Step aboard your Whitsundays catamaran tour from Airlie Beach and settle in on spacious decks or shaded lounges. Feel the sea breeze as your adventure begins across the turquoise Coral Sea.
Explore Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet
Cruise to Whitehaven Beach and soak in the view from Hill Inlet Lookout. Guided bush walks, soft silica sands, and crystal-clear waters make this a must-see highlight of any Whitsundays catamaran tour.
Onboard comfort & gourmet meals
Depending on your chosen cruise, enjoy a chef-prepared BBQ or buffet lunch, morning and afternoon tea, and complimentary soft drinks. Premium Camira Whitsundays cruises offer sun lounges, a jacuzzi, and onboard bars for ultimate relaxation.
Snorkelling & aquatic adventures
Dive into vibrant fringing reefs at Mantaray Bay, Stonehaven Bay, or Hook Island Reef. Some cruises include stand-up paddleboarding, clear-bottom kayaking, or even banana boat rides — perfect for both adventure seekers and casual explorers.
Fun & adventure-packed sailing
Take part in eco-certified sailing trips with exciting water activities, beach games, and reef exploration. From banana boat rides to guided snorkelling sessions, each Whitsundays catamaran tour is packed with memorable experiences
A scenic return
As the catamaran sails back to Airlie Beach, enjoy fresh perspectives of islands and reefs. Capture golden-hour photos, relax on deck, and soak in the last glimpses of the Whitsundays’ stunning natural beauty.
Things to know before booking a Whitsundays catamaran tour
Your booking strategy: Whitsundays catamaran tours are very popular, especially during peak season (June–September). Booking online in advance ensures your preferred cruise and seating. Last-minute walk-ups may be available but can sell out quickly.
Tour duration & pace: All tours are full-day adventures, typically lasting 6–8 hours. This includes sailing, snorkelling, beach visits, meals, and opportunities to relax or join water activities.
Meals & refreshments: All full-day cruises include lunch, morning and afternoon tea, and soft drinks. Premium Camira Whitsundays cruises include beer and wine. Special dietary requirements can usually be accommodated if notified in advance.
Water activities & gear: Snorkelling gear, stinger suits, and seasonal wetsuits are included on snorkelling-focused catamaran tours (Sail and Snorkel Tour). Selected premium tours (Whitsunday Islands Sail, SUP & Snorkel) offer stand-up paddleboards and clear-bottom kayaks, while adventure-style cruises include banana boat rides. Swimming is optional on most tours.
Boarding & departure: Tours depart from Airlie Beach. Arrive 15–30 minutes early for check-in. Round-trip transfers from local accommodations are included on selected tours. For more information, check out the Boarding points page.
Accessibility: Most catamarans have shaded lounges and open decks, and some vessels feature ramps for boarding. However, water activities, snorkelling, and beach visits (including Whitehaven Beach)are not suitable for wheelchair users. Please check with the operator before booking to confirm any specific accessibility needs.
Weather notes: Catamaran cruises operate year-round, but itineraries may change due to rough seas, strong winds, or tropical weather. Most operators will reschedule or offer a refund if a tour is cancelled due to unsafe conditions.
Find your best Whitsundays catamaran tour match here
Cruise
Boarding point
Boat type
Timings & duration
Inclusions
Price
Airlie Beach: Whitehaven Beach Snorkel Cruise with Hill Inlet Tour and Buffet Lunch
Airlie Beach
High-speed catamaran
9am–5pm (8 hours)
Morning & afternoon tea, lunch, guided Hill Inlet walk, snorkelling with gear, stinger suit, lycra suit, return transfers
Renowned for its swirling white silica sands and turquoise waters, this iconic beach is a highlight of every Whitsundays catamaran tour. Step ashore for a stroll or a swim in paradise.
Plan your Whitsundays catamaran tour
Frequently asked questions about Whitsundays catamaran tours
All Whitsundays catamaran tours are full-day experiences, typically running between 7am and 5pm. This includes sailing, snorkelling, beach visits, meals, and guided activities.
Absolutely. From snorkelling at Mantaray Bay and Hook Island Reef to relaxing on Whitehaven Beach or sailing aboard the Camira Whitsundays, these tours combine adventure, comfort, and iconic island scenery in one seamless experience.
Most tours include morning and afternoon tea, a buffet or BBQ lunch, and some drinks. Premium options, like the Camira Whitsundays cruise, may also include beer, wine, or soft drinks throughout the day.
