Tour Highlights
- Our shared charter yacht sailing and snorkelling tours are popular for couples wanting a luxury Whitsunday sailing holiday without the crowds and party boats. Book your own private ensuite double cabin with air-conditioning.
- Our Airlie Beach book by the cabin shared charter yachts provide and intimate, small group (8 guests) couples only relaxed sailing experience in the stunning Whitsundays on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia
- The yachts boat crew will prepare delicious meals, freshly prepared using local produce with all dietary requirements catered for on request. BYO alcohol and mixer drinks.
- Snorkel or Stand Up Paddle Board in the warm, protected waters of the Whitsundays Islands. Explore pristine fringing reefs and spot a multitude of tropical marine life including turtles, colourful fish, dolphins and whales (during whale season)
- Our yacht is a luxury 13 metre 440 Lagoon catamaran that is mastered by a skipper and a hostess and we have no specific itineary we go where the winds blow and the marine life play in style.
Description & Tour Inclusions
Included In Price
- 4 Double Private Ensuite Cabins: each has a private bathroom with Toilet, Handbasin and Shower
- Fully air -conditioned
- USB charging points
- 240volt power
- Cabin Locker
- Services of the skipper and crew, all meals and snacks, tap water, tea and coffee, snorkelling equipment and basic tuition, stinger suits, bed linen, National/Marine Park fees, marina levies
- Bath and beach towels, use of stand-up paddleboard, Ice machine, Expresso Coffee machine with freshly ground beans, Sodastream
- Small personalised (min 6, max 8 guests) Couples Only
Whitsundays sailing holidays for couples only on a shared charter sailing trip around the Whitsunday Islands. With only 8 guests in total its the perfect option for a honeymoon or romantic weekend away.
What to Expect
Discover an intimate sailing escape in the Whitsundays, tailored exclusively for couples only. Departing from Airlie Beach in the Whitsundays our shared charter sailing tour offers a serene journey aboard a luxury catamaran, specifically designed for eight guests. Each couple enjoys their own private ensuite cabin, ensuring a personal and secluded experience. Explore the splendour of the Whitsunday Islands, known for their stunning coral reefs and idyllic beaches, away from the bustling tourist tracks. Choose from a 2 day & 2 night cruise or a 3 day 3 night sailing holiday.
Features and Highlights
Luxury Catamaran Experience:
- Our couples sail the azure waters of the Great Barrier Reef aboard a 43-foot Pajot “Belize” catamaran equipped with all the amenities for a lavish escape. Each of the four double ensuite cabins is air-conditioned and features USB charging points and 240-volt power.
Tailored Itinerary:
- With a flexible schedule, explore iconic destinations such as Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet at your leisure. The itinerary is adjusted to suit guest preferences and weather conditions, ensuring the best possible experience.
Exclusive Culinary Offerings:
- Enjoy gourmet meals prepared onboard by our skilled chef. Utilizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients, we cater to all dietary needs to deliver a delicious, communal dining experience throughout your journey.
Snorkelling and Paddleboarding:
- Immerse yourself in the underwater beauty of the Whitsundays. The tour includes opportunities for snorkelling and stand-up paddleboarding, allowing close encounters with vibrant marine life in protected bays and tranquil coves.
Intimate Couples Setting:
- Designed for couples, this overnight sailing tour maintains a romantic atmosphere with no more than eight guests at a time, perfect for those seeking a private and exclusive sailing experience.
Additional Amenities:
- Our catamaran is not only a means of travel but a luxurious retreat. Enjoy the open-plan living area, expansive decks for sunbathing, and the unique addition of an onboard jacuzzi for ultimate relaxation under the stars.
This couples-only Great Barrier Reef tour is an exceptional choice for those desiring a quiet getaway with the opportunity to engage in unique activities and enjoy the natural beauty of the Whitsundays in comfort and style. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply escaping the everyday, our specially curated couples sailing holidays promise unforgettable memories.
See all the best overnight sailing tours in the Whitsundays.
Itinerary
Couples Only Sailing Tour Whitsunday Islands
Book your double cabin for yourself and your partner to join our intimate shared charter, 2 night Great Barrier Reef tour sailing around the azure waters of the 74 Whitsunday Islands. Our boat is a custom built 13 metre catamaran that offers expansive deck space and an open plan interior.
We specialise in providing discerning couples with a high quality sailing tour with gourmet meals and showcasing private secluded locations for our guests to explore the Great Barrier Reef from above and below the water’s surface.
