• 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.

Whitsundays sailing holidays. Couples only Idyllic shared charter sailing trip around the Whitsunday Islands. Only 8 guests, perfect for a honeymoon or romantic weekend away.

What to Expect

Set sail from Airlie Beach on an intimate couples-only sailing holiday in the Whitsundays, offering 2-day/2-night and 3-day/3-night options. Our luxury catamaran accommodates up to 8 guests, with each couple enjoying their own private ensuite cabin. This fully crewed charter yacht provides an exceptional Great Barrier Reef sailing experience, focusing on comfort, privacy, and unforgettable moments offering this fabulous holiday opportunity on book by the cabin basis.

Experience the stunning beauty of the Whitsunday Islands as you snorkel, swim, and explore vibrant coral reefs and remote beaches. Relax on the wide decks of the sailboat, soaking in the tropical views while the professional crew handles the sailing.

Features and Highlights

Private Charter Boat Features

• 43-foot custom Fountain Pajot "Belize" Sailing Catamaran
• Four double-sized cabins with private ensuites
• Air-conditioned cabins
• Spacious decks for relaxation
• Fully crewed with a skipper and hostess

Luxurious Private Yacht Accommodations

• Queen Bed with Private Ensuite (Shower, Basin, Toilet). 
• Air-Conditioned Cabins (Air-conditioning available on Getaway; installation started for Pearl). 
• All Linen, 2 Towels (Bath & Beach) per Guest. 
• USB Charging & Power Outlets (240V).

Gourmet Meals

• All meals included, freshly prepared using locally sourced produce.
• Dietary requirements catered for.
• Indulge in delicious, mouth-watering cuisine.

Snorkelling and Paddleboarding

• Ideal snorkelling locations for first-timers with shallow, warm waters
• Calm coves and protected bays
• Chance to see dolphins, turtles, whales and colourful fish
• Snorkelling equipment provided
• Flotation assistance devices available for non-swimmers
• Stand-up paddleboards included for exploring the coastline and fringing reefs

Wildlife Spotting

• Keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles, and dugongs
• Winter months (June - August) offer sightings of migrating humpback whales

Departure and Inclusions

• Depart from Airlie Beach
• All meals and snacks
• Personal skipper and hostess
• Snorkel Supervisor/Tour Guide & Equipment
• Environmental Management Charge (EMC) & National Parks Fees
• Fuel included
• BYO alcohol permitted

This luxury Whitsundays Islands sailing holiday is perfect for discerning guests seeking a romantic and intimate tropical island escape. Enjoy a flexible itinerary, gourmet meals, and exceptional service as you explore the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands on your own private charter yacht on a book by the cabin basis from Airlie Beach.

If you are hading north to Cairns or Port Douglas have a look at these Great Barrier Reef tours.

Read The Barrier Reef Australia Blog for all the things you need to know before you go! 

Couples Only Sailing Tour Whitsunday Islands

Book your double cabin for yourself and your partner to join our intimate shared charter, 2 or 2 nights on the Great Barrier Reef 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.

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.

4 private double ensuite cabins to accommodate 8 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

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.

Sample Itinerary

All cruises are subject to weather, tides, and the captain’s professional judgment.

--2 Day 2 Night Trip--

Day 1
Meet at Meeting Point C at 2:30 PM for a warm welcome from your crew. At 3:00 PM, set sail from Airlie Beach, gliding across the Whitsunday Passage to Hook Island.
Enjoy a tropical sunset with a cheese and fruit platter as you settle in.
Dinner is served alfresco or in the saloon, followed by stargazing or lounging under the stars.
Anchor overnight in a protected bay.

Day 2
Wake to a tropical breakfast and fresh espresso before sailing to Whitsunday Island.
Walk to Hill Inlet lookout, then visit the famous Whitehaven Beach.
After lunch onboard, relax on the beach, paddleboard, or walk the Solway Circuit.
In the afternoon, sail to Border Island or Stonehaven for snorkelling and another stunning sunset.
Anchor overnight.

Day 3
Morning snorkel or paddle session before sailing back to Airlie Beach. Return to Coral Sea Marina by 12 pm.

--3 Day 3 Night Trip--

Day 4
Follows the 2D2N itinerary with extra time to explore:

• More time at Whitehaven Beach.
• Additional snorkelling at coral bays near Hayman and Hook Islands.
• Slower, more flexible pace with time to explore off-the-beaten-path locations.

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. 

Sample Menu

Please note: our menus are designed to highlight fresh, local ingredients, though occasional changes may occur without notice due to the remote nature of the Whitsundays and seasonal availability.

Fresh, locally sourced meals prepared onboard daily. Below is a sample menu for a 2-night itinerary. Guests on 3-night tours or extended private charters will enjoy an additional day of delicious, nourishing meals tailored in a similar style.

Day 1

• Welcome Snack: Fresh fruit and an assortment of biscuits.
• Sunset Platter: Cheese and cured meats, dips, carrots, celery, and crackers.
• Dinner: Coconut and lime marinated reef fish, stir-fried vegetables, marble potato mash, crunchy noodle salad, and French breadsticks.
• Dessert: Classic cheesecake topped with berries and cream.