Yes. Tours, especially the Camira Whitsundays and Whitehaven Beach cruises, are popular and can sell out quickly during peak season. Online booking ensures you secure your preferred date.
Yes, most cruises welcome children. Safety gear like stinger suits, lycra suits, and snorkelling equipment are provided for all ages. Always check age restrictions for specific activities, such as paddleboarding or kayaking.
While some catamarans have ramps and onboard assistance, activities like Whitehaven Beach landings and snorkelling are not wheelchair accessible. Guests with mobility concerns should contact the operator before booking.
For Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, and sunset shots over the Coral Sea, bow or starboard-side seating often provides unobstructed views. Crew tips on the day can help you catch the best angles.
Whitsundays catamaran tours don’t visit the Great Barrier Reef. However, you can book a jet-boat tour to the Outer Great Barrier Reef for snorkelling. You can find more information here.
All Whitsundays catamaran tours run during the day, usually from 7am to 5pm. Daylight hours offer the best conditions for snorkelling, sightseeing, and sailing — with calm morning seas and golden afternoon light across the Coral Sea.
Best season/month:
May–June & September–October: Shoulder seasons bring warm, pleasant weather (22–27°C), fewer crowds, and excellent visibility for snorkelling and island walks.
December–February (Summer): Warmer seas (25–30°C) make swimming ideal, but humidity is higher and islands are busier with tourists.
June–August (Winter): Cooler air temperatures (20–25°C) offer comfortable sailing conditions while still perfect for water activities.
Comfortable seating with shaded areas and open-air decks for scenic views
Onboard restrooms available on all vessels
Snacks, beverages, and refreshments included on selected cruises
Climate-controlled interiors on larger catamarans; open decks for sun and breeze
Safety equipment including life jackets, stinger suits, and emergency exits
Pram-friendly areas and space for personal belongings
Professional, trained crew ensuring safety and smooth operations
Pier-side facilities: toilets, ticket desks, and waiting areas for easy boarding
Most Whitsundays catamarans have stable decks and shaded lounges; some vessels offer ramps for boarding.
Beach landings and snorkelling activities (including Whitehaven Beach visits) are not suitable for wheelchair users.
Larger catamarans may have onboard restrooms; smaller vessels may have limited facilities.
Elderly or mobility-challenged guests should notify the crew before boarding for assistance.
Best snorkelling spots: Position yourself near the bow when arriving at Mantaray or Hook Island Reef for easy water entry and quick access to the coral gardens.
Whitehaven Beach photography: Walk to the high point of the beach or Hill Inlet Lookout in the morning for soft light and vivid colours; late afternoon gives golden-hour reflections on the sands.
Boarding & seating: Arrive early to secure a shaded deck spot or sun lounge, depending on your preference for comfort or photos.
Water activities: Wear your stinger suit or lycra from the start if planning to snorkel — it saves time and protects against marine stingers.
Equipment care: Use waterproof pouches or dry bags for phones and cameras; reef-safe sunscreen prevents damage to coral.
Refreshments: Bring a refillable bottle — while water is provided, staying hydrated on sunny days is essential.
Relaxation tips: Take advantage of the Camira’s sundeck, clear-bottom kayaks, or jacuzzi (if included) during quieter cruising stretches.
Marine life spotting: Keep binoculars handy and eyes on the water — turtles, rays, and colorful fish are often visible from the deck before you snorkel.
Address: Port of Airlie, Shop 7/33 Port Dr, Airlie Beach QLD 4802, Australia | Find on map
Getting there:
By public transport: Local buses stop at Airlie Beach Central, about a 10-minute walk from the marina.
By car/taxi: Around 5 minutes from the main town centre; limited paid parking is available at the marina.
Famous for: A modern waterfront marina with cafes, shops, and ocean views — the main departure hub for Whitsundays cruises and reef tours.
Address: 1-3 Shingley Dr, Airlie Beach QLD 4802, Australia | Find on map
Getting there:
By bus: Nearest stop at Coral Sea Marina Resort.
By car/taxi: 3 minutes from Airlie Beach main street; free parking zones nearby.
Famous for: Scenic marina beside the resort precinct, great for sailing adventures and sunset departures.
Whitsundays catamaran tours
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From happy customers
Loved by 49 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5
T
Tom G
5/5
Sep 2025
Great experience. The crew was friendly and fun to hang out with. Snorkeling was a wonderful experience, saw plenty of fish and coral. The food provided was ample and delicious.
