Whitsunday Sailing
How To Get The Most Out Of Your Whitsunday Sailing Holiday.
The Whitsundays region offers some of the finest sailing of anywhere, owing to the stunning islands and around the Great Barrier Reef proper, of which they are a part. In fact, this section of the Great Barrier Reef has some of the biggest reefs along its 1,500-mile length and many charter companies offer Whitsunday sailing, with day trips and multi-day adventures available. You can go from Airlie Beach or nearby Shute Harbour and have a vast choice of vessels, from the typical bustling backpacker, ferry-like trip to a day on a trimaran racing yacht, and even luxury options.
Of the 70-odd islands of the Whitsundays group, only a handful are privately owned and have any sort of development on them; with the rest being uninhabited and idyllic for sailing around and exploring. The main island is Whitsunday Island, the largest island of the chain. It features world famous Whitehaven Beach; a stunning three-mile stretch of the whitest, silica sand which fronts warm, clear waters. It is best to get here as early as possible as it is a major stop-off on most commercial charters. For views of the beach and sea, a hike up to Tongue Point is popular.
Hamilton Island is another very popular destination when Whitsunday Sailing. It is well within reach of the mainland and Whitsunday Island and is the most developed, with more hotels and facilities than any other. It is a private island although anyone can visit and check out the excellent facilities and gorgeous beaches. There is a golf course on the island along with a choice of accommodation, including a swanky six-star hotel. Hamilton Island also has a small airport with free shuttle bus access, as well as a busy marina and a bank and shops. Sailing charters go from the island’s marina, which is a good alternative for picking up a ride if you have flown in. Day trip cruises and bare boat charters can both be had from here.
Other main islands you can sail to include the likes of Hayman Island, which is also partially developed and has an exclusive resort; the diminutive Daydream Island, one of the smaller inshore islands; nearby South Molle Island, for its cheaper digs; and Long Island to the south, which is popular with eco-tourists. Those on serious charters can head out northeast and explore the lesser-visited islands that stretch for tens of miles from the shore toward the Great Barrier Reef proper, which is another 50 miles out.
Along with the sailing, the Whitsunday islands are also a good place to dive as most Whitsunday sailing vessels carry scuba and snorkel equipment and offer dive courses. The typical half-day trip out to Whitsunday Island will involve a look at Whitehaven Beach and a stop-off at some choice snorkeling spots where you can take in giant turtles and fish. The proper diving boats, such as Island Dive or Pacific Star, will take you out to the best spots in the region as a live-aboard.
