Things To Do in The Whitsundays

Snorkelling

The Whitsundays is well renowned for its excellent snorkelling both on the outer Great Barrier Reef and on the fringing coral reefs scattered throughout the islands. Snorkelling is done in beautiful, crystal clear, warm tropical waters ranging from 23°C to 27°C in temperature.

All Anchors Away Bareboat Charters clientele are able to hire snorkelling gear and wet suits/lycra suits at a discounted rate at the Abel Point Marina. Wet suits/lycra suits are recommended for extended periods in the water as they are useful with buoyancy and also protect you from sunburn and coral scratches.

The onboard copy of “100 Magic Miles” lists the snorkelling sites. Some of the best snorkelling locations are Butterfly Bay, Border Island and Manta Ray Bay.

Scuba Diving

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park has a reputation for some of the greatest diving anywhere in the world.

The top dive sites are within the environs of the northern anchorages on Boarder Island, Hayman Island, Hook Island and Langford Island.

Scuba gear can be hired at the Marina (if you have accreditation) at a discounted rate for Anchors Away Bareboat Charters clientele. The onboard copy of “100 Magic Miles” has a detailed list of the dive sites.

Jet Skiing/Water Skiing

If you wish to jet ski/water ski it's best to do this when you visit one of the many resorts that provide this facility, as the Great Barrier Marine Park does not permit jet skiing/water skiing within the Marine Park.

Bushwalking

There are many beautiful bushwalks just waiting to be explored by you. As you meander through the National Parks on the Whitsunday Islands, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and the aquatic blue water lapping at their shores.

Walking tracks will lead you into the heart of the forests, which enable you to marvel at the massive strangler figs, stands of red and white cedars and the exotic wild orchids hanging in clusters from ancient trees. Some islands also have ancient Aboriginal art for your viewing pleasure. Please consult the onboard copy of “100 Magic Miles” for details of bushwalks on the island you're visiting.

Swimming

There is nothing more exhilarating than anchoring up and swimming straight off the back of your own cruiser.

In spite of the warm water you'll experience in the Whitsundays all year around, most people would benefit from the added warmth, buoyancy and sunburn protection that you obtain from a wetsuit for extended periods in the water. Remember to always watch the boat to see that you're not getting too far away!

Trip to the Outer Great Barrier Reef

A trip to the outer reef provides an experience not to be missed. You can choose from numerous different options (a small sample of suggestions are listed under Places to Go, with more ideas on our Suggested Day Trips page).

Seeing the Great Barrier Reef from the air in a helicopter, seaplane or aeroplane is simply breathtaking, and provides unlimited photographic opportunities.

Snorkelling or scuba diving on the reef is a truly defining moment. For those who don’t wish to get their toes wet, there's underwater coral viewing subs for your pleasure.

Special arrangements can be made through Helireef to pick you up and drop you off at your cruiser.

It's essential if everyone is leaving the boat for the day that it's tied to a fixed mooring and not left at anchor. Please talk to our staff when you have your briefing, and they will advise you where you may moor.

• Please view a sample of the many different tours available by clicking here.
• You may also like to visit the reef by high-speed ferry that leaves from Hamilton Island called 'Fantasea'. Further details are available by clicking here.

For any enquiries, please feel free to contact us or telephone 1300 556 990 (International callers: 61 2 4658 0521).