Whitsundays Guide
Necessary things to do
All activities in the Whitsundays are operated by tours so I’ve made a list of the best options below. Best is the multi-day tours at the end!!
Snorkelling
It's the Great Barrier Reef - how can you not.
Whitehaven Beach
So many great things to say about this beach.
Firstly, the sand – it doesn’t retain any heat. Which means you don’t have to run into the water because your feet are burning – it also is a great exfoliant.
The water here is crystal clear, so satisfying to swim in.
Even just standing in the shallows we had sting rays come swim next to us and saw ‘lemon sharks’ at the shore only a meter away.
Hill Inlet Lookout
The amazing swirly white sand beaches. Looks too pretty to be a real place. Its only accessible by boat or seaplane – so the only way you’re getting here is on a tour.
Other things to do
- diving
- jet skiing
- scenic plane flights
- hiking
Half-day Tours
Scenic flight over Heart reef
See the views from above with a 70-minute scenic flight over both the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef. With a guaranteed window seat and the pilot’s commentary you will come back truly well-informed and stunned – no doubt.
You will get a bird-eye-view of all the little islands, turquoise waters, white beaches and coral reefs – even the cute little heart reef.
Jet Ski tour
Even if you’ve never jet skied before, you can take part in this small group tour through Whitsunday Island Marine Park. In almost 3 hours you will get to zip past little coves, see turtles, dugongs and even whales (depending on the season).
The tour takes off from Airlie beach and you get to walk home with some pretty cool professional photos from your ride.
Sunset Sailing cruise
This one is perfect for couples, or a nice wholesome sunset watch with friends. See the Whitsundays sunset from the sailboat while indulging in your complimentary drink and cheese platter.
Day Tours
Full day snorkelling cruise
This tour is an 8-hour day packed with the main Whitsundays attractions. You get to visit 2 snorkelling hotspots and Whitsunday Island to see the view from Hill Inlet lookout. This tour is on a high-speed catamaran and offers a buffet lunch onboard. Welcome for any age, group travel, solo travel and families.
Sail and Snorkel adventure
This tour is an 8-hour day of sailing, snorkelling, sunbathing. A more relaxed experience compared to the speedy catamaran. You get to snorkel in the secret spots, and not feel rushed. Lunch is also provided on board, BYO alcohol.
Overnight trips
MY 2 suggestions:
1. ATLANTIC CLIPPER
2. SOLWAY VOYAGER
Both these trips offer ALMOST the exact same experience.
I’ve been on the Solway Voyager and have met people who went on the Atlantic Clipper.
Here’s what 3 days and 2 nights on these trips will include:
- Meeting other backpackers
- All meals catered for
- Several snorkelling locations
- Hill Inlet lookout
- Whitehaven Beach
- Beach volleyball
- Rope swing from the boat
- Paddle boards
The boats also have fun crew that love getting everyone involved in games at night, a good experience for making a lot of friends.
However, the difference between the two – Atlantic clipper also has a giant water slide and hot tubs. Atlantic Clipper is more of a party boat, so if you love that atmosphere then it’s the best choice.
Solway voyager still has a bit of a party on the nights but its more low-key and more chill vibe – many goon bags were drunken.
[most activities leave from Airlie beach]
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