The Whitsundays are stunning, but squeezing everything in can be tricky without a plan. Ferry rides are short, but tide times, reef visibility, and cruise slots matter more than you think.
Choose one must-do highlight, whether that’s Whitehaven Beach, an outer reef snorkel, or a whale-spotting sail, and let the rest of your trip fall into place. From early-morning day trips to week-long island-hopping adventures, a little smart planning means more reef time, smoother connections, and plenty of room for hammock hours.
Choose your ideal timeframe
Morning – Whitehaven Dash Take the 7am express to Whitehaven’s south end. You’ll get two peaceful hours for photos on the white sand and a swim. Hike the short Solway Circuit for great inlet views before the crowds arrive.
Midday – Hill Inlet Lookout Head north and walk up the shaded boardwalk to the lookout. From the top, you’ll see tidal swirls creating stunning sand patterns. Bring reef-safe sunscreen since there’s little shade at the summit.
Afternoon – Reef Snorkel Hop back on the boat for a snorkel at Haslewood Island’s fringing reef. Lycra suits are provided, and visibility is usually around 12 m, often clearer after a southerly breeze.
Evening – Sunset Sail Back in Airlie by 4pm, step onto a tall-ship twilight cruise. Enjoy a cheese platter, drinks from the bar, and pastel skies to end your day.
Day 1 – Hamilton Highlights Take a morning ferry, check into your resort, and visit WILD Life Park for a koala cuddle. Spend the afternoon paddleboarding at Catseye Beach, then enjoy sunset cocktails at One Tree Hill.
Day 2 – Outer Reef Adventure Head out on a full-day trip to Hardy Reef. Snorkel, take an optional helicopter ride, or explore the underwater observatory. End the day with fresh seafood by the marina.
Day 3 – Whitehaven & Hill Inlet Transfer early to Whitehaven Beach for a guided hike, picnic, and a relaxing swim. Return to Airlie in the evening or stay an extra night at your resort.
Day 1 – Airlie Beach Arrival Settle in with a swim at the lagoon, stroll the esplanade, and enjoy dinner by the water. Pick up reef-safe essentials for the trip.
Day 2 – Camira Sailing Spend the day sailing on a fast catamaran with an open bar and beach BBQ. End with sunset views at Coral Sea Marina.
Day 3 – Reefworld Adventure Head out to the outer reef. Choose to stay overnight and sleep under the stars on a swag deck above glowing coral.
Day 4 – Daydream Island Relaxation Enjoy the hydro-lounge pool, visit the Living Reef touch-tank, and walk through rainforest trails to the Mermaids Sculpture. Wrap up with an outdoor starlight cinema.
Day 5 – Scenic Farewell Take a seaplane flight over Heart Reef and Conway Range waterfalls before your airport transfer.
Visual Mood-Board
Make every hour count
Time your visit right
Hill Inlet’s sand swirls and reef visibility depend on tides. Mid-tide during full or new moons gives you the best colours and sand patterns.
Save with passes
Multi-stop passes bundle ferries and tours, cutting costs by up to 15%. They also protect your connections—if one tour runs late, your next ferry adjusts automatically.
Pack smart
Catamarans only allow 23kg per suitcase. Store extra bags in Airlie lockers so you can island-hop light and skip excess baggage fees.
Book dining early
Top island restaurants like Bommie (Hamilton) and Infinity (Daydream) fill up weeks ahead. If you're looking forward to premium dining, reserve before your trip so you don’t end up with just takeaway pizza.
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
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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.
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
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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
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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.
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
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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.
Ride a jet ski from Airlie Beach with expert guidance and stunning island views.
Everything you get: Zoom across Airlie Beach’s tropical waters on a 1.5‑hour guided jet ski tour, with scenic views of coastal bays and marine life. All riding gear is included, plus round‑trip transfers and free photos from your ride uploaded to Facebook after the tour.
Why choose this: Perfect for thrill-seekers who want to explore the Whitsundays with expert guidance, scenic views, and no gear or experience needed.
Inclusions
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1.5-hour guided jet ski tour from Airlie Beach
Experienced tour guide
Live commentary
Marine wildlife sightings
All riding apparel (including life jackets, stinger suits, rash tops/thermal tops, wetsuit shorts, polarised sunglasses, riding hats, and sunscreen)
Round-trip bus transfers (within the Airlie Beach area)
Bottled water
Photos of your trip (uploaded to Facebook)
What to bring
Comfortable shoes, a towel, sunglasses, hats, & sunscreen
Camera
Casual clothes
What’s not allowed
Max weight per jet ski: 200kg
Max participants per jet ski: 1-2 persons
Minimum age of the driver: 16 years
Minimum age of the passenger: 8 years
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
A reasonable level of fitness is required for this experience.
A safety briefing will be conducted before the experience begins. Please pay close attention to the briefing.
