Few drop zones in the world look like this one. Jump from up to 15,000 feet above the Whitsunday Islands and you fall towards a view of the Great Barrier Reef, dozens of green islands and some of the clearest water in Queensland, with up to 60 seconds of freefall at around 220 kilometres an hour before your parachute opens and the ride slows to a float. Both tandem options depart Airlie Beach with instructors and all gear included, so no experience or licence is required.
Standard 15,000ft tandem skydive
The Airlie Beach Tandem Skydive 15,000ft is the classic Whitsundays jump, departing from the skydive centre on Shute Harbour Road with free return transfers included twice daily. After a scenic flight to altitude you get up to 60 seconds of freefall and a longer canopy ride back down, taking in the islands, reef and coastline the whole way. A certificate of achievement and APF membership are included, and video and photo packages can be added on the day.
Skydive with a Whitehaven Beach landing
For something rarer, the Tandem Skydive Whitehaven Beach follows the same up to 15,000ft freefall and tandem jump, but instead of landing back at the airstrip you touch down on the sand at Whitehaven Beach, regularly rated among the best beaches in the world. Once everyone is down, the group transfers back to Airlie Beach on a relaxed ocean cruise, turning the skydive into a full half day out on the water and in the air.
Planning the rest of your day
Most skydives run for half a day once transfers and check in are factored in, which leaves plenty of time either side to fill out your Whitsundays itinerary. The Whitsundays activities hub lists the wider range of reef cruises, sailing trips and jet ski tours on offer around Airlie Beach if you want to build a bigger day or week around your jump.
Frequently asked questions
How high do Whitsundays tandem skydives go?
Both tours listed here jump from up to 15,000 feet, giving around 60 seconds of freefall before the parachute opens.
Do I need skydiving experience to do a tandem jump?
No. Both jumps are tandem, strapped to a qualified instructor for the entire flight, freefall and landing, so no prior experience is needed.
What is the difference between the 2 skydive options?
The standard tandem skydive lands back near the airstrip in Airlie Beach with free return transfers, while the Whitehaven Beach option lands on the sand at Whitehaven Beach and includes a return cruise to Airlie Beach afterwards.
Is transport included?
Free return transfers are included on the standard Airlie Beach tandem skydive, and the Whitehaven Beach option includes a return cruise as part of the experience.
Is there a minimum age for tandem skydiving?
The minimum age for tandem skydiving in Australia is 12 years, and anyone under 18 needs a parent or guardian's permission to take part.
Local tip: book an early morning slot where possible, winds tend to be calmer over the islands earlier in the day, which usually means a smoother flight up and a cleaner view on the way down.
Compare the skydive options above and pick the landing, standard airstrip or Whitehaven Beach, that suits the day you want.
