Set sail aboard the classic yacht Siska IV for a lively 2-day journey around the Whitsunday Islands. From stunning Whitehaven Beach views to vibrant snorkeling over coral reefs, this trip blends natural beauty with a social, youthful vibe.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days, 1 night
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable with moderate physical activity like hiking and getting on/off the yacht.
Wildlife
History
The Whitsunday Islands are part of the traditional sea and land custodianship of the Ngaro people, with rich cultural connections to these waters.
Conservation
Explore Whitsundays follows strict environmental guidelines to protect coral reefs, promoting reef-safe products and limiting impact on fragile ecosystems.
Explore Whitsundays
Set sail aboard the classic yacht Siska IV for a lively 2-day journey around the Whitsunday Islands. From stunning Whitehaven Beach views to vibrant snorkeling over coral reefs, this trip blends natural beauty with a social, youthful vibe.
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.
Location
Airlie Beach, QLD
Base for all Whitsunday departures
Tours Offered
13 tours
Range from day trips to multi-night cruises
Experience Types
Sailing & snorkeling
Whitehaven, reefs, and yoga retreats
Group Sizes
Small to mid-size
Select trips limited to 8–14 guests
Check availability for sunset cruises, day sails, multi-night yacht trips or the Yoga the Whitsundays retreat and secure preferred dates.
Arrive Early for Check-in
Be at the Port of Airlie by 8:00 AM to meet your crew and settle in before the 8:30 AM departure.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
The Whitsundays are part of a delicate marine ecosystem—choose sunscreen that won’t harm coral reefs.
Pack Light, Waterproof Gear
A day bag with swimwear, a towel, and a light rain jacket will keep you comfortable during onshore walks and sudden weather changes.
Participate in Sailing Tasks
Getting involved with hoisting sails and steering deepens your connection to the yacht and the sea.
Swimwear
Needed for snorkeling and beach stops where you’ll dive into coral reef waters.
summer
Light Waterproof Jacket
Protects against occasional rain or sea spray during stops and sailing.
spring
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects you and the delicate marine environment from harmful UV rays.
summer
Closed-Toe Boat Shoes
Provides grip and protection on wet deck surfaces and during shore walks.