Our yacht had a full upgrade in 2014 and we re-fitted the guests double cabins with new beds and high quality linens and throw cushions to provide a comfortable environment. The open plan saloon is the gathering place for beautifully prepared nourishing meals, and a place to get to know fellow travellers and make new acquaintances.
We do not accept party people on our shared charter sailing tours as our boats provide a high quality Great Barrier Reef holiday experience
Your Sail Boat
She is a 43 foot catamaran which is the perfect stable sailing vessel for the waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Four private double ensuite cabins to accommodate eight guests only.
Each cabins includes:
- Air-Conditioned
- USB charging points
- 240volt power
- Cabin Locker
- An opening hatch.
- Each private bathroom with Toilet, Handbasin and Shower
Provided with fresh new linen, beach and bath towels
Refurbished in 2014 the guests cabins were fitted out with new comfortable beds and matching linen, complimentary throw cushions and new covers. The saloon and dining area consist of a polished wood table bordered by newly cushioned lounges, all superbly lit by the abundance of glass surrounds.
And for the skipper and boat crew they were very pleased with the new cock pit and hard top. She has the latest in marine navigational gear and electronic aids. The twin forward nets, a favourite place with our guests, provide more than ample deck area to complete a package of style and comfort.
Ask your Great Barrier Reef Tour Specialist about our Private Charter Boat rates.
Whitsunday Getaway 2-Day, 2-Night Sail - Sample Itinerary
Day One
Arrive at Airlie Beach Coral Sea Marina South – Meeting Point ‘C’ 2:30 pm to begin your Whitsunday Getaway experience. Your skipper and hostess will be waiting to greet you and welcome you aboard your floating home for the next few days. After a quick vessel safety briefing, we begin sailing effortlessly, passing through surreal island scenery. There is endless beauty to behold while underway and plenty to learn from your knowledgeable crew while you search for the perfect protected bay to drop anchor for the night. Guests are welcomed and encouraged to try their hand at sailing, and whether you are a beginner or a seasoned sailor, our experienced crew are always happy to share their love of sailing and the sea with others. You may also opt to relax with a refreshing drink instead, lapping up the luxury of the boat while the crew take over. Choose to do as little or as much as you like on this voyage, the world is your oyster!
As you enjoy pre-dinner drinks and get to know your fellow travellers, your hostess will be preparing your first gourmet meal. After dinner, continue relaxing with the company of your new friends, taking in the tranquillity surrounding you. When you’re feeling drowsy, take a last glance across the shimmering waters and turn in for the night in your comfy cabin, where you’ll be rocked to sleep by the gentle ocean swell.
Day Two
Don’t sleep in – there’s too much to do! The crew are up early to make you a ‘cuppa’ and prepare your fabulous continental breakfast. After a pleasant and invigorating sail, it’s time to visit the euphoric Whitehaven Beach, with its remarkably pure silica sand. Experience first hand why this beach is often rated the most beautiful in the world! After enjoying a few hours on the beach, your hostess will take you on an informative guided bush walk up to the picture-perfect postcard that is Hill Inlet lookout. This view is not to be missed as it is a once in a lifetime opportunity to view the stunning and intriguing swirling sands that make Whitehaven’s Hill Inlet world-famous!
After a superb buffet lunch back onboard Getaway, we make our way up to the northern Whitsunday Islands to snorkel a vibrant underwater world filled with colour, life and beauty. When the evening sets in, so do the sails as we make our way to another spectacular anchorage to spend the night, reflecting on the day’s excursion.
Day Three
Indulge in your final breakfast onboard Getaway and seize the opportunity for one last snorkel, or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding. As we sail back towards Airlie Beach, soak up the raw beauty of our alluring island archipelago while relaxing on the spacious deck and forward outdoor lounge.
Upon returning to the mainland, we guarantee you will remember this once in a lifetime trip with a smile and fond memories of your adventures with us in the Whitsunday Islands. There we will say farewell, wishing you all the best in your future travels, knowing you’ll treasure the wealth of memories made in the Whitsundays for decades to come! Returning to Coral Sea Marina South
*Please note, this itinerary is a sample only and is subject to changes with no given notice.
Everyone simply loves cruising the Whitsundays
Talk to our Great Barrier Reef Tour Specialists about our Private Charter Boats for you next holiday.
Whitsunday Getaway 3-Day, 3-Night Sail
Day 1
Meet your crew at Coral Sea Marina South 30 minutes before departure for a headcount. Depart the marina at 3 pm and sail to overnight anchorage and sunset sail.
