Seven days in the Whitsundays covers the iconic highlights — Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, Hook Island's butterfly bay, and snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef.
The Whitsundays circuit starts and ends at Airlie Beach (Coral Sea Marina or Abel Point Marina) on the mainland. Most passages are 15–30nm in SE trade winds of 15–20 knots. The circuit covers the central and southern islands — the northern islands (Hayman, Border) can be added to a 10-day itinerary.
Whitehaven Beach — 7km of 98% pure silica sand, rated one of the world's finest beaches
Day by day
1
Day 1 — Airlie Beach to Cid Harbour, Whitsunday Island15nm
Easy first sail across to the main island. Cid Harbour is the most protected anchorage in the group.
2
Day 2 — Cid Harbour to Whitehaven Beach10nm
The destination. Anchor off the southern end of Whitehaven; dinghy ashore for the white sand. Evening anchor — have the beach to yourselves as day-tripper boats leave.
3
Day 3 — Whitehaven to Hill Inlet3nm
Motor to the northern end of Whitehaven. Take the dinghy into Hill Inlet at low tide for the famous swirling sand and water patterns. Hike to the lookout (20 min).
4
Day 4 — Hill Inlet to Butterfly Bay, Hook Island15nm
The best snorkeling in the Whitsundays. Anchor in Butterfly Bay and spend the afternoon on the reef — coral, turtles, and fish in extraordinary variety.
5
Day 5 — Hook Island to Blue Pearl Bay, Hayman Island15nm
Another outstanding snorkel site. Anchor off Hayman's beach and explore.
6
Day 6 — Hayman to Hamilton Island20nm
The resort island with full marina facilities, excellent restaurants, and the famous Qualia resort. Provision and refuel.
7
Day 7 — Hamilton Island to Airlie Beach15nm
Return to the mainland. Return the boat.
Key anchorages
Cid Harbour — best protected anchorage in the group. Whitehaven south — anchor in 4–6m over sand. Butterfly Bay (Hook Island) — well-protected NE-facing bay; best snorkeling anchorage. Maureen's Cove (Hook Island) — quieter alternative.
Provisioning & marinas
Provision fully at Airlie Beach IGA before departure. Hamilton Island has a full marina (expensive) and a supermarket. Fuel at Abel Point or Hamilton Island. National Park fees apply in Whitsunday Islands National Park; purchase the 28-day vessel permit (AUD $24) before departure.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a sailing licence for the Whitsundays?
Queensland requires demonstrated sailing competence — most operators require an RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104, or equivalent. A passage endorsement specific to Queensland coastal waters may also be required — confirm with your charter company.
What is the best time to sail the Whitsundays?
June to August. SE trade winds 15–20 knots, warm days (22–27°C), low humidity. July and August are the busiest months but the most reliable sailing conditions.
Are there sharks in the Whitsundays?
Reef sharks (grey reef, whitetip) are common and completely harmless to snorkelers and swimmers. They're a highlight, not a hazard.
