Can I Learn to Sail on a Whitsunday Private Charter?

Yes! The Whitsundays is known as a 'sailing mecca' and you can definitely learn how to sail on a Whitsundays private charter. To hoist the sails all you have to do is book an Introduction to Sailing course with our expert instructors or book an overnight charter and learn the basics behind the ropes from your experienced crew. Whether you choose to master the sailing technique or let your friendly crew members take care of all the sailing during your trip is up to you!

The Whitsunday Islands are listed as a World Heritage Site, boasting some of the rarest hidden gems and attracting more than 500,000 visitors every year! Situated within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park in Queensland, the 74 Whitsunday Islands are a getaway favourite amongst local and international travellers, with thousands coming to sail, dive and holiday each year. 

Aside from snorkelling around coral gardens, sunbathing in the tropical warmth, relaxing on a cruise, learning how to scuba dive and paddleboarding across glassy bays, visitors can also learn how to sail in the Whitsundays. Let's put on our captain hats and explore all the many ways you can learn the ropes!

When is the Best Time to Sail in the Whitsundays?

The Whitsundays have smooth sailing conditions year-round, with the tropical islands providing protected anchorages through all seasons. Early Spring weather and wind conditions are known as the 'golden season' in the Whitsundays, creating picturesque sailing opportunities during September and October. On the other hand, for the avid captains amongst us all, the winter season boasts brisk southeast trade winds that form perfect conditions for competitive racing.

	Summer Sailing in the Whitsundays The summer months of December, January and February in North Queensland are known for their hot temperatures, tropical wet season and stinger season. Yet don't let the chance of rain control your itinerary, the coral reefs and rolling islands are still at their best. If a summer adventure filled with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 32°C and the occasional storm in the morning or afternoon suits you then we recommend booking during the January and February low season to score yourself a budget deal!
	Autumn Sailing in the Whitsundays Autumn in the Whitsundays is situated between the two most popular holiday seasons, summer and winter. You're sure to enjoy smaller crowds during your sailing adventures and slowly cooling temperatures as the wet season eases. As the Whitsunday stinger season runs from late October to May, you'll still have to don a stinger suit whilst in the ocean to remain protected.
	Winter Sailing in the Whitsundays Say hello to the beginning of the southeast trade winds in winter, the golden season for sailing in the Whitsundays. From June to August, expect to bask in average high temperatures of 24°C to 25°C, bright blues skies and brisk evenings that create the ultimate sleeping conditions out on the water. Events such as the Hamilton Island Race Week and Airlie Beach Race Week draw in thousands of sailors from across the country during August, showcasing some of the region's fastest sailing vessels.
	Spring Sailing in the Whitsundays The crown favourite, Spring is undoubtedly the best season to explore the Whitsunday Islands, as shoulder season receives the lowest average rainfall levels and offers blissful temperatures ranging from 25°C to 29°C. However, be sure to book your overnight sailing tours and private charters early as they can book out quickly!

How Long Does it Take to Learn How to Sail?

It takes half a day, in general, to learn the sailing basics, with most sailing instructors recommending approximately 16 hours to complete an introductory sailing course. However, sailing like any other skill is a craft that can be continually practised and perfected over the years on different vessels and in varying locations. During your introductory course, you're sure to learn all about Whitsunday's weather, wind and tidal conditions before hoisting the mainsail.

With our friendly instructors who cater to beginner-level students of all ages, you should be ready to sail, cruise and explore around the Whitsunday Islands alongside an experienced guide within just one day!

Do you Need a Boat Licence to Go Sailing in the Whitsundays?

No! Luckily, the Whitsundays is one of the few destinations in the world where you don't require a boat license to hire and sail a bareboat charter. Before you cruise out on the Coral Sea you'll have a qualified instructor teach you all about the safety regulations, rope work, tides, passage briefing and manoeuvres of the vessel.

Or, if you're looking for a step down from bareboat sailing, a private charter experience is the perfect place to learn some of the sailing basics from the knowledgable team onboard and still design your own Whitsundays itinerary. Plus, you don't have to worry about your nightly anchorages, cooking or navigating yourself around the islands.