M
Mandy P
5/5
Sep 2025
We had the most amazing day at Whitehaven Beach. Rhys, Jamie, and Jade were a fun, knowledgeable, and helpful crew that made the day so much more enjoyable! 10/10 highly recommend Wild Cat Adventures.
K
Kate S
5/5
Sep 2025
An absolutely brilliant day! Well organized even with two boatloads of people. Everyone got personal attention for stinger suits and buoyancy jackets for those who needed them. As a non-swimmer and someone who had never snorkeled before, I felt supported the whole time. Even though we only did one snorkeling spot, we stayed longer and really got to enjoy all the fantastic fish there. Lunch was great. The visit to the island and the view of Betty’s Beach from the lookout was incredible. Such a great day. The crew was fantastic.
B
Bad J
4/5
Sep 2025
Nice tour! The crew was really great and the beach was lovely - wish we could have spent more time there, but snorkeling was nice too :) Saw loads of fish. Lunch was okay. Nice day out and the crew kept us safe.
L
Lishadbg
5/5
Sep 2025
The crew was amazing!!! Huge shout out to Kobe and Rosie who were fantastic with my 4-year-old. The food was good too, and I would highly recommend this tour! We had an awesome time snorkeling and swimming at Whitehaven Beach!
R
Rachel E
5/5
Sep 2025
What a day! Picked up from our place, check-in was easy and well organized, weather wasn’t ideal so it was a bit choppy, but Ben made the most of it and navigated around the bad weather. All the staff were helpful, chatty, and super friendly. Lunch was perfect, just what we needed and very well served. I felt extremely safe with all the precautions they took, counting heads each time we all got on and off the boat. Would definitely do it again.
D
Dil B
5/5
Sep 2025
Absolutely helpful team. Got to take little kids on the boat and had a chance to see coral and fish even though they weren’t snorkeling. The team went above and beyond their duties which was awesome.
K
Karen F
5/5
Sep 2025
Fabulous trip, the crew was super informative and made the day really interesting. We did the trip to Whitehaven Beach, the views were stunning, and then we had two snorkeling stops. Once again, the crew was very attentive, making sure passengers were safe and enjoying the day. Don’t hesitate, DO this trip! Our crew was Reece, Mike, and Emily. Thanks for a memorable day
Soar above the Whitsundays and Heart Reef on a 65-minute flight for unbeatable aerial views.
Everything you get: A 65-minute panoramic flight over the Whitsundays, Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, the Great Barrier Reef, and Heart Reef. Enjoy pilot commentary, round-trip transfers from 2 locations, free airport parking, and a pre-flight lounge with tea, coffee, and water.
Why choose this: The only flight that showcases the iconic Heart Reef and swirling sands of Hill Inlet in one journey—perfect for photographers and nature lovers!
Inclusions
#
65-minute scenic flight
Courtesy round-trip transfers from Airlie Beach or Port of Airlie
Headsets and live in-flight commentary from the pilot
Window seats for all passengers
Access to air-conditioned lounge
Water, coffee, and tea on request
All fees and taxes
Free airport car parking
What to bring
Bring sunglasses and a camera.
Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
What’s not allowed
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed on board the aircraft.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited on the premises.
Accessibility
This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
If the weather is unsuitable, the flight will be rescheduled or refunded if rescheduling is not possible.
Seating is arranged for optimal aircraft weight and balance; specific seat requests cannot be accommodated.
Arrive at your designated pickup or meeting point on time; the van and flight will not wait for late passengers.
If you are late and miss your flight, no refunds will be provided.
Free car parking is available at the airport for self-drive guests.
Pregnant women and guests who suffer from any medical conditions are encouraged to seek medical advice prior to any flight.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
What to bring
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hats, & sunscreen
Swimwear & towels
Camera
Light jacket/sweater (for windy days)
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
This experience includes bushwalking, snorkelling, and climbing in and out of tenders. Therefore, a moderate level of fitness and agility is recommended.
If you wish to snorkel the fringing reef from the Camira, you must have adequate swimming abilities as there are no flotation devices available.
