Explore Whitsundays- Sailing Adventures

Explore Whitsundays- Sailing Adventures Here at Explore Whitsundays we’re proud to be the longest continuously-owned tour operator in the We started operations with 1 yacht in 1985.

Today Explore Whitsundays offers 10 different vessels that visit the Whitsunday Islands. From day tours up to 6 night tours, deluxe island stay packages to backpacker accommodation. All Tours visit Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island. The partners are: Southern Cross Sailing, Tornado Dive, Whitsunday Adventurer, Whitsunday Bullet, Prima and Australian Tallship cruises. Feel free to contact us di

rectly with any questions about the Whitsundays, the seasons, prices and standby specials! Welcome to Explore Whitsundays!

🎨  NEW TOUR RELEASED! Have you always wanted to learn en plein air painting? This is your chance to be guided in the mos...
06/02/2026

🎨 NEW TOUR RELEASED!

Have you always wanted to learn en plein air painting? This is your chance to be guided in the most beautiful destination... Whitsunday Islands 🏝️

5 days of en plein air painting, sailing 74 tropical islands, and creating your personal art journal guided by two accomplished artists.

Yet before you even board Solway Lass, you'll visit Cedar Gallery in the stunning Mackay Highlands—where you'll meet your artistic guides for the next 5 days.

Acclaimed artist & teacher Lyn Laver-Ahmat and gallery owner & artist Kerry McNeill will welcome you into their world of local art, rare Red Cedar craftsmanship, and paintings that capture the region's unique beauty.

This isn't just a gallery tour—it's your introduction to the artists who will mentor your creative journey and open your eyes to painting the Whitsundays like a local.

Then... you sail. 🌊

Paint the Whitsundays
July 22-26, 2026

Every guest receives their own art journal and all mixed media supplies. You'll take home a collection of artwork YOU created in paradise 🏝️

Limited spaces available for our exclusive 2026 departure.

Read the full blog here: https://explorewhitsundays.com/unique-charters/paint-the-whitsundays/ or Book now | 07 4967 7555

Cultivate your passion. Disconnect & create. 🎨⛵

🏝️ Best time ever with lovely people and amazing food!"I had the best time on that boat. I was there with my best friend...
04/02/2026

🏝️ Best time ever with lovely people and amazing food!

"I had the best time on that boat. I was there with my best friend, and we met so many lovely people. The snorkeling and sightseeing were absolutely amazing, we even saw dolphins, which made me incredibly happy. The cabins had everything I needed, and the air conditioning was definitely a big plus.

Anna cooked amazing food for everyone on board, which we really appreciated. We also had such a great time with the crew members. They were super friendly, happy to get to know you, and made sure the vibe on the boat was always great. I would absolutely recommend this tour, it was truly unforgettable."

Thank you Jara for your wonderful review on Tripadvisor 😀

🎉 Big news! Our 2026 Walk the Whitsundays dates are here!Sail the historic Solway Lass this winter for 5 days of adventu...
02/02/2026

🎉 Big news! Our 2026 Walk the Whitsundays dates are here!

Sail the historic Solway Lass this winter for 5 days of adventure:
⛰️ Exclusive walking tracks
🤿 Snorkelling pristine reefs
🏝️ Whitehaven Beach to yourselves
⛵ Authentic tall ship sailing

A Day in the Life: What Your Adventure Looks Like

☀️ Morning: Wake Up in Paradise
You make your way to the top deck where a continental breakfast awaits—fresh fruit, croissants, yogurt, and hot coffee as you watch the sun paint the islands gold.

🌴 Midday: Explore Where Others Can’t Go
This is where Walk the Whitsundays truly sets itself apart.Your expert walking guide will venture onto tracks that most visitors never see:

👟 The Whitsunday Cairn Walk – A challenging 5-hr trek that rewards you with jaw-dropping 360-degree views of all 74 Whitsunday Islands.

👟 Hill Inlet Lookout – That iconic Instagram shot of swirling turquoise and white sand patterns

👟 Ancient Nara Inlet Sea Caves – 🎉 Big news! Our 2026 Walk the Whitsundays dates are here!

👟 Whitehaven Beach via Solway Circuit – You’ll arrive at one of the world’s most beautiful beaches before the day-trippers. For precious hours, that pure silica sand is yours to enjoy.

👟 Spion Kop, South Molle Island – Your final walk takes you past an ancient Ngaro stone quarry before revealing stunning vistas of the Molle Island group.

Afternoon: Dive Into Crystal Waters
Return to Solway Lass for a hearty, freshly prepared lunch. Then snorkel or paddle board the vibrant coral reefs.

Evening: Sunset, Stories, and Stars
Find yourself anchored in a secluded bay, sunset platter in hand as dinner is served buffet-style on deck—BBQ in true Aussie fashion, followed by dessert under the stars.

2 Departures:
📅 June 26–30
📅 Sept 22–26

Already selling out! ⚠️

With only 24 guests per tour. Secure your spot now.

