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Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach tour

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Aerial view of Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays, with turquoise waters and anchored boats.
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From happy customers

Loved by 45 million+
Cornishbirds

Cornishbirds

Sep 2025
5/5
Wow! What an incredible day trip this is. We booked the Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout snorkelling cruise a few months back from the UK, not really knowing what to expect. The communication leading up to the day was top-notch. We were picked up from our guest house as planned. After collecting our wetsuits, we hopped on the vessel. Ellie & Kurt were our hosts on board. They made sure to cover the safety briefing. We set sail towards the islands and were lucky enough to spot several whales, so the boat paused to let everyone take a look and snap some photos. Chocolate brownies were served during the ride out. We continued on to the islands. Once we arrived, we hiked up to the Hill Inlet Overlook, where the viewpoints offered breathtaking views of Whitehaven Beach. It was a bit crowded up there since many boats arrived at once, but everyone was respectful of each other and it was a great chance to capture some stunning photos. We then had about an hour to hit the beach, enjoy the white coral sands, and go for a swim. We got back on the boat and shared a tasty lunch, served by Ellie, with plenty of vegetarian choices available. After lunch, we sailed to the first snorkelling spot—mainly a place to see the fish. There was another safety briefing and a chance to ask questions. Snorkels and masks were handed out. Ellie and Kurt were eager to answer any questions and provided reassurance to nervous snorkellers (like me!). Ellie was in the dinghy circling around the snorkellers in the ocean to offer support if needed. After 45 minutes, we returned to the boat to head to the next snorkelling spot—this one aimed at giving us a closer look at the reef. On the way, we were lucky to see more whales. The second spot was fantastic, with lots of coral to see, some quite near the surface. Again, Ellie provided support from the dinghy for those wanting to return to the boat. We then made our way back to the mainland, again treated to more whale sightings, some very close to our boat. Fruit kebabs were served as a snack. A truly wonderful day trip, well-organized and definitely recommended if you're in the area.
Becky T

Becky

Sep 2025
5/5
What an incredible experience - a must for anyone visiting Airlie Beach! We had the best day of our whole trip with the Red Cat Adventure crew - our guides were Kurt and Rosie, who were a blast and really great at their jobs! They brought together professionalism and knowledge with plenty of fun and humor! We loved speeding along on the boat to awesome tunes that created a fantastic vibe! We even had a few unexpected stops to see tons of whales splashing around nearby. We hit up 2 snorkeling spots and saw some amazing fish, coral, and a turtle!! They provided us with short wetsuits and snorkeling gear. Lunch on the boat was a cold buffet with cheese, meats, salad, potato salad, noodle salad, pasta salad, and bread rolls. We also got a sweet treat on the way out (mid-morning snack) and on the way back (mid-afternoon snack). Our last stop was at Whitehaven Beach, which was absolutely stunning - a little slice of paradise and just as gorgeous as the pictures! Rosie got off the boat with us and shared tons of useful info about the beach and surrounding area to help us really enjoy the trip. After walking up to the lookout point (Hill Inlet), we had about 45 minutes to chill on Whitehaven Beach. I’d definitely recommend this trip to anyone! It was a busy but super organized day, and the snorkeling was just incredible! It’s a trip that’s good for the whole family...there were folks of all ages and abilities. For those not so confident in the water, they provided life jackets or pool noodles. Thanks again, Kurt and Rosie, and the whole Red Cat team for a really memorable day!
John N

John

Sep 2025
5/5
My wife and I had a lovely day. It started with a bubbly lady picking us up at our place. The check-in at the marina also included getting a wetsuit that fit me [ha-ha]. Kurt was a blast as he entertained the passengers with sorting wetsuits and more. He also played tour guide, dive guide, and deckhand. His infectious laugh reminded me of NRL legend Johnathon Thurston. Natalie was everywhere, from check-in to serving snacks, being a tour guide, and driving the tender. Ben the skipper was a solid boat handler. The return trip was a bit dull weather-wise, but Ben read the conditions well. Thundercat was a great choice since catamarans ride better than mono hulls. As a couple of older folks, we appreciated that and enjoyed the stability of the boat. Her ride nearly rocked me to sleep. Yes, she’s an open boat with a nice breeze and a little spray, but that’s boating. The hundreds of steps to the Hill Inlet Lookout were worth it. My bad knees felt otherwise. My wife walked down to the beach while I chilled at the intersection. A hearty lunch with seconds for the hungry ones. The first snorkel session at Mantaray Bay was excellent. Beautiful coral. The fish life was awesome. George the hump-headed parrot fish was a bit friendly. The second snorkel at Luncheon Bay was very good, though we liked the first one better. I work in tourism, so I tend to be critical. This operation does a great job. Ben, Nat, and Kurt took good care of us. The transfer lady got us back to our place. Can’t remember her name [my bad], but she was nice and informative. Thanks, guys.
Diana L

