Located in between the Great Barrier Reef and Airlie Beach in Queensland’s central coast are the Whitsunday Islands. The Whitsunday region is known for adventurous Whitsundays tours and activities such as sailing, snorkelling, jet skiing, ocean rafting, scuba diving, and skydiving.
Boasting 74 tropical islands to its name, this part of East Coast Australia will have you wanting more with each day to come. There are plenty of sailing options to keep you occupied while you tick off your bucket list highlights. Visit the iconic Whitehaven Beach, regularly voted one of the top beaches in the world for years running. See the incredible swirling sand formation, different every day as the tide changes, from Hill Inlet Lookout. Relax on the pristine white sand and soak up the sun, and keep your eye out for baby Manta Rays that love to chill out in the shallows. Some of our favourite spots for epic coral reef snorkelling are Hook Island, Langford Island, and Hayman Island – though we know your epic tour guides and sailboat captains will take you to the best hidden gems in the Whitsundays.
The most popular way to explore the islands is with a unique sailing adventure. Whether it be on a speedy and stable catamaran, an adrenaline fuelled adventure boat, a traditional tall ship, or relaxing on a premium yacht, you’ll be able to see this amazing part of the world. Enjoy an all in one day tour that highlights the must see spots in the Whitsundays, or take on an epic two or three day sailing journey to witness everything the islands have to offer. Discover the pristine islands such as Long, Hamilton, and Daydream, as well as the famous Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet.
At Happy Travels, we offer a wide range of experiences and Whitsundays Tours suited to all travel styles. Depending on if you are looking for Day tours or overnight sailing adventures we can help you find the right product.
If a day trip out to the secluded parts of Whitehaven Beach is what you’re chasing, then it doesn’t get much better than this. Forget spending your day snorkelling and catch some rays on this Ocean Rafting Southern Lights tour. This award winning company has some of the fastest boats on the coast, giving you maximum time at each location and a fun ride along the way through the 74 tropical islands. The knowledgeable onboard crew are there to show you a good time and keep you safe. All the main highlights such as Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet are…
The best value 60 Minute Scenic Flight the Whitsundays has to offer. Flight commentary, views of Whitehaven, Hill Inlet and the famous Heart Reef.
In case you’re wondering, Airlie Beach isn’t just about snorkeling tours and boat trips. Some say the best way to see it is when you’re hurtling through the sky at 220kms per hour. As arguably one of the most popular drop zones in Australia, Skydivers eagerly seek Airlie as a ‘tick in the box’ location. Furthermore, the Whitsundays’ 74 tropical Islands and the Conway National Park are on the menu as far as views are concerned, and like a wine, you can pair this jump with adrenaline, fear, or excitement. Jumping out of a plane is pretty special no matter…
The best package the Whitsundays has to offer. Visit Whitehaven and Hill Inlet then soar over the Whitsundays with this Fly Raft Southern Lights tour.
Siska Whitsundays tour gets it done. This is a full on adventure sailing boat. It’s a ‘Maxi Racer’, so if speed and adrenaline are your kinda thing then this could be for you. Getting from A to B won’t be done any quicker than aboard the Siska Whitsundays Maxi Racer, known for competing in races across the planet so it won’t disappoint. Set sail, hold on, and aim for the islands. Upon arrival at the islands, you’ll click into cruise mode and power from inlet to bay, exploring land and sea. Snorkel the tropical fringing reefs around the islands and…
The best Fly Raft Northern Exposure Package with Ocean Rafting will see you soaring above the stunning Whitsundays and snorkelling with aquatic life.
“Seeing the Whitsundays in a day is impossible”, said nobody ever after jumping on Thundercat. This Whitsundays day trip is perfect for the kind of traveller that doesn’t fancy sleeping on a boat and wants to make the most out of their one day at The Whitsundays. This trip is an all-rounder so as long as you’re into world class beaches, immaculate snorkelling, and a guided hike through a national park then look no further than this. Offering max time on the islands, the lively legends that captain the boat will get you to all the right places quicker than…
On British Defender, learn to sail as you race through the Whitsundays or sit back, relax, and enjoy the sailing lifestyle on this epic overnight trip.
For the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation, join this epic 2 day 1 night Waltzing Matilda Whitsundays Sailing adventure.
Sail in style on Habibi Whitsundays. Don't miss out on the chance to make memories for life as you snorkel stunning reefs and chill out on Whitehaven Beach.
Don't miss a thing with 2 Days and 1 night on board the fastest boat on the Whitsundays. Visit Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet and snorkel with aquatic life.
