The Whitsunday Islands

The town of Airlie Beach is the setting off point for excursions to the beautiful islands known as the Whitsundays. Two of the most common ways to visit: booking a stay at one of the luxury resorts on the island or doing an overnight sailing adventure. The island resorts range from the affordable and family friendly Daydream Island to the ultra exclusive Hamilton Island. Overnight sailing trips typically go for 3 days and 2 nights and can be done on sleek racing maxis or on classic yachts.

Whitehaven Beach usually finds itself on the top of lists of the world's most beautiful beaches. Its sands are made of almost pure silica quartz, suitable for producing the finest glass on earth. Tides at Hill Inlet display the sand in dazzling colors.

From October to April, you'll likely be required to wear a wet suit for swimming due to the presence of two species of deadly jellyfish: the sometimes lethal box jellyfish and the tiny but often sickening Irukandji. Thanks to the guides and precautions, serious injuries are fairly rare.

The Derwent Hunter, a 90 foot tallship that sets out for 2 day, 3 night trips.

Guests on the Derwent Hunter raising the sails under the crew's watch.

Sailing a catamaran off the Daydream Island Resort.