookout Trail. Winding through a magnificent tropical setting and past seasonal creeks, this two-hour return walk will eventually lead you to a lookout offering magnificent views beyond Cannonvale, Dryander National Park and the Whitsunday Islands.

Cool off at Cedar Creek Falls

Located halfway between Airlie Beach and Proserpine, Cedar Creek Falls is a spectacular waterfall set in a natural rock amphitheater. Surrounded by white cedar trees, Alexander palms, wild orchids and dry eucalypt forest, the clear water of the famed rock pool is an easy walk from the carpark. Don’t forget your swimmers! After a refreshing dip, take to the lookout, a 20-minute return, easy-grade track offering incredible waterfall views. You can also venture deep into the ancient Conway National Park to Cedar Creek Falls — on the lookout for unique flora and fauna — on a Rainforest & Waterfalls group tour.

Get up close to the Great Barrier Reef with Cruise Whitsundays

The Great Barrier Reef, Whitsunday Islands and Whitehaven Beach are regarded as some of the most unique and incredible natural wonders in the world. With Cruise Whitsundays, you can explore the region’s hidden corners, uninhabited sand cays, small islands, exotic sea life and pristine reef systems, all in complete comfort. Accompanied by expert guides on purpose-designed and built expedition ships, you’ll be brought closer to remote sites and natural habitats in the most immersive and educational experience possible.

Go barramundi fishing at Lake Proserpine

There are over 4,000 species of fish in Australia, but the elusive barramundi is the one everyone wants on the end of their line. Cast a line at Lake Proserpine — also known as Peter Faust Dam — from the shore or aboard a boat, any time of day or night (barramundi bite all year round in both fresh and saltwater), and benefit from the recent barra-boom. Everybody has an opinion on the best way to catch barra, so if it’s your first time, join a tour or charter and be shown everything you’ve ever wanted to know.

Take a walk on the wild side with a crocodile safari

When you need a break from the Great Barrier Reef, head inland with a Whitsunday Crocodile Safari — a one-of-a-kind nature experience that will get you up close and personal with native birds, mammals and reptiles. Departing from the Proserpine River, you’ll join professional local guides to explore the region’s marine mangrove ecosystem and discover the unique wildlife and vegetation of the estuaries and wetlands. The best part? The safari will also introduce you to a float of saltwater crocodiles, basking in the sun, swimming, or just plain hanging out. Do not worry, you are in safe hands.

Top places to eat and drink

Grand view hotel.

Craving simple but delicious food in a laid-back setting? A visit to the Grand View Hotel is an absolute must. Situated one block back from the pristine waters of McCanes Bay, this iconic pub has kept a loyal following watered and fed for over 100 years and is one of the region’s premier destinations for relaxed dining. Be sure to arrive hungry, as this old Queenslander still delivers exceptional local cuisine and outstanding service. Pub quiz trivia: the Grand View Hotel has been destroyed twice (by fire and cyclone), and starred as the Aussie Territory Hotel in Baz Luhrmann’s ‘Australia’.

Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill

Set on the shores of a bay in Woodwark, just outside Airlie Beach, Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill is an award-winning restaurant and bar that features seasonal seafood-heavy dishes cooked to perfection in unpretentious style. Find fresh, hand-picked produce plucked direct from the local area on the mouth-watering menu, plus an extensive selection of wines, cocktails and boutique beers on tap. The peaceful views across to Airlie Beach are spectacular.

KC's Bar & Grill

More than just a place to satisfy your growling stomach, KC’s Bar & Grill is a local Whitsundays institution. Nestled on the main drag of Shute Harbour Road, KC’s buzzing atmosphere guarantees a great time – but not at the expense of genuinely good gourmet pub grub. While KC’s is famous for its steaks, tasting plates of chargrilled crocodile, kangaroo, emu and buffalo are perfect if you’re feeling game for a taste of Australia.

Breeze Bar on Shute Harbour Road is the perfect spot for Sunday sessions or long lunches that lead into longer dinners. Any time is the right time to visit Breeze — however Happy Hour is probably best (between 3pm and 6pm). With a fun-loving vibe, cheery staff, a classic Australian menu and Airlie Beach’s finest martinis, Breeze Bar is a seriously energetic spot to start or finish a night – your choice.

Fat Frog Beach Café

If you like your breakfast with a side of uninterrupted water views and delicious coffee, your destination of choice should be Fat Frog Beach Café. Spacious and sun-drenched, this eclectic café is a friendly favourite among the locals — and their pooches. Serving great-value homemade dishes, ready-to-go options, fanciful slices, tarts, cupcakes and pastries, this dog-friendly spot truly offers something for everyone.

Bird’s Fish Bar

With over 30 years on the board, Bird’s Fish Bar certainly knows how to put together a fish and chip pack. Located on Bowen Marina, with great access to the finest, freshest and most environmentally conscious protein in Bowen, it goes without saying you'll find plenty of it here. Expect all the usuals — including coral trout, Spanish mackerel, barramundi, bugs, tiger prawns and mud crab — as well as freshly made salads and potato cakes to throw on the side. Take away or choose to watch the boats in the marina from the recently renovated outdoor eating area.

Introducing the worst-kept secret in Airlie Beach: Anchor Bar. Set on a sprawling alfresco patio, this poolside bar personally helped bring ‘cool’ back to this village town’s after-dark scene. Boasting renowned DJs, delicious cocktails, an all-star menu of classics, and spectacular views of the bay and surrounding islands, this small-yet-busy bar oozes tropical holiday vibes synonymous with that enviable Whitsundays lifestyle.

Sorrento Restaurant & Bar

Perched atop the Coral Sea Marina, with sweeping views across the palm-fringed waters, Sorrento Restaurant & Bar is best known for its delectable cuisine and great local hospitality. Its downstairs bar offers live acoustic music and pub classics, while the restaurant upstairs prides itself on a full-service dining experience and Italian classics with a Queensland twist. Then there’s that view from the newly renovated Ocean View Deck — one of the best in the entire Whitsundays.

Lux moments

Head for the skies aboard a seaplane.

Enjoy a panoramic perspective of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park from both the air and ocean with GSL Aviation. These comfortable seaplanes or helicopters depart daily to explore World Heritage-listed expanses, including the perfectly shaped Heart Reef. Ideal for all ages and fitness levels, this experience lets you travel in style with dedicated pilots and staff at your service. Other tours include a Fly and Cruise, Fly and Sunset Sail, Fly and Jetski.

#GoBareboating

The clear, protected waters of the Whitsunday Islands lend themselves to some of the best sailing in the Southern Hemisphere. Why not charter your own private yacht and let the landscape wash over you in the ultimate adventure of relaxation? Sail your dream with #GoBareboating and choose to be your own captain, leave it to a skilled skipper, see more by catamaran or get closer to nature with an Aqualodge floating villa.

Hike, snorkel and take in Whitehaven Beach all in one day

Visit the ‘Wild Side’ of the Whitsundays on a custom-built, semi-rigid, inflatable rafting vessel. Travelling at 65km/hr, this exhilarating ride will take you to world-famous Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet and Lookout, before spending time at some of North Queensland’s most pristine snorkelling reefs. You will also be guided on a memorable experience through the Whitsunday Island National Park and around some of its uninhabited islands — where flocks of marine, bird and animal life freely frolic.

See the Whitsundays from 15,000ft

Experience the ultimate adrenalin rush skydiving from Airlie Beach. After a safety briefing and short scenic flight to altitude, prepare to jump from up to 15,000 feet and revel in the thrill of freefall at over 220 km/hr for up to 60 seconds. Anyone brave enough to take the literal leap of faith will be rewarded with spectacular views of Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Islands for up to 5 minutes under canopy, before returning to base. It doesn't get any more exciting.

Zoom around the Whitsunday waters

Is there a better way to explore the beautiful bays of Airlie Beach and World Heritage-listed Whitsunday Island Marine Park than on the latest model jet ski? No longer just for adrenalin junkies, a jet-ski tour is the perfect mix of adrenalin and eco adventure. Better still, it is suitable for all ages as no licence or experience is necessary. Tours operate daily, and sea turtles and other marine life are often encountered when exploring the pristine waterways. Informative commentary provided by qualified guides and riding apparel is also included.

Tailor your escape to Airlie Beach & the Whitsundays

Immerse yourself in Airlie Beach & the Whitsundays with Luxury Escapes’ hand-picked Experiences. We’ve curated a selection of cultural activities, adrenaline thrills, food adventures and luxury add-ons to help you discover your destination. These Experiences are bookable when you purchase your next escape. Simply select your travel dates and number of travellers for any package, and opt to tailor your escape by selecting the available Experiences.

Destinations

The Whitsundays are located in the heart of the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef, with 74 tropical islands dotting the Coral Sea, and a lively and diverse mainland hub at Airlie Beach. 