“It passed all my expectations. It was unbelievable. The crew were amazing. I hadn’t sailed before but found it thrilling in the high winds. LOVED IT. Overall it was an amazing experience and am hoping to book again next September.”
— Lynda, Brisbane

👉 Read the full blog in the comments below & book your adventure.

23/10/2025
📆 'Walk The Whitsundays' 2026 early-release!Picture this… it’s 2026. The warm sun on your shoulders, the ocean sparkling...
04/09/2025

📆 'Walk The Whitsundays' 2026 early-release!

Picture this… it’s 2026. The warm sun on your shoulders, the ocean sparkling around you, and the gentle sway of Solway Lass carrying you across the turquoise waters of the Whitsundays ⛵

We’re beyond excited to announce that our most popular tour—‘Walk the Whitsundays’—is now open for 2026! 🎉 (and yes, it sells out every year).

This isn’t just a holiday—it’s a journey for the soul. A chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience one of Australia’s most stunning destinations in a truly unique way.

📆 2026 Departures
✔ 26th – 30th June 2026
✔ 22nd – 26th Sept 2026 (only 8 places left!)

👉 Can’t make these dates?
Let us know—we may open another trip.

🎥 Watch the video to see the magic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhwNQcT0Gxs

📖 Download the brochure to get all the details: https://explorewhitsundays.com/find-out-about-our-walks/

✨ Special Offer: Secure your spot with just a $200 deposit before 30th Sept to lock in 2025 prices.

(Rates increase from 1st Oct 2025.)

📞 Ready to reserve your place?

Call our friendly team on 07 4967 7555 (8am–3pm QLD) to chat, ask questions, or reserve your place while you plan your travel.

💫 2026 is calling… will you answer?

Walk the Whitsundays offers our guests the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the exquisite natural habitats of the Whitsunday Islands National Park...

🎶✨ Airlie Beach Music Festival is back this November!Get ready for three days of incredible live music with a star-studd...
28/08/2025

🎶✨ Airlie Beach Music Festival is back this November!

Get ready for three days of incredible live music with a star-studded line-up including:
🎤 Pete Murray
🎤 Jessica Mauboy
🎤 The Screaming Jets
🎤 Diesel
🎤 The Black Sorrows
🎤 Choirboys
… and so many more!

While you’re soaking up the festival vibes, why not make the most of your time in Airlie Beach? 🌴

⛵ When the festival has wrapped up, or before it begins step aboard our Waltzing Matilda sunset cruise. Sail through the serene Pioneer Bay, enjoy a drink and nibbles, and watch the Whitsundays turn gold, pink, and purple as the sun sinks into the horizon. 🌅

View the details of our Waltzing Matilda Sunset Cruise in the comment below 👇

25/08/2025

There’s something truly special about the Whitsundays in September…
🌞 Perfect 25°C days + cool, breezy nights
🌊 Crystal-clear waters + “Instagram blue” skies
⛵ Gentle winds = smooth, unforgettable sailing
🐋 The final month of whale season

Whether it’s snorkelling vibrant reefs, spotting humpbacks with their calves, or soaking in the beauty of Whitehaven Beach—September is the month where it all comes together.

With 5 stunning yachts and 2 spacious catamarans, Explore Whitsundays has the perfect trip for every adventurer—whether you’re after a private escape or a social sailing experience.

📍 Whitehaven Beach
📍 Hill Inlet
📍 Hidden coves & secluded bays

Don’t just dream it. Sail it. 🌴✨
Explore our overnight sailing trips via the link in the comments below 👇

Or call us on 07 4967 7555 to discuss your needs.

✨ Walk the Whitsundays 2026 is almost here! ✨Our most popular winter tour is being released next week—and it sells out e...
21/08/2025

✨ Walk the Whitsundays 2026 is almost here! ✨

Our most popular winter tour is being released next week—and it sells out every single year.

Make 2026 the year you finally tick this bucket-list experience: walking breathtaking trails, discovering hidden vistas, and seeing the Whitsunday Islands in a way few ever do.

Designed with travellers 40+ in mind and exclusive to Explore Whitsundays, this is your chance to secure a truly unforgettable adventure.

🌴 Limited spots. Lifetime memories. Will you be joining us?

🌊 The Whitsundays are calling—and the conditions couldn’t be better for your next Dive trip! 🤿Over the next few months, ...
18/08/2025

🌊 The Whitsundays are calling—and the conditions couldn’t be better for your next Dive trip! 🤿

Over the next few months, the Great Barrier Reef comes alive with some of the clearest waters and calmest seas of the year, making it the perfect time to dive.

Join us aboard the legendary SV Summer Jo for a six-day, five-night odyssey to the outer reaches of the reef. With only 18–24 passengers per trip, you’ll enjoy an intimate adventure that few will ever experience.

