Whitsundays snorkeling

Whitsundays catamaran tours

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Aerial view of snorkelers near boats in the Whitsundays, Australia.





























































More things to do near Whitsundays

Great Barrier Reef Tours

Kuranda Scenic Train and Skyrail

Cairns Aquarium

Daintree National Park Tours

What to expect on a Whitsundays catamaran tour

Group enjoying a meal on a boat during Thundercat Whitsundays Full Day Tour, with clear blue water and islands in the background.
Tourists on a lookout deck viewing Whitehaven Beach's turquoise waters and sandbars, Whitsundays.
Plates of assorted food served on the Outer Reef Snorkel Adventure tour.
Snorkelers swimming with fish in the Whitsundays during Fly + Raft Package tour.
Paddleboarding on clear blue waters during Tongarra Sail Day Tour.
Sailing group enjoying sunset on Camira catamaran, Airlie Beach.
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Smooth boarding & setting sail

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

CruiseBoarding pointBoat typeTimings & durationInclusionsPrice

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

From AU$230

Airlie Beach: Whitehaven Beach Premium Cruise with Lunch & Activity Upgrades

Coral Sea Marina

High-speed catamaran (“SuperCat”)

9am–5pm (8 hours)

Beach–boat transfers, sun lounges, onboard bar, buffet lunch, stinger suit, South Whitehaven Lookout walk, optional guided snorkelling with gear

From AU$229

From Airlie Beach: Camira Sailing Adventure with BBQ Lunch

Airlie Beach

Large sailing catamaran (Camira Whitsundays)

8:15am–5:45pm (9.5 hours)

Morning & afternoon tea, BBQ lunch with soft drinks, Hill Inlet Lookout walk, reef snorkelling with gear, beach activities, beer & wine from 11am

From AU$249

Airlie Beach: Whitsunday Islands Sail, SUP & Snorkel Premium Cruise with Lunch

Airlie Beach

Eco-certified sailing catamaran

9am–3pm (6 hours)

Morning tea, lunch, tea & coffee, A/C lounge, sundeck & jacuzzi, shaded lower deck, audio system, snorkelling with gear, stinger suit, noodles, paddleboards & clear kayaks

From AU$230

From Airlie Beach: Whitsundays Sail and Snorkel Tour with Lunch

Airlie Beach

Tongarra sailing catamaran

10am–6:30pm (8.5 hours)

Reef snorkelling with mask & snorkel, banana boat ride, lunch, snacks, lycra suit, stinger suit (summer), wetsuit hire (winter).

From AU$199

From Airlie Beach: Sundowner Whitsunday Cruise with Sparkling Wine

Airlie Beach

48-seater shaded catamaran

4:45pm–6:45pm (2 hours)

Snacks & quick bites, a glass of sparkling wine/soft drink, fully licensed bar, stinger suit, turtle spotting

From AU$69

Your Whitsundays catamaran tour boarding points

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.

What you'll see on a Whitsundays catamaran tour

Tourists relaxing on Whitehaven Beach with turquoise water and distant hills.

Whitehaven Beach

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.

Visitors enjoying the view at Hill Inlet Lookout, Whitsundays, with turquoise waters and lush greenery.
Snorkelers exploring coral reef in clear waters, Whitsundays Fly + Raft Package.
Langford Island sandbar surrounded by turquoise waters, Whitsundays, Australia.
Rafting boats and seaplane over turquoise waters near Whitsundays beach.

Plan your Whitsundays catamaran tour

Thundercat boat near Whitsundays beach with people swimming in clear water.

General cruise timings:

  • Whitehaven Beach snorkel cruise: 9am–5pm
  • Whitehaven Beach premium cruise: 9am–5pm
  • Camira sailing adventure: 8:15am–5:45pm
  • Whitsunday Islands sail, SUP & snorkel premium cruise: 9am–3pm
  • Whitsundays sail and snorkel tour: 10am–6:30pm
  • Sundowner Whitsunday cruise: 4:45pm–6:45pm
Know more
Tourists at South Whitehaven Lookout enjoying ocean and forest views.

Best time of the day:

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.
Know more
Group enjoying a meal on a boat during Thundercat Whitsundays Full Day Tour, with clear blue water and islands in the background.
  • 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
No wheelchair access symbol with red diagonal line.
  • 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.
Snorkeler exploring coral reef on Fitzroy Island day trip from Cairns.
  • 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.

Frequently asked questions about Whitsundays catamaran tours

How long does a Whitsundays catamaran tour last?

All Whitsundays catamaran tours are full-day experiences, typically running between 7am and 5pm. This includes sailing, snorkelling, beach visits, meals, and guided activities.

Is a Whitsundays catamaran tour worth it?

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.

Are meals and drinks included on a Whitsundays catamaran tour?

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.

Do I need to book a Whitsundays catamaran tour in advance?

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.

Can children join a Whitsundays catamaran tour?

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.

Are the tours suitable for wheelchair users or guests with limited mobility?

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.

What’s the best side of the catamaran for photos?

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.

Are Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef cruises available?

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.

More Reads

Tourists on a lookout deck viewing Whitehaven Beach's turquoise waters and sandbars, Whitsundays.

Hill Inlet Lookout

Tour guide handing wetsuits to participants on Thundercat Whitsundays Full Day Tour at marina.

Boarding Points

Catamaran cruising on clear blue waters during ZigZag Whitsundays Day Tour.

Timings

Glass-Bottom Boat Tour