The beautiful waters provide excellent cruising grounds as they are protected by the natural barrier created by the Great Barrier Reef.

Cruise ships in the Whitsundays have the choice of anchoring at a number of designated anchorages:

• Fizalan (great access to Hamilton Island)
• Funnel Bay (great access to Airlie Beach)
• Cid Harbour
• South Hayman
• Port Molle (great access to Airlie Beach) this is the predominant anchorage used for Shute Harbour access to Airlie beach
• South East Hamilton Island

These anchorages are serviced by high-speed catamarans. This allows passengers access to a range of activities.

There are facilities, known as Reefworld, on the Outer Reef, which provide easy access for passengers to experience this World Heritage area.

Reefworld is Australia's most sophisticated, permanently anchored offshore platform, where guests can see and experience some of the most beautiful coral formations and spectacular marine life on the Queensland coast.

From the anchorage at Cid Harbour, passengers can access Hamilton Island or undertake other tours by catamaran.

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Airlie Beach

Transfers by catamarans can be arranged from the anchorages to the mainland. The anchorage at Funnel Bay is the closest anchorage to the mainland and the resort town of Airlie Beach.

A trip to the Whitsundays isn’t complete without stepping foot on world-famous Whitehaven Beach, on the eastern half of uninhabited Whitsunday Island. Jump aboard our half day tour where you can laze in the sun on the beautiful white sands of one of the world’s best beaches. Pure white pristine silica sand and crystal clear waters make this a perfect destination for your day in the Whitsundays!

Visiting the Great Barrier Reef is a must! There are many ways to experience this magnificent natural wonder. Whether you take a glass-bottom boat ride, visit an underwater observatory or swim and snorkel around the reef, you are in for an unforgettable day.

The mainland also offers a diverse range of experiences - visit Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation, explore the markets in the Airlie Beach main street or relax under a palm tree at the lagoon.  There is a relaxed tropical vibe in Airlie Beach that will make it hard to leave!

Hamilton Island

Fitzalan Anchorage allows easy access to the world class tourist destination of Hamilton Island.  One of the 74 world-famous Whitsunday Isles, this tropical paradise sits at the southern tip of Australia's magnificent natural wonder, The Great Barrier Reef, and offers stunning scenery and beaches brimming with water sports.

From its original Aboriginal inhabitants, to its sighting by Captain Cook in 1770, and its evolution as a tourist destination in the 1970s and 1980s, Hamilton Island has had a long and fascinating history. Keith Williams, one of Australia’s first island resort developers, owned Hamilton Island between 1975 and 1996 and was behind the development of the Hamilton Island Marina. In 1996, Hamilton Island became a publicly-listed company, and in 2003, the Oatley family bought the island. Since then, the family has spent $350 million dollars, adding the yacht club, the marina precinct and the luxury resort Qualia. Today, Hamilton Island is a world-class tourist destination.

Getting around is made easy on Hamilton Island with free shuttle busses operating regularly throughout the day to your destination. You will find plenty of dining options at Hamilton Island Marina, ranging from fish and chips to high tea.  Make it to Hamilton Island’s renowned hilltop lookout and you’ll be rewarded with legendary Whitsunday views, which you can enjoy with a coffee, cocktail or wine and cheese. The climb is appropriate for all ages and fitness levels, so no one misses out on this truly unforgettable experience.

Hardy Reef Anchorage, Reefworld features are:

• two large, moored floating platforms, large enough to cater for up to 900 people in comfort at any one time
• two underwater observatories with seating for 50 people in six semi-submerged snorkelling platforms for easy access to the water
• two separate infants - swimming enclosures
• fresh water showers, toilets and change room facilities
• large, uncrowded open sundeck and extensive shaded areas
• semi-submersible submarines for coral viewing
• a retail and souvenir shop on the reef
• snorkel equipment, including sealed snorkel mouthpiece for each guest is supplied
• informative commentary and presentation by qualified marine biologists en route to the reef
• information brochures are offered in six languages to service international guests Optional activities at Reefworld
• scuba diving - both introductory and certified dives are available with our skilled and experienced dive instructors
• helicopter joy flights over the world famous Heart Reef
• guided snorkel adventures with marine biologists 

It is possible to visit both Reefworld and Cid Harbour in the one day by anchoring at Hardy Reef in the morning. Some passengers can then remain at Reefworld while the ship cruises to Cid Harbour. The passengers at Reefworld can rejoin the ship in Cid Harbour by fast catamaran.

The following Ground Handlers are CDU members and supply superior ground handling services throughout Australia.

Anchorage Information

Note: Permits must be obtained from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) before anchoring in the Whitsundays and Outer Great Barrier Reef.

Access to the Whitsundays Area

Under the Whitsundays Plan of Management (in force since 27 October 1999) cruise ships may anchor anywhere in the Whitsundays Area more than 1500 metres from a reef, or closer at nine designated cruise ship anchorages, including weather alternatives. Ships may use Turtle Bay simultaneously during northerly winds and any of the other six designated anchorages independently.

Only three cruise ship bookings a day are available in the Whitsundays area.

Since 27 October 1999, cruise ships have been required to carry a pilot when operating in the Whitsundays and ships' tenders may only be used for transferring passengers to port facilities or local tourism operations.

Booking arrangements

Booking arrangements have been introduced to manage access to designated cruise ship anchorages and bookings should be in writing and directed to:

Administrative Assistant, Tourism and Recreation Telephone: +61 7 4750 0775 Facsimile: +61 7 4724 2264

Email: [email protected]

Bookings are taken on a 'first come first served' basis and will not be confirmed until the appropriate Marine Parks permits have been issued. Any itinerary changes should be notified to the Authority as soon as possible, so bookings can be reconfirmed. Please note that it is an offence to use a designated anchorage without a valid booking.

The designated anchorages are:

Hardy Reef Cruise Ship Anchorage

At or about: (a) the point of latitude 19 o ;44.45 o ; south, longitude 149 o ;08.40 o ; east; or (a) No.2 beacon bearing 090 o ;, distance 1.10 nautical miles

Fitzalan Passage Anchorage

Approximately 20 degrees 19 minutes South, 148 degrees 56 minutes East, is located adjacent to Hamilton Island [ approx 1 n.m.] with easy access to a number of popular tourist destinations.

Cid Harbour Cruise Ship Anchorage

The area the boundary of which: (a) commences at the point of latitude 20 o ;14.30 o ; south, longitude 148 o ;56.00 o ; east;

(b) then runs south-easterly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o ;15.00o; south, longitude 148o ;56.20o; east;

(c) then southerly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o;15.70o; south, longitude 148o;56.20o; east;

(d) then westerly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o;15.70o; south, longitude 148o;55.80o; east;

(a) then northerly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o ;14.30o; south, longitude 148o ;55.20o; east;

(f) then easterly along the geodesic to the point of Turtle Bay Cruise Ship Anchorage

The area the boundary of which:

(a) commences at the point of latitude 20o ;19.50o; south, longitude 149o ;01.00o; east;

(b) then southerly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o ;20.00o; south, longitude 149o ;01.00o; east;

(c) then westerly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o ;20.00o; south, longitude 148o ;59.50o; east;

(d) then northerly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o ;19.50o; south, longitude 148o ;59.50o; east;

(e) then easterly along the geodesic to the point of commencement.

[Note: Turtle Bay is not surveyed to modern standards and uncharted dangers may exist. A survey of Turtle Bay will be conducted by mid 2000. In the interim, Turtle Bay is not recommended as a cruise ship anchorage.]

Funnel Bay Cruise Ship Anchorage

The area the boundary of which: (a) commences at the point of latitude 20o ;13.20o; south, longitude 148o ;44.75o; east;

(b) then runs southerly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o ;14.60o; south, longitude 148o ;44.75o; east;

(c) then westerly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o ;14.60o; south, longitude 148o ;43.00o; east;

(d) then northerly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o ;13.20o; south, longitude 148o ;43.00o; east;

Port Molle Cruise Ship Anchorage

The area the boundary of which: (a) commences at the point of latitude 20o ;19.00o; south, longitude 148o ;50.10o; east;

(b) then runs southerly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o ;19.80o; south, longitude 148o ;50.60o; east;

(c) then westerly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o ;19.80o; south, longitude 148o ;50.00o; east;

(d) then northerly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o ;19.00o; south, longitude 148o ;49.50o; east;

South East Hamilton Cruise Ship Anchorage

At or about the point of latitude 20o ;22.10o; south, longitude 148o ;59.25o; east

South Hayman Cruise Ship Anchorage

The area the boundary of which: (a) commences at the point of latitude 20o ;04.20o; south, longitude 148o ;53.40o; east;

(b) then runs south-easterly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o ;04.70o; south, longitude 148o;53.20o; east;

(c) then south-westerly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o ;04.28o; south, longitude 148o ;52.27o; east;

(d) then north-westerly along the geodesic to the point of latitude 20o ;03.90o; south, longitude 148o ;52.51o; east;

(e) then north-easterly along the geodesic to the point of commencement.