Explore the iconic islands in style on Prima Whitsundays, with snorkelling, hiking, meals, an epic crew, and unforgettable memories all included.
For those wanting to quench that need for speed, look no further than Ocean Rafting. We assume that most of you reading this probably don’t already have your own speed boat or jetski so booking a tour is the likely option. If you’ve already checked out our Whitsundays blog, then you will have already heard about Ocean Rafting. If you haven’t, you know what to do. Ocean Rafting does the Whitsundays like no other. This award winning company has some of the fastest boats on the coast, giving you maximum time at each location and a fun ride along the…
The best 2 Day 2 Night Whitsundays adventure with the epic crew at Spank Me. Explore Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet Lookout, and snorkel with aquatic life.
Renowned as the #1 backpacker boat in Airlie Beach, this 34-metre mega sailing yacht is the best way to travel around the 74 Whitsundays Islands if you’ve got a taste for action and adventure. The Atlantic Clipper Whitsundays Adventure will give you the best of everything the Whitsundays has to offer. Spend the days adventuring the breathtaking islands and the nights with new mates sharing stories and creating memories. All of the epic snorkel locations you come to expect from The Whitsundays are included, as well as a visit to the famous Whitehaven Beach so you won’t be disappointed. If…
Apollo offers an abundance of activities and sights to see, with a full 3 days of pure adventure, excitement, and amazing experiences as you cruise around the Whitsundays on a former racing maxi yacht.
Experience the perfect blend of social vibes and thrilling sailing on this 3 day Whitsundays tour. Snorkel, explore Whitehaven Beach, and sail in comfort.
New Horizon is really the best value for money on the Whitsundays market. The New Horizon beauty is a gorgeous 21m traditional sailing vessel that has some incredible old school charm with modern luxuries, such as air conditioning and accommodation with up to 32 passengers. With 4 amazing crew that are sure to look after you, you'll get a slice of luxury on this epic trip. This boat is a classic wooden Schooner and one of the last solid timber boats built in Tasmania, made from famous Tasmanian hard wood, making her a solid, seaworthy boat. not only is it…
This 2 day, 2 night ‘trimaran’ is recommended for a social adventurous traveller looking for speed, stability, and tons of deck space to sunbathe and relax. It’s a recommended 18-35’s trip, so expect to have the odd drink or two. It’s known to get lively, so if you’re planning a romantic couples getaway, this might not be for you. Avatar is one of the most popular boats on The Whitsundays. It’s known for being the only Trimaran on The Whitsundays (this means it has 3 hulls in parallel). As far as how it looks, it’s definitely one of the stylish…
When you think of a ‘Maxi Racing’ yacht, you may think of expensive champagne, luxury cars, and Rolex Yacht Week… Most people associate racing yachts with big pay checks and deep pockets but in this case, but you may be pleasantly surprised to know that this 3 day, 2 night sailing adventure won’t bust your budget. You’ll get more time to relax with your group and explore the best spots, all whilst sailing aboard a true Australian sailing icon. Condor has a true racing pedigree. This vessel has competed in every major race across the world and won pretty much…
First of all, the All-Star team aboard Broomstick is one for the books, and they will welcome you to cruise with them on a breathtaking adventure through the Whitsundays. This tour will visit the best of the best of the Whitsundays, joining a stellar crew and ripping it up with 20 - 25 other guests. You’ll be able to engage in some amazing activities from snorkelling, bushwalking, sailing, and socialising the nights away. You will also have the chance to visit the famous Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout for some fun in the sun, marvellous viewpoints, and great photo…
This 3 day, 2 night sailing adventure is for the adventure seeker who is not afraid to get stuck in with everything from a sailing excursion to coral reef snorkelling. This ‘Maxi Racer’ offers 3 full days on the water, so if you’re looking for something a little longer than most and you froth at the idea of sailing through the beautiful Whitsundays Islands, this is definitely what you are looking for. Turtles and exotic marine life, beaches, and out-of-this-World sunsets. Sailing, friends for life, and memories to last forever. ‘Prosail’, the guys behind this tour, have been voted as…
Get the best deal and last minute spots on one of The Whitsundays most popular tours with the 3 Day 3 Night Summer Jo Whitsundays adventure & dive tour.
Set sail on a 2 or 3 day catamaran tour with the Whitsunday Adventurer. Enjoy small group sailing, snorkelling, onboard spa, and stunning sunsets.
