sea quest cruise whitsundays

• Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet
• Great Barrier Reef Adventures
• Camira Sailing Adventures
• Island Escape Day Cruises
• Airlie Beach
• Groups & Events
• Resort Connections
• Turtle Club
• Newsletter sign-up
• Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet
• Great Barrier Reef
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Explore the Whitsundays

About cruise whitsundays.

Based in Airlie Beach, we know how lucky we are to call the Whitsundays home and work hard to showcase the highlights of this incredible region to visitors from around the world.

Our resort connections, day cruises and activities can take you to the Great Barrier Reef, iconic Whitehaven Beach, must-see Hamilton Island, energetic Airlie Beach and the ocean and islands in between.

We also offer Reefsleep – a fabulous night under the stars on the outer Great Barrier Reef and Australia’s first underwater accommodation, ReefSuites. Be prepared for an intimate experience that will stay with you forever.

Our Experiences

Journey Beyond and Cruise Whitsundays acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout The Whitsundays and Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities.

We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past, present and emerging, and commit to building a brighter future together.

We’ve recently updated our Privacy Policy which you can review by clicking here .

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THE 10 BEST Whitsunday Island Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in whitsunday island.

• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Whitehaven Beach
• Whitsunday Islands
• Whitsunday Islands National Park
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout Snorkeling Cruise

2. Ocean Rafting Tour to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout

3. Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach Tour: Beaches, Lookouts and Snorkel

4. The Big Island Day Tour: Full day tour to Whitehaven Beach

5. Camira Sailing Adventure through Whitsunday Islands

6. Whitehaven Beach Half-Day Cruises

7. Whitehaven Beach and Hamilton Island Cruise from Airlie Beach

8. 2-Night Whitsundays Sailing Cruise incl. Whitehaven Beach & Great Barrier Reef

9. Ocean Rafting Whitehaven Beach Day Trip with Reef Scenic Flight

10. Providence Whitehaven Beach Sailing and Snorkeling Cruise

11. Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Day Trip: Chill and Grill

12. Full-Day Tour with Whitsunday Bullet

13. IN ONE DAY: Great Barrier Reef Snorkel + Whitehaven + Hill Inlet

14. Whitehaven Beach Club Transfers from Airlie Beach

15. 2-Night Whitsunday Islands Catamaran Cruise: Entice/O'Nice

16. Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Day Tour | Aussie Beach BBQ | Family Friendly

17. 2-Night Whitsunday Islands Sailing Adventure on Trimaran Avatar

18. 2-Day Whitsundays Sailing Adventure: Summertime

19. Fly & Cruise - Scenic Flight Package

20. 2 Night Whitsunday Islands Cruise on New Horizon from Airlie Beach

21. Whitsundays Premium Private Charter - Axopar 37 'Cheeky'

22. Rayglass Protector - Standard Private Charter - Whitsundays

23. 3 Day Whitsundays Sailing and Diving Adventure: Kiana

24. 2 night Whitsunday Islands Cruise on Atlantic Clipper from Airlie Beach

25. 3 Days Apollo Maxi Sailing in Australia

26. Three Night Cabin Charter MiLady

27. Great Barrier Reef Luxury Expedition Cruise cabin booking 7 days 6 night

28. 3-Night Whitsundays Private Charter Aboard Cruising Yacht Milady

29. 2-Night Private Charter Aboard Cruising Yacht Milady

30. Whitsunday Islands Private Sailing Experience with Snorkeling & Langford Reef

What travelers are saying.

• Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet Lookout Full-Day Snorkeling Cruise
• Ocean Rafting Tour to Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet Lookout
• Whitehaven Beach Half-Day Cruises
• Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach Day Tour - 2 Beaches 2 Lookouts 1 Snorkel Location
• Camira Sailing Adventure through Whitsunday Islands
• SV New Horizon
• Dive Safari Whitsundays

NEW TO THE WHITSUNDAYS - OUR NEW WALK THE WHITSUNDAYS TOURS

Cruise the Whitsundays

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 5 days & 4 nights
• User Ages: 15+
• Users Capacity: 24
• Checkmark Ideal For: Guests who prefer smaller groups and enjoy nature and the outdoors
• Clock Starting Time: Please make sure you arrive at Airlie Beach by 3 pm

Cruise The Breathtaking Whitsunday Islands This Winter

Current dates open for 2024, your choice of vessels:

• Luxurious Summer Jo: 27th June – 1st July and 1st – 5th August
• Iconic Solway Lass: 5th – 9th July and 13th – 17th September

Join our 5 day, 4 night Cruise where nature meets tranquility, for an extraordinary voyage through the pristine Whitsunday Islands. From June to October, indulge in the Whitsunday Winter, with blue skies and crystal-clear waters it’s the ideal time to visit the stunning landscapes and white sandy beaches.

Choose from the luxurious Summer Jo fresh from a million-dollar refurbishment, or step back in time on the iconic Solway Lass, a magnificent 120 year old tall ship oozing charm and history.

Come alone, or invite a friend on a cruise that will leave you with memories for a lifetime. With two scheduled departure dates and intimate group sizes of 18-24 ensure personalised moments and memories to cherish forever.