Refer to Port Approach and Anchorage's page.

Tourism operators in Queensland:

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NEW TO THE WHITSUNDAYS - OUR NEW WALK THE WHITSUNDAYS TOURS

Cruise the Whitsundays

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 5 days & 4 nights
• User Ages: 15+
• Users Capacity: 24
• Checkmark Ideal For: Guests who prefer smaller groups and enjoy nature and the outdoors
• Clock Starting Time: Please make sure you arrive at Airlie Beach by 3 pm

Cruise The Breathtaking Whitsunday Islands This Winter

Current dates open for 2024, your choice of vessels:

• Luxurious Summer Jo: 27th June – 1st July and 1st – 5th August
• Iconic Solway Lass: 5th – 9th July and 13th – 17th September

Join our 5 day, 4 night Cruise where nature meets tranquility, for an extraordinary voyage through the pristine Whitsunday Islands. From June to October, indulge in the Whitsunday Winter, with blue skies and crystal-clear waters it’s the ideal time to visit the stunning landscapes and white sandy beaches.

Choose from the luxurious Summer Jo fresh from a million-dollar refurbishment, or step back in time on the iconic Solway Lass, a magnificent 120 year old tall ship oozing charm and history.

Come alone, or invite a friend on a cruise that will leave you with memories for a lifetime. With two scheduled departure dates and intimate group sizes of 18-24 ensure personalised moments and memories to cherish forever.

Download our digital brochure: CLICK HERE

Surrounded by the untouched beauty of nature. The dry season is the perfect time for a cruise around the Whitsundays located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Your journey begins at Airlie Beach’s Coral Sea Marina with the excitement of setting sail, feeling the yacht cut through the sparkling blue waters out to the islands.

Visit the famous Whitehaven Beach with it’s silica sand and crystal-clear waters, take a short walk to the #1 instagrammed destination Hill Inlet to see the swirling white sands from above, enjoy the untouched Langford Reel with it’s vibrant sea life and coral coves then immerse yourself in a cultural history with the caves of Ngaro’s peoples ancient art.

The Whitsundays’ unspoiled beauty, from the lush rainforests of the islands to the abundant life of the reef, is awe-inspiring. This journey is not just about the luxury and comfort of the yacht, but about immersing oneself in the natural wonders of this unique part of the world.

To book, select BOOK NOW in the top right corner, scroll through to June or August to select the available cruises.

If you have any questions please contact our reservations team on [email protected] or 07 4967 7555.

• Chevron down Sample Itinerary

The anticipation of your adventure sets in at 3 pm as you set sail surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Whitsunday Islands. Get the camera ready, pack the phone away as you immerse yourself in a slower paced lifestyle for the coming five days.

Embrace the dawn with a breathtaking view of Hill Inlet’s panoramic splendours , where the azure waters meet the soft, swirling sands in a dance of colours. Australia’s most instagrammed destination.

As the day unfolds, immerse yourself in the crystalline waters of Betty’s Beach , feeling the gentle embrace of the ocean’s caress. Then, on the pristine shores of famous Whitehaven, voted the No. 1 beach in the world you’ll swim, paddle-board or sunbake against the backdrop of this unspoiled paradise with her vibrant white sand and breathtaking blue waters.

Begin your day on the tranquil shores of Border Island. As the first rays of sunlight touch your skin and the sea breeze gently rustles the leaves, you’ll find a sense of calm and renewal that sets the tone for your day of adventure.

After a delicious breakfast snorkel or dive the vibrant underwater beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. 

As the sun begins its descent the warm, golden hues frame your evening at Blue Pearl Bay creating a serene backdrop for relaxation and reflection.

Morning yoga on Langford Island , an underwater adventure off Black Island , and a cultural journey through the Ngaro people’s ancient art.

Conclude your holiday with a contemplative stroll along the shores of South Molle Island , where the gentle lull of the waves and the rustling of palm leaves provide a soothing backdrop.

Then under the midday sun it is time to say goodbye, carrying with you the memories of a rejuvenating journey amidst the stunning Whitsunday Islands

The above is an example of what your trip may entail. To ensure your comfort and safety, the itinerary will change according to the tides, wind and weather conditions.  Your skipper will decide the best route and places to stop, to ensure you can make the most of your time in the Whitsunday Islands.

• Chevron down Sample Menu

Your trip includes all meals and snacks throughout the duration of the trip. We use locally sourced, seasonal fruits and vegetables and our crew freshly prepare each meal for you to enjoy.

Usually served as a buffet-style, you can eat anywhere onboard. Meals are a great communal time to get to know your fellow travellers. Continental breakfasts; healthy, fresh, and hearty lunches; BBQ dinners in true ‘Aussie’ fashion, and even dessert!

Never go hungry with big servings and plenty of snacks in between. Tea and coffee are available throughout the day.

Afternoon Tea: Welcome Drinks, Sunset Platter – Dips and Crackers, Vegetable Crudités, Kabana, Olives, Onions, Gherkins

Dinner: Baked Parmesan Fish, Potato Bake, and Garden Salad (Vegetarian Option: Vegetarian “Fish”)

Dessert: Chocolate Cake (Gluten-Free)

Breakfast:  Croissants, Fresh Fruit, Cereals, Yoghurt, Toast, Spreads, Scrambled Eggs, Tea, and Coffee

Morning Tea: Walking snacks provided (Fruit, Muesli Bars, Nut mix)

Lunch:   Build your own wraps, rolls or sandwiches With a Selection of Cooked Meats & Salads and Coleslaw (Vegetarian Option: Kofta/ Falafel)

Afternoon Tea: Nachos (Vegetarian)

Dinner: Chicken Sundried Tomato Pasta (Vegetarian Option:Tofu )

Dessert: Sticky Date Pudding

Breakfast: Fresh Fruit, Cereals, Yoghurt, Toast, Spreads, Tea, and Coffee

Lunch: Build your own wraps, rolls or sandwiches With a Selection of Cooked Meats, Salads and Potato Salad (Vegetarian Option: Falafel/Kofta)

Afternoon Tea:   Mini Quiches and Corn Fritters (Vegetarian)

Dinner: Shepherd’s Pie with Salad (Vegetarian Option: TVP Shepherds Pie)

Dessert: Cheesecake

Breakfast: Croissants, Fresh Fruit, Cereals, Yoghurt, Toast, Spreads, Scrambled Eggs, Tea, and Coffee

Lunch: Build your own wraps, rolls or sandwiches With a Selection of Cooked Meats & Salads, Pesto Pasta Salad (Vegetarian Option: Kofta/ Falafel)

Afternoon Tea: Bruschetta (Vegetarian)

Dinner: Green Chicken Curry with Jasmine Rice (Vegetarian Option: Green Tofu Curry with Jasmine Rice)

Dessert: Chocolate Cake

Lunch: Build your own wraps, rolls or sandwiches With a Selection of Cooked Meats & Salads (Vegetarian Option: Falafel/Kofta)

Afternoon Tea: Sunset platter – Dips and Crackers, Vegetable Crudités, Kabana, Olives, Onions, Gherkins

Dinner: BBQ Chicken with Mash Potato and Vegetables (Vegetarian Options: Teriyaki Tofu)

Dessert: Apple Pie with Custard

• Chevron down Inclusions

Pre & Post Tour

• Complimentary return Airport Transfers (PPP)
• Sailing onboard the newly million-dollar refurbished Summer Jo
• 5 Nights accommodation in your air-conditioned cabin
• Services of local skipper and crews
• All meals and snacks onboard, filtered and chilled tap water, tea and coffee
• Linen including bath towels
• Snorkelling equipment and basic tuition
• Stinger suit
• Standup paddle-boards
• National Park, Marine Park and marina levies
• Chevron down Information

Complimentary chilled tap water, tea, and coffee are available at all times.

Please pack only what you will need for your trip in a soft-sided bag, no bigger than carry-on baggage limits for an aircraft.

Sleeping on the Great Barrier Reef in a Plush, Underwater Suite

Kira Simpson

November 8, 2023

In Far North Queensland, Australia, lie the Whitsundays, a string of 74 tropical islands located about 560 miles from the city of Brisbane. This swirl of clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and several smaller reefs are part of the much larger Great Barrier Reef. Recognized as one of the seven natural wonders of the world—and even visible from space—the Great Barrier Reef is a sprawling, 133,000-square-mile marine sanctuary that is home to tons of multi-hued coral and tropical fish. 

