The cruising grounds of the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef rank among the best in Australia. Visiting superyachts can enjoy every aspect of their beauty, from the sheltered anchorages to stunning natural landscapes.
Navigation is simple, and pristine anchorages provide safe havens throughout the islands. Whether you cruise for a weekend or stay for a month, the region offers endless opportunities. Relax on deck and soak up the scenery. Discover a secluded cove away from the crowds. Alternatively, rise early and take on an energetic bush walk. Every day brings new ways to enjoy this aquatic playground. Furthermore, the diverse range of experiences truly showcase the best of the region.
The unspoilt nature of the Whitsundays makes each visit feel like a true discovery. With so many islands and hidden locations, you can find quiet corners of the world that feel remote—yet remain close to Australian facilities and services.
Moreover, the dedicated superyacht anchorages sit in some of the most secluded and picturesque spots in the region. These make it easy for captains and crew to plan memorable cruising itineraries.
At Coral Sea Marina, we take pride in sharing our local knowledge. We are always happy to guide superyacht captains, crew, and guests toward hidden gems. Discuss your cruising plans with us or explore our suggested itineraries to unlock the best of the Whitsundays.
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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. Alternatively, 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 a 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 can have exclusive access some great berthing & accommodation rates at Hayman Island. Discover more information and how to book HERE. 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.
With 27 pristine anchorages in the Whitsundays available for vessels over 35 metres, there is a diverse range of cruising itineraries available – browse through our Anchorages Map and discover the cruising options. Our suggested itineraries also offer great suggestions to start the planning process.
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.
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