Diana

Sep 2025
5/5
We had the absolute best trip to the Whitsundays with skipper Rendor (I might've spelled his name wrong) and host Jade! The skipper is a very skilled captain. He sailed the boat so smoothly through the waves! And Jade, from the very beginning, made everything easy with her clear instructions—her voice carried perfectly across the long boat so nobody missed anything. What stood out the most was Jade’s energy—she radiates positivity, always smiling, always lifting the mood, making everyone feel welcome. Her vibe really set the tone for the whole day, turning it into not just a trip, but a joyful experience. We've done quite a few tours before, but this one was by far the best. We're so grateful to the crew for making it such a memorable adventure. If you're lucky enough to have Jade as your skipper, you're in for something special! Tips for winter travellers: if you’re sensitive to the cold like me, it might be wise to over-prepare by bringing a thick winter jacket (waterproof material is best) because the ocean wind can be quite chilly, especially after snorkelling (ignore this if you're visiting in the hot summer). If you want the best view, sit in the front row with a rain jacket and a hat with strings to tie under your chin; you’ll love it, the waves didn’t splash into the boat, just a bit of fun spray!
Dale M

Dale

Sep 2025
5/5
We initially booked the Tongarra, but it didn’t get enough bookings to sail, so we went to the office in Airlie Beach to book another tour. While we were in the office, a rep called me to make sure we knew about the cancellation and the options available to us; that’s great customer service right there. The Wild Cat trip we took was probably an even better option since the faster boat allowed more time on the beach and in the water. The crew was excellent, really entertaining, but always kept an eye on safety. Skipper Reece assured us we’d see a whale, and we weren’t disappointed. Jamie made sure we were all safe and well looked after in the water and was strict about our distance from the reef. Uber driver Kurt ferried us to and from and kept a careful watch while we were snorkeling. Snacks and lunch were excellent, plenty for everyone, all fresh and enough for seconds. Whitehaven Beach is stunningly beautiful, the reef and fish feeding was amazing. Seeing whales, rays, and turtles was an awesome bonus. Do the trip, follow the crew’s advice, and have fun; it was the best day out I’ve had in years. P.S. The Wild Cat has a bar!
Danielle W

Danielle

Sep 2025
5/5
We went on Thursday and it was fantastic. Nat was so sweet and cheerful, and the guys were hilarious. Try to book with the Red Cat adventures crew if you can! Try to get Nat and (we think it was Ben and Kenny) and the guys. They really make your experience better and cater to all types of swimmers - if you're not comfortable, they'll give you small boat rides to the sites and keep an eye on those who might struggle, so being honest about your skills when you sign your waivers is super important. They took photos for friends and couples when they couldn’t, had loads of info, and made the ride back a blast by jumping the boat through waves. We all had an amazing time! The first snorkel site had the best (and most) fish, and at the second site, you got to see so much beautiful coral. We spotted a couple of big fish and my friend saw a giant eel. Whitehaven was lovely and such a treat to experience. Having some free time was appreciated so you could enjoy what you wanted. It was an all-around perfect day.
Rebecca S

Rebecca

Sep 2025
5/5
Our trip was awesome! Huge thanks to our crew Kerien, Jaz & Leah. The music was a vibe, but it was a bummer that it was so quiet the whole time. The boat ride to the first snorkeling spot was a bit rough with the waves pushing the boat sideways - once we got through that, the rest of the boat ride was great! The food was delicious, brownies and fruit for a snack and a big lunch included in the booking cost. The first snorkeling spot was a blast seeing all the fish and coral. We got stinger suits to wear since it’s jelly season. We skipped the second snorkeling spot and relaxed on the boat instead - we’ve done this tour before, and the coral snorkeling spot was also epic. Whitehaven Beach is gorgeous! The hike up to the viewpoint is tough, especially after a long day in the sun. Two hours at the beach felt a bit long; we’d have preferred more time snorkeling than at the inlet. Overall, amazing experience and we’ll be back for a third time at some point! Thanks again to our crew.
E S