With maritime operator Cruise Whitsundays , you can experience the reef like never before. Its Reefstays include Reefsleeps, which let you slumber under the stars on above-deck swags, and the far-more-immersive Reefsuites—underwater, glass-enclosed suites surrounded by the reef itself. The latter, Cruise Whitsundays proclaims, is Australia’s first underwater accommodation on the Great Barrier Reef. 

Your two-day, one-night foray into this underwater world begins at Airlie Beach on the mainland. As you clamber aboard the transport boat, the mingling scents of tangy saltwater and fresh sunscreen tickle your nose. Taking a seat outside at the stern, you settle in for the two-hour journey. The ocean breeze tousles your hair, and you lean into the comforting warmth of the morning sun, watching as its golden rays dance across the water like thousands of tiny diamonds. You pass dozens of lush green islands, each one drawing you closer to your destination of Reefworld, a permanently moored floating pontoon atop Hardy Reef, an outer reef section of the Great Barrier Reef system.

As you step onto the pontoon you're greeted by an almost surreal seascape. The water is so clear that you can see down to the deep recesses of the reef. A tranquil expanse of turquoise blue stretches as far as the eye can see, occasionally punctuated by the emerald silhouettes of distant islands. Fish dance near the water’s surface, tantalizing you with a preview of the underwater spectacle that awaits. 

As you descend into your personal Reefsuite, the room glows a soft turquoise, as the color of the sunlit water filters through floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Fish of every size and color—shimmering blue angelfish, candy-colored parrot fish, tiny orange-striped clownfish—dart past the windows in a frenzied underwater ballet. If you’re lucky, you’ll receive a visit from a massive, slow-moving Queensland grouper affectionately named George. Unlike the open-air Reefsleeps, your Reefsuite is a climate-controlled sanctuary, either with a plush king double bed or twin single wrapped in soft linen sheets, and your own private bathroom. 

The Reefsuite is just one component of your two-day adventure. Step outside your private cocoon, and you'll find a series of comfortable lounge areas with cream-cushioned loungers scattered across the pontoon’s deck, perfectly positioned for panoramic vistas. Water activities are abundant. Swimming, snorkeling, and a semi-submarine tour are all included in your package. For an extra cost, you can add on scuba diving.

Cruise Whitsundays is an advanced ecotourism certified operator and deeply invested in protecting this fragile environment. The Great Barrier Reef is facing myriad challenges due to climate change, one of the most pressing being coral bleaching due to rising ocean temperatures. Alongside the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority , Cruise Whitsundays helps monitor and report on real-time changes to the reef. They’re committed to sustainable practices onboard and provide safety briefings to visitors entering the water to minimize environmental impact. Read more about Cruise Whitsundays’ conservation efforts here . 

Onboard, the sun dips below the horizon and the day visitors depart, marking a notable shift in the ambiance. Gone are the lively sounds of seabirds and the playful splashes of surface-dwellers. Dinner is a casual affair hosted on the deck, boasting local seafood, fresh produce, and an array of crisp Australian wines. 

As the sky slowly darkens, you're encased in a realm where the sky and sea feel like mirrors; below is the dimly lit coral, and above is a tapestry of stars so bright and close you'd swear you can touch them. The Whitsundays are known for their exceptionally clear nights, making stargazing an almost-guaranteed activity; in the summer, the Milky Way is often visible in its full glory.

When it’s time to retire, you make your way down to your personal Reefsuite. While you’re nestled in your bed, the muffled sounds of the underwater world fill the space. It's a soothing blend of near-silence and soft echoes of water movement, transporting you to a realm of tranquillity as the ocean’s currents gently rock you to sleep. And when you awake, the morning rays hit the water, sending shimmers of warm golden sunlight into your suite. Time to lounge in bed and soak up these last peaceful moments before you’re transported back to dry land.

Getting there

• Getting there: A great deal of international flights arrive in Australia via Sydney Airport (SYD). To get to the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef, you could then take a short regional flight to Proserpine, where you can get to Airlie Beach via a 45-minute airport shuttle transfer. You could also fly into Townsville, then drive 3.5 hours south along the coast to Airlie Beach. Cruise Whitsundays Reefsleeps are a full two-day experience. Transportation departs from the Port of Airlie at the Cruise Whitsundays terminal at 8am and returns to the Port of Airlie at 6:10pm the following day. Return coach transfers from your accommodation to the port are also available for about $8 USD ($13 AUD) per adult; you'll need to organize this when you make your booking.
• Average Going price for cheap flights to Sydney : $722 roundtrip

How to do it

• Best time to go: The Whitsundays offer hot summers and balmy winters. During the winter months, especially June and July, the days are comfortably warm with averages of about 72–79°F (22–26°C). In contrast, the peak of summer in December and January can see the mercury rise to 95–104°F (35–40°C). The tropical wet season runs from January–March, making rainy days more likely. 
• Cost: Reefsuites start around $665 USD ($1,050 AUD) per night for a double occupancy room and includes two morning and two afternoon teas, two lunches, one dinner, one breakfast, and various water activities. Scuba diving is available at an extra cost.  ‍
• Tips & considerations: You can book your Cruise Whitsundays Reefsuite online . Keep in mind that Reefsleeps are incredibly popular, so flexibility in your dates and booking in advance is advised. You should also be comfortable in enclosed spaces and able to climb down a ladder into the suite. Note that, while marine stingers have a year-round presence, their numbers surge from October–May; this is when jellyfish frequent not only the waters around the mainland and islands but occasionally even the outer reef. To ensure your safety, especially during these months, complimentary stinger suits are provided on the Great Barrier Reef excursions.

More guides from Australia, New Zealand, & the Pacific

• Marlborough
• French Polynesia ‍
• Central Otago
• Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Freelance Writer

Published November 8, 2023

Last updated December 19, 2023

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Whitsunday Islands

• 1.1 History
• 3.1 Boat companies
• 4.1 Whitehaven Beach
• 4.2 Hamilton Islands
• 4.3 Dent Island
• 4.4 Whitsunday Island
• 4.5.1 The Coral Observatory
• 4.6 Hayman Island
• 4.7 Daydream Island
• 4.8 Long Island
• 4.9 South Molle Island
• 4.10 Lindeman Island
• 4.11 Events
• 6.1 Camping
• 6.2 Mid-range
• 6.3 Splurge

The Whitsunday Islands are a group of 74 islands that lie off the coast of Queensland , Australia and form part of the Great Barrier Reef . The islands are one of the most popular Australian tourist destinations. The vast majority of islands are designated national parks and major attractions include access to coral reefs for snorkeling and diving, pristine beaches, especially Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island and clear aquamarine warm waters. They are well connected by two major airports on Hamilton Island and the mainland town of Proserpine . Over half a million visitors come to the Whitsundays each year.

Understand [ edit ]

The name comes from Captain James Cook, the first European to navigate the east coast of Australia, when he sailed here on 4 June in 1770. He was struck by the area's beauty and named the island after the day he thought it was - "Whit Sunday", the seventh Sunday after Easter, in the Christian calendar. It later turned out his calendar was wrong, it was not Whit Sunday, but the name has stuck. From looking around you can see many expensive yachts sailing about, the playground for Sydney's rich and Queensland's property developers. For those who are still saving for their own yacht, several ferry companies operate from Airlie to bring people on daytrips around the sights. A typical daytrip might include a visit to Whitehaven beach, a trip to a part of reef for some snorkeling and a prepared lunch. The most visited island have accommodation, but that still leaves many less visited islands with no accommodation in the protected national parks. But for the more adventurous an enormous choice of camping sites dot every island, where nobody else will come.

History [ edit ]

Before tourism, the Whitsundays were used for logging. Aboriginal people had traditionally used the trees here for timber, which might account for references in Captain Cook's diary about grasslands when he first came here. White settlers did the same, after the Aboriginal population had been nearly annihilated by European diseases and bloodshed. Nowadays, there is no visible trace of logging ever having happened in the Whitsundays (except for the old dam that was used by the sawmill on Sawmill Creek in Cid Harbour Whitsunday Island), although on Hook there are two clues of previous industry. One is that at the Nara Inlet there are Aboriginal cave paintings. This can be accessed by boat, either on private charter (bareboating) or on one of the backpacker sailing yachts who sometimes stop in. The second is that if you stay on Hook (and on some other islands) you may hear bleating in the forest. Goats were introduced by the colonialists so that ship wreck survivors could find food and later so that loggers could have something to hunt in the event that food ran out.

Get in [ edit ]

Hamilton Island and Proserpine are the airports that service the region. Boats depart from adjacent to the airport at Hamilton to many of the Whitsunday Island resorts. Alternatively you can get the bus from Proserpine to Shute Harbour, and out to the islands from there. There are agents that will offer and price inclusive of this transfer.

There are buses from Airlie Beach to Shute Harbour as well, and it is a popular stopping off point. Sometimes standby rates for the island resorts are available there.