Download our digital brochure: CLICK HERE

Surrounded by the untouched beauty of nature. The dry season is the perfect time for a cruise around the Whitsundays located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Your journey begins at Airlie Beach’s Coral Sea Marina with the excitement of setting sail, feeling the yacht cut through the sparkling blue waters out to the islands.

Visit the famous Whitehaven Beach with it’s silica sand and crystal-clear waters, take a short walk to the #1 instagrammed destination Hill Inlet to see the swirling white sands from above, enjoy the untouched Langford Reel with it’s vibrant sea life and coral coves then immerse yourself in a cultural history with the caves of Ngaro’s peoples ancient art.

The Whitsundays’ unspoiled beauty, from the lush rainforests of the islands to the abundant life of the reef, is awe-inspiring. This journey is not just about the luxury and comfort of the yacht, but about immersing oneself in the natural wonders of this unique part of the world.

To book, select BOOK NOW in the top right corner, scroll through to June or August to select the available cruises.

If you have any questions please contact our reservations team on [email protected] or 07 4967 7555.

• Chevron down Sample Itinerary

The anticipation of your adventure sets in at 3 pm as you set sail surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Whitsunday Islands. Get the camera ready, pack the phone away as you immerse yourself in a slower paced lifestyle for the coming five days.

Embrace the dawn with a breathtaking view of Hill Inlet’s panoramic splendours , where the azure waters meet the soft, swirling sands in a dance of colours. Australia’s most instagrammed destination.

As the day unfolds, immerse yourself in the crystalline waters of Betty’s Beach , feeling the gentle embrace of the ocean’s caress. Then, on the pristine shores of famous Whitehaven, voted the No. 1 beach in the world you’ll swim, paddle-board or sunbake against the backdrop of this unspoiled paradise with her vibrant white sand and breathtaking blue waters.

Begin your day on the tranquil shores of Border Island. As the first rays of sunlight touch your skin and the sea breeze gently rustles the leaves, you’ll find a sense of calm and renewal that sets the tone for your day of adventure.

After a delicious breakfast snorkel or dive the vibrant underwater beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. 

As the sun begins its descent the warm, golden hues frame your evening at Blue Pearl Bay creating a serene backdrop for relaxation and reflection.

Morning yoga on Langford Island , an underwater adventure off Black Island , and a cultural journey through the Ngaro people’s ancient art.

Conclude your holiday with a contemplative stroll along the shores of South Molle Island , where the gentle lull of the waves and the rustling of palm leaves provide a soothing backdrop.

Then under the midday sun it is time to say goodbye, carrying with you the memories of a rejuvenating journey amidst the stunning Whitsunday Islands

The above is an example of what your trip may entail. To ensure your comfort and safety, the itinerary will change according to the tides, wind and weather conditions.  Your skipper will decide the best route and places to stop, to ensure you can make the most of your time in the Whitsunday Islands.

• Chevron down Sample Menu

Your trip includes all meals and snacks throughout the duration of the trip. We use locally sourced, seasonal fruits and vegetables and our crew freshly prepare each meal for you to enjoy.

Usually served as a buffet-style, you can eat anywhere onboard. Meals are a great communal time to get to know your fellow travellers. Continental breakfasts; healthy, fresh, and hearty lunches; BBQ dinners in true ‘Aussie’ fashion, and even dessert!

Never go hungry with big servings and plenty of snacks in between. Tea and coffee are available throughout the day.

Afternoon Tea: Welcome Drinks, Sunset Platter – Dips and Crackers, Vegetable Crudités, Kabana, Olives, Onions, Gherkins

Dinner: Baked Parmesan Fish, Potato Bake, and Garden Salad (Vegetarian Option: Vegetarian “Fish”)

Dessert: Chocolate Cake (Gluten-Free)

Breakfast:  Croissants, Fresh Fruit, Cereals, Yoghurt, Toast, Spreads, Scrambled Eggs, Tea, and Coffee

Morning Tea: Walking snacks provided (Fruit, Muesli Bars, Nut mix)

Lunch:   Build your own wraps, rolls or sandwiches With a Selection of Cooked Meats & Salads and Coleslaw (Vegetarian Option: Kofta/ Falafel)

Afternoon Tea: Nachos (Vegetarian)

Dinner: Chicken Sundried Tomato Pasta (Vegetarian Option:Tofu )

Dessert: Sticky Date Pudding

Breakfast: Fresh Fruit, Cereals, Yoghurt, Toast, Spreads, Tea, and Coffee

Lunch: Build your own wraps, rolls or sandwiches With a Selection of Cooked Meats, Salads and Potato Salad (Vegetarian Option: Falafel/Kofta)

Afternoon Tea:   Mini Quiches and Corn Fritters (Vegetarian)

Dinner: Shepherd’s Pie with Salad (Vegetarian Option: TVP Shepherds Pie)

Dessert: Cheesecake

Breakfast: Croissants, Fresh Fruit, Cereals, Yoghurt, Toast, Spreads, Scrambled Eggs, Tea, and Coffee

