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Whitehaven’s soft silica sand, the swirling colours of Hill Inlet and a fringing reef beneath the surface all fit into this full-day sailing experience. With meals and drinks organised along the way, you can settle onto the open deck and watch the islands unfold from the moment the catamaran leaves Port of Airlie at around 8.15am.
When tides allow, step ashore near the northern end of Whitehaven Beach and follow a guided 1.3 kilometre bushwalk to Hill Inlet Lookout. From above, turquoise water winds through shifting banks of white sand, creating one of the Whitsundays’ most recognisable views. Back at beach level, cool off in the clear shallows, walk along the shoreline or simply find a quiet patch of sand and take it all in.
Elsewhere in the day, confident swimmers can slip into the water at a selected fringing reef for around 45 minutes to one hour of snorkelling. Masks, snorkels, fins and stinger suits are provided. Morning and afternoon tea keep the day moving between activities, followed by a freshly prepared barbecue lunch, soft drinks and water. Once snorkelling is finished, settle back on deck with an included beer, wine or cider as the catamaran continues through the islands.
The skipper adjusts the route and activity order to suit the tides, wind and sea conditions. During low-tide restrictions, the beach visit moves to the southern end of Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet is replaced with another island lookout. The catamaran usually returns to Port of Airlie at approximately 5.30pm, completing a day that moves easily between sailing, bushwalking, beach time and the reef.
Stunning scenery, the boat was fantastic and the crew were just great.
Everything was so good, our guide MOSSI was super kind and help full! 💙
Meet at 24 The Cove Road, Airlie Beach (Port of Airlie)
Check availability to see starting times.
Not suitable for
Know before you go
Hill Inlet is included when the tide allows access through Tongue Bay. During low-tide restrictions, the tour visits the southern end of Whitehaven Beach instead, where you can still enjoy the white silica sand and visit an alternative island lookout. The final route is selected according to the conditions on the day.
The snorkelling stop usually lasts around 45 minutes to one hour. The amount of time at Whitehaven Beach varies with the tides and the day’s route, but the itinerary includes time to enjoy the beach as well as the Hill Inlet walk when it is accessible. The order of activities may change.
Confident swimming ability is required if you want to snorkel at the fringing reef. Snorkelling is optional, so guests who do not wish to enter the water can remain on board and enjoy the sailing experience during the snorkel stop.
The guided walk is approximately 1.3 kilometres return and includes sand and some uneven terrain. A moderate level of fitness and agility is recommended, as the day also involves getting in and out of the tender. Comfortable sandals or thongs are suitable for the walk.
Yes. Children aged four years and over can join the tour. It is a good choice for families whose children are comfortable spending a full day on the water and taking part in activities such as swimming, beach walking and travelling by tender.
Yes. Stinger suits are required for everyone taking part in the snorkelling activity throughout the year. Masks, snorkels, fins and stinger suits are provided as part of the tour.
Guests planning to snorkel can enjoy alcoholic drinks after completing their snorkelling activity. Guests who are not snorkelling can access the bar from around 10am. Beer, wine and cider are included, with soft drinks and water available throughout the day.
Amazing!!! Had the best day and the crew were so accommodating, food was really nice too!
Absolutely fab experience! We didn’t get to the lookout point due to low tide. However, the staff, journey, meals and drink exceeded my expectation! They are booked out for months in advance and I can completely see why! The best day!
This was the best day I’ve had whilst travelling the east coast. The boat was a great lay out, not too over crowded, drink and food options were amazing. Crew was awesome no complaints would 100% Recommend the camira!
Everything was perfect! Amazing food, all inclusive, friendly staff, great music. Snorkelling was brilliant – we saw a turtle. Guided short walk up to hill inlet and then left to chill at Whitehaven beach for hour and a half. Wouldn’t change anything
This tour was incredible value for money. The crew were excellent, shoutout to Lili for the electrolytes that saved my hangover, & thanks to Dakota for the awesome photos. Overall has the most magical day sailing the Whitsundays! If you’re unsure which tour to choose, you won’t regret doing this one 🙂
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