Even though it isn't that far off the Queensland coast, access by private boat isn't as simple as you may first think. Hamilton Island has many coral reefs near it and the tidal range is 5.9 m. There is a marina (call in on Marine VHF radio Ch 68 or ☏ +61 7 4946 8353 ) but prices start at about $17 per hour or $60 per day (2011). It makes stopping by for lunch at one of the many restaurants a bit less attractive.

Hamilton Island is visited occasionally by cruises. Most must tender their passengers to shore, where they have immediate access to a modest selection of rather nice resort shops and restaurants.

Ferry [ edit ]

Ferry transfers from different arrival points and between some islands are provided by Cruise Whitsundays . Ferries are available from:

• Hamilton Island Airport to: Long Island Resort, Daydream Island, Shute Harbour and Abel Point (Airlie Beach)
• Hamilton Island Marina to: Abel Point and Shute Harbour
• Prosperpine Airport via Abel Point to Hamilton Island marina, Daydream Island and Long Island Resort

Ferries are scheduled to meet most flights to the two airports. Ferry prices are quite expensive, at $50–70 for adults and children depending on route. Children under 4 are free. Bookings are available from Cruise Whitsundays directly or through your resort, for the same price.

Get around [ edit ]

• Bus from Proserpine to Airlie beach
• The airport, some residences, and most of the hotels, shops and restaurants on Hamilton Island are serviced by free shuttle buses.

Boat companies [ edit ]

• Atlantic Clipper Whitsundays is one of the largest vessels in the Whitsundays that has onboard diving.
• Avatar Sailing is one of the fastest sailing vessels in the Whitsundays.
• Cruise Whitsundays takes you to many places and also a catamaran called Camira and a pontoon on the reef at Knuckle Reef.
• Mantaray Charters takes you to Whitehaven Beach and to a beautiful reef for snorkelling. Scuba diving possible for certified divers and introduction dives. Maximum 34 passengers in a chilled atmosphere.
• Ocean Rafting . Fast and fun with high speed boats that can brave all conditions. This company actually caters for the island hopping day trippers, but can comfortably fit a few campers' packs and water on board. The price is $164, according to their brochure available in Airlie beach (the website quotes $180, possibly to get more money from an unknowing distance booker). This is part of their two-day package for touring all around the islands, and should mean taking you to several different locations for snorkelling. If this does not interest you, there is no reason that they should not charge the normal day rate of $97, if you plan on going to one of the locations that they visit on their typical route (e.g. Whitehaven beach). The staff are super friendly, professional and efficient. They lend you stinger suits (should you feel the need for one) and snorkelling equipment for free, but do not give you water, so you just need to sort it out in Airlie.
• Pacific Sunrise Whitsundays provides sailing trips of the Whitsunday islands and the great barrier reef from Airlie beach.
• Schooner Whitsunday Magic , a 115-ft Mediterranean luxury schooner doing Whitsunday Island sailing trips.
• Solway Lass Whitsundays is a restored tallship, over 100 years old, doing cruises of the Whitsunday Islands from Airlie Beach.
• Spank Me Whitsundays , a maxi racing yacht doing Great Barrier Reef and island trips with onboard diving.
• Wings Diving Adventures , a sail and dive tour operator with two boats in their Wings and Emperor Wings fleets. They offer guests the opportunity to sail and scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef. Eco-certified tour operator with high standards of safety on all their vessels. They offer live aboard cruises on 2- or 3-night adventure tours around the Whitsunday Islands and the Outer Great Barrier Reef. Their tours depart Airlie Beach 6 days a week.
• ZigZag Whitsundays Day Tour , a company that started in Airlie Beach in 2017, uses dynamic pricing and has a good staff. The boat has 1,200-horsepower Suzuki engines with comfortable padded seats and includes lunch and snorkel equipment in the price of the ticket. The tour visits Whitehaven Beach, South Whitehaven Lookout, Chalkies Beach and Haslewood Island Lookout plus one snorkel location.
• -20.26822 148.71704 1 Prosail Whitsundays , 350 Shute Harbour Rd, Airlie Beach ( beside national bank ), ☏ +610749464444 , [email protected] . 7AM-6PM . Operates overnight sailing tours to the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach and Great Barrier Reef. In 2022, they commenced specialty charters running once a month including Whitsundays spearfishing charters, freediving charters and yoga retreats. The boats depart from Coral Sea Marina and they have a reservations office in Airlie Beach. A$699 . ( updated Mar 2022 )

See [ edit ]

Whitehaven beach [ edit ].

Whitehaven Beach is by far the most recognised of all the Whitsundays landmarks. Stretching about 4.5 km and consisting of fine, brilliant white sand, it presents the image that is used most often in tourism brochures and regularly on TV advertising in Australia. The view from the lookout across Hill inlet is remarkable and on a sunny day (Like most days are), it is nothing short of spectacular.

The sand at Whitehaven Beach is 98% pure silica. The water lapping along the beach which is usually sheltered during the south easterly trade winds (Most of the year) and so the water where the sea meets the beach is often crystal clear and makes for perfect swimming. It is also a "nursery" for baby sharks and stingrays which can be seen just by walking along the flood line.

In 2019, National Parks opened a new lookout platform at the southern end of Whitehaven Beach. The walking trail to the lookout is an easy grade of 900 metres each way. 180-degree views from the south platform include the full length of the beach in one direction and back towards the mainland in the other direction.

Hamilton Islands [ edit ]

Hamilton Island is the most developed and populated Whitsunday island and has its own airport, post office and bank. It boasts some of the most valuable real estate in Australia, and has many options for accommodation, which range from a standard hotel room to your own house! The most cost effective way of staying on the island is a house or apartment, especially for larger groups eg for weddings. There are many developments including unit complexes, the Great Barrier Reef Yacht Club, the newest resort, the 6-star Qualia (on the island's northern tip) and the golf course and accommodations planned for Dent Island. High rise is on the island - the Reef View Hotel, Whitsunday Apartments and Yacht Harbour Towers are iconic. A bit 1970s/80s in style from the outside, they are nevertheless testaments to the island founder Keith Williams' genius as the views from the upper rooms are stunning.

Hamilton Island and Dent Island are privately owned by the Oatley family, founders of Rosemount Wines in Australia. The island is owned on a perpetual lease from the Commonwealth Government. Bob Oately bought the island from previous owners Banker's Trust, a publicly listed company. The island was founded in 1984 by Keith Williams, who also started Sea World, on the Gold Coast. In the 1990s Williams went bankrupt due to complications with a pilot's strike and banking problems and the island was briefly taken over by Holiday Inn.

Despite development, the island remains a haven for options in getting out to reef areas and Whitehaven Beach (about 1/2 hr by boat, Great Barrier Reef about 2 hours), fine accommodation, plenty of restaurant options, good walking around largely untouched island (Passage Peak hike is a tough effort but being the highest point on the island the views are very well worth it, it takes about an hour hard walking from the back of Reef View to the summit or allow 3 hours round trip if you want to stroll. Some brave souls run it or take their mountain bikes!), and nice beaches. There is certainly plenty to do on Hamilton (or Hammo to the locals) or you can definitely just relax by one of the pools.

There are regular ferry services from the mainland and other islands, but even though it isn't that far off the Queensland coast, access by private boat isn't as simple as you may first think. Hamilton Island has many coral reefs near it and the tidal range is 5.9m. There is a marina but prices start at about $17 per hour or $60 per day (2011). It makes stopping by for lunch at one of the many restaurants a bit less attractive.

Don't expect a deserted tropical island though - it can get very busy during peak times (September/October and Christmas period). The feel is more small town, down to the community atmosphere, stopping for chats along the street and friendly helpful locals. Quite a few locals have been on island for years but there is also a huge number of young "transients" who only stay a few months. Due to the developments there are also many who regularly holiday on the island, whether they rent an apartment or own their own.

The island's populated areas are loosely divided into three main areas - Marina Village (or Front Street) - this is where most of the shops and restaurants, the bank, the post office, the general store and the newsagency are; Resort side - Catseye Beach, the main pools and the resort accommodations - Reef View Hotel, Whitsunday Apartments, Palm Terraces/Bungalows and the Beach Club are here; and the "northern end" where most of the apartments and houses are as well as the newest resort Qualia on the island's northern tip. None of these areas are more than 5-10 minutes by golf buggy (the main mode of transport) away from each other.

Dent Island [ edit ]

Dent Island is west of Hamilton Island and is owned by the same owner as Hamilton under the same lease from the Commonwealth Government. It has been known in the past as Hamilton Island West.