Lunch: Build your own wraps, rolls or sandwiches With a Selection of Cooked Meats & Salads, Pesto Pasta Salad (Vegetarian Option: Kofta/ Falafel)

Afternoon Tea: Bruschetta (Vegetarian)

Dinner: Green Chicken Curry with Jasmine Rice (Vegetarian Option: Green Tofu Curry with Jasmine Rice)

Dessert: Chocolate Cake

Lunch: Build your own wraps, rolls or sandwiches With a Selection of Cooked Meats & Salads (Vegetarian Option: Falafel/Kofta)

Afternoon Tea: Sunset platter – Dips and Crackers, Vegetable Crudités, Kabana, Olives, Onions, Gherkins

Dinner: BBQ Chicken with Mash Potato and Vegetables (Vegetarian Options: Teriyaki Tofu)

Dessert: Apple Pie with Custard

• Chevron down Inclusions

Pre & Post Tour

• Complimentary return Airport Transfers (PPP)
• Sailing onboard the newly million-dollar refurbished Summer Jo
• 5 Nights accommodation in your air-conditioned cabin
• Services of local skipper and crews
• All meals and snacks onboard, filtered and chilled tap water, tea and coffee
• Linen including bath towels
• Snorkelling equipment and basic tuition
• Stinger suit
• Standup paddle-boards
• National Park, Marine Park and marina levies
• Chevron down Information

Complimentary chilled tap water, tea, and coffee are available at all times.

Please pack only what you will need for your trip in a soft-sided bag, no bigger than carry-on baggage limits for an aircraft.

Whitsunday Tours

Explore Whitsunday tours for a day of adventure. Cruise the pristine waters, snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, witness stunning vistas from Hill Inlet Lookout, savor onboard delicacies, and experience high-speed catamaran travel. Unforgettable moments await!

View Pricing & Availability on all Whitsunday passage tours:

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See it in person!

View price & availability:

Ocean Rafting Tour to Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet Lookout & Top Snorkel Spots

Whitehaven beach and hill inlet lookout full-day snorkeling cruise by high-speed catamaran, 2-night whitsundays sailing cruise incl. whitehaven beach & great barrier reef, great barrier reef scenic flight and ocean rafting whitehaven beach day trip, one day whitsunday islands cruise incl whitehaven beach, snorkeling & hill inlet, great barrier reef day cruise to reefworld, scenic flight – great barrier reef, heart reef, whitehaven beach & hill inlet, whitehaven beach and hill inlet day tour | aussie beach bbq | family friendly, whitsunday islands private sailing experience with snorkeling & langford reef, great barrier reef luxury expedition cruise cabin booking 7 days 6 night, great barrier reef private expedition cruise (min 4 day max 8 guests), 2-night private charter aboard cruising yacht milady, adventure awaits.

Whitsunday tours offer an unparalleled journey into the heart of Australia’s natural wonders. A full-day exploration unfolds with a cruise through the crystalline waters, where the mesmerizing beauty of the Whitsunday Islands comes to life. The day promises an adventure suitable for all ages and skill levels.

As the high-speed catamaran glides gracefully over the ocean, anticipation builds for the aquatic wonders that lie ahead. The Great Barrier Reef beckons, inviting participants to swim and snorkel in its vibrant, underwater world. Immerse yourself in the kaleidoscope of colors, encountering diverse marine life and pristine coral formations. It’s a chance to witness the marvels of one of the world’s most renowned natural wonders up close.

The journey continues to the Hill Inlet Lookout, where panoramic views await. The vantage point provides a breathtaking perspective of swirling sands and azure waters, creating a visual masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of the Whitsundays. Whether it’s capturing the perfect photograph or simply soaking in the beauty, this moment atop the lookout is sure to be etched in memory.

Amidst the exploration, a scrumptious buffet lunch is served on-board, ensuring that culinary delights complement the visual feast. The fusion of flavors adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the day, offering a chance to refuel and savor the tastes of the region.

Whitsunday tours are not just about the destinations; they are about the journey itself. The high-speed catamaran facilitates swift travel, maximizing the time spent reveling in the wonders of the Whitsundays. It’s a seamless blend of adventure, relaxation, and appreciation for the natural beauty that makes this region a global treasure.

In conclusion, Whitsunday tours promise a full spectrum of experiences—underwater exploration, panoramic vistas, culinary delights, and high-speed adventure—all woven together to create an unforgettable day in paradise. Whether you seek thrill or tranquility, the Whitsundays cater to every traveler’s desire for an immersive and captivating adventure.

• Read Today's Paper

Cruise Whitsundays welcomes new multi-million addition

Cruise Whitsundays has added to their fleet in a very big way.

Don't miss out on the headlines from Whitsunday. Followed categories will be added to My News.

CRUISE Whitsundays has launched its brand new $4.7m vessel Sea Quest, custom built for its growing range of tours to the world famous Whitehaven Beach.

Built on the Gold Coast for Cruise Whitsundays, Sea Quest joins their fleet as the company's second largest boat at 30 metres, carrying up to 258 passengers.

Cruise Whitsundays CEO Nick Hortle said it would bring a new level of comfort cruising and a new range of tour options.