Private Charters and Tours that Include Sailing

Introduction to Sailing Course 

Build your confidence and knowledge of yachts on board our top modern sailing boat, Eureka II! Learn to master both theory and practical skills in this hands-on experience in the Whitsunday Islands. With 14 students, you will be part of a avid team who will learn from the best instructors on how to operate the vessel before putting your skills to practice.

The sail training courses give you recreational and commercial qualifications under the National Standards for Commercial Vessels (NSCV), as you enjoy the thrill of fast sailing around the Whitsunday Islands during the day. Later on, you’ll retreat to the comforts of Eureka's aesthetic interior, that lets you live like the cast of 'Below Deck'.

Whitsundays Eureka II

Get on board a stylish and authentic 60 ft racing boat experience with the Eureka II! The boat is on the Grand Prix racing circuit, letting you experience the fast, smooth, modern and comfortable Ocean Racer speed sailing!

Soak in its extraordinary history and sleek interior and exterior in this contemporary and fun sailing journey that takes you to several snorkelling sites Whitehaven Beach, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and Hill Inlet Lookout!

White Swan Private Charter

With 7 guests and 2 crew members, you have the chance to try your hand at sailing a 57 ft. yacht, all whilst enjoying plenty of time exploring the stunning Whitsunday Islands!

The spacious interior and large deck give you plenty of time to relax with your loved ones on and off the vessel and enjoy all the comforts of home onboard. It’s an unforgettable experience that lets you see and adventure amongst all the Whitsundays highlights. Activities onboard include snorkelling, scuba diving and swimming in the fringing reefs of the Great Barrier Reef, exploring Whitehaven Beach and gazing at the breathtaking views from Hill Inlet Lookout. 

Blizzard

Try your hand at sailing in this popular vessel that takes a maximum of 10 passengers on a four-day trip exploring the Whitsundays Islands! It’s a fun and interactive tour that lets you make the most out of the boat’s state-of-the-art water toys that are very unique on Blizzard! 

Sail around the islands, snorkel in the fringing reefs of the Great Barrier Reef and try your hand at two different bushwalks leading to sensational scenic lookouts. Then explore the world-famous Whitsunday Island that shows you both ends of the famous Whitehaven Beach.

Equipped with rain and sun shades, hot showers and charger ports - plus all the snorkelling equipment and marine park fees you need, everything is taken care of aboard. Blizzard's onboard chef also also caters to special diets, just be sure to let the team know in advance!

Southern Cross Day Tour 

Let’s take you on an adventurous sailing trip to the best parts of the northern Whitsundays like Langford Reef and Black Island on a famous racing yacht! Nestled between Hayman Island and Hook Island, these two tropical destinations are perfect for adventurous-seeking guests looking to learn how to sail.

With both indoor and outdoor seating on the boat, snorkelling gear and instructions included, plus a freshly prepared lunch, Southern Cross is the ultimate way to discover the northern Whitsunday Islands.

Whitsundays Prima 2D1N

Step aboard the 47 Woodward-designed charter yacht Prima, a superb vessel to charter the calm waters of the Whitsunday Islands. Taking a maximum of 12 passengers and 2 crew members, Prima offers a relaxing atmosphere during your tropical escape. Take in the spectacular views and white sands of Whitehaven Beach just before you enjoy a walk up to Hill Inlet Lookout. 

Choose from two private double cabins with ensuite bathrooms or a shared double bed and two single bunks with a shared bathroom. Snorkelling equipment is provided, plus all freshly-prepared meals during your stay. As you sail from one idyllic destination to the next, swim, sunbathe and snorkel to your hearts content in the Great Barrier Reef!

Is it your first time visiting the Whitsundays? Start planning your journey to the Whitsundays with our How to Get to the Whitsunday Islands article.

Call us at +61 74914 2425 to book your introductory sailing course in the Whitsundays!

Or, chat with us and check out our visitor’s information section to find quick answers to your island questions!