Whitsunday Island [ edit ]

Whitsunday Island is the largest island in the archipelago, and home to the famous Whitehaven Beach. Most day boat trips come here and it is on most people's "must-see" list of things while here. Whitehaven beach faces east towards the open sea, making some boat journeys there very choppy. The size of the island also means there are dozens and dozens of little coves and inlets where people with yachts or boats can pull in away from it all. Many boats also go to Tongue Point , which has a well trodden trail up to a built lookout over Whitehaven. Some of the boat packages on offer for first-time visitors can have the feeling of a troop march for one camera shoot place to the next, so if doing daytripping, choose your boat company wisely.

Whitehaven beach's main attraction is the pure white silica sand, along a 7-km (4½-mile) stretch. Sunglasses are essential (seriously!) Different theories about the sand exist, one of the more interesting that Australia's tectonic plates rubbed together and the silica oozed up from the Earth's, before being washed up here. Because of the sand's purity, it was almost mined by the American government in the 1960s for military uses. The substance can be used for satellite dishes. Luckily that did not come to pass, and the beach is now protected under the national park. Well over a hundred people dock here daily on tours, and it is always being voted one of the best beaches in the world, by the people who vote for these things. But between about 4PM and 10AM it is entirely deserted, for the intrepid few that camp overnight (or people who own yachts). There is a pit toilet behind the beach and no running water.

Hook Island [ edit ]

Hook Island is the second largest in the archipelago. The first maps of the area were drawn incorrectly, and depicted Hook Island in the shape of... yes, you guessed correctly! In fact, Hook is shaped something like the Peloponnese in Greece, looking like three downward pointing fingers. Hook is home to an underwater observatory, leaving 95% of the island as national park.

Enquire at Coral Sea Marina in Airlie on the Queensland Coast for excursions or charters. ☏ +61 7 4946 2400

The Coral Observatory [ edit ]

A local businessman built an underwater coral viewing station here for opening in 1969. Apparently, in order to build observatory's foundations, he exploded the coral bed and thousands of dead fish floated the top. Frustrated at what he had just done he exclaimed, "Struth, I wanted people to see the bloody coral, but I can't get to it without blowing the bastard up!"

Today the observatory is distinctly unremarkable. The windows for your "observing" are 30 cm wide and fogged up. It does however serve as a pier to the island. Try not to be sold this as a reason to come, because snorkeling is a better option, and the rest of the island is lovely anyway.

Hayman Island [ edit ]

Hayman Island is beautiful, and by far the most exclusive resort in the Whitsunday group. The whole island is privately owned and people without prior arrangements may not dock. Some of the most beautiful coral reefs are just off shore from here on the north west side of Hook Island.

Daydream Island [ edit ]

Daydream Island is a small single resort, with paths connecting the resort activity centers with the accommodation rooms. The island is quite family friendly, and includes a range of activities for guests.

Long Island [ edit ]

Long Island is mostly undeveloped save for three resorts. One is largish — the Club Croc Resort on Happy Bay. The other two are smaller, more intimate "eco" style resorts — Peppers Palm Bay and Whitsunday Wilderness Lodge on Paradise Bay.

South Molle Island [ edit ]

South Molle is a small resort island. The company also operates Koala Resort backpackers in Airlie Beach and three backpacker boats that are run out of Airlie.

Lindeman Island [ edit ]

Lindeman Island is being redeveloped.

Events [ edit ]

Outrigger Cup . During June or July each year is the Outrigger Cup. Outrigging is a Hawaian sport using canoes with one "outrigger ama" to balance the boat on the ocean. During this week the action is mostly centred on Catseye Beach (on the resort side of the island) with 1-, 2- and 6-person canoes competing over days in various events including short sprints and longer marathons, the most difficult being the Hamilton Cup marathon where the paddlers go right around Hamilton Island. For the fitter crews (Hawaii mens are particularly strong) this takes about 3 hours — that's hard paddling! The atmosphere is festive, the competition fierce and well-known Australian Iron Woman Lisa Curry-Kenny is a regular competitor. Her Noosa team is a very strong competitor in the women's divisions.

Hamilton Island Race Week . August sees the famous Race Week, started by Keith Williams in the 1980s. This sees hundreds of yachts from 30-foot boats rented for the week to billion-dollar super yachts finely tuned for serious racing. Famous yachts that regularly compete include Skandia, Alfa Romeo and one of the Wild Oats yachts - owned by the island's now owner Bob Oatley. Various classes of racing range from cruising division (despite the name some crews in this division are very competitive!) to IRC divisions for the yachting professionals. Race Week is when the island really comes alive with hundreds of sailors filling the marina and hotels, from the serious bustle of the mornings getting ready to race, the colourful spinnaker starts (on the last day various tourist boat operators take their vessels out with guests to watch the starts), to the sunburnt yachties straggling one and two boats at a time into the marina after a days racing to crack open a beer, put some music on and then head to the Marina Tavern for some hard "relaxing" after a day of hard racing. The night life is almost as important as the day's racing! Many Australian entertainers such as Jimmy Barnes have regularly performed at Race Weeks and there is live music every night from various performers. By far the most anticipated highlight is the Whitehaven Beach party - no-one wants to miss it! Only two divisions race over to Whitehaven but all the yachts go, along with the tour boats and ferries and barges. Bars and barbecues are set up on the beach and everyone plays beach cricket (during the 1980s, famous Australian cricketers would play on the beach, and famous Australians such as Elton Flatley and Lachlan Murdoch have attended), throws a frisbee or a footy, plays volleyball and generally mucks around. Footwear not required, bikini or boardshorts, hat and sunnies essential. Some island local girls plan their bikini outfit well in advance!

Do [ edit ]

Sleep [ edit ].

See Hamilton Island#Sleep for Hamilton Island facilities.

Camping [ edit ]

There is a superb variety of choices for campsites on the Whitsunday islands for people who want to get away from all the pre-packaged tourism. The first thing to check out is the basic brochure online from the Queensland Government. It gives a good outline of the different campsites and a map of where everything is. To stay on a campsite you need to phone up the Queensland Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing on ☏ +61 7 4946 7022 , or visit their office in Airlie. It costs $4 per person per night and offers a brilliant way to see the scenery unhindered during the day, and stars when night falls when no one is left in sight. You just need a pack for some food, some water and a tent and you are away.

The national parks of the Whitsundays also fall under the regulatory oversight of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA). As detailed in the online brochure, campers are required to have sufficient water. The recommendation is five litres per person per day, and three days more for emergencies. In practice three or four litres a day will last people who are careful. So as not to be overcharged purchase the water or big containers to carry some at a petrol station or supermarket in Airlie. Another regulation, from the collective wisdom of the two authorities, is that boat companies need special permits in order to drop campers off on an island (even though someone with their own boat would need no permission!)

Mid-range [ edit ]

• Daydream Island Resort , ☏ +61 7 3259 2350 , toll-free: 1800 075 040 , fax : +61 7 3259 2399 , [email protected] . Family-oriented resort occupying an entire island. Activities include an artifiical reef, sailing and kayak hire, snorkelling and glass bottom boat tours. Childcare is available at Skippers Club, providing childcare for children from 6 weeks of age. $175-400 per room per night .  

Splurge [ edit ]

Hayman Island is the most upmarket of the Whitsunday resorts. Lindeman Island has quite a few facilities, if you go for the "Club Med" resort feel.

" Qualia on Hamilton island and Paradise Bay Eco Resort on Long Island will cost you as much, if not more than Hayman and all are unique experiences.

• Fantasea's Reefsleep accommodation is on Reefworld, a floating pontoon on the Great Barrier Reef, 40 nautical miles (74 km) from land. It provides either a king-sized bedroom or a four bunk-style bedroom suitable. Overnight, only the staff are on location to look after you as all other guests have departed to the mainland, leaving you with exclusive use of the pontoon and its underwater viewing chamber. Overnight guests also get an al fresco dinner including wine, full breakfast, buffet lunches, sunset beverages, and two scuba dives or a guided snorkelling safari.

Go next [ edit ]

There are many daytripper boats out to the Whitsunday Islands, but you can also take a day or two trip to Airlie Beach on the mainland if you like.

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Navigation menu

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More Information

For more information, please read over our Groups, Conferences, Events & Incentives brochure.

For groups OVER 50 pax please contact our team at: [email protected]

All other smaller groups, please contact our team at: [email protected]

Whitehaven Beach

Full or half day. capacity up to 240.

Cruise aboard our modern, air conditioned powered catamaran to Australia’s #1 beach – Whitehaven Beach.  The ideal venue for an incentive day for delegates during conferencing, or as a reward to your top performing clients.

Visit this ICONIC beach to give your event the WOW factor. Whether it’s a lunch set up on the beach or just a day to relax, this location is set to dazzle.