"Everything about this new boat has been designed for guest comfort, the engines are quiet, she's a very stable sea going vessel, the lower deck has floor to ceiling windows to maximise sight-seeing, and both decks have raised seating through the middle of the boat so that guests in the middle can still enjoy the spectacular views of the Whitsundays," he said.

"Adding Sea Quest to our fleet of vessels also means we can review the way we cruise our guests to Whitehaven Beach, in particular it allows us to open up an extra tour through the middle of the day.

"We've already trialled a mini version of the picnic lunch tour product and its proved enormously popular."

The company's new picnic tour will be enhanced in the next fortnight, offering a full BBQ lunch, freshly cooked on Whitehaven Beach by the catering team from Fish D'vine.

They will also be introducing a new Whitehaven Beach and Snorkelling tour.

"Whitehaven Beach can be challenging to drop guests off at because the sand bars change daily with the tide, so we have had Sea Quest purpose built to be able to pull up onto those sand bars safely (for guests and the environment), with a custom-designed boarding gangway so that guests walk directly off the boat onto the sand, barely getting their feet wet," Mr Hortle said.

"For the technically minded, she will run 2 CAT C32s of 1200 BHP and cruising at 24 knots with exceptional comfort in all seas.

"It also means we have a bigger range of tours and products that we will be able to offer to guests wanting to see Whitehaven Beach."

‘Limit on how much you can milk people’: Meet your local beef barons

Mackay and Isaac are beef powerhouses, but who’s doing the grazing? We spoke with a farmer responsible for Queensland wagyu cattle across an area the size of Hong Kong— but he said you should see how big his brother’s farm is.

Teenager injured in North Queensland highway crash

A teenager has been injured in a two-vehicle crash near Bowen.

THE 10 BEST Whitsunday Island Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in whitsunday island.

• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Whitehaven Beach
• Whitsunday Islands
• Whitsunday Islands National Park
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout Snorkeling Cruise

2. Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach Tour: Beaches, Lookouts and Snorkel

3. Ocean Rafting Tour to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout

4. The Big Island Day Tour: Full day tour to Whitehaven Beach

5. Camira Sailing Adventure through Whitsunday Islands

6. Whitehaven Beach and Hamilton Island Cruise from Airlie Beach

7. Ocean Rafting Whitehaven Beach Day Trip with Reef Scenic Flight

8. 2-Night Whitsundays Sailing Cruise incl. Whitehaven Beach & Great Barrier Reef

9. Whitehaven Beach Half-Day Cruises

10. IN ONE DAY: Great Barrier Reef Snorkel + Whitehaven + Hill Inlet

11. Providence Whitehaven Beach Sailing and Snorkeling Cruise

12. Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Day Tour | Aussie Beach BBQ | Family Friendly

13. Whitehaven Beach Club Transfers from Airlie Beach

14. 2-Night Whitsunday Islands Sailing Adventure on Trimaran Avatar

15. Full-Day Tour with Whitsunday Bullet

16. Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Day Trip: Chill and Grill

17. 2-Night Whitsunday Islands Catamaran Cruise: Entice/O'Nice

18. Rayglass Protector - Standard Private Charter - Whitsundays

19. 2-Day Whitsundays Sailing Adventure: Summertime

20. 2 Night Whitsunday Islands Cruise on New Horizon from Airlie Beach

21. Fly & Cruise - Scenic Flight Package

22. 2 night Whitsunday Islands Cruise on Atlantic Clipper from Airlie Beach

23. Whitsundays Premium Private Charter - Axopar 37 'Cheeky'

24. Premium Whitsunday Islands Sail, SUP & Snorkel Day Tour- 5 guests

25. 3 Day Whitsundays Sailing and Diving Adventure: Kiana

26. 3 Days Apollo Maxi Sailing in Australia

27. Three Night Cabin Charter MiLady

28. Great Barrier Reef Luxury Expedition Cruise cabin booking 7 days 6 night

29. 3-Night Whitsundays Private Charter Aboard Cruising Yacht Milady

30. 2-Night Private Charter Aboard Cruising Yacht Milady

What travellers are saying.

• Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet Lookout Full-Day Snorkeling Cruise
• Ocean Rafting Tour to Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet Lookout
• Whitehaven Beach Half-Day Cruises
• Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach Day Tour - 2 Beaches 2 Lookouts 1 Snorkel Location
• Camira Sailing Adventure through Whitsunday Islands
• SV New Horizon
• Dive Safari Whitsundays

The Best Whitehaven Beach Tour with Cruise Whitsundays

When you picture Australia one of the first images that comes to mind is Whitehaven Beach in The Whitsundays.

You might not even realise it, but that picture perfect view of the swirling sand bars in the ocean is always what springs to mind for me. And you can experience it for yourself at the very edge of Whitehaven Beach, right in the heart of The Whitsundays.

Exploring Whitehaven Beach was our top priority when we were booking our trip to Hamilton Island and The Whitsundays, a lifelong bucket list item. We spent a whole day exploring this beautiful part of coastal Queensland with the incredible crew at Cruise Whitsundays .

Whitehaven Beach is an iconic Aussie destination, often rated as Australia’s #1 beach and winning tourism awards! It’s one of those places that is so untouched and pristine that you can’t help but be amazed.

