About this tour
A seven-hour day cruise around the Whitsundays Islands, departing from the Australian coast to reach Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet. The locally-run operation limits passengers to 35, keeping the atmosphere relaxed and sociable. You'll anchor at one of Australia's most photographed beaches for a leisurely lunch, then visit Hill Inlet's swirling sandbars. The fast catamaran hull minimises sea sickness, and snorkelling gear is supplied. Afternoon tea and cakes round out the day.
Highlights
- Whitehaven Beach lunch with fresh prawns and salads
- Hill Inlet's turquoise sandbars at high tide
- Snorkelling with beginner-friendly instruction and equipment
- Fish feeding activity for all ages
- Fast catamaran design reduces motion discomfort
What to expect
You'll board early morning and head straight for open water. The catamaran cuts through swiftly—a design choice that keeps stomachs settled. First stop is Whitehaven Beach, where the crew anchors in the shallows and serves lunch under beach umbrellas. The buffet is genuinely good: cold meats, fresh fruit, leafy salads, cooked prawns. After eating, snorkelling begins. Staff teach basics for newcomers, then you're in the warm Coral Sea watching reef fish. Kids love tossing pellets at fish. Before departure, you'll cruise past Hill Inlet's famous turquoise water patterns. On the return, afternoon cakes and biscuits appear. By late afternoon, you're back ashore.
Good to know
Bring swimwear and sunscreen. The boat moves fast, so sea sickness is uncommon, but sit on deck if queasy. Swimming ability is needed for snorkelling. Dietary requirements are catered for—let them know when booking. Alcohol isn't sold onboard.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.