Undoubtedly one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Whitehaven Beach is one of the Whitsundays ‘must do’s’. Cruise Whitsundays’ high speed and well-appointed vessels cruise through the Whitsunday islands to Whitehaven Beach offering a first-hand experience of this spectacular icon. The half day cruises allow you to explore the more remote, beautiful and secluded bays of the Whitsunday islands en route to Whitehaven Beach, with both indoor and outdoor seating to enjoy the views. Alternatively charter a vessel for a full day and enjoy a long day with many hours to enjoy this magnificent icon.

Great Barrier Reef Private Charters

To heart pontoon. capacity up to 300..

One of the great natural wonders of the world and it’s right here on our doorstep. It is the ultimate outing for your conference or incentive group. Cruise on board one of the Whitsundays’ premier day cruise vessels to Heart Pontoon, acclaimed as a spectacular and protected Great Barrier Reef site. Explore the underwater wonderland and be held in awe by the magnificent corals and abundance of fish and other marine life.

This pontoon is the newest and most innovative design. It is spacious with a choice of areas to relax and a great range of activities. There is undercover seating and tables, sun decks, freshwater showers, change rooms and you have full access to the air conditioned comfort of your vessel alongside the pontoon. It features Queensland’s largest and most spectacular underwater viewing chamber (you’ll feel like you are in the water with the fish). Located at Hardy Reef the pontoon is ideally situated next to a spectacular natural underwater cliff face. Hardy Reef provides a unique world for you to explore – be it by Subsea Adventure, snorkelling or diving

Camira Sailing Adventure

To whitehaven beach. capacity up to 80..

Sail through the spectacular Whitsunday Islands onboard our high-speed sailing catamaran, Camira. This fully inclusive day cruise visits world-famous Whitehaven Beach.

State of the art design combines with the grace of sail to produce one of the world’s fastest commercial sailing catamarans. Cruising through the waters of Australia’s favourite maritime playground, Camira is the ultimate day sailing experience.

Swimming, snorkelling, beautiful beaches and bays, a superb barbecue lunch and the thrill of performance sailing – put it all together and you have the most varied, exciting day available.

‘Camira’ can carry up to 80 passengers to Whitehaven Beach or offers sunrise and sunset cruises. An ideal option for incentive and team building events.

Edu-tourism and school groups

Cruise Whitsundays offers a range of fun and immersive edu-tourism experiences for school groups of all ages. Students will feel inspired as our Master Reef Guides and Marine Biologists teach them all about our incredible Great Barrier Reef and its intricate and delicate eco-system. Cruise Whitsundays’ owns and operates Reefworld at Hardy Reef, the only permanently moored pontoon in the Whitsunday region.

For more information about what is on offer for school groups email [email protected] .

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CRUISE AND STAY

7 FULL DAYS CRUISING IN THE WHITSUNDAYS WITH OUR EXCLUSIVE CRUISE AND STAY PACKAGE.

This is the perfect package for those seeking the best of both adventure and relaxation. Hop on board the beloved Powerplay and cruise the turquoise seas, and then unwind at the cozy and spacious Airlie Searene Apartments.

This combination includes:

• Two day, two night tour on the well-loved Powerplay
• A four-night stay at the relaxing  Airlie Searene Apartments

The Whitsundays is a dream, ready to be explored by you! Hop on board Powerplay for the ultimate package featuring luxury and opulence.  Cruise and Stay gives those with wanderlust the opportunity to live their daydreams, whisking you around the crystal-clear waters of the Whitsundays. Sail authentically, snorkel with vibrant marine creatures and enjoy the relaxing moments with your loved ones.

You also get to stay in one of Airlie Beach's most beloved accommodation options, Searene. Wind down in your cozy self-contained apartment and stretch out, watching the orange-tinged sunset from your wet-edge pool. This truly is paradise. 

Highlights & Inclusions

Tour - powerplay whitsundays.

• Stand-up paddleboards and double kayaks
• Heated foredeck spa 
• Snorkelling equipment and wetsuit
• Enjoy underwater blue lights, which are great for attracting marine life
• Fresh linen provided for each guest
• All meals freshly prepared on board by your highly trained crew
• BYO Alcohol
• Travel faster and see more of the Whitsundays
• Comfortable and spacious two-level Catamaran

Accommodation - Airlie Searene Apartments 

• Unwind in a deluxe studio apartment
• Features a private balcony with stunning panoramic views of the ocean
• Conveniently located in the heart of Airlie Beach
• Located in one of the most sought after resorts in the area
• Cool off in the postcard-perfect wet edge pool and relax in the spa 
• Our studios have full kitchenettes, central bathrooms and a large soaking bath with views
• Fully air-conditioned and tropical ceiling fans
• You have the flex booking option of rearranging the sailing tour

Important Information

Please refer to your ticket for accommodation check-in and check-out times before arrival.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1: arrive in airlie beach.

Head to the vibrant Whitsunday Coast and check in to your luxurious accommodation at Airlie Searene Apartments. Located conveniently in the heart of Airlie Beach, your apartment is only a short stroll to an amazing array of shops, restaurants and cafes. It's also nestled a short 12-minute stroll from Airlie Lagoon, as well as a jaw-dropping 1.5 kilometre walk to Co...

Head to the vibrant Whitsunday Coast and check in to your luxurious accommodation at Airlie Searene Apartments. Located conveniently in the heart of Airlie Beach, your apartment is only a short stroll to an amazing array of shops, restaurants and cafes. It's also nestled a short 12-minute stroll from Airlie Lagoon, as well as a jaw-dropping 1.5 kilometre walk to Coral Sea Marina. Spend the rest of your day enjoying the wonderful sights of Airlie Beach, and soak up the salty sea breeze.

Overnight: Airlie Searene Apartments

Day 2: Enjoy a free day in Airlie Beach 

Rise and shine, because it's time to enjoy a full day of freedom in the wonderful Airlie Beach! Embrace the quirks of the vibrant beach-town lifestyle and settle into the leisurely pace of the locals. Eat at one of the incredible restaurants and cafes in the Airlie hub, and feast on the fresh flavours of the varying local cuisine. After lunch, you might like to unwind by the gorgous wet-edge pool at your apartments, taking in the panoramic sights of the Coral Sea below. Enjoy the relaxation of the day, because the adventure begins tomorrow!

Day 3: Depart Airlie Beach and begin the adventure

First things first: check out of your cozy accommodation and check into paradise! Leave your extra luggage at reception after checking out of Airlie Searene Apartments in the morning, and get ready to make the most of your morning! Enjoy the leisurely pace of your day as you sit down to a delicious brunch at one of the many renowned breakfast cafes in Airlie Beach. Take a well-deserved stroll and soak up the sights before heading to the Coral Sea Marina to begin your next adventure!

Depart the Coral Sea Marina at 1:00pm, aboard the wonderful Powerplay Whitsundays. 

Get ready for a life-changing adventure with Powerplay! She will make her way through the glistening waters of the Whitsundays, toward some of the natural marvels you've been itching to see. Your friendly crew will whisk you away to destinations like Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet Lookout and the colourful fringing reefs of the famous Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. During your adventure you can choose to relax, unwind or learn the ropes of sailing! Wine and dine aboard Powerplay, freshen up in your private cabin and enjoy the ride aboard a romantic and whimsical vessel. All you need for the perfect adventure is at your fingertips: delicious food will be served, informative commentary about the area will be available and there will be plenty of entertainment if you need a change of scenery from the calming hues of blue.

On your first afternoon aboard Powerplay, you'll set sail across the calm waters toward the islands where you'll anchor up for a dreamy night of sleep upon the sea.

Overnight: Powerplay Whitsunday - Private Cabin

Day 4: Out on the water, the dream continues 

Get up early and take a look around: you're still in paradise! Seeing the gentle lapping of the Coral Sea will be the perfect way to start your day, accompanied by digging into a scrumptious breakfast. Then, hop off the boat and go on a bushwalking adventure up to Hill Inlet Lookout. See the marvellous sights of the blue and white cosmos of Hill Inlet, and then head back down to dip your toes into the crystal-clear waters of Whitehaven Beach.

Sit down to a delicious morning tea, before making your way to the western side of the mysterious Hook Island. The illusive Powerplay will anchor down in the cool and calm waters, and once there, enjoy lunch made fresh by your passionate crew. After a minute of relaxation, it's time to grab a snorkel and dive headfirst into the luring turquoise waters! You'll be hypnotised by the incredible array of colourful marine life - spot a swimming turtle, a floundering Sweetlip fish and even a stingray if you're lucky!

Refreshments will be served as you watch the orange-tinged sunset, giving you the space to unwind from a jam-packed day of adventures. Head back to your cozy cabin and tuck in for another blissful night of sleep.

Day 5: Snorkel to your heart's content

Wake up, feeling refreshed and ready for another day of adventures. It's time to grab a snorkel and dive into the azure waters once more! Before your adventure, enjoy another delicious breakfast before slipping into your swimwear. Explore a new underwater location, meet more vibrant creatures of the sea and stare in awe at the colourful coral beds. Up for something different? You might also like to try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding! Soak up the last few hours of your own personal paradise before making your way back through the azure passage towards Coral Sea Marina. 