Day 2
After Breakfast, sail to Tongue Bay for a guided bush walk to Hill Inlet Lookout, a spectacular lookout overlooking Whitehaven Beach. Back on board to enjoy lunch before heading around to Whitehaven Beach. Enjoy an hour on the beach before setting sail and heading north along the eastern side of Hook Island. Overnight anchor in one of the many bays on Hook Island.
Day 3
After Breakfast, either use the stand-up paddleboards or snorkel over fringing coral reefs. After lunch, make your way to another beautiful bay for a chance to snorkel, swim, sunbathe, or take a stroll along the beach. Mid-afternoon set sail for an overnight stop at Hayman Island or Langford Island. Enjoy a drink and pre-dinner snacks while you watch the sunset over the water.
Day 4
After Breakfast, enjoy a swim or snorkel then it is time for morning tea/brunch. Set sails and make way back to Airlie Beach Coral Sea Marina, arriving at 1 pm.
Sample Menu
All meals are made onboard with skill and diligence to make the dining experience alone a pleasing element of your trip aboard Whitsunday Getaway. Using fresh locally sourced and seasonal produce to bring you a mixture of hearty home-cooked style meals and refined cuisine.
Day 1
Welcome Snacks: Anzac biscuits and fresh fruit with cordial
Sunset Snack: Cheese and meat platter with a variety of dips, carrots, celery and crackers
Dinner: Reef fish in coconut and lime marinade, stir-fried broccoli, marble potato mash, crunchy noodle salad and breadstick
Dessert: Cheesecake with whipped cream
Day 2
Breakfast: Tropical fruit salad with croissants, cereals, yoghurt, orange juice, tea and coffee
Lunch: Meat platter with lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, tuna salad served with bread rolls
Afternoon Tea: Lamingtons with tea and coffee or cordial
Sunset Snack: Whitsunday Nachos with sour crème and guacamole
Dinner: Marinated Chicken with pesto pasta salad, pear and rocket salad and breadsticks
Dessert: Chocolate cake with whipped cream
Day 3
Breakfast: Pancakes with fresh fruit, cereals, yoghurt, orange juice, tea and coffee
Lunch: BBQ chicken with potato salad, garden salad and wraps
Afternoon Tea: TimTams with tea and coffee or cordial
Sunset Snack: Spinach and ricotta triangles with sweet chilli sauce
Dinner: BBQ steaks and sausages with caramelized onions, mushrooms, carrots, Greek salad and dinner rolls
Dessert: Meringue with whipped cream, berries, kiwi fruit topped with chocolate sauce
Day 4
Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with English muffins, cereals, yoghurt, orange juice, tea and coffee
Return Snacks: Antipasto platter with brie, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, dips and crackers
Fresh fruit and cookies are available for passengers all day. The menu is designed based on fresh seasonal ingredients and is subject to change. Alcohol is BYO, and glass bottles and red wine are permitted onboard exclusively.
Whitsunday Sailing Holiday Inclusions
STANDARD INCLUSIONS
Services of the skipper and crew, all meals and snacks, chilled charcoaled filtered water and ice available free of charge, tea and coffee, snorkelling equipment and basic tuition, stinger suits, and bed linen.
EXTRA INCLUSIONS
Bath and beach towels, use of stand-up paddleboard, Ice machine, Expresso Coffee machine with freshly ground beans, Sodastream.
OPTIONAL INCLUSIONS
Onboard WIFI – Starlink satellite internet can be purchased for $10 Per Cabin for the duration of the cruise (Payable on Check-in).
Extra Information
Whitsunday Getaway is an adult-only vessel. Whitsunday Getaway has a BYO policy for all soft and alcoholic beverages and bottled water. Please pack in a soft-sided bag. (No hard/suitcases).
What to bring: clothes, toiletries, hat, swimwear, sunscreen, jacket/sweater, camera, sunglasses, adequate walking shoes for island walks, and cash for soft drink purchases.
View all your overnight Whitsundays sailing holiday options.
Learn more about the Places to See on the Great Barrier Reef.
Tour Details
Tour Languages Offered
English
EnglishDeparts From
Airlie Beach
Departure Time
- Departs 3.00pm
- Returns 1:00pm
Departure Instructions
- After completing a booking, the guest(s) will receive a confirmation email with their boarding pass
- Closer to their tour departure, the guest(s) will receive an email with instructions on how to complete their waiver. We require each guest to fill this out no later than 48 hours prior to the tour departure time.