E

Sep 2025
5/5
We had an amazing day on RedCat with Rosie and Kurt on the All-Inclusive Day Tour. Rosie was incredibly knowledgeable, fun, and truly passionate about caring for the local environment. Kurt handled the boat excellently—smooth sailing with just the right amount of splashes to keep things exciting! The whole trip was amazing. I saw more marine life—in both variety and quantity—than I have on any of my previous trips to the Coral Barrier Reef pontoons or even in Fiji. The food was fresh and, to my surprise, quite healthy—a really nice touch. Whitehaven Beach is an absolute must-see—the sand, the view, the whole experience was stunning. Truly a perfect day on the water. Thank you, RedCat team! A few tips: • Bring a windbreaker—it can get chilly during the fast boat ride. • Pack hand sanitizer if you plan to use the toilets at Whitehaven Beach—there’s no running water there.

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 Your Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach tour

Coral Sea Marina with yachts and boats, surrounded by lush hills in Airlie Beach, Australia.
Tourists on Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays, with a boat anchored near the shore.
Visitors enjoying the view at Hill Inlet Lookout, Whitsundays, with turquoise waters and lush greenery.
Snorkelers exploring coral reef in Whitsundays, Australia.
Tourists sunbathing on a sailboat deck in the Whitsundays.
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Arrive, board & cruise out of Airlie Beach

Step aboard your Whitsundays cruise to Whitehaven Beach and get comfortable on spacious the spacious decks. Enjoy smooth boarding, shaded lounges, and those first turquoise-water views as you set off across the Coral Sea.

Check out Whitehaven Beach’s famous silica sand

Glide into the heart of the Whitsundays and step onto Whitehaven’s pure white silica shoreline. Wander, swim, sunbathe, or simply take in the unreal colours that make this beach one of the world’s best.

Walk up to Hill Inlet Lookout

Follow your guide through lush national park trails to the Hill Inlet Lookout. Watch swirling aqua and white sand patterns merge below you, a signature Whitsundays moment you’ll want your camera ready for.

Snorkel vibrant fringing reefs

Dive into calm, coral-filled bays around the Whitsunday Islands. With gear, guidance, and warm waters, this is one of the best spots for Whitsundays snorkelling, ideal for beginners and ocean lovers alike.

Relax with lunch, beach time & onboard comforts

Refuel with a freshly prepared lunch, enjoy beach-to-boat flexibility, or unwind on the deck with a drink in hand. Your day moves at a laid-back pace, with plenty of time to explore, swim, or simply soak up paradise.

Things to know before booking a Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach tour

