Summertime Whitsundays – Classic Sailing Adventure ⛵
Explore Whitehaven Beach, snorkel coral gardens, and soak in the Whitsundays’ only onboard jacuzzi – all on this eco-friendly liveaboard
If you’re dreaming of a laid-back yet adventure-filled sailing holiday, Summertime Whitsundays ticks every box. This restored 63-foot timber ketch combines the romance of classic sailing with the creature comforts of modern travel. With just 16 guests onboard, it’s the perfect way to discover the Whitsundays section of the Great Barrier Reef without the crowds. From kayaking over coral gardens to lounging in the onboard jacuzzi, Summertime offers a truly unique and unforgettable way to experience the Whitsunday Islands.
🌟 Why Choose Summertime Whitsundays 🌞
- Classic Sailing Charm ⛵ – Sail aboard a lovingly restored timber yacht with vintage flair and modern air-conditioned comfort.
- Snorkel Fringing Reefs 🐠 – Encounter vibrant marine life and coral gardens with included snorkelling gear and expert guides.
- Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet 🏝️ – Hike up to Hill Inlet Lookout for those jaw-dropping swirling sands, then enjoy time to relax on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
- Onboard Kayaking Tours 🛶 – Paddle through protected bays and inlets on guided kayak tours — an exclusive highlight of this trip!
- Freshwater Hot Tub 💦 – Unwind in the Whitsundays’ only onboard spa tub as the sun sets over the ocean.
- Cosy Group Size 👨👩👧 – With a maximum of 16 guests, you’ll enjoy a relaxed, social, and personalised sailing experience.
- Eco-Certified Adventure 🌿 – Operated by an Advanced Eco Tourism Certified company, this trip treads lightly on the environment while offering immersive experiences.
🛌 Onboard Accommodation & Facilities
Summertime’s cabins are clean, comfortable, and air-conditioned – perfect after a day of reef adventures. You’ll have the choice of private doubles or twin-share rooms, along with a shared saloon space for dining and relaxing. Meals are freshly prepared onboard with plenty of variety, and there’s a BYO alcohol policy (no glass please!). Best of all? There’s a hot freshwater jacuzzi on deck for those evening wind-down moments.
🗺️ Itinerary at a Glance
- Day 1 – Depart Airlie Beach, sail through the Whitsunday Passage, kayak or snorkel fringing reefs
- Day 2 – Visit Whitehaven Beach, walk to Hill Inlet Lookout, snorkelling stops on return journey
Itineraries are weather dependent and flexible to make the most of conditions and guest preferences. All snorkelling gear, kayak use, wetsuits/stinger suits and marine park fees are included in the trip price.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions 🤔
What’s included in the price? 🎟️
How many people are on the boat? 🚤
Are there private cabins? 🛏️
Can dietary requirements be catered for? 🥗
Where does the trip depart from? 📍
Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple or with mates, Summertime Whitsundays delivers a one-of-a-kind sailing adventure. With unbeatable access to the region’s top snorkel spots, exclusive kayaking tours, and a welcoming crew, it’s easy to see why this trip is a favourite among eco-conscious travellers. Book your liveaboard adventure now and sail into the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
Highlights
- Snorkel amazing coral reefs
- Kayak in the clear waters
- Jump in the onboard Jacuzzi after your days’ activities
- A hands-on sailing experience
- Spend time on Whitehaven Beach
- Explore the guided walks to Hill Inlet Lookout
- Sail through Hook Passage
Itinerary
Summertime Whitsundays Day 1
- First, it is time to depart Coral Sea Marina at 8:30 am and set sail to Whitsunday Island.
- Enjoy Lunch en route through Hook Passage.
- Secondly, it is time to visit Tounge Bay, the entry point to the hike up to Hill Inlet Lookout.
- Along with your guide, enjoy the wrap-around walk learning about the flora, fauna and region along the way.
- Finally, it is time we head over to Whitehaven Beach. Join an explorative walk along the beach, go for a paddle in a kayak, or enjoy a splash in the crystal-clear water – no snorkel required!
- Enjoy Sunset snacks and drinks on the journey to the overnight anchorage.
- Last but not least, it’s time to enjoy a BBQ Dinner on the deck while enjoying the day’s photo slideshow.
Summertime Whitsundays Day 2
- First and foremost, you are in for a treat by waking up to the sun rising over the Whitsunday Islands.
- Get ready for the day’s adventures by enjoying a fresh breakfast on the deck overlooking the shimmering ocean.
- Following breakfast, it is time to get back in the water. Spend a few hours of Snorkel and Kayak activities.
- Snorkel amongst the coral reefs straight off the boat.
- Jump in a kayak and follow your guide on a kayak adventure
- Lastly, enjoy a BBQ lunch on board before setting sail back to Airlie Beach.
**Please note that the itinerary is subject to weather conditions.
Included
- Freshwater Jacuzzi
- Guided Turtle and Stingray Kayak Tour
- All Meals and Snacks
- Large comfy beds with clean, fresh linen.
- Tea, Coffee and Water
- All Snorkelling equipment, including wetsuits.
- Marine and National Park Fees
- Experienced and Friendly Crew.
Optional Extras
**DIETARY SURCHARGE** If you have any dietary requirements other than vegetarian, there may be a dietary surcharge payable when you check in.
What to bring
- Beach Towel and Shower Towel
- Swimwear
- Clothes (light jacket for the warmer months)
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Toiletries
- BYO Alcohol (No Glass or Red Wine).
- Cash for onboard purchases
It should be noted that guests are requested to bring belongings in a small, zipperless bag.
How to get there
This tour departs from Coral Sea Marina, Northern End, Airlie Beach.
Important Information
Due to the nature of this tour, the minimum age for this tour is 18 years.
To organise catering, please advise of any dietary requirements you may have at the time of booking.