- No transfers included. The crew will meet the guests 30 minutes before departure at Coral Sea Marina (South End) at Meeting Point C.
Destinations
- Great Barrier Reef
- Whitsunday Islands
- Private Charters - Hamilton Island
- Private Charters - Hayman Island
- Whitehaven Beach
- Shute Harbour
Months of Operation
January - December
Days of Operation
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Duration
2 Days & 2 Nights – duration 46 hours departs 3 pm on Monday and Wednesday, returns Wednesday and Friday at 1 pm.
3 Days & 3 Nights – duration 70 hours departs 3 pm on Fridays, returns Monday at 1 pm.
Available for Purchase / Hire
- Prescription masks
- Soft drinks
- Onboard WIFI – Starlink satellite internet can be purchased for $10 Per Cabin for the duration of the cruise (Payable on Check-in).
Fitness Level Required
Medium
Restrictions
- All passengers must be able to clearly understand safety directions and instructions given in English by the crew and be able to complete the required safety forms in English
- All passengers wishing to participate in snorkelling must acknowledge that they are able to swim in deep water without a flotation device & unassisted
- All passengers must be able to climb a 1.5 meter high ladder unassisted
Additional Information
- All departures and itineraries are subject to weather.
- Vessel operators reserve the right to vary itineraries for safety and passenger comfort.
- Please be aware operators may pass on credit card merchant fees
- Please note it is the passengers responsibility to advise at time of booking of any medical conditions including food allergies they may suffer from
- Passengers with any dietary requirements will need to pay a surcharge (payable on check in). This does not include vegetarians or passengers with a nut allergy.
- Meals onboard: Meals are included in the fare and are prepared freshly on board; we source quality Australian Produce. Special diets can be catered, though may incur an additional cost and should be advised at the time of booking.
- 2 Night: Breakfast x 2, morning/afternoon tea x 2, lunch x 1, predinner snacks x 2, 2 course dinner x 2.
- 3 Night: Breakfast x 3, morning/afternoon tea x 3, lunch x 2, predinner snacks x 3, 2 course dinner x 3
- Alcohol Policy: Whitsunday Getaway is a BYO vessel, Red and White wine in glass bottles is ok. Beer/cider/UDL’s in cans
- Luggage Policy: There are no luggage storing facilities on any of our vessels nor at the marina. Guests are asked to prearrange luggage storage for the duration of their trip. Guests are kindly asked to pack lightly for their trip, in a soft-sided bag
Eco Certifications
What to Bring
- Any special needs medicine
- Snacks and alcohol (no glass bottles - with the exception of wine and champagne)
- Money for onboard purchases
- Bring clothes, toiletries, hat, swimwear, sunscreen, jacket/sweater, camera, sunglasses, runners or sandals for island walks.
Child Policy
No guests under 18 years of age - Adults only Sailing
Cancellation Policy
All cancellations must be in writing.
We understand things may change, so we have made cancellations very easy.
In every instance we always recommend you purchase travel insurance for life’s last-minute hiccups.
Please see our terms and conditions for details prior to booking.
Operators policy:
Operators policy:
Terms, Conditions and Travel Policies
We highly recommends that guests read the following policy:
All future decisions regarding your booking will be guided by the Terms and Conditions outlined in this policy.
Cancellation Policy for Individual Travellers.
We RECOMMEND ALL GUESTS have Travel Insurance which covers cancellation for a variety of reasons, including Pre-trip COVID cancellation cover. Cancellation due to contracting COVID or as a close contact will now no longer be considered a valid reason to cancel or postpone a trip.
Extended / Overnight Tour Cancellations
If you or your guests cancel:
Between 30 and 60 days of departure, you will forfeit 25% of the ticket price.
Between 14 to 30 days before departure, you will forfeit 50% of the ticket price.
Within 14 days of departure, you will forfeit the full trip fee.
Travel Insurance
The Operator strongly recommends that guests have travel insurance to:
Cover valuable items (e.g. Cameras, Luggage)
Protect against unforeseen flight or coach cancellations, road closures or late arrival into Airlie Beach for any reason which subsequently leads to missing the scheduled departure time,
Cover medical conditions that may occur during carriage, and the associated extra costs of accessing medical care around the islands, including returning to port or emergency air evacuation.
Cover against an emergency where you need to return to port urgently, e.g. a family member becomes very ill,
Cover against full ticket refunds, including the agent commissions component
Please ensure that the guests understand the details of the cover included for the Travel Insurance to ensure that it covers the above for their peace of mind.
