From November to May, warm tropical waters bring box jellyfish and tiny Irukandji into the Whitsunday shallows. Their stings can hurt and, in rare cases, be dangerous. But strict safety measures mean serious incidents are uncommon.
Tour operators provide full-body Lycra suits, run safety briefings before each swim, and keep vinegar close to the ladders. Onshore, most beaches set up stinger nets and display warning flags showing daily risk levels. Medical help is also nearby—clinics in Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island carry antivenom, and rescue helicopters can respond in under 20 minutes.
Lots of people snorkel in the Whitsundays every day, even during stinger season, and most have no problems at all. Stingers prefer warm, shallow, and calm water, so it’s safer to swim at deeper reef sites or in netted beach areas. Wearing a Lycra suit almost removes the risk, while also protecting you from sunburn and keeping you warm in the water.
Tour crews are always ready too. They watch the water from the platforms, carry vinegar for stings, and explain safety rules before you get in. The main thing to remember: never use freshwater, ice, or alcohol on a sting—it makes it worse. Only use vinegar. If you are stung, stay calm; the pain usually subsides within half an hour, and hospitals have effective treatments available if needed.
Yes. The suits create a physical barrier, and the slick fabric prevents tentacles from latching onto skin.
Yes, but only if they wear properly fitted suits and stay within netted areas or under direct crew supervision. Children’s sizes are generally available on all tours.
Most resorts and every tour boat supply suits free or for a small fee per day. For multi-day trips, buying a suit can be cheaper and ensures a correct fit.
Alert crew or lifeguards, pour the stung area with vinegar, remove tentacles with gloved hands or tweezers, and stay still. Severe pain, nausea, or breathing issues warrant immediate medical evacuation.
Sightings are extremely rare in the dry season but not impossible. Operators carry suits and vinegar year-round as a precaution.
Most comprehensive Australian policies include medical treatment and evacuation for marine stings. Verify coverage limits and ensure activities like snorkelling aren’t excluded.
Ride a jet ski from Airlie Beach with expert guidance and stunning island views.
Inclusions
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)
Enjoy an award-winning Whitsundays sailing adventure with snorkelling, banana boat rides, and a fresh lunch.
Inclusions
Full-day cruise from Airlie Beach
Snorkelling at Langford Reef (inner fringing reef)
Banana boat ride
Lunch and snacks (menu here)
Lycra suit, stinger suit (during summer months), & wetsuit (during winter months) for hire
Snorkelling equipment (mask & snorkel only)
Experience the only Whitsundays cruise with a floating beach club vibe and unlimited beach-to-boat transfers.
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
South Whitehaven Lookout guided walk
Buffet lunch (menu here)
Stinger suit
Guided snorkel tour at Border Island Reef (inner fringing reef) (based on selected option)
Snorkelling equipment & flotation devices (based on selected option)
Exclusions
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.