Sailing is the quieter way to see the Whitsundays, no engine noise between stops, just wind, open deck space and a crew who know these waters well. Options range from a single full day out of Airlie Beach to 2 nights sleeping aboard a maxi yacht as you island hop between Whitehaven Beach, the Hill Inlet lookout and a handful of reef and snorkel sites along the way.
Full day sailing
The Whitehaven Beach Sailing Tour on Camira sails to Whitehaven Beach and the Hill Inlet lookout aboard one of the world's fastest catamarans, with snorkelling, a gourmet barbecue lunch and drinks from the bar all included in one all-inclusive day. The Langford Island Sailing and Snorkeling Tour is an adults-only full day trip, snorkelling at Blue Pearl Bay or Stonehaven depending on conditions, then finishing with a bushwalk on Langford Island and a lookout over the sand cay, all with lunch, antipasto and a glass of sparkling included.
Multi day sailing adventures
For a longer stay on the water, the same 2 day, 2 night island hopping itinerary runs across 3 maxi yachts, so you can pick whichever has departure dates that suit you: Broomstick, Hammer and Condor all visit Whitehaven Beach and the Hill Inlet, snorkel coral reefs inside the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, and include guided island hikes, meals and onboard accommodation in dorm style cabins. For a more relaxed multi day option, the Matador Whitsunday Islands Sailing Adventure sails an 82 foot yacht to Whitehaven Beach and the Hill Inlet lookout, with reef snorkelling and crew prepared meals across the trip.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the full day and multi day sailing tours?
Full day tours such as Camira and Langford Island return to Airlie Beach the same evening. Multi day tours sleep on board and spend 2 nights island hopping across the Whitsundays.
Do Broomstick, Hammer and Condor run different tours?
No. All 3 maxi yachts run the same 2 day, 2 night itinerary to Whitehaven Beach and the Hill Inlet, so you can book whichever vessel has availability on your dates.
Is snorkelling included on Whitsundays sailing tours?
Yes. Snorkelling equipment and a reef or bay stop are included on every sailing tour listed here, on both the full day and multi day options.
Are any Whitsundays sailing tours adults only?
Yes. The Langford Island Sailing and Snorkeling Tour is an adults-only cruise, while the other sailing tours welcome families.
What should I bring on a Whitsundays sailing tour?
Swimwear, a towel, a hat, sunscreen and a light jacket for cooler or windy days, plus a camera for the Hill Inlet lookout.
Local tip: if seasickness is a concern, ask which of Broomstick, Hammer or Condor is sailing on your preferred date, maxi yachts handle open water differently depending on their size and hull design.
Compare the Whitsundays sailing tours above and choose the length, crowd and pace that suit your trip.