Book your day trip out to Whitehaven Beach now

Checking in with Cruise Whitsundays

The day started with a pick up from Hamilton Island Marina at about 8am and we took off for Whitsunday Island – the largest island in The Whitsundays. The cruise time was only about half an hour, so it was an easy and incredibly scenic trip through the many islands of The Whitsundays and out to Whitehaven Beach.

There are actually 74 islands that make up The Whitsundays, with our ferry cruising around many of them as we made our way into the heart of The Whitsundays.

As part of the full day tour, we were given our itinerary and a run down of the day on board, along with our own personal esky packed with our lunch and snacks, and before we knew it we had arrived on some of the purest white sand in the world.

Whitehaven Beach

Whitehaven Beach stretches 7 kilometres long across the southern coast of Whitsunday Island, offering visitors plenty of space to spread out and enjoy a little part of the beach all to yourself.

The luminous white colour of the sand is due to the sand being made of 98.9% pure silica, which also keeps the sand a lovely cool temperature. No running from your towel to the water like your feet are on fire here, you can easily walk around all day with no shoes and no worries. Just the way it should be!

We spent the first few hours of our day relaxing on Whitehaven Beach – swimming in some of the clearest water we’ve ever seen, eating snacks on the sand and exploring the island from the sky with our Mavic Pro  (where we think we might just have found some of the best views).

Just after midday we boarded a smaller boat and headed over to Betty’s Beach, the home of the Hill Inlet Lookout, offering you those breathtaking views that Australia is all about. We left our bags under a tree on the beach (perhaps guarded by a young girl on a rope swing?) and headed off on the quite easy but incredibly humid 1.2 kilometres walk to the lookout.

The Cruise Whitsundays crew offer a guided tour up to the inlet, pointing out unique flora and telling stories of the local area, while letting everyone walk and explore at their own pace. The Lookout offers you beautiful views over both Hill Inlet, and also Betty’s Beach below, where a small lagoon and angled sandbars create their own unique view.

Betty’s Beach & Hill Inlet

As the tides shift throughout the day the white sand and blue hues of the water in the inlet mix together to create some beautiful patterns and reflections. The tide will determine the contrast of the white and blue when you visit.

If you’re visiting during the low tide you can often see complete sandbars swirling around the inlet and cutting through the blue ocean, while visiting during a higher tide means that the inlet is almost completely blue, with darker and lighter shades mixing together to create the perfect image (like ours).

Check out the best flight deals to head to The Whitsundays right now

We spent the next hour or so relaxing on Betty’s Beach at the bottom of the Inlet hike. It might be a big call, but I think we might have loved Betty’s Beach even more than Whitehaven! Not many tours take you to Betty’s – with most dropping you off at Tongue Bay on the other side to explore the lookout – so we had this piece of paradise all to ourselves!

Betty’s Beach is right at the bottom of the inlet, so you can also check it out from the lookout, and the water is so warm, you could easily stay in it all day until your skin is all wrinkly and shrivelled. There are often turtles and stingrays swimming around these warmer waters too, so keep your eyes peeled for any ocean friends!

Book your day trip out to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet now

Making the short journey back to Whitehaven Beach, there are a couple of different options for how you can spend the rest of your time on Whitsunday Island. The Cruise Whitsundays crew offer a couple of different walks that you can take in the afternoon that explore more of this epic island.

The Solway Circuit Lookout walk takes you on a short 1.2 kilometres (30 minute) hike offering stunning views over Solway Passage, Pentecost and Haslewood Islands. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can continue from the Solway Circuit to Chance Bay on the other side.

The walk to Chance Bay takes you 6 kilometres (90 minutes return) through Whitsunday Island’s forest and woodlands to a completely secluded beach on the other side, offering you time to take it all in and have a dip before heading back.

If relaxing is more your thing though, there’s no pressure to hike – you can spend your afternoon relaxing and swimming back at the Whitehaven Beach camp. There is no shade on Whitehaven Beach, so Cruise Whitsundays have a bunch of beach tents that you can use for the day.

It’s a good idea to jump on that offer early and create yourself a little beach home for the day. It’s the perfect place to store all your belongings and your lunch eskys while you’re swimming and exploring the island.

Unfortunately we were a bit too slow to claim one and missed out in the morning, with a few sunburns to show for it the next day! When the half day groups swapped over though we were able to grab one for the afternoon and it gave us some much needed relief from the sun and a great place to relax for the rest of our day.

Everything you need to know about touring with Cruise Whitsundays

The finer details of the Ultimate Whitehaven Beach Hike, Hill Inlet and Lookout Tour with Cruise Whitsundays:

You can jump on the full day Ultimate Whitehaven Experience from both Airlie Beach (departing at 7am) and Hamilton Island (departing at 8:05am).

The tour costs $220 AUD per adult ($110 AUD per child) for the full day tour and includes lunch, afternoon tea, snacks and use of all equipment.

On the beach the crew had water, beach shades and beach games for you to use throughout the day. You can also purchase soft drinks for $2 – bring a few coins to make things easier.

