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The tropical Whitsundays are the true definition of paradise

Secluded palm-fringed beaches, hidden waterfalls and crystal-clear waters? The Whitsunday Islands are a dream holiday destination for lovers of the sun and sea. This adventure will take you from the coastal town of Airlie Beach to the luxurious Paradise Cove, with two nights spent on an authentic 100-year-old Tall ship thrown in for good measure. Spend time exploring a number of the stunning islands within the archipelago, swimming in the Coral Sea and appreciating the unique tropical nature, wildlife and culture in the area. But most of all, just relax and enjoy yourself, you’re in paradise, after all!

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Terms & Conditions
Start
Airlie Beach, Australia
Finish
Airlie Beach, Australia
Destination
Australia
Style
Comfort
Code
PVKW
Physical rating
Ages
Min 8
Group size
Min 4, Max 16

Why you'll love this trip

  • Spend two nights aboard a 100-year-old Tall Ship, visiting various Whitsunday Islands and swimming off the boat.

  • Witness a welcome to country and a short talk about the history and culture talk of the Whitsundays from a local member of the Ngaro family.

  • Enjoy a hike on South Molle Island, where you’ll have stunning views on the reef, rainforest and local tropical birdlife.

  • Have access to your own private beach on the edge of the Coral Sea, with white sands and postcard-perfect views.

Is this trip right for you?

  • As the some of this trip takes place on a sailing boat, you’ll need to feel comfortable with moving about the vessel, including the use of stairs. With that said, sea legs come naturally to some but not so much for others. Your friendly crew will be able to help with the effects of sea sickness if needed.

  • This trip visits some amazing beaches along the way. Please consider your swimming competency before getting in the water.

  • Time on the water also means time in the sun. Remember to pack sun protection, such as sun screen and a hat, and drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.

Map of Whitsundays Islands Explorer including Australia
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Airlie Beach, the stunning gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. Take your time today making your way to check in to your hotel, before meeting your local leader and group for a short welcome meeting at 4pm in the hotel foyer. From here, you’ll head out along the coast for a stroll into Airlie Beach, where you’ll be greeted by a local member of the Ngaro family. They will welcome you to country and provide you with an overview of the culture and history of the magnificent Whitsundays that you’re about to explore. Your local leader will then take you on a short orientation walk of the town, before you have the evening to yourselves. Get to know your fellow travellers with a welcome dinner of quality local food, then maybe head to one of Airlie Beach’s quirky bars to chat over a drink.
Included Activities
  • Ngaro First Nation Welcome to Country
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late please let your booking agent or hotel reception know.

After breakfast this morning, you’ll leave Airlie Beach and drive for around 30 minutes for a day of exploring the Cedar Creek Falls and the exclusive Paradise Cove Resort. Here you’ll have time to admire the tropical flora and fauna, including the unique white cedar trees that gave the falls their name, as well as taking a guided walk around the falls for spectacular views of the region. You’ll also have the chance to swim with wild turtles in the falls, before stopping for an included lunch. This afternoon you’ll make your way to the Balinese-style Paradise Cove Resort, the luxury hideaway where you’ll be staying for the night. Spend the afternoon swimming, stand up paddle boarding or kayaking in the Coral Sea or simply relaxing by the pool or in a hammock on the secluded white, sand beach. Tonight, you’ll be treated to a special poolside dinner – the perfect way to wind up a memorable day.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

This morning is free for you to make the most of being on holiday. Whether you’d rather sleep in, spend time by the pool or just take your time over breakfast, Paradise Cove is the place to indulge. After a few hours you’ll return to Airlie Beach, where you’ll board a 100-year-old Tall Ship, which has a fascinating history and will be your home for the next two nights. This afternoon will be spent at sea, where you can enjoy time on board unwinding with a good book or chatting with your travel buddies, perhaps stopping for a dip in the clear, tropical waters or maybe even some snorkelling. Tonight, you’ll be treated to dinner on board as you get to know your fellow travellers. Then, perhaps retire to the deck and enjoy a drink under the stars.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Today will be spent at sea, stopping at a number of different Whitsundays Islands and beaches. You might like to spend time at swim stops swinging off the Tarzan rope into the water, or making use of the snorkelling gear provided. Weather dependent, you will make a stop at the famous Whitehaven Beach, for the ultimate Whitsundays experience. All meals today will be provided on the boat, so you can just kick back and relax on the deck.
Included Activities
  • South Mole National Park Hike
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Today brings an end to your time on the boat, as you slowly make your way back to the mainland. On the way, you’ll stop at South Molle Island National Park, with an opportunity to stretch your legs on a hike. Enjoy views of the reef, rainforest and coastline as well as keeping an eye out for some of the beautiful birdlife on the island including rainbow lorikeets, currawongs and endangered bush stone curlews. After the hike, you’ll have worked up an appetite for lunch before you’ll continue to Airlie Beach where you’ll disembark at the marina. Head to your resort accommodation to check in and then enjoy a free afternoon and evening. Be sure to check with your leader if you’d like a recommendation of the best spots to try some local seafood and maybe even a few tropical cocktails!
Included Activities
  • Falls to Paradise Waterfall and Beach Tour
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

This morning after breakfast you’ll drive back to Airlie Beach where your tour will come to an end. If you have the time, feel free to stay longer and enjoy everything that this beautiful region has to offer – contact us to book post-trip accommodation.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Want to tailor this itinerary?

Meals

5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

Transport

Private vehicle, Boat

Accommodation

Hotel (3), Boat (2)

Included activities

  • Ngaro First Nation Welcome to Country
  • South Mole National Park Hike
  • Falls to Paradise Waterfall and Beach Tour

Dates & availability

Trip departures are unavailable.

There are currently no scheduled departures on our Whitsundays Islands Explorer trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

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Important notes

1. Minimum numbers: this trip requires a minimum of 4 clients booked and confirmed in order to depart

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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