You will return back to Airlie Beach at around 11:00am, and wander back to your luscious enclave at Searene Airlie Apartments for another two delightful nights. 

Please note that each itinerary is weather dependent and designed to be flexible. 

Day 6: Unwind and explore on your last full day in Airlie Beach

As your last full day in tropical paradise, it's time to make the most of it! Peruse the vibrant heart of Airlie Beach and grab a bite to eat, then head to the Airlie Lagoon to cool off. There's a number of incredible land-based adventures to explore on your last day, so ask your friendly travel expert for advice!

Day 7: Depart Airlie Beach

It's your last morning in paradise, so be sure to reflect on the incredible last few days of your adventure. Check out and make your way back home, or onwards to your next adventure.

Accommodation

Located in a stunning resort just 12 minutes walk from Airlie Beach Lagoon, the Searene apartments boast stunning views of the Coral Sea. They’re the perfect place to unwind after an adventurous few days out to sea, offering deluxe and cozy accommodation for an incredible price.

Accommodation Hig...

Accommodation Highlights:

• Deluxe studio apartment
• Conveniently located in the centre of Airlie Beach
• Features a private balcony with panoramic views of the ocean
• Cool off in the postcard-perfect wet edge pool and relax in the spa 
• Features a kitchenette and a central bathroom
• Air-conditioned
• Option to sleep up to 3 guests

Powerplayhas it all - from snorkelling to stand-up paddle-boarding to Whitehaven Beach, it’s one of the best tours in the Whitsundays! Offering action-packed activities and a comfortable, spacious ...

Powerplayhas it all - from snorkelling to stand-up paddle-boarding to Whitehaven Beach, it’s one of the best tours in the Whitsundays! Offering action-packed activities and a comfortable, spacious space to unwind, you’ll get to enjoy the deep blue at its very best.

Tour Highlights:

• Snorkel  the incredibly clear water and spot marine life
• Try your hand at  stand-up paddle boarding
• Explore the  Hill Inlet Lookout  and glimpse incredible panoramic views 
• Relax on the silica sands of  Whitehaven Beach

Whitsunday Adventurer offers the best of both worlds when it comes to exploring the Whitsundays - soak up the beauty of the region from above and below!

More Information

What to bring.

Please bring only a  small soft bag containing  no zippers  with:

• Change of clothes
• Beach towel
• Insect repellent
• Water bottles to refill
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunnies etc.)
• Warm clothes/pullover for evenings (seasonal)

Excess luggage can be stored at our  Airlie Beach Travel Shop  in town. Located at 344 Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach, open from 7:00 am - 7:00...

Excess luggage can be stored at our  Airlie Beach Travel Shop  in town. Located at 344 Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach, open from 7:00 am - 7:00 pm, seven days per week.

You will also need to bring your own alcoholic beverages, available for purchase in town. No glass bottles permitted (with the exception of wine).

What's Included

• Drinking water
• Bath towels
• Wetsuit hire and snorkelling equipment
• Marine Park fees

What's Extra

• Alcohol and soft drinks (BYO - refer to "What to Bring" for more info.)

Holiday Surcharges:

• Tours at sea between the 24th of December to the 2nd of January will incur a local payment once-off fee of $20 per person per night, payable direct at check in.
• Tours departing on Easter Friday, Saturday, Sunday or Monday will incur a once-off fee of $20 per person per night, payable direct at check in.

Terms and Conditions

Important Information:

This is a water-based activity, for safety reasons all passengers must be able to swim and speak fluent English.

Your Responsibilities:

Please advise us before booking if any passengers are under 18 years old to ensure this is the appropriate trip. 

You must reconfirm all booked tours prior to travel as specified on your voucher. If applicable, notes such as dietary requirements, pick-up locations and additional fees should also be confirmed at this time. Reconfirmations cannot be actioned through Sailing Whitsundays/Mr Travel, and must be done so directly through the Service Operator as specified on each ticket.

It is your responsibility to notify us of ticket discrepancies. Please read through the details on your voucher thoroughly to ensure all details such as passenger names, ages and dates of travel on vouchers are correct.

It is the responsibility of all passengers travelling to advise both your travel agent at the time of booking and vessel check-in agent before boarding of any medical conditions including food allergies you may suffer from.

You need to allow adequate time to check-in prior to the specified departure time. 

Prices/Extra Costs:

All prices are stated in Australian dollars and include GST. Surcharges over peak holiday seasons may apply. 

The Service Operator reserves the right to alter prices and extra costs. Extra costs may include EMC fees, Stingersuit/Wetsuit Hire, Luggage Storage, Insurance, Linen Hire, National Park Fees, Fuel Levies, Dietary Fees, etc. Bonds may also apply.

We will also endeavour to communicate these extra costs with you at the time of booking, and on your ticket. However, it is your responsibility to confirm which (if any) additional costs apply with each Service Operator upon reconfirming your trip.

Travel Risk/Insurance:

It should be noted that adventure travel involves risk. Whilst we make every effort to safeguard clients, we cannot be responsible for personal injury or loss due to the actions of our clients which are beyond our control. We highly recommend that all clients have travel insurance covering illness, injury, loss or damage to personal belongings and not being able to travel on the confirmed date of departure. You should also ensure your travel insurance will cover special circumstances including weather events preventing guests from travelling to their tour departure destination and cancelled flights due to unforeseen circumstances. 

Merchant Fees:

Please be aware operators pass on credit card merchant fees so there is a non-refundable 1% surcharge for VISA and MASTERCARD card purchases.

Other: 

Terms and Conditions (including the Cancellation Policy) are subject to change. The most recent versions can be found online on the relevant product pages. 

All ticket/voucher reissues attract a $20 administration fee.

Open Date Vouchers / Gift Certificate:

Shipping Costs are in addition to the ticket price and will be added at check-out. Shipping costs are non-refundable and do not makeup part of the ticket value. 

E-Vouchers incur no shipping fees. You have 5 years to use the value of the voucher. Seasonal Price Rises will apply if travelling out the current seasons pricing. Vouchers can be exchanged for free up to the full value of the voucher excluding credit card fees and charges.

Cancellations

Client Cancellations:

All cancellations forfeit 25% of the recommended retail price (RRP) - not the discounted/sale price. Cancellations made 60-30 days prior to travel date forfeit 50% of the RRP. No shows or client cancellations made within 30 days of departure forfeit 100% of the total ticket price. 

Transfers between tours can be made at the suppliers discretion, however, it should be noted that supplier fees may apply. Tour transfers also incur a $20 administration fee. 

It is compulsory that all cancellation requests are in writing and sent via email to [email protected]. Cancellations attempted via online chat or phone will not be actioned.

Supplier Cancellations:

The Service Operator reserves the right to alter prices, alter itineraries, apply a fuel surcharge, cancel departures, arrange alternative transport and vary itineraries and services if necessary.

All departures and itineraries are subject to weather. Tours may be changed or cancelled for any reason at the discretion of the Service Operator. If the Service Operator has to cancel the trip or activity (prior to departure) and we cannot offer a suitable alternative, then a refund will be given minus a 20% administration fee and any associated card fees. We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance, especially during the wet season.

In the unlikely event of your trip being cancelled or stood down, all guest communication is required to go through our Online Store via telephone or email. While there is a Sailing Whitsundays retail outlet located Airlie Beach, please be aware that they operate as a separate entity and are unable to access reservations made by the Mr Travel online department.

All refunds are in Australian Dollars and must be made to the card of payment. Sailing Whitsundays/Mr Travel is not liable for exchange rate fluctuations or fees, or any other merchant/bank fees associated with domestic and/or international transactions.

Where a full refund is applicable, there is the option to transfer the whole cost of the tour to another tour or “Credit” to avoid the administration fee. A transfer fee of $20 will apply.

You will be emailed confirmation once the refund has been processed. Once the refund has been processed, it may still take time for the banks to clear the amount. Please allow 7-10 business days for the funds to clear into Australian accounts and up to 21 business days for international accounts.

Accountability/Misconduct:

All Service Operators have the right to provide client feedback and to cancel bookings based off of feedback from other Service Operators. 

Please enjoy your travel experience in a kind and responsible manner.

Sailing Whitsundays/Mr Travel will treat this as any normal client cancellation and therefore the cancellation fees stated in the Client Cancellation Policy will apply.

Thank you for booking with our East-Coast travel experts here at Mr Travel/Sailing Whitsundays.  If you would like any further advice, assistance in arranging accommodation, transfers or additional tours please get in touch.

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Sailing Whitsundays acknowledges the Ngaro, Gia and Juru people as the Traditional Owners of the lands and seas in which we operate. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all First Nations peoples.