The Whitsunday
group of islands are acclaimed as the best cruising ground in
Australia if not the world. You have access to over 90 National
Park Islands plus a choice of 9 different resorts ranging from
Wilderness to 5 Star Luxury. There is no better way to see it
all than to cruise your own sailing boat at your leisure.
All the major central islands lie within 2 to 15 nautical miles of the mainland - from 1 to 3 hours sailing from Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island. They are all within sight of each other, separated by distances from about 0.5 to 5 Nautical Miles. The lesser frequented southern islands extend some thirty miles off shore and are up to 15 miles apart. Delightful secluded mainland bays are within 2 hours cruising north of Airlie Beach. Navigating about is therefore extremely easy, usually only by visual means, guided by the supplied charts and reference book - 100 Magic Miles. Rarely is it necessary to plot and steer a compass course.
All islands are fringed by Coral reefs and beaches. Most have plentiful day and overnight anchorages. Camping is permitted on a number of them. Moorings and marina facilities are available at 7 of the resort islands.
The area is
blessed with a magical tropical climate. Average annual daytime
temperature range from 23ºC to 31º+ C. Night time temps are around
17ºC. Sea temperatures are around 22ºC in Winter and at 27ºC+ in summer. You can expect sailing breezes
virtually every day of the year. The south
east trades are stronger from April to August. During the summer months the breezes are lighter, predominantly
from the east to north. Statistically 70% to 85% of the annual
breezes are up to 15 knots strength perfect conditions for your
bareboat charter holiday onboard one of our modern yachts or sailing
catamarans. A short wet season occurs from January to March.
In a nutshell,
the Whitsundays Queensland offer superb sailing holiday activities...splendid
cruising, fishing, oystering, crabbing, swimming, snorkelling
and diving the island coral reefs, fossicking, turtles, dolphins,
whales and other wildlife experiences...and unique attractions
and surroundings...peace, tranquility, solitude, unspoilt wilderness
anchorages, magnificent seascapes, clear starry moonlit nights,
spectacular sunsets and rises, proudly clean unpolluted waterways,
beaches and foreshores along with the purest of air. Visiting
and 'living it up' at a resort or two completes the picture.
If you are
looking for somewhere to stay before or after your sailing holiday,
take a look at the great rates offered by