What meals are provided during the trip?

All meals are prepared onboard using fresh, local ingredients, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is available onboard for guests to use at designated stops.

Can I bring alcohol onboard?

You may bring your own alcohol; however, glass bottles and red wine are permitted exclusively onboard.

What is the minimum age to join this trip?

Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in this sailing experience.

Are the cabins air-conditioned?

Yes, each of the four private cabins features independent air conditioning for maximum comfort.

Where does the trip start and end?

The trip departs from and returns to Coral Sea Marina, Shingley Dr, Airlie Beach QLD 4802, Australia.

Sailing Escape with Explore Whitsundays from Airlie Beach

Set sail from Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach, Queensland, and immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the Whitsunday Islands aboard the Whitsunday Getaway, a luxurious Lagoon 440 catamaran operated by Explore Whitsundays. This fully crewed, intimate two-day, two-night journey delivers a rare blend of comfort, seclusion, and natural marvels in one of Australia’s most iconic marine parks.

Airlie Beach serves as the gateway to this archipelago of 74 islands scattered across the Great Barrier Reef. The landscape here is defined by pristine beaches of silica sand, secluded coves, and crystal-clear turquoise waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. The Whitsundays boast diverse topography including rugged granite outcrops and verdant tropical foliage, offering a dynamic backdrop to your sailing adventure.

Departing mid-afternoon, the Whitsunday Getaway slips away from the marina to anchor at Nara Inlet on Hook Island, a private hideaway where visitors can witness serene sunsets far from the crowds. The itinerary unfolds with visits to Hill Inlet’s famed swirling sands and Whitehaven Beach, widely regarded as the finest stretch of beach in the region with its brilliant white quartz sand and calm azure waters. Afternoons bring opportunities for paddleboarding, snorkeling on coral reefs alive with tropical fish, or relaxing on quiet bays before settling at Stonehaven for night anchorage.

What sets Explore Whitsundays apart is their commitment to an intimate, crowd-free experience aboard a stable, well-appointed catamaran featuring air-conditioned private cabins and gourmet meals crafted from fresh local produce. This trip offers couples and small groups a seamless fusion of adventure and relaxation, bypassing the hassle of DIY charters.

Beyond the natural spectacle, this trip supports conservation efforts through an Environmental Management Charge contributing to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. As you glide through these waters, stay mindful of the fragile ecosystem that makes this destination uniquely rewarding. Explore Whitsundays delivers not just a trip but a thoughtful journey into a world where nature’s scale and detail captivate the senses, making it an essential experience in Australia’s coastal adventure landscape.

About Explore Whitsundays

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.

Sailing Escape with Explore Whitsundays from Airlie Beach

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