Paddle through the Whitsundays’ shimmering waters on a 1.5-hour Turtle Discovery Tour with Whitsunday Sailing Outrigger. Learn outrigger paddling skills while spotting green sea turtles in their vibrant marine habitat.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for beginners in average physical condition; basic paddling endurance required.
Wildlife
History
The Whitsundays are on the traditional lands of the Ngaro people, Australia's first 'sea people', who have fished these waters for thousands of years.
Conservation
Whitsunday Sailing Outrigger emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including reef-safe sunscreen use and minimal disturbance of turtle habitats.
Whitsunday Sailing Outrigger
Paddle through the Whitsundays’ shimmering waters on a 1.5-hour Turtle Discovery Tour with Whitsunday Sailing Outrigger. Learn outrigger paddling skills while spotting green sea turtles in their vibrant marine habitat.
Whitsunday Sailing Outrigger operates guided outrigger canoe and sailing experiences from Airlie Beach in the Whitsundays. The business offers three signature 1.5-hour tours: the Sunset Tour, the Eco Adventure Tour, and the Turtle Discovery Tour. Each tour combines hands-on outrigger paddling instruction with opportunities to sail, explore sheltered bays, and view coastal wildlife.
The Sunset Tour is a 1½-hour guided experience that includes sparkling wine, snacks, photography, and a handmade floral hairpiece. The Eco Adventure Tour features paddling in Australia's only commercial sailing outrigger canoe, gliding past waterfront homes to Funnel Bay while guests learn outrigger paddling techniques and watch for wildlife. The Turtle Discovery Tour paddles to Whisper Bay and Pigeon Island to observe marine life in natural habitats; snacks, provided gear, and photos are included.
All departures operate from Airlie Beach and are 1.5 hours in duration. Tours provide gear and on-tour photography as part of the experience. Activities focus on safe, guided paddling and low-impact exploration of the Whitsunday coastline. The combination of sailing, paddling instruction, and accessible bay landings makes the tours suitable for families and groups seeking an active, nature-focused outing.
Booking information, exact departure times, and availability are provided by the operator. Prospective guests should reference official tour listings for current schedules, inclusions, accessibility details, and any age or health recommendations. Tours are available for families and mixed groups, with opportunities to learn basic outrigger techniques, enjoy coastal scenery, and observe local seabirds and marine habitats in a low-impact way and photo keepsakes provided.
Location
Airlie Beach
Departure point for all tours
Trip Duration
1.5 hours
Short, action-packed outings
Photos Included
Yes (selected tours)
On-tour photography provided
Tours Offered
3
Sunset, Eco Adventure, Turtle Discovery
Check availability and book the Sunset Tour, Eco Adventure Tour, or Turtle Discovery Tour departing from Airlie Beach
Wear Sun Protection
Queensland’s sun can be intense—apply waterproof sunscreen and consider a hat during pre-tour briefing and breaks.
Arrive Hydrated
Bring a water bottle or hydrate beforehand as the tour lasts 1.5 hours with active paddling involved.
Dress for Water Activity
Wear quick-dry clothing or swimwear as you may get splashed, and a spray jacket is provided for unexpected weather changes.
Secure Your Valuables
Lock-up areas are available ashore; avoid bringing items that could be damaged by water or wind.
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protects your skin during extended sun exposure on the water.
summer
Quick-Dry Clothing
Dries fast and stays comfortable if splashed during paddling.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is essential during active paddling in warm climates.
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduces glare on the water and improves visibility of underwater life.