  • Your booking strategy: Whitehaven Beach tours sell out fast during peak season (June–September) and school holidays. Booking online early secures your preferred departure time and cruise style, especially if you're planning to snorkel. Same-day spots are limited.
  • Choosing the right tour style: If you want maximum beach time, choose tours with unlimited or extended Whitehaven access, such as the Whitehaven Beach premium cruise or the Camira sailing adventure. For a balanced day that includes Hill Inlet Lookout, snorkelling, and guided activities, go for the Whitsundays snorkel and Hill Inlet tour. If snorkelling is your main goal, pick multi-reef itineraries like the Whitehaven Beach snorkel cruise or the Outer Great Barrier Reef snorkel tour.
  • Snorkelling options: Not all Whitehaven cruises include snorkelling. Some cruises like the Whitehaven Beach premium cruise offer upgrades at checkout, while others include one or two reef stops as part of the itinerary. Gear, stinger suits, flotation devices, and guided instruction are standard on snorkelling tours.
  • Duration & pace: Most Whitehaven Beach tours run 6–9 hours depending on reef stops, scenic lookouts, and travel time. Tours with outer reef snorkelling or scenic flights run longer and follow a more structured schedule.
  • Meals & refreshments: Most full-day tours include lunch, morning tea, and afternoon tea. Some offer chef-prepared buffets, BBQ lunches, or tropical lunch packs. Dietary needs can usually be accommodated with advance notice.
  • Boarding & departure: All tours depart from Airlie Beach or Coral Sea Marina with check-in typically 15–30 minutes before departure. Select tours include round-trip hotel transfers.
  • Beaches & lookout access: Tours vary in how they access Whitehaven Beach. Some anchor at the southern end, others provide direct access to Hill Inlet’s shifting sands, and a few offer both. Hill Inlet Lookout walks require moderate fitness.
  • Boat styles: Choose between high-speed catamarans for quicker travel, large sailing vessels for spacious comfort, or adrenaline-driven jet boats for fast-paced itineraries. Larger boats feel more stable, while smaller vessels offer a more intimate experience.
  • Weather notes: Tours operate year-round, but itineraries may adjust for wind, tide, or marine conditions. Snorkel sites may change for visibility or safety. If a tour is cancelled due to weather, operators typically offer rescheduling or a refund.
  • Accessibility: Whitehaven Beach landings require stepping into shallow water, and bushwalks, snorkelling, and beach access are not suitable for wheelchair users. Some vessels offer ramp access for boarding, but mobility needs should be confirmed before booking.

Find your ideal Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach tour here

CruiseBoarding pointBoat typeDurationInclusionsPrice

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

Coral Sea Marina

High-speed A/C “SuperCat” catamaran

8 hours (9 hours with snorkel upgrade)

On-demand beach transfers, buffet lunch, South Whitehaven Lookout walk, stinger suit, guided snorkel tour + gear (selected option)

From AU$229

Airlie Beach: Whitsundays Snorkel and Hill Inlet Tour with Hotel Transfers

Coral Sea Marina

Semi-rigid inflatable vessels

6.5 – 8 hours (based on ticket option)

Hill Inlet Lookout walk, guided snorkelling with instruction, reef talks, stinger suit & equipment, round-trip transfers, scenic flight with tropical lunch(selected option)

From AU$209

From Airlie Beach: Camira Sailing Adventure with BBQ Lunch

Airlie Beach

Large sailing catamaran (Camira Whitsundays)

9.5 hours

Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet Lookout walk, morning & afternoon tea, BBQ lunch, snorkel gear, stinger suits, beer & wine, beach activities

AU$249

Airlie Beach: Outer Great Barrier Reef & Whitehaven Beach Snorkel Tour

Airlie Beach

High-speed Viper jet-boat (fastest in Whitsundays)

9 hours

Marine biologist crew, outer reef snorkel safari, Hill Inlet Lookout walk, lunch & snacks, croc pad & slide, snorkelling gear, wetsuits, stinger suits

AU$319

Airlie Beach: Whitehaven Beach Snorkel Cruise with Hill Inlet Tour and Buffet Lunch

Coral Sea Marina

High-speed catamaran

8 hours

2 snorkel sessions, Hill Inlet Lookout walk, lunch + morning & afternoon tea, transfers, lycra/stinger suits, snorkelling gear, wetsuit (winter)

AU$230

Your Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach 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 Whitehaven Beach tour

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

Whitehaven Beach

Renowned for its swirling white silica sands and glassy turquoise shallows, every Whitsundays snorkeling cruise leads you straight to this island icon.

Tourists relaxing on Whitehaven Beach with turquoise water and distant hills.
Tourists relaxing on Whitehaven Beach with turquoise water and distant hills.
Tourists relaxing on Whitehaven Beach with turquoise water and distant hills.
Aerial view of Black Island, Whitsundays, surrounded by vibrant coral reefs.

Plan your Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach tour

  • Whitehaven Beach premium cruise: 9am–5pm
  • Whitsundays snorkel and Hill Inlet tour:
    • Southern Whitehaven Beach snorkel tour: 10am–4:30pm
    • Northern Whitehaven Beach snorkel tour: 8:45am–3:30pm
    • North Whitehaven snorkel + scenic flight: 7am–2:45pm
    • South Whitehaven snorkel + scenic flight: 8:15am–3:45pm
  • Camira sailing adventure: 8:15am–5:45pm
  • Outer Great Barrier Reef & Whitehaven Beach snorkel tour: 8am–5pm
  • Whitehaven Beach snorkel cruise with Hill Inlet tour: 9am–5pm
Know more

Best time of the day:

  • Whitehaven Beach tours operate during daylight hours, giving you the brightest coral visibility and the iconic turquoise-and-white contrast the beach is famous for.
  • Mornings offer calmer seas for snorkelling, while afternoons deliver golden light across Hill Inlet and the beach.

