The cruising grounds of the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef are renowned for being one of the best in Australia and visiting Superyachts are invited to enjoy all of the beauty it has to offer.
With simple navigation, sheltered pristine anchorages and incredible natural environments, whether you spend a weekend or a month cruising through the islands, there is plenty to enjoy.
Soak up the scenery whilst relaxing on deck, find a secluded cove, or rise early for an energetic bush walk – the possibilities when cruising the Whitsundays are endless. This aquatic playground offers a range of experiences, that truly showcase the best of the region.
The unspoilt nature of the Whitsunday Islands makes it possible to feel that you have stumbled across a place that is yet to be discovered. Because of the sheer multitude of islands and secluded locations, it feels as if you are in a quiet corner of the world, yet with all of the convenience of being close to Australian facilities and services.
Superyachts are welcomed to the Whitsunday Islands, with dedicated Superyacht anchorages scattered throughout some of the most secluded and picturesque locations in the region.
We are happy to share our local hidden gems with our valued superyacht crew and guests, so please do no hesitate to discuss your cruising plans with us or visit our suggested itineraries.
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Secluded Islands
Get off the beaten-track as you traverse through a maze of tropical islands, discover hidden coves and find yourself your own private beach. Or immerse yourself in the lush rainforest and hike the secluded trails through the islands to witness the best views.
From the iconic pure white silica sand of world famous Whitehaven Beach, to the true seclusion of uninhabited islands that scatter the coastline, the Whitsunday region is a haven of natural beauty waiting to be discovered.
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Cultural History
Today, people come to visit the Whitsundays to enjoy life on the water and experience the yachting world. Thousands of years ago, it was not so different – The Ngaro people, the traditional custodians of the region, identified strongly as a maritime community. Their territory stretched over the waterways, the islands, the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday coastline, and their rich history can be explored throughout the Whitsunday Islands.
Discover the ancient rock art at the Ngaro Cultural Site in Nara Inlet. During this short and scenic bush walk you can also enjoy the interactive audio display which explores the history of the islands and the traditional way of life of the Ngaro people.
Hill Inlet can be accessed by a track leading from Tongue Bay. Along the walk to the peak and the viewing platform there is interpretive information relating to the traditional custodians, their beliefs and stories.
The Ngaro Sea Trail can be followed via boat or kayak and allows visitors to traverse the routes the traditional custodians once travelled. For more information on the Ngaro Sea Trail – click here.
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Snorkeling and Diving
Diving or snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef is a once in a lifetime experience: Whether you are snorkeling the fringing reefs around the islands, or venturing to the outer Great Barrier Reef to dive some of the most incredible coral gardens and undiscovered locations.
Hire a personal Dive Guide to show you some of the best spots, or speak with Master Reef Guide, the world's leading ambassadors of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and learn more about this incredible eco-system.
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Island Resorts
Clock out and check in to some of the most unique and inviting tropical resorts.
Discover world class luxury at qualia resort on Hamilton Island, enjoy 18 holes at the PGS Championship Golf Course on Dent Island, treat yourself to a spa treatment and culinary delight at Hayman Island or an Yoga retreat at the exclusive Elysian Retreat. The Whitsundays boasts multiple island resorts, each unique and worth visiting in their own right.
In partnership with InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, vessel owners berthed at our marina can have exclusive access some great berthing & accommodation rates at Hayman Island.
The offers are listed below, for full details contact Hayman Island reservations directly on (07) 5501 9992 or email reservations@ihg.com and quote code IKOTHCSM
Coral Sea Marina Guests – Island Day Visit
- 25% off berthing fee
- $100 minimum spend per adult
Coral Sea Marina Guests – Overnight Stay (stay in resort only, not onboard)
- 25% off berthing fee
- 20% off best flexible accommodation rate
Experience this iconic island resort, dine in world-class restaurants, relax by the pool or book an exclusive waterfront villa for your overnight stay.
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Superyacht Anchorages
Accompanying the white sand beaches and jewel green islets is a tangible sense of discovery and escapism; without crowded anchorages, and with a very Australian sense of relaxation.
In August 2017, an additional 21 pristine anchorages in the Whitsundays have become accessible to vessels over 35 metres, providing even more reason to sample a Whitsunday cruising itinerary – browse through our Anchorages Map and discover the cruising options.
Whether you are looking to explore pristine beaches, dive into fringing coral gardens or hike through lush rainforest, the anchorages available for superyachts include some of the most secluded and truly stunning anchorages in Great Barrier Reef.
Our suggested itineraries offer great suggestions to start the planning process.
Please contact our Guest Services team should you require any further information on any location in the region
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Marine Wildlife
The Great Barrier Reef is home to a stunning array of animals, all the way from microscopic plankton to whales weighing more than 100 tonnes.
More than just fish and coral, the Reef supports:
- 1625 species of fish, including 1400 coral reef species
- More than 3000 species of mollusks (shells)
- 630 species of echinoderm (starfish, sea urchins)
- 14 breeding species of sea snakes
- 215 species of birds including 22 species of seabirds and 32 species of shorebirds
- Six of the world's seven species of marine turtle
- 30 species of whales and dolphins
- One of the world's most important dugong populations
- 133 species of sharks and rays... and much more