✨ Highlights include:
🐠 Diving pristine coral reefs, teeming with marine life
🌌 Magical night dives under a sky full of stars
⚓ A modern yacht, expert crew & personalised service

📅 Spots are strictly limited.

Don’t miss your chance to dive the Whitsunday Islands: https://explorewhitsundays.com/dive-the-whitsundays/

Discover the Very Best of the Whitsundays Aboard the Majestic Solway Lass!Set sail on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure thr...
21/12/2024

Discover the Very Best of the Whitsundays Aboard the Majestic Solway Lass!
Set sail on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through the breathtaking Whitsunday Islands aboard Solway Lass, a 144-year-old tall ship steeped in history and charm.

This 5-day, 4-night cruise promises an unforgettable journey to the most iconic destinations in this tropical paradise.

Why Choose Solway Lass?
🚢 Historic Elegance
Experience the romance of sailing aboard one of the Whitsundays’ most iconic tall ships. With her billowing sails and timeless charm, Solway Lass offers the perfect blend of adventure and luxury.

🌴 Unrivalled Destinations

⛱️ Whitehaven Beach – Sink your toes into the purest silica sands on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

🏝️ Hill Inlet – Marvel at the swirling turquoise waters and sands from a breathtaking lookout.

🪸 Crystal Clear Waters – Snorkel vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

🌳 National Park Walks – Explore lush rainforest trails and panoramic island views.

🌊 Authentic Whitsundays Experience
With a small group of like-minded travellers, you’ll enjoy personalised service, freshly prepared meals, and the freedom to snorkel, explore, and relax.

Each day is packed with exciting activities or tranquil moments to soak in the beauty of this tropical paradise.

Book Your Whitsundays Adventure Today!
Don’t just visit the Whitsundays – experience them in true sailing style aboard Solway Lass. This cruise fills quickly, so secure your spot now for the ultimate tropical getaway!

📅 Available Dates: 25th – 29th June 2025 and 17th – 21st August 2025. Limited spaces available – book early!

👉 Download our Digital Brochure for more information: https://explorewhitsundays.com/request-brochure-the-cruise/

🌊 Dreaming of your next adventure? 🌴 The Whitsunday Islands are calling!Discover the Top 5 Must-See Destinations for an ...
16/12/2024

🌊 Dreaming of your next adventure? 🌴 The Whitsunday Islands are calling!
Discover the Top 5 Must-See Destinations for an unforgettable holiday. Sail through turquoise waters, walk on the pristine sands of Whitehaven Beach, and snorkel the fringing coral reefs, where stunning tropical fish and marine life welcome you into their world. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a graceful sea turtle 🐢

Check out our guide 👉 Explore Whitsundays Blog > https://explorewhitsundays.com/blog/top-5-whitsunday-must-sees-for-your-next-destination-holiday/

🚤 Ready to set sail? Start planning your dream getaway today by contacting our Reservations team on 07 4967 7555

Sailing the Whitsunday Islands is a dream for many, and there are numerous stunning places to explore in this beautiful region. Join us on an unforgettable adventure on Siska where you’ll discover the top 5 must-see destinations when sailing the Whitsunday Islands. Setting Sail: The…

🌴 Sail, Walk, and Explore: The Whitsundays Like Never Before! Next Winter escape the cold and enjoy the clear skies ☀️ a...
25/11/2024

🌴 Sail, Walk, and Explore: The Whitsundays Like Never Before!
Next Winter escape the cold and enjoy the clear skies ☀️ and warm waters as you embark on our Walk the Whitsundays Tour.

📌 Tour Highlights:

- Discover stunning walking tracks, including the iconic Ngaro Sea Trail.
- Enjoy a knowledgeable guide to enhance your walking experience.
- Visit must-see destinations like Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet Lookout, and the Great Barrier Reef's vibrant coral formations.
- Snorkel and swim the warm waters, relax on deck or enjoy socialising at the bar. Our historic tallship Solway Lass is your home away from home ⛵️

🌅 Duration: 5 days & 4 nights
👟 Ages: 30+
⛵ Capacity: 24 guests (small and intimate group!)
🌟 Ideal for: Those who crave unique walking and sailing adventures
🍹 Welcome platter & complimentary drinks to start your journey

📅 Plan Ahead:
- Arrive at Airlie Beach by 3 PM to set sail into the sunset.

Availability is limited for 2025 – these tours only run during the winter months when conditions are perfect.

📖 Download our Winter 2025 Digital Brochure and start dreaming of your next adventure: https://explorewhitsundays.com/find-out-about-our-walks/

👉 Book now for a once-in-a-lifetime journey exclusive to Explore Whitsundays! 🌞

Address

Shingley Drive
Airlie Beach, QLD
4802

Opening Hours

Monday 7am - 5pm
Tuesday 7am - 6pm
Wednesday 7am - 6pm
Thursday 7am - 6pm
Friday 7am - 6pm
Saturday 7am - 6pm
Sunday 7am - 6pm

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