Whitsunday Islands Explorer


Secluded palm-fringed beaches, hidden waterfalls and crystal-clear waters? The Whitsunday Islands are a dream holiday destination for lovers of the sun and sea. This adventure will take you from the coastal town of Airlie Beach out into the turquoise ocean of the Whitsundays on board a comfortable cruising yacht. Spend time exploring some of the stunning islands within the archipelago, snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef and appreciating the unique tropical nature, wildlife and culture of the area. But most of all, just relax and enjoy yourself – you’re in paradise!

6 days, from

$2,115

per person

GROUP SIZE

16 people max

ACTIVITY LEVEL

 
2
Trip code: PVKW
Style: Original
Theme: Explorer

Details

Countries Visited:  Australia
Accommodation: Hostel (3 nights), Sailing boat (2 nights)
Transportation: Private vehicle , Sailing boat
Included Meals:

  • 5 breakfasts
  • 3 lunches
  • 2 dinners

Group size: Minimum 1, Max 16

  • Spend three days aboard our comfortable cruising yacht, visiting various Whitsunday Islands and snorkelling off the boat.

  • Take part in a Welcome to Country and a cultural talk about the Indigenous culture of the Whitsundays from a Ngaro Traditional Owner.

  • Visit remote Langford Reef and Island where you can enjoy snorkelling away from the crowds with a chance to spot sea turtles.

  • Join an eco-walk with a local guide, learning about tropical flora and fauna, then climbing to the top of a waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip in the natural rock pools.

Itinerary

Show Full Itinerary

Day 1: Airlie Beach

Welcome to Airlie Beach, the stunning gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. Take your time today making your way to check in to your accommodation, before meeting your local leader and group for a short welcome meeting at 4pm in the hotel foyer. From here, your leader will take you for a stroll along the coast adjacent to Airlie Beach, where you’ll be welcomed to Country by a Ngaro Traditional Owner and have a cultural walk and talk on Country together. Then head on a short orientation walk of the town, before you have the evening to yourselves. Perhaps get to know your fellow travellers over dinner, then maybe head to one of Airlie Beach’s quirky bars to chat over a drink.

Day 2: Airlie Beach

After breakfast, you’ll head out of town to explore the majestic Cedar Creek Falls, and its surrounding tropical flora and fauna. See white cedar trees, alexander palms, wild orchids, colourful butterflies and many species of birds. Your local guide will then take you on an eco-walk to the top of the falls where you can climb over the rocks and take a refreshing dip in the natural pools, a true highlight. All the while, Australia’s native wildlife will be your only companions as you soak up the stunning views. If you are lucky you'll even spot some resident turtles. Later head back to the coast to a secluded, white sandy beach. Enjoy the ocean views and large refreshing swimming pool. Relax under the palms, take a dip in the pool and enjoy an included lunch. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy all that Airlie Beach has to offer. Perhaps head up to the Honeyeater Lookout for amazing views over Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Archipelago, or simply continue to relax by the beach at Airlie Beach Lagoon.

Day 3: Whitsunday Islands

Today you'll board a cruising yacht, which will be your home for the next two nights, and set sail into the tropical waters surrounding the Whitsundays. Your afternoon will be spent at sea, where you can enjoy your time on board unwinding with a good book or chatting with your travel buddies. We’ll plan our three days according to the weather and your group’s preference, with stops for snorkelling with all gear provided, and exploring the islands. Visit the stunning Whitehaven Beach, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia. A short bushwalk inland will take you to the equally famous Hill Inlet Lookout for a gorgeous view of the beach below and the swirling sands of Hill Inlet. The swirling sands are created by the ever-changing tides, which leave behind a kaleidoscope of blue and white. Tonight, you’ll be treated to dinner on board as you get to know your fellow travellers. Then, perhaps retire to the deck and relax under the stars.

Day 4: Whitsunday Islands

Today will be spent all at sea, exploring more of the area. Maybe do some more snorkelling and search out the marine mammals and tropical fish living amid the colourful coral. Perhaps try your hand at sailing, by helping the crew hoist the sails and steer the boat. On our small yacht, you’ll be able to steer into more remote locations and snorkel in spots that are far away from the crowds. All meals today will be provided on the boat, so you can just kick back and relax on the deck.

Day 5: Whitsunday Islands / Airlie Beach

Get ready for an unforgettable morning! Hidden away from the crowds, head to a special snorkelling spot on the secluded Langford Reef. Hop off the boat at Langford Island and take a short walk to an inspiring lookout point, where you’ll also find an old boab tree. The views here are second to none – look out across the quiet bay, the nearby islands and your boat moored in the still waters, and if you’re really lucky, you may even spot some sea turtles. Then it's time to continue back to Airlie Beach where you’ll disembark at the marina in the afternoon. Head to your accommodation to check in and then enjoy a free afternoon. Tonight is your last night so why not regroup and head out for one last dinner in town. Be sure to check with your leader if you’d like a recommendation of the best spots to try some local seafood and maybe even a few tropical cocktails!

Day 6: Airlie Beach

Your tour ends after breakfast. You’re free to leave the hostel at your own leisure (please check the check-out times). If you have the time, feel free to stay longer and enjoy everything that this beautiful region has to offer – contact us to book post-trip accommodation.