Liability
Guests should note that sailing, snorkelling and aquatic activities can be dangerous, and while our Crew will make every effort to ensure guest safety, Explore Whitsundays and the Operator cannot be accountable for the actions of guests that are beyond the Crew’s control. Guests should be aware that marine stingers and other marine life live in the tropical waters of the Whitsunday Islands.
Guests will be required to complete a pre-departure questionnaire and sign a travel agreement during the check-in process. The Operators have the applicable Shipowners insurance to cover public liability for our guests and staff. A copy of the certificate will be forwarded if required.
Travel Agent Fees
We recommend that guests who book through an Agent read the agent’s terms and conditions before booking. The Operator will not be responsible for the refund terms and conditions of your travel agent if for whatsoever the trip is cancelled.
Itineraries and Weather
The Operator reserves the right to alter the tour or the itinerary of any of its tours and organise alternative carriers to those advertised if necessary. The Operator will always consider the safety of guests and staff, and as a result, some locations may not be visited if the wind, visibility or wave/tidal conditions are not suitable or parts of the park have been closed by the managing authority. If it is raining, our tours still operate, as the guests can still experience the Whitsundays, including swimming and bushwalking. If the winds are light, the tours will still run; however, it will be necessary to use the motors on the boats to travel between locations.
We do not provide any guarantee that the winds will be consistent and from a suitable direction to make sailing possible. The Whitsundays is deemed partially smooth waters, and tours will only be cancelled if the Regional Harbour Master closes the area due to gale warnings or the Operator deems it unsafe to travel. If tour cancellations are necessary and ticket balance payment or pro-rate refunds are approved, the amount being paid for the ticket to the Operator will be refunded. Explore Whitsundays does not cover additional costs over or above the ticket amount. We do not guarantee a refund of the travel agent commission component or any other costs associated with the guest’s travel arrangements.
Minimum Guest Numbers
All vessels require a minimum number of guests to operate. The Operator reserves the right to cancel a scheduled trip if the minimum number of guests is not met. Where possible, the Explore Whitsundays will offer an alternative TOUR of a similar or higher standard.
Dietary Surcharges
Please be advised that guests on overnight vessels who request alternative dietary requirements (Such as vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, gluten-free and dairy/lactose-free) will incur a $15 surcharge payable on check-in.
Please note that we are unable to accommodate Halal and Kosher requirements.
The majority of vessels represented by Explore Whitsundays are owner-operated, with a small team provisioning for the vessels. Airlie Beach is a remote location and does not have the same access to alternative foods as metropolitan areas.
We believe food is very important for our guests’ experience and re-fuelling for a day of activities.
Luggage
Guests are asked to limit luggage as storage on yachts is minimal. Guests should pack in soft-sided bags, NO hard case trolley bags, please. Please note that there is NO luggage storage available at the Marina. There are options available on the Main Street of Airlie Beach.
Guest Behaviour
The Operator has the right to refuse to board guests who arrive intoxicated or who appear to be under the influence of illegal substances. While on tour, guests must abide by instructions from the Crew. Guests must also abide by the Law, and public nuisance, harassment, abusing our staff or anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated. Guests who refuse to follow instructions and jeopardise the safety and security of the Crew, guests, themselves or the vessel may be restrained and removed from the tour. All associated costs of removal will be borne by the guest, and no refund of ticket monies will be provided.
English Language Comprehension
We ask that all guests (or at least one member of your party) have a good understanding of English. This is especially critical when guests are participating in water sports, swimming and snorkelling.
If customers cannot understand English, it is important that a companion traveller speaks English and can translate for the non-English speaking guest.
We do have snorkelling summaries in other languages, which are provided for guests to read. If guests have any concerns at all, please get in touch with us before departing.
Guest Bed or Cabin Allocation
We will always try our best to accommodate our guest’s cabin requests.
Due to limited resources, this cannot be guaranteed. Alternatives will be offered, and if accepted, the booking will be completed.
Check-Out Times
The Operator will ask guests to vacate their accommodation and pack up their luggage on the final day to allow commencement of accommodation servicing.
Checking in for your tour
Guests on overnight tours must check-in before boarding
Guests are required to check in via an online waiver which is to be completed no later than 72 hours before travel. A confirmation email will be sent to the confirmed traveller.
From
au$1,145.00
Prices are AUD, per adult and include all levies fees and taxes.
Tour Code: 493
Whatsapp
Facebook
Instagram