Guests under 18 years must have an indemnity form signed by a parent or guardian before the tour.
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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
Guided snorkel tour at Border Island Reef (inner fringing reef) (based on selected option)
Snorkelling equipment & flotation devices (based on selected option)
Exclusions
#
Drinks (additional cost)
What to bring
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hats, & sunscreen
Camera
Jacket
Weather-appropriate clothing
Reusable water bottle
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
The boat is equipped with onboard washrooms for your convenience.
Snorkelling is a physical activity. If you’ve opted for it, you must be a confident swimmer and have a certain level of fitness to participate.
Alcoholic drinks can be purchased at the onboard bar.
There is a coffee machine onboard. You can prepare a cup of coffee at an additional cost.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
See the reef without getting wet on a stable glass-bottom boat—day or night options available.
Everything you get: Hop aboard a fully shaded glass-bottom boat with expert commentary, a licensed bar, and views of coral gardens and reef wildlife. Choose a daytime cruise with a scenic lookout stop or a night tour with UV lights that reveal the reef in a whole new way.
Why choose this: Perfect for reef lovers who’d rather stay dry while spotting turtles, rays, and vibrant coral through a glass-bottom window.
Upgrades: The day tour includes a scenic photo stop at Lions Lookout, where you can capture stunning panoramic views of Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays.
Inclusions
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Day Tour + Lions Lookout Stop
70-minute glass-bottom boat tour from Airlie Beach
Fully-shaded glass-bottom boat with a licensed bar on board
Photo stop at Lions Lookout
Expert captain & crew
Live commentary
Courtesy bus transfers (from select locations)
All safety gear, including stinger suits
Night Tour
1-hour glass-bottom boat tour from Airlie Beach
Fully-shaded glass-bottom boat with a licensed bar on board and underwater UV lights
Expert captain & crew
Live commentary
Courtesy bus transfers (from select locations)
All safety gear, including stinger suits
Exclusions
#
Drinks from the bar (additional cost)
What to bring
Camera
What’s not allowed
Strollers
Prams
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
The boat is equipped with 2 toilets for your convenience.
Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks can be purchased at the onboard bar.
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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
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Soft drinks, juice, or alcohol
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)
Cash/card to pay for soft drinks or water bottles (if desired)
Accessibility
Not suitable for pregnant women, guests with back problems, mobility impairments, heart problems, or pre-existing medical conditions, and non-swimmers.
Minimum height requirement: 130cm
Not wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
The bushwalk to Hill Inlet Lookout requires a reasonable fitness level as it consists of many stone steps.
If weather conditions are unfavourable, there may be an alternate route to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
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.
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
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Sailing adventure through the Whitsundays to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet
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: 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.
2 hr.
Meals included
Jet Skiing
Whitsundays Islands 1.5-Hour Guided Jet Ski Tour
Ride a jet ski from Airlie Beach with expert guidance and stunning island views.
Everything you get: Zoom across Airlie Beach’s tropical waters on a 1.5‑hour guided jet ski tour, with scenic views of coastal bays and marine life. All riding gear is included, plus round‑trip transfers and free photos from your ride uploaded to Facebook after the tour.
Why choose this: Perfect for thrill-seekers who want to explore the Whitsundays with expert guidance, scenic views, and no gear or experience 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.
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.
Guided tour
Transfers available
Meals included
Sightseeing Cruises
From Airlie Beach: Whitsundays Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
See the reef without getting wet on a stable glass-bottom boat—day or night options available.
Everything you get: Hop aboard a fully shaded glass-bottom boat with expert commentary, a licensed bar, and views of coral gardens and reef wildlife. Choose a daytime cruise with a scenic lookout stop or a night tour with UV lights that reveal the reef in a whole new way.
Why choose this: Perfect for reef lovers who’d rather stay dry while spotting turtles, rays, and vibrant coral through a glass-bottom window.
Upgrades: The day tour includes a scenic photo stop at Lions Lookout, where you can capture stunning panoramic views of Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays.
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.
6 hr.
Meals included
Snorkeling
Airlie Beach: Outer Great Barrier Reef & Whitehaven Beach Snorkel Tour
What to bring
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hats, & sunscreen
Swimwear & towels
Camera
Light jacket/jumper for windy, wet, or cool days (warmer jacket for winter)
Cash/card to pay for soft drinks or water bottles (if desired)
Accessibility
Not suitable for pregnant women, guests with back problems, mobility impairments, heart problems, or pre-existing medical conditions, and non-swimmers.
Minimum height requirement: 130cm
Not wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
The bushwalk to Hill Inlet Lookout requires a reasonable fitness level as it consists of many stone steps.
If weather conditions are unfavourable, there may be an alternate route to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
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.
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.
9 hr.
Guided tour
Pickup available
Meals included
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.
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