Whitsunday Islands: Camira Sailing, Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet

Summary

Sail through turquoise Whitsunday waters, walk silica sand beaches, and snorkel vibrant reefs with lunch onboard

You’ll sail across bright Whitsunday waters on Camira with a small group, stopping for a guided hike up to Hill Inlet Lookout and time on Whitehaven’s unique sand. Snorkel fringing reefs after a BBQ lunch served onboard with drinks included. Expect moments of quiet awe mixed with laughter — something about this day stays with you long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the wind to feel that soft — not sharp at all, just warm and a little salty on my skin as we left Airlie Beach behind. The Camira catamaran is bigger than I pictured (I kept thinking someone would make a Titanic joke but nobody did), and there was room to sprawl out without bumping elbows. Our guide, Sarah, had this way of pointing out tiny islands like she was introducing old friends. She told us about the Ngaro people as we passed by — I’d never even heard of them before. I tried to pronounce “Whitsunday” like she did but it came out all wrong; she just grinned.

We stopped at Whitehaven Beach and honestly, the sand really is different — almost squeaky underfoot, fine and cool even in the sun. There was this moment where everyone went quiet for a second, just looking at that pale water curling up over the white sand. I wandered off for a bit and found these little spiral shells half-buried near the tide line. The hike up to Hill Inlet Lookout wasn’t too tough but it got my heart going (maybe I’m less fit than I thought). At the top, Sarah pointed out where the tides swirl blue and green together. It didn’t look real — more like someone spilled paint on glass.

Lunch back on board smelled like grilled onions before we even saw it. I sat next to Li from Melbourne who tried to convince me to try Vegemite on my burger (I politely declined). Beer started flowing after snorkeling — which was good because I’m not exactly Jacques Cousteau in the water and needed a little courage for those first few breaths through the mask. Fish everywhere though, darting between coral fingers. On the way back, people dozed or just watched clouds drift by. The sun felt heavier then.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail, hike, snorkel, and relax

• Board Camira sailing catamaran
• Guided hike to Hill Inlet lookout
• Swim and stroll on the beach
• Enjoy BBQ lunch on board
• Snorkel at Whitsundays fringing reef
• Sail back to shore

Top questions

Is pickup from Airlie Beach hotels included?

Yes, return coach transfers are available from most Airlie Beach accommodations for an extra fee.

What’s included in the Camira Sailing Adventure?

The tour includes sailing through Whitsunday Islands, guided walk to Hill Inlet Lookout (tidal dependent), snorkeling gear and stinger suits, morning/afternoon tea, BBQ lunch with drinks (beer/wine/cider after 10am), and beach activities.

How hard is the hike to Hill Inlet Lookout?

The guided walk requires moderate fitness; it involves bushwalking and some climbing but isn’t overly strenuous for most people.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes—just let the crew know your needs ahead of time by email or phone so they can advise what foods to avoid.

Do I need swimming experience for snorkeling?

You should have adequate swimming abilities as flotation devices aren’t provided for snorkeling from Camira.

Is alcohol served during the tour?

Yes—beer, wine, and cider are served onboard from 10am or after snorkeling activities.

Are bathrooms available on board?

Yes—the Camira catamaran has bathroom facilities for guests.

What should I bring for this day trip?

Bring your swimsuit, towel, protective clothing (hat/sunscreen), and a credit card for optional purchases.

What’s included

Your day includes scenic sailing aboard Camira through the Whitsunday Islands with capped guest numbers so you can stretch out comfortably; guided bushwalks up to Hill Inlet Lookout; time spent exploring Whitehaven Beach’s famous white silica sand; all snorkeling equipment plus stinger suits; morning and afternoon tea; a BBQ lunch cooked fresh onboard with soft drinks—and beer or wine from 10am—and round-trip transfers available from most Airlie Beach hotels if you want them.