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Spend two days sailing around the Whitsundays aboard Prima with Explore Whitsundays. Snorkel vibrant reefs, walk to iconic lookouts, and relax on pristine beaches in an intimate small-group setting.
Spend two days sailing around the Whitsundays aboard Prima with Explore Whitsundays. Snorkel vibrant reefs, walk to iconic lookouts, and relax on pristine beaches in an intimate small-group setting.
Book with Explore Whitsundays
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Explore Whitsundays · Cannonvale, Queensland
The Whitsundays, lying off Queensland's tropical northeast coast, are a cluster of 74 islands drifting within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Home to dazzling coral reefs and sugar-white beaches, this region is a magnet for sailors, snorkelers, and nature lovers alike. Among the fleet that navigates these waters, Explore Whitsundays offers an intimate two-day, one-night trip aboard Prima, a vessel designed for comfort and connection.
Prima holds a maximum of 12 guests, keeping the experience personal while gliding between secluded bays and vibrant reefs. The voyage typically launches from Airlie Beach at 8:30 a.m., setting a relaxed yet purposeful pace. Early stops include Tongue Bay, where a short trek through national parkland leads to Hill Inlet Lookout. From this vantage, visitors witness the sweeping curves of Whitehaven Beach’s 7-kilometer stretch of silica sand—a pristine shoreline famed for its fine, cooling texture formed by quartz particles.
After soaking in the coastal panorama, guests return to the boat for morning tea and set sail north along the western edge of Hook Island. This stretch of reef is renowned for its kaleidoscopic marine life, with snorkelers often spotting clownfish and the occasional turtle amid the coral gardens. Evenings are spent anchored in calm, picturesque coves where the group shares freshly prepared meals made from locally sourced produce, fostering camaraderie under wide-open skies.
The next morning continues with another swim or snorkel before a midday return to Airlie Beach. The trip’s blend of active exploration and moments of serene beachside relaxation encapsulates the Whitsundays’ enduring appeal. Explore Whitsundays distinguishes itself by balancing environmental care—contributing to reef and park management—with small-group experiences that allow travelers to truly connect with both nature and fellow adventurers. For those seeking a genuine taste of the Great Barrier Reef’s aquatic world and island charms in a manageable timeframe, this Prima sailing trip delivers a memorable, authentic journey.
easy.
2 days, 1 night.
Suitable for most fitness levels; gentle walking and swimming involved
Yes, Explore Whitsundays provides snorkeling gear onboard for all guests.
Children aged 4 years and older are welcome on this sailing adventure.
All meals and snacks made from locally sourced ingredients are included.
Yes, you may bring your own drinks and store them in the guest fridge.
Non-slip, comfortable shoes are ideal for walking on deck and light hikes ashore.
The adventure is easy-paced with light walking and swimming suitable for most fitness levels.
The Whitsundays are part of the traditional sea country of the Ngaro people, whose cultural ties extend thousands of years.
Environmental management charges contribute directly to maintaining the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and surrounding national parks.
Explore Whitsundays is a touring company based in Airlie Beach, Queensland, that operates guided sailing and snorkeling experiences throughout the Whitsunday Islands and nearby Great Barrier Reef. The business offers a variety of day, overnight and multi-night cruises aboard a fleet that includes vessels such as Waltzing Matilda, Summer Jo, Whitsunday Pearl, Prima, Siska IV and the Solway Lass. Trips range from short sunset cruises and single-day sails to extended 2‑day and 3‑day itineraries, as well as a five‑day Yoga the Whitsundays retreat with private cabins and guided practice at locations like Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet. Bookings include guided snorkeling on vibrant coral reefs, beach time on Whitehaven, scenic lookouts and freshly prepared meals on many departures. Several trips feature small group sizes—examples include the Whitsunday Pearl with eight guests and the Waltzing Matilda 2‑day cruise limited to 14—allowing for more personalized service and relaxed itineraries. Crewed catamarans and classic yachts cater to a range of traveler preferences, from family-friendly mega yachts to intimate sailing experiences. Safety, local knowledge and comfort are emphasized through experienced crews, modern safety equipment and air‑conditioned cabins on selected vessels. Operating out of Airlie Beach positions the company close to major departure points for the Southern Great Barrier Reef and iconic island sites. Guests can select from a curated collection of tours designed for snorkeling, sailing, island walks and wellness, making Explore Whitsundays a convenient option for travelers seeking authentic Whitsunday experiences. Bookings include detailed departure information and friendly onshore support in Airlie Beach.
Book with Explore Whitsundays