Overview
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.
Day by day
Day 1 — Airlie Beach to Cid Harbour, Whitsunday Island (15nm): Easy first sail across to the main island. Cid Harbour is the most protected anchorage in the group. Day 2 — Cid Harbour to Whitehaven Beach (10nm): 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. Day 3 — Whitehaven to Hill Inlet (3nm): 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). Day 4 — Hill Inlet to Butterfly Bay, Hook Island (15nm): The best snorkeling in the Whitsundays. Anchor in Butterfly Bay and spend the afternoon on the reef — coral, turtles, and fish in extraordinary variety. Day 5 — Hook Island to Blue Pearl Bay, Hayman Island (15nm): Another outstanding snorkel site. Anchor off Hayman's beach and explore. Day 6 — Hayman to Hamilton Island (20nm): The resort island with full marina facilities, excellent restaurants, and the famous Qualia resort. Provision and refuel. Day 7 — Hamilton Island to Airlie Beach (15nm): 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.