Whitsundays Australia

It’s time to put your feet up and soak in gorgeous sun and sand in the Whitsundays – A True Sailing Paradise!

Sail through the Whitsundays, where crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches, and vibrant reefs create the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Liveaboards out of Whitsundays 🛥️

The Whitsundays offer sailing-focused liveaboards, providing a social, scenic, and adventure-driven experience. Unlike Cairns, diving is limited, with only a few liveaboards offering dedicated scuba trips. Most tours focus on:
⛵ Sailing through pristine islands & coral cays
🐠 Snorkelling in protected reef lagoons
🌅 Sunset views & beachside relaxation

For those seeking a true diving-focused liveaboard, Cairns is the better gateway to the Outer Great Barrier Reef.

How to get here 🧭

The Whitsundays, located in North Queensland, are a stunning chain of 74 tropical islands surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. These islands are only accessible by boat, seaplane, or helicopter, but reaching the mainland hub, Airlie Beach, is easy.

✈️ By Air
Fly directly to Proserpine Airport (PPP) or Hamilton Island Airport (HTI) from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and other major Australian cities. From Proserpine, it’s a short shuttle or taxi ride to Airlie Beach, where most liveaboards depart. From Hamilton Island, ferries connect to Airlie Beach and other Whitsunday islands.

🚆 By Train
Queensland Rail’s Spirit of Queensland runs from Brisbane to Cairns, stopping at Proserpine, with bus transfers available to Airlie Beach.

🚌 By Bus
Coach services, including Greyhound Australia, connect Airlie Beach to other major Queensland cities.

Where to stay 🏨

Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Islands offer a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury beachfront resorts. Staying in Airlie Beach keeps you close to marinas, restaurants, and nightlife, while island stays offer a secluded tropical escape.

Find the best accommodation deals on Booking.com

What to do in The Whitsundays 🐟

A sailing paradise, the Whitsundays are perfect for liveaboards, yacht charters, and snorkelling adventures. Explore:
🌊 Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet – Famous for its swirling white sands and turquoise waters.
🐠 Heart Reef – A natural wonder best seen from a scenic flight.
🛥️ Liveaboard trips – Sail through sheltered lagoons, snorkel coral reefs, and soak up breathtaking sunsets.

What’s nearby The Whitsundays 🌴

The Whitsundays are surrounded by incredible natural beauty and adventure:
🏝️ Airlie Beach – A lively coastal town with cafés, shops, and the Airlie Beach Lagoon.
🌿 Conway National Park – Rainforest hikes with stunning ocean views.
💦 Cedar Creek Falls – A refreshing natural swimming hole, perfect for a day trip.
🐚 Bowen – Known for its quiet beaches, fresh seafood, and scenic coastal views.

FAQs

Are Whitsunday liveaboard trips suitable for non-divers?

A. Whitsunday liveaboard trips cater to both divers and non-divers. Snorkeling, beach visits, and relaxation on board are perfect for those who don’t dive.

Do I need previous sailing experience to join a trip?

A. No sailing experience is required. The crew handles the sailing, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey. However, some operators might offer opportunities for guests to participate in sailing activities.

What's the best time to go on a Whitsunday liveaboard trip?

A. The Whitsundays can be visited year-round. The warm season from November to April offers pleasant water temperatures, while the cooler months from May to October provide milder weather.

Are there age restrictions for joining a Whitsunday liveaboard trip?

A. Age restrictions can vary between operators, but most trips are suitable for adults and families with children. Some operators might have specific age limits for diving activities.

Can I bring my alcohol on board?

A. Some operators allow you to get your alcohol, while others have restrictions or provide a limited selection of alcoholic beverages. Check with your chosen operator for their policy.