The summer season is stinger season in The Whitsundays and Tropical North Queensland. These stingers can be completely transparent and very small, making them very difficult to spot in the water. For your safety you can grab a stinger suit on the ferry before you land on the beach, to keep you covered up in the water and prevent the stingers from getting close to you!

There’s a toilet block located closed by to the Cruise Whitsundays marquee on the beach.

Book the Ultimate Whitehaven Beach Hike, Hill Inlet and Lookout Tour

We had a phenomenal day exploring the Whitsundays and Whitehaven Beach with Cruise Whitsundays and we can not recommend the  Ultimate Whitehaven Beach Hike & Hill Inlet Lookout Full Day Tour  highly enough.

We chose it because of the extended amount of time you got to spend exploring the Hill Inlet Lookout and Betty’s Beach, as half day tours do not have enough time to get there – and it was honestly the absolute highlight of our day and something to remember!

A huge thank you to Cruise Whitsundays for inviting us on board to experience the ultimate day on Whitehaven Beach. We had an amazing time and cannot recommend highly enough. All opinions are of course, our own. 

Read more about our adventures around Queensland

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Happy travels, if you enjoyed this post, we'd love you to share it for us follow us on instagram @exploreshaw to see our latest adventures around australia. check out our travel favourites: click here to subscribe to our newsletter, for blog posts and updates emailed straight to your inbox use this link for $25 aud off your next hotel stay with booking.com, or this link for $55 aud off your first booking with airbnb..

Emma is a travel writer, photographer and blogger, chasing the sun around Australia. Travelling in her recently renovated vintage Viscount caravan, along with her husband Thom and daughter Macey, she's sharing the very best experiences from around her beloved sunburnt country.

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Looks like an amazing day trip, we went to Whitehaven beach on a half day cruise and I agree it just wasn't enough time to explore HIll Inlet as well. We are hoping to go back again on our next trip to Hamilton Island.

It's great to see a post about my home state. The Whitsundays is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Great post.

wonderful post on the whitsundays http://whitsundays.tours

Hello thanks for the information and advice 🙂

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New Cruise to help meet demand for Whitsunday Islands

March 24, 2023 by Roxanne Bowden

Media release

24 March 2023

Explore Group is launching new expedition-style cruises to meet the demand for visitors to experience more of the Whitsunday Islands.

Explore Expeditions offer premium small ship voyages onboard the Whitsunday Explorer comparable to owning or chartering a Superyacht, to provide visitors including groups, events and incentive trips with a unique opportunity to really to explore the area.

The size of our cruise vessel provides us with the agility to navigate islands, reefs and shallow bays that bigger ships cannot access.

Explore Expedition Cruises will launch on April 14 with passengers able to take a two-night cruise departing Coral Sea Marina to visit many of the islands that make up the Whitsunday Island group. Later in the year there will be the option of four or six-night cruises added to the schedule.

With the high demand for tourism experiences and accommodation in the region, William Goodfellow, Explore Managing Director, said the company sees this as an exciting opportunity to grow and invest in unique tourism experiences in the Whitsundays.

“There’s currently nothing quite like this expedition-style cruise available,” says Goodfellow.

“With increased demand on mainland and island accommodation, Explore Expedition Cruises offer visitors and locals the chance to experience the beauty of the islands, spot a huge range of sea and bird life, and participate in a range of water and island activities.”

The 45m boat, named Whitsunday Explorer, being used for the venture has capacity for 60 passengers on overnight cruises in 30 ensuite cabins, configured either twin-share or king double. She is purpose-built for overnight cruising with full amenities across four levels.

The cruises enable guests to explore the Whitsunday Islands and experience the beauty and history of the region during the day and relax in the bar, roof deck, dining lounge and private cabins overnight.

Activities during the day include everything from snorkelling, guided walks, visiting historic sites, through to wildlife encounters and sea kayaking.

“We’re focused on helping to grow and enhance the Whitsundays as a tourism destination for locals, as well as visitors from around Australia, and overseas. Book the cruise as a standalone Whitsundays experience or add a cruise on to a land-based stay,” says Goodfellow.

“An on the water experience like Explore Expedition Cruises showcases the beauty and history of the Whitsundays and ultimately entices more visitors to the region,” he says.

The launch of Explore Expedition Cruises is the second stage of Explore Group’s recent expansion in the Whitsundays, following the company’s build of a luxury snorkel/dive vessel in 2021.

Ocean Explorer named “best large tourist vessel of the year”, is based on Hamilton Island and operates daily from Shute Harbour and Hamilton Island to the outer Great Barrier Reef.

Explore Expeditions Cruises Whitsunday Weekend on the Water will sail on a Friday and return on

Sunday and later in the year, the four- and six-night options will operate throughout the week. The cruises are priced from (AUD) $750.00 per person, per night, twin share, including all meals and many daily excursions and water activities.

Visit https://www.exploregroup.com.au/explore-expedition-cruises/

For more information contact:

Aimee Jones

Explore Group

022 0282330

[email protected]

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Sunset cruises in the Whitsundays

Updated 13/01/22

It’s time to sail into a Whitsundays sunset, with a glass of champagne in hand and your loved ones aboard, on one of Airlie Beach’s esteemed sunset cruise vessels!