Best season/month:

  • May–June & September–October: Ideal weather, warm water, fewer crowds, and excellent visibility for reef snorkelling.
  • December–February (Summer): Peak swimming conditions with warmer seas, though humidity and visitor numbers increase.
  • June–August (Winter): Cooler but comfortable days with stable sailing winds and reliable beach conditions.
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  • Comfortable seating with shaded areas and open-air decks for scenic cruising.
  • Onboard restrooms available on all Whitehaven cruise vessels.
  • Morning tea, afternoon tea, lunch, and soft drinks included on most full-day tours.
  • Climate-controlled cabins on larger high-speed catamarans; spacious outdoor decks on sailing vessels.
  • Snorkelling gear, stinger suits, flotation equipment, and safety gear provided.
  • Storage for small bags and personal belongings.
  • Professional local crew and marine experts enhancing the experience.
  • Pier-side facilities at Port of Airlie and Shute Harbour for smooth check-in and boarding.
  • Most vessels offer stable decks and shaded lounges; some provide ramp-assisted boarding
  • Beach landings at Whitehaven and snorkelling sites require stepping into shallow water and are not suitable for wheelchair users
  • Restroom access varies—larger catamarans offer spacious facilities, while smaller vessels may have limited accessibility
  • Guests with limited mobility should inform the crew before boarding for personalised assistance
  • Beach time: Whitehaven’s silica sand stays cool, but the sun doesn’t. Bring a hat and light cover-up for long beach stays. The water is clearest before midday, so swim early. If your cruise includes free time, walk the northern or southern stretch for quieter pockets of sand.
  • Hill Inlet (if included): Visit Hill Inlet Lookout as soon as you land. Swirling sands are brightest mid-morning. Wear sturdy sandals for the short forest walk with gentle inclines and shaded boardwalks.
  • Whitehaven Beach photos: Angle your camera low for that classic white-sand-meets-turquoise shot. Late afternoon light creates soft, gold-tinted portraits. Drones are restricted in parts of Whitehaven.
  • Comfort on the beach: Bring a towel or sarong. The silky sand can cling to damp clothing. Use reef-safe sunscreen; it protects the reef and won’t fog your snorkel mask.
  • Marine life: Look for stingrays and small reef sharks in the shallows at the southern end of Whitehaven. Turtles are often spotted on the boat ride to Tongue Bay or near Haslewood Island.
  • Water activities: If your cruise includes a snorkelling stop (usually Haslewood or Border Island), keep your gear ready for quick entry once anchored. Wear your stinger suit even for shallow swims during stinger season (Oct–May).

Frequently asked questions about Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach tours

How long does a Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach tour take and what’s included?

Most full-day tours run 7–9 hours and include beach time, scenic cruising, and optional snorkelling. Inclusions vary by operator, so check the itinerary before booking.

Is a Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach tour suitable for non-swimmers?

Yes. Non-swimmers can enjoy beach time, lookout walks, and onboard viewing areas. Snorkelling is always optional.

Do I need to book Whitsundays cruises in advance during peak season?

Yes. June–September and school holidays sell out quickly. Advance booking guarantees your preferred departure, especially for premium and small-group cruises.

Can I bring my own food, drinks, or alcohol onboard?

Most operators allow sealed snacks and water but restrict BYO alcohol. Some premium cruises include lunch and drinks, while others offer onboard bars. Check your ticket details before arrival.

Are there age limits for snorkelling on Whitsundays cruises?

Children can snorkel with supervision, and most operators provide flotation aids. Age requirements vary, so confirm the minimum age and safety rules when booking.

What should I wear and pack for a day on Whitehaven Beach?

Bring swimwear, a hat, light cover-up, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle. Stinger suits or lycra suits are provided seasonally. Comfortable sandals are recommended for beach walks.

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