Inclusions
#
Sailing adventure through the Whitsundays to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet
Morning & afternoon tea
BBQ lunch with soft drinks & water
Guided walk to Hill Inlet Lookout
Snorkelling at Mackerel Bay (inner fringing reef)
Snorkelling equipment & stinger suits
Beer & wine (from 11am)
Beach activities
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
What to bring
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hats, & sunscreen
Camera
Light jacket/jumper for windy, wet, or cool days (warmer jacket for winter)
Cash/card to pay for drinks from the bar (if desired)
What’s not allowed
BYO drinks & alcohol
Smoking/vaping
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
The boat is equipped with a toilet for your convenience.
Alcoholic drinks can be purchased at the onboard bar with either cash or card. You are not allowed to carry your own beverages.
Infants do not need to wear a life jacket while on the boat. If you are planning to bring a pram, please inform the staff in advance.
Inclusions
#
Sundowner Cruise
2-hour Sundowner sunset cruise from Airlie Beach
Snacks & quick bites
A glass of sparkling wine/soft drink on arrival
48-seater shaded catamaran with a fully licensed bar
Stinger suit
Turtle spotting
Sundowner Cruise + Wine & Dine
2-hour Sundowner sunset cruise from Airlie Beach
Dinner at Sorrento Restaurant and Bar with reserved seating (menu here)
A cocktail of your choice
2-course meal (choose either entree & main, or main & dessert)
Snacks & quick bites
A glass of sparkling wine/soft drink on arrival
48-seater shaded catamaran with a fully licensed bar
Stinger suit
Turtle spotting
Exclusions
#
Drinks from the bar (additional cost)
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Enjoy an award-winning Whitsundays sailing adventure with snorkelling, banana boat rides, and a fresh lunch.
Everything you get: Sail the Whitsundays to Langford Island with eco‑certified guides. Snorkel reefs, enjoy a banana boat ride, and refuel with morning and afternoon snacks plus a freshly prepared lunch as you take in panoramic views of islands and fringing reefs.
Why choose this: Adventure‑packed and all‑inclusive, this eco‑certified sailing trip blends reef snorkelling, fun water sports, and stunning Coral Sea sunsets.
Inclusions
#
Full-day cruise from Airlie Beach
Snorkelling at Langford Reef (inner fringing reef)
Lycra suit, stinger suit (during summer months), & wetsuit (during winter months) for hire
Snorkelling equipment (mask & snorkel only)
What to bring
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hats, & sunscreen
Towels
Underwater camera or GoPro
Jacket
Weather-appropriate clothing
Reusable water bottle
#
What’s not allowed
Glassware
Red wine (as it may stain the boat’s surface)
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Not suitable for pregnant people and children under 12 years old.
Additional information
Snorkelling is a physical activity. You must be a confident swimmer and have a certain level of fitness to participate.
The order of locations visited may change depending on the tides and wind. Your crew will select the best snorkelling locations based on weather and visibility conditions.
You can bring your own alcohol and snacks. The crew will provide you with an esky to store them. Ice is also available onboard.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
A full-day adventure on a high-speed catamaran with snorkelling, lunch, and a guided hike included.
Everything you get: Hop on a high-speed catamaran for two snorkel sessions at Mantaray and Stonehaven Bay, then take a guided bush walk to Hill Inlet Lookout. Chef-prepared lunch, morning and afternoon tea, plus round-trip transfers make this Whitsundays adventure effortless.
Why choose this: This all-in-one cruise hits the Whitsundays’ best spots, with snorkeling, a scenic hike, and meals included. No planning needed.
The boat is equipped with an onboard toilet for your convenience.
Snorkelling is a physical activity. You must be a confident swimmer and have a certain level of fitness to participate.
The order of locations visited may change depending on the tides and wind. Your crew will select the best snorkelling locations based on weather and visibility conditions.
You can bring your own alcohol and snacks. The crew will provide you with an esky to store them. Ice is also available onboard.
Soft drinks and water can be purchased on the boat.
Children under 2 years old must be approved before departure and need to carry their own lifejackets.
Infants under 12 months must be in a baby carrier and accompanied by a parent.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
What to bring
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hats, & sunscreen
Swimwear & towels
Camera
Light jacket/jumper for windy, wet, or cool days (warmer jacket for winter)
Reusable water bottle
What’s not allowed
Glassware
Red wine (as it may stain the boat’s surface)
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
If you wish to snorkel, you must be able to swim. If you are a weak swimmer or a non-swimmer, this activity might be too dangerous.
Please bring your own soft drinks, juice, or alcohol, as there is no option to purchase them on board.