There’s no better way to celebrate a tropical escape to the stunning Whitsundays than sailing out of the lively hub of Airlie Beach , as the setting sun slowly turns the surrounding waters dazzling shades of orange and gold. Whether you’re on a fun-filled girls weekend, laid-back family getaway, romantic couples trip, or planning an exciting birthday or work event, there is an Airlie Beach sunset cruise calling your name!

Sit back and let us tell you all about the Whitsundays best sunset cruise options, that all depart from either the Coral Sea Marina or Port of Airlie Marina at Airlie Beach!

Providence V Sunset Sail

Step onboard the magnificent tall ship Providence V, and be greeted with a complimentary glass of bubbles and nibbles as your friendly crew raises the sails, and you slip into the Whitsundays sunset! 

Departing the Coral Sea Marina daily at 5:00 pm, the Providence V Sunset Sail experience is sure to fulfill all of your Whitsundays sailing dreams - especially if you’re short on time! The classic sunset sail cruises smoothly out to Pioneer Bay from Airlie Beach, as you take in the delightful soft hues of pink and orange over the serene Coral Sea with family or friends. Watch the sunset in style, whilst enjoying a beverage - Providence V is a fully licensed vessel with an onboard bar!

Providence V Sunset Sail takes a maximum of 24 guests and returns under the moonlight to Coral Sea Marina by 7:00 pm. Ideal for those seeking an intimate, true sailing experience!

Camira Sunset Sail

Sit back and unwind to an incredible Whitsundays sunset aboard Camira, a luxurious 85-foot sailing catamaran. A much-loved favourite in Airlie Beach, guests can enjoy the all-inclusive alcohol and beverages (beer, wine, cider, and sparkling), that are paired with delicious antipasto platters, whilst taking in the awe-inspiring views of Airlie Beach’s town and surrounding bays!

Departing the Port of Airlie Marina at 6:00 pm on both Friday and Saturday, the Camira Sunset Sail is a fun and social way to celebrate the weekend in the Whitsundays! The comfortable and spacious catamaran additionally allows guests to enjoy their own intimate space with their loved ones - every seat is the best seat!

Camira Sunset Sail takes a maximum of 72 guests and returns to the lively lights of Airlie Beach by 8:00 pm. Ideal for families, groups of friends, and couples - and those seeking all-inclusive beverages!

Derwent Hunter Twilight Sunset Cruise

If authentic, wholesome experiences are what you’re after, this enchanting Twilight Sunset Sail is for you. Step back in time and sail into the sunset aboard this historic, traditional 90ft tall ship. Immerse yourself in the culture and rich history this beautiful vessel has to offer. 

Be welcomed by the friendly crew with fresh homemade cocktails and settle in as you watch the sky shift from shades of orange to pink. Feast on the complimentary native bush tucker and seafood made by the crew. A fully licensed bar is also available on board so you can relax and unwind with a drink in hand as you absorb the natural wonders surrounding you. By listening to the crew share historic tales of Cape York’s Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and South Sea Islander people there is no doubt you'll step away with a deeper understanding into the First Nations culture .

The Tallship Twilight Sunset Sail departs from the Coral Sea Marina at 4:30pm and returns at approximately 7pm. Fitting 39 people, there's plenty of room to bring your friends, colleagues or even just yourself and hop aboard for an evening of authentic sailing .

Solway Lass Sunset and Dinner Cruise

Experience a marvellous Whitsundays sunset, and wine and dine under the dazzling stars, all aboard Solway Lass - a historic tall ship, that will provide you with a sunset sailing and floating restaurant experience like no other!

Be greeted aboard Solway Lass Sunset and Dinner Cruise with a welcome drink and entree, as your experienced crew sets the historic sails and you cruise along the serene waters of the Whitsunday Passage. Take in the setting Whitsundays sun, grab a picture onboard the grand foredecks, and enjoy the fully licensed bar! As the stars begin to twinkle, and the last of the day’s sunset disappears watch Solway Lass transform into a beautiful floating restaurant. Relish in a sumptuous main meal of parmesan-crusted fish or chicken, and learn about Solway Lass’ long and colourful history over a delicious dessert, before sailing back to Airlie Beach!

Solway Lass Sunset and Dinner Cruise takes a maximum of 30 guests and departs the Coral Sea Marina at 5:00 pm daily, and returns by 9:00 pm. Ideal for families, friends, or workgroups looking for an indulgent, unforgettable sailing experience!

Solway Lass is also available for Private Charter .

Lady Enid Sunset Sail

Sail into the Whitsundays sunset in style aboard Lady Enid, an iconic gentleman’s racer with an elegant legacy. Enjoy an adults-only cruise , as you take in the deep blue of the Whitsundays from the spacious decks of a rare Australian yacht!

Departing the Coral Sea Marina at 5:00 pm the Lady Enid Sunset Sail allows you to relish in the remarkable natural beauty of the Whitsunday Islands at ‘golden hour’. Your sail will be accompanied by a delightful Aperol Spritz cocktail, and a tasty platter of local prawns, salmon, cheese, and antipasto nibbles. With exclusive low numbers, Lady Enid is fully licensed, and ready to romance guests through the Whitsundays, before returning to Airlie Beach at 7:00 pm.

