The Whitsunday Islands - General Info

Description:

The Whitsunday Islands are widely regarded as one of Australia’s premier boating and sailing destinations, located off the central coast of Queensland, Australia, and on the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Comprising 74 tropical islands, this region is renowned for its protected waters, steady trade winds, and easy line-of-sight navigation - making it ideal for cruising yachts, charter vessels, and recreational boaters of all experience levels.

The largest of the islands is Whitsunday Island itself, and it is surrounded by many others - the biggest of these being Hook, Border, Haslewood, Hamilton, Lindeman, and Shaw.

Cruiser Highlights:

Fringed by coral reefs and dotted with secluded bays, the Whitsundays offer exceptional anchorages, safe moorings, and access to pristine beaches, including the iconic Whitehaven Beach with its pure silica sands. The islands provide a mix of well-equipped marinas, such as those at Airlie Beach, Hamilton Island, and Daydream Island, alongside remote, unspoiled locations perfect for overnight stays.
Boaters can enjoy world-class snorkelling and diving, abundant marine life, and calm cruising conditions year-round, with peak sailing conditions typically from May to September.

Position:

20° 15.33'S, 148° 56.79'E (W side Whitsunday Island)