2-Night Whitsundays Sailing Cruise: Whitehaven & Reef Snorkel
Two nights under open sky, snorkeling reefs that glow at night
You sail from Airlie Beach for two nights aboard a maxi yacht, snorkeling three reef sites and landing on Whitehaven Beach to walk to Hill Inlet Lookout. All meals, snorkel gear, National Park entry and accommodation are included. You return by 9 AM on the final morning.
Step-by-step itinerary
Day 1: Sail and snorkel in Whitsundays
- Depart from Airlie Beach
- Hoist sails on maxi yacht
- Snorkel at Luncheon Bay
- Snorkel at Caves Cove
- Snorkel at Blue Pearl Bay
- Relax and chill on deck
- Watch glowing marine life at night
- Stargaze under unspoiled sky
Day 2: Explore Whitehaven Beach and return
- Wake up to ocean views
- Visit Whitehaven Beach
- Walk to Hill Inlet Lookout
- Enjoy panoramic turquoise views
- Help hoist sails
- Return to Airlie Beach
What’s included
Your two nights include on-board accommodation, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), snorkeling equipment and stinger suits, entry to National Park sites, the Environmental Management Charge (Reef Tax), a tour host, and access to all activities including snorkeling stops at Luncheon Bay, Caves Cove, and Blue Pearl Bay, plus Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout. You depart from Airlie Beach and return by 9 AM on day three.
Times
- Wednesday, Friday and Sunday 10:30
Before you book
Operated by OzSail
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The experience
The silica sand on Whitehaven Beach is so fine it squeaks under your feet. That's the detail that stays with you after the 2-night sailing cruise through the Whitsundays. You board Spank Me at Airlie Beach and spend the next 48 hours moving between snorkel spots like Luncheon Bay, Caves Cove, and Blue Pearl Bay, where the coral gardens are dense enough that you lose track of time underwater. The boat carries snorkeling gear and stinger suits, so you're not renting or buying anything once you're on the water. Meals come fresh from the galley (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and you sleep in a cabin that rocks gently with the ocean.
The sailing itself is optional. You can help hoist the sails if you want, or you can stay on deck and watch the Whitsunday Passage change color as the light moves. At night, bioluminescent plankton light up when the water moves, and the sky is dark enough to see the Milky Way without competing with shore lights. The itinerary shifts with weather and tides (you might hit Hook Island one trip, Border Island the next), but the core stops (Whitehaven Beach, the snorkel sites, Hill Inlet Lookout for the turquoise swirls) are the anchor. National Park fees and the reef tax are already built into the price, so there's no surprise cost when you arrive.
Return is between 8 and 9 AM on day three, which means you're back in Airlie Beach by mid-morning. The boat operates in all weather, so pack layers and a rain jacket. The crew will tell you what to expect, but the Whitsundays don't shut down for a bit of wind. Minimum age is 18 unless you're traveling with family, and if you have dietary needs, mention them when you book. The crew acts as your host for the two days, so questions about the reef, the islands, or how to read the water get answered as you go.
Is this one for you?Right for travelers who want the Whitsundays without arranging their own boat or logistics: the sailing, meals, snorkel sites and beach time are all coordinated. Expect two full days on the water with early return on day three, which is what makes the itinerary fit so much into 48 hours.
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Top questions
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 72 h before the start.
What snorkel sites are included on the Whitsundays sailing cruise?
Luncheon Bay, Caves Cove, and Blue Pearl Bay are the main stops, with other locations possible depending on weather and tides. Snorkeling equipment and stinger suits are provided.
Is snorkeling gear included?
Yes. Snorkeling equipment and stinger suits or wetsuits are available on board at no extra cost.
What meals are provided on the 2-night cruise?
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included each day. Let the operator know of any dietary requirements when you book.
What time does the cruise return to Airlie Beach?
Return is between 8:00 and 9:00 AM on the final day, subject to weather and tides.
Is the cruise suitable for beginners or non-swimmers?
The cruise is suitable for all fitness levels. Snorkeling instruction and gear are provided, though you should be comfortable in the water.
Are National Park fees included?
Yes. National Park fees, reef tax, and all taxes and handling charges are included in the price.
Can I help sail the boat?
Yes. You can help hoist the sails if you want, or simply relax on deck. Participation is optional.
What is the minimum age requirement?
The minimum drinking age on board is 18 years. Family groups with younger members may be accommodated. Check with the operator.
2-Night Whitsundays Sailing Cruise: Whitehaven & Reef Snorkel
2d · EN
from AU$ 649 per person
≈ US$ 462 in your currency
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