Spend 3 days and 2 nights cruising around the tropical islands in the spacious, bright, and sophisticated Blizzard. Originally designed and built in France, this single hull sailing vessel boasts modern luxury inside and out. If you’re chasing a premium hands on sailing experience then Blizzard is perfect for you. This boat will set sail and guide through the Whitsundays passage to world class beaches, immaculate reefs and to secluded islands. There are tonnes of on board toys to keep you busy during your trip so feel free to make use of the snorkelling equipment, Sea Scooters, and Multi Person…
Whitsunday Sailing Adventures are the operators of the ‘Entice Catamarans’, and O’Nice is one of them. Entice & O’Nice are widely renowned as some of the best sailing trips in Northern Queensland. It only takes a few seconds to read the reviews customers have left for this trip to be completely sold. Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, and fringing reef snorkelling…oh the sights to behold. It just all depends on HOW you get there. If you’re chasing a premium overnight sailing tour, then this 2 day, 2 night beauty really is about as good as it gets. You can expect to…
Escape to paradise aboard the Whitsunday Blue catamaran. Enjoy small group sailing, snorkelling, and paddleboarding on this 3 day, 3 night luxury tour.
Hit up all of the highlights of the world famous tropical Islands for epic snorkelling in one day with Big Fury Whitsunday's exhilarating rafting day tour.
Camira Day Sail offers a full day exploring the Whitsunday Islands and Fringing Reef with a fresh BBQ lunch, complimentary drinks, and beach activities.
Escape to paradise with a day trip to Whitehaven Beach & Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays, for a full day of activities and unforgettable nature.
Whitsundays Jet Ski Tours in Airlie Beach offer an experience like no other. There’s a reason they’re number #1 on Tripadvisor. Until you’ve been flying along at 50Kms per hour on a top of the range Sea-Doo Jet ski, you won’t know just how good it is. You’ll travel in a convoy led by your ski guide. They will cut out the best lines, suss out the best spots, and keep everyone safe. You just have to try and keep up. Expect to reach exhilarating speeds, tuck into tight turns, and enjoy the incredible scenery. Sea turtles, dugongs, and dolphins…
Embark on an all-inclusive day tour that takes you off the beaten path to discover the hidden treasures of the Whitsunday Islands. Explore secluded spots brimming with vibrant marine life, and experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef both above and below the surface. As an award-winning company, there's no doubt that you'll explore absolute treasures and get the some of best service in the Whitsundays. Unwind aboard a stable catamaran sailboat, where you’ll enjoy a spacious deck, comfortable seating, and laid-back tunes amidst stunning scenery. Learn about the rich history of the islands and reefs from expert crew,…
Get away for a weekend getaway on Explore Whitsundays Getaway with a sailing adventure that combines comfort, style, and class. Get away for a weekend getaway on either their 2 Day 2 Night or 3 day 3 night Whitsunday Getaway. If you’re chasing a primo-Whitsundays sailing adventure that combines comfort, style, and class, then this luxury vessel is sure to tick every box you can think of. You’ll visit the top spots around the Whitsundays the luxx way. The boat is a beautiful sailing catamaran, with a spacious, open foredeck, shaded back deck and plenty of indoor seating. Enjoy a…
There are a few different options that you can choose to get you to the Whitsundays and our Whitsundays tours. Taking a bus or self-driving is an option if land based travel is your preference. Airlie Beach is either a 13 hour drive north of Brisbane or an 8 hour drive south of Cairns.
Another option is to fly into Proserpine, about 25 mins from Airlie Beach, and main access point to the Whitsundays. Shuttle buses, taxi’s & Ubers operate daily from the airport.
Some people choose to fly into Hamilton Island and book a luxury hotel. However, you then need to take a ferry across to Airlie Beach, where most sailing tours depart from.
Yes you can still see the Whitsundays.
Whilst the waters around the Whitsundays are generally very calm we definitely recommend buying some motion sickness tablets in advance.
We would also recommend a stable catamaran tour as these make the trip and time on the water a bit smoother.
There are plenty of other ways to see the Whitsundays such as a popular scenic flight over the reef and islands.
Yes, of course. There is usually luggage storage facilities at your accommodation or at the check in office for your Whitsundays trip.
For most overnight trips, you can, however you cannot bring any glass or red wine. Day boats usually have their own license unless specified otherwise.
No. The Whitsundays are located in between the mainland and the Great Barrier Reef and are home to fringing coral reefs, which is perfect for snorkelling.
The Whitsundays are a great place to visit all year round. The high season is considered to be the wet season, but is the warmest time of year to visit.