Day 2

• Breakfast: Tropical fruit salad, warmed croissants, cereals, yogurt, tea, and freshly brewed coffee.
• Lunch: Chicken fajitas served with sour cream and fresh avocado.
• Afternoon Tea: Lamingtons with your choice of tea, coffee, or cordial.
• Sunset Snack: Whitsunday-style nachos with sour cream and guacamole.
• Dinner: BBQ steaks with Diane sauce, caramelised onions, carrots, Greek salad, and garlic bread.
• Dessert: Chocolate cake with whipped cream.

Day 3

• Breakfast: Scrambled eggs on toasted English muffins, served with fresh fruit, cereals, yogurt, tea, and brewed coffee.
• Farewell Snack: Iced fruit cake with tea, coffee, or cordial during the return sail.

Please note that all sample menus are subject to changes and amendments with no given notice.

Note: Dietary requirements and surcharges may appliy, please enaquiry at time of booking.

Whitsunday Sailing Holiday Inclusions

Standard Inclusions

Crew (Skipper and Host), all meals, drinking water, ice, coffee machine with fresh beans, all linen, bath and beach towels, snorkelling equipment including stinger suits, Starlink Wi-Fi, and marine park and fees.

Water sports Inclusions

• Snorkelling: mask, snorkel, flotation devices & Basic Snorkelling Tuition provided (Fins are not provided).
• Stinger Suits (of all sizes).
• 2 x Standup Paddleboards.

Accommodation Cabin Inclusions

• Queen Bed with Private Ensuite (Shower, Basin, Toilet).
• Air-Conditioned Cabins
• All Linen, 2 Towels (Bath & Beach) per Guest.
• USB Charging & Power Outlets (240V).

Catering Inclusions

All meals are freshly prepared onboard using premium local produce:

• 2D2N: 2 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners, 2 Morning + Afternoon Teas, Pre-dinner Snacks.
• 3D3N: 3 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 3 Dinners, 3 Morning + Afternoon Teas, Pre-dinner Snacks.

Extra Information

Whitsunday Getaway is an adult-only vessel.

Whitsunday Getaway has a BYO policy for all soft and alcoholic beverages and bottled water.

View all your Whitsundays sailing holiday options.

Learn more about the Places to See on the Great Barrier Reef.

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Airlie Beach

Departure Time

• Departs 3.00pm
• Returns 12.00pm

Departure Instructions

• Meeting Point: Coral Sea Marina, Airlie Beach (South End, Meeting Point C) | 1-3 Shingley Dr, Airlie Beach.
• Arrival Time: 2:30 pm for a 3:00 pm departure.
• Parking: Paid Parking Available (Credit card or coin).
• Transfers: Self-arranged (Taxis, Shuttle, Bus).

Destinations

• Hayman Island
• Hill Inlet
• Whitehaven Beach
• Whitsunday Island
• Great Barrier Reef
• Whitsunday Passage
• Hook Island
• Border Island
• Stonehaven

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Monday, Wednesday, Friday

Duration

2 Days / 2 Nights (45 hrs) – Departs Airlie Beach on Mon & Wed at 3 pm, Returns Wed & Fri at 12 pm.
3 Days / 3 Nights (69 hrs) – Departs Airlie Beach on Friday at 3 pm, Returns Monday at 12 pm.

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

• Insurances: We highly recommend all guests have Travel Insurance.
• Vessel Permits: Whitsunday Getaway and Whitsunday Pearl hold all required national, state, and local permits for commercial operations, and are members of the Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association. Permit restrictions: Fishing is not permitted, as both vessels operate within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Green Zones and do not travel to the outer reef.
• Dietary requirments to be advised at time of booking
• 2D2N: 2 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners, 2 Morning + Afternoon Teas, Pre-dinner Snacks.
• 3D3N: 3 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 3 Dinners, 3 Morning + Afternoon Teas, Pre-dinner Snacks

Eco Certifications

• Soft-sided carry-on bag only (no hard cases or large suitcases).
• Comfortable clothing, swimwear, light sweater.
• Hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen.
• Toiletries.
• One reusable water bottle each, ideally non-metal, as metal bottles can chip or damage the decks if dropped
• Footwear, please bring only open-toed shoes (flip-flops, thongs, or slides). No closed shoes, runners, or boots as they will get wet.
• Luggage Policy: To make your experience smooth and comfortable, we recommend packing light. Storage on board is limited, and travelling light helps everyone keep the vessel tidy and relaxed. There are no excess luggage storage facilities on any vessels or at the marina. Guests are kindly asked to pre-arrange luggage storage for the duration of their trip and to pack lightly in a soft-sided bag. Luggage storage: The Travel Shop, 344 Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach, anytime between 9 am and 6 pm to drop your bags at our secure luggage store for $10.
• BYO drinks

No guests under 18 years of age - Adults only Sailing