Please note that this tour does not go to Whitehaven Beach.
If you’re planning to bring your own drinks, you don’t need to carry an esky. You can use the cold refrigerated drinks cabinet on board.
Vegetarian meal options are available. Please contact the tour operator and inform them of your dietary preference in advance.
Snorkelling at Hook Island Reef (inner fringing reef)
Snorkelling gear, stinger suit & wetsuit
Noodles/buoyancy jackets
Standup paddleboards and double clear-bottom kayaks
Exclusions
#
Soft drinks, juice, or alcohol
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Experience the only Whitsundays cruise with a floating beach club vibe and unlimited beach-to-boat transfers.
Everything you get: Cruise aboard a high‑speed catamaran with sun lounges, an onboard bar, and buffet lunch. Enjoy unlimited transfers to Whitehaven Beach, wander on soft silica sands, or join a guided walk to South Whitehaven Lookout before returning at your own pace.
Why choose this: Luxury beach time with flexible transfers and premium comforts, perfect for those who want to set their own pace at Whitehaven.
Upgrades: Add a dedicated snorkelling boat adventure to Border Island Reef with all gear and instruction included.
Inclusions
#
Full-day cruise from Airlie Beach
Unlimited on-demand transfers between the boat & the beach
High-speed A/C “SuperCat” catamaran with sun lounges, bathrooms, & onboard bar
Soar above the Whitsundays and Heart Reef on a 65-minute flight for unbeatable aerial views.
Everything you get: A 65-minute panoramic flight over the Whitsundays, Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, the Great Barrier Reef, and Heart Reef. Enjoy pilot commentary, round-trip transfers from 2 locations, free airport parking, and a pre-flight lounge with tea, coffee, and water.
Why choose this: The only flight that showcases the iconic Heart Reef and swirling sands of Hill Inlet in one journey—perfect for photographers and nature lovers!
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
1 hr.
Transfers available
Pickup available
Snorkeling
From Airlie Beach: Camira Sailing Adventure with BBQ Lunch
What to bring
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hats, & sunscreen
Swimwear & towels
Camera
Light jacket/sweater (for windy days)
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
This experience includes bushwalking, snorkelling, and climbing in and out of tenders. Therefore, a moderate level of fitness and agility is recommended.
If you wish to snorkel the fringing reef from the Camira, you must have adequate swimming abilities as there are no flotation devices available.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
2 hr.
Meals included
Snorkeling
From Airlie Beach: Whitsundays Sail and Snorkel Tour with Lunch
Enjoy an award-winning Whitsundays sailing adventure with snorkelling, banana boat rides, and a fresh lunch.
Everything you get: Sail the Whitsundays to Langford Island with eco‑certified guides. Snorkel reefs, enjoy a banana boat ride, and refuel with morning and afternoon snacks plus a freshly prepared lunch as you take in panoramic views of islands and fringing reefs.
Why choose this: Adventure‑packed and all‑inclusive, this eco‑certified sailing trip blends reef snorkelling, fun water sports, and stunning Coral Sea sunsets.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
8 hr. 30 min.
Meals included
Sightseeing Cruises
Airlie Beach: Whitehaven Beach Snorkel Cruise with Hill Inlet Tour and Buffet Lunch
A full-day adventure on a high-speed catamaran with snorkelling, lunch, and a guided hike included.
Everything you get: Hop on a high-speed catamaran for two snorkel sessions at Mantaray and Stonehaven Bay, then take a guided bush walk to Hill Inlet Lookout. Chef-prepared lunch, morning and afternoon tea, plus round-trip transfers make this Whitsundays adventure effortless.
Why choose this: This all-in-one cruise hits the Whitsundays’ best spots, with snorkeling, a scenic hike, and meals included. No planning needed.
Experience the only Whitsundays cruise with a floating beach club vibe and unlimited beach-to-boat transfers.
Everything you get: Cruise aboard a high‑speed catamaran with sun lounges, an onboard bar, and buffet lunch. Enjoy unlimited transfers to Whitehaven Beach, wander on soft silica sands, or join a guided walk to South Whitehaven Lookout before returning at your own pace.
Why choose this: Luxury beach time with flexible transfers and premium comforts, perfect for those who want to set their own pace at Whitehaven.
Upgrades: Add a dedicated snorkelling boat adventure to Border Island Reef with all gear and instruction included.