Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SAILING THE WHITSUNDAYS
Daydreams of an island holiday almost always feature a white sailboat skimming the fantasy-blue seas. In the
Whitsundays, it isn't hard to put yourself in that picture, but with the plethora of charters, tours and specials on
offer, deciding how to go about it can be confusing. Before booking, compare what you'll get for the price you'll
pay. Cheaper companies can have crowded boats, bland food and cramped quarters. If you're flexible with dates,
last-minute stand-by rates can considerably reduce the price and you'll also have a better idea of weather condi-
tions.
Most overnight sailing packages are for three days and two nights or two days and two nights. Again, check
what you'll pay for. Some companies set sail in the afternoon of the first day and return by mid-morning of the
last, while others set out early and return late. Also be sure about what you're committing to - don't set sail on a
party boat if you're after a chilled-out cruise.
Most vessels offer snorkelling on the fringing reefs (around the islands), where the softer coral is often more
colourful and abundant than on the outer reef. Check if snorkel equipment, stinger suits and reef taxes are in-
cluded in the package. Diving usually costs extra.
Once you've decided, book at one of the many booking agencies in Airlie Beach such as
Whitsundays Cent-
Rd) or a management company such as
Whitsunday Sailing Adventures
(
07-4946 4999;
www.whitsundaysailing.com
; The Esplanade) or
Explore Whitsundays
(
07-4946 5782;
www.explorewhitsundays.com
;
4 The Esplanade).
Some recommended sailing trips:
Camira
(
www.cruisewhitsundays.com
; day trip $189) One of the world's fastest commercial sailing catamarans
is now a lilac-coloured Whitsunday icon. This good-value day trip includes Whitehaven Beach, snorkelling,
morning and afternoon tea, a barbecue lunch and all refreshments (including wine and beer).
Solway Lass
(
www.solwaylass.com
; 3-day/3-night trip from $559) You get a full three days on this 28m tallship
- the only authentic tallship in Airlie Beach. Popular with backpackers.
Prima Sailing
(
www.primasailing.com.au
;
2-day/2-night tour from $360) Fun tours with a 12-person maximum.
Ideal for couples chasing style and substance.
Atlantic Clipper
(
www.atlanticclipper.com.au
;
2-day/2-night trip from $455) Young, beautiful and boozy
crowd…and there's no escaping the antics. Snorkelling (or recovering) on Langford Island is a highlight.
Derwent Hunter
(
www.tallshipadventures.com.au
; day trip $175) A very popular sailing safari on a timber gaff-
rigged schooner. Good option for couples and those more keen on wildlife than the wild life.
Whitehaven Xpress
(
www.whitehavenxpress.com.au
; day trip $160) Locally owned and operated for over a dec-
ade, the Xpress rivals the bigger operators for its Hill Inlet and Whitehaven tours.
SV Domino
(
www.aussieyachting.com
; day trip $150) Takes a maximum of eight guests to Bali Hai island, a
little-visited 'secret' of the Whitsundays. Includes lunch and a good two-hour snorkel.
Crewing
Adventurous types might see the 'Crew Wanted' ads posted in hostels or at the marina and dream of hitching a
ride on the high seas. In return for a free bunk, meals and a sailing adventure, you get to hoist the mainsail, take
the helm and clean the head. You could have the experience of a lifetime - whether good or bad depends on the
vessel, skipper, other crew members (if any) and your own attitude. Think about being stuck with someone you
don't know on a 10m boat several kilometres from shore before you actually find yourself there. Be sure to let
someone know where you're going, with whom and for how long.