Lady Enid Sunset Sail takes a maximum of 24 guests onboard. Ideal for those seeking a sophisticated, romantic sailing experience on a prestige yacht - a sail on Lady Enid is all about you!

Sundowner Cruises - Sunset Sail

Perfect for any type of celebration, the Sundowner Cruises Sunset Sail is aboard a spacious purpose-built catamaran, guaranteed to provide ultimate relaxation and an ambient social atmosphere - sure to kick you straight into the Whitsundays holiday mode!

Cruise smoothly around the lively hub of Airlie Beach to Pioneer Bay whilst admiring the spectacular setting sun, with a complimentary glass of bubbly in hand! The ideal occasion to put on that new sundress, and enjoy the beauty of the Whitsundays with family, friends, workgroups, or your special someone. Sit back, and enjoy your favourite beverage from the onboard fully licensed bar, as you celebrate with friends old and new!

Sundowner Cruises Sunset Sail departs Airlie Beach from 4:30 pm - 5:15 pm daily and returns from 6:30 pm - 7:15 pm (vary based on the time of the year). Taking a maximum of 48 passengers Sundowner Cruises guarantees flat surfaces without tripping hazards - ideal for any group!

Ocean Rafting - Funset

Ocean Rafting’s Funset tour is bound to take you on the sunset ride of your life! If you’re short on time in the Whitsundays, rest assured as Ocean Rafting cruises you into a secluded, exotic beach location to enjoy an unforgettable Whitsundays sunset!

Departing the Coral Sea Marina daily at 4:00 pm the exciting Ocean Rafting vessel will travel at top speeds through the Whitsunday Islands crystal-clear blue waters to a secret location! Unwind on the picturesque sandy shores as the sun sets, whilst indulging in a delicious snack platter and a complimentary drink. Feel the breeze in your hair as you jet back, just in time for dinner in Airlie Beach's  lively main street!

Ocean Rafting’s Funset takes a maximum of 32 passengers and returns to the Coral Sea Marina by 6:30 pm. Ideal for families and friends looking for an adventurous, social sunset experience of the Whitsunday Islands!

Private Charter Sunset Experiences

Salty sunset private charter from airlie beach.

If you’re looking to go that extra mile for a special occasion or seeking an intimate, luxurious Whitsundays sunset experience with your loved ones the Salty Sunset Private Charter is calling your name!

Boasting a spacious, lavish 10 metre launch Salty is a comfortable cruising yacht that can cater up to 10 guests onboard. Lay back on the sunbeds and celebrate the end of another dreamy day in the world-renowned Whitsundays, as you cruise to Pioneer Bay and back to Airlie Beach. Enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbles and nibbles platter, or an upgraded menu package if you wish - just enquire with our friendly staff!

Salty Sunset Private Charter departs from the Coral Sea Marina at 4:00 pm daily, and returns by 6:30 pm. Ideal for all types of groups looking to celebrate in ultimate luxury!

Day and Sunset Packages

Whitehaven and sunset combo.

For those looking to experience the best of the Whitsundays, and tick off those tropical bucket-list dreams look no further than the Whitehaven and Sunset Combo - a jam-packed day of blissful beach and sailing time in world-renowned destinations!

Start your morning on the Half Day Whitehaven Beach tour, departing from the Port of Airlie Marina at 6:45 am. Wander along the luminous silica sands of Whitehaven Beach, and wade in blue azure lagoons for up to 2 hours! After arriving back to Airlie Beach at 2:30 pm, get ready for a classic sunset sail aboard the beloved tall ship Providence V!

Celebrate your unforgettable day onboard Whitehaven and Sunset Combo with a glass of complimentary bubbles as you sail across Pioneer Bay. Ideal for those short on time in the Whitsundays -just don’t forget your camera for this dreamy day!

GSL: Fly and Sunset Sail

Take in the natural magnificence of the Whitsunday Islands from the sea, and from above! Planning on surprising a special someone, or simply dreaming of seeing the world-famous Heart Reef from above whilst you’re in the Whitsundays? GSL’s Fly and Sunset Sail is for you!

Start your afternoon with GSL’s 60-minute scenic flight over the best of the Whitsundays, including Hill Inlet, Whitehaven Beach, and Hardy Reef - get ready to spot Heart Reef from your guaranteed window seat! Then go from the air to the sea, by finishing your day off with a relaxing classic sunset sail on the beautiful tall ship, Providence V! 

Departing daily, please enquire with our friendly staff for further information about GSL: Fly and Sunset Sail . Ideal for those short on time, and ready to experience all of the Whitsundays like no other!

Let our friendly travel experts help you find your dream Whitsundays sunset cruise - there is a vessel for any type of celebration or occasion!

Call us on +61 7 4914 2425 or  live chat today, related articles....

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Sailing Whitsundays acknowledges the Ngaro, Gia and Juru people as the Traditional Owners of the lands and seas in which we operate. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all First Nations peoples.