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Leave the marina behind at around 9:30am or 10am, depending on the season, and settle into the easy rhythm of a full day under sail. Beanbags across Tongarra’s spacious deck give you room to stretch out as the Whitsunday Islands pass by, with chilled music, an easy social atmosphere and the crew sharing stories about the islands and marine life along the way.
When Langford Sandbar comes into view, pale sand and turquoise shallows set the scene for the most active part of the day. Step straight from the beach into the water for a snorkel over the fringing reef, swim in the shallows, keep watch for turtles or follow the walk to the lookout for wide views across the surrounding islands. Snorkelling is optional, so you can also slow down on the beach and simply enjoy the setting.
Back onboard, lunch and snacks are taken care of, leaving you free to enjoy the reef, the sandbar and the deck without having to organise the day yourself. With plenty of room to move around, friendly crew and an easy-going atmosphere onboard, it is easy to settle in and enjoy the journey. This is a great choice for solo travellers, couples and groups of friends who want both adventure and time to unwind.
The final stretch brings one of the day’s most memorable scenes. Settle back on deck as the afternoon light changes across the islands and the boat makes its way towards Airlie Beach, returning at approximately 6pm or 6:30pm depending on the season. When the wind is right, the sails take over; in lighter conditions, the vessel may travel under motor. From June to September, keep an eye on the horizon for the chance to spot migrating humpback whales.
The crew Patrick, Kurt and Harry were all amazing and they made the trip fun and enjoyable for everyone. The food provided was good.
One of the most remarkable, fun days that I have ever had! Curt, Jared, Abbie, and the rest of the crew were all amazing and made the whole experience even better! Saw amazing views, snorkels through some of the most stunning waters imaginable. Highly recommend!
Meet at Coral Sea Marina – North (Meeting Point B – Roundabout)
Check availability to see starting times.
Not suitable for
No. This experience focuses on Langford Sandbar, island sailing, beach-entry snorkelling and the sunset journey back to Airlie Beach. If Whitehaven Beach or Hill Inlet is essential to your plans, choose a tour that specifically includes those locations in its itinerary.
The published seasonal schedules normally allow around 2 hours and 45 minutes at Langford Sandbar. This gives you time to snorkel, swim, relax on the beach or walk to the lookout, while the rest of the day is spent sailing through the islands, enjoying lunch and returning to Airlie Beach. Timing and the route may change with wind and sea conditions.
Yes. Snorkelling is optional. You can spend the Langford Sandbar stop relaxing on the beach or walking to the lookout. Guests who choose to snorkel need to be comfortable swimming independently in open water and have a reasonable level of fitness.
No. The atmosphere is relaxed and social, with music, beanbags and plenty of space to enjoy the scenery. It suits solo travellers, couples and groups of friends who enjoy meeting people, but it is not operated as a party cruise.
Tongarra is a sailing catamaran, and the crew will sail when the wind and conditions allow. During light or unsuitable winds, the vessel may use its motor so the day can continue safely and follow the planned route.
Yes. You may bring your own alcohol, and ice and eskies are available to keep drinks cold. Alcohol is not sold onboard. Bring cans rather than glass, and do not bring red wine.
The catamaran is designed to sit more steadily on the water than many monohull vessels, but seasickness is still possible. If you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking suitable medication according to its label or a pharmacist’s advice, allowing enough time for it to work before boarding.
No. Standard masks and snorkels are provided, but prescription masks are not available. Bring your own prescription mask or arrange to hire one before departure if you need vision correction in the water.
It was a brilliant day, the boat was very spacious so you could have you own spot where you could lie down. The activities were so fun, I loved the banana boat and we saw so many different fish snorkelling!
Amazing! The slippers were so funny and friendly, they made everything better!
Absolutely loved this tour despite some rain. Great music and vibes, good food, and we even saw turtles on the snorkeling spot. I also loved that they take you to more secluded places to avoid crowds.
We had an amazing time on the Tongarra with Emily & Kory! From the first meeting at the harbour to the last farewell-hug, they both did an amazing job! They spread the best vibes while caring for everybody, bringing us to the most beautiful places and sharing their knowledge. Emily patiently answered all my questions regarding the reef and the animals on it. They also took their responsibility for the environment very serious. Thank you for having us, we hab a blast!
Amazing day out! The crew Sean and Ian were fun and knowledgeable. Took us to some amazing locations. The trip was smooth and relaxing!
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