School Holidays and Choosing the Right Boat
School holidays and what boat trips are right for your family
There are several school holidays throughout the year that prompt an influx of people to the Whitsundays, hoping to explore the islands, enjoy the sun and check out the sights! Holidays change depending on which state or territory you live in, but everyone has a break at some point, especially in the winter months, meaning it's a perfect place to explore Australia and the Whitsundays! It just so happens that winter is one of the best seasons to visit this beautiful part of the country and coincides with whale season - one of our favourite times of the year. For a complete list of school holidays in Australia visit here. Or, if you're hitting the golden shores of the Whitsundays during the busier holidays, like Easter and Christmas, make the most of the vibrant township and sunny days by organising your family trip ahead of time.
If you're planning a trip to the Whitsundays with your family, it's important to book ahead and ensure you get on a boat that is right for you. The sooner you can book your trip, the better, to ensure you can get spots on the trip you'd like. There are many sailing day trips available, as well as overnight sailing trips that are ideal for families with children. You can find a complete list here so you can take a look and see what is suitable for your family on your upcoming holiday.
Each trip takes different ages of children, from infant to 12+, so be sure to ask your agent which boat is right for you. See some of our top choices below.
MiLady: 4+
MiLady is a comfortable sailing yacht. that will take children aged 4 and up. The tour is family friendly and includes plenty of water toys, including kayaks, paddleboards and an onboard spa. This tour is for 2 days and 2 nights, and children must be in a private cabin.
Adventurer: 6+
Adventurer is a comfortable catamaran that will take children aged 4 and up. The tour is family friendly and includes plenty of water toys, including kayaks, paddleboards and an onboard spa. This tour lasts 2 days and 2 nights, and children must be in a private cabin.
Prima: 4+
Prima will take children aged 4 and up to sail around the Whitsunday islands. This family-friendly ship sails for 2 days and 1 night, and with only 12 guests on board, is an ideal way to spend time with your family during the school holidays. Children must be in private rooms.
Entice: 6+
Entice is a spacious catamaran that will take children aged 6 and up. It sails for 2 days and nights, with snorkelling, Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout on the itinerary. It's an ideal trip for families with children.
On Ice: 10+
On Ice is a great option if you have older kids, aged 10 and up and want to sail in the Whitsundays. On Ice sails for 2 days and 2 nights and has plenty of fun toys to enjoy during your trip!
Summertime: 12+
Summertime is another great option if you have older kids, and it has all the perks! Summertime has kayaks, a freshwater spa, visits Whitehaven Beach and goes snorkelling. Enjoy all the fun parts of the Whitsundays on board Summertime.
Waltzing Matilda: 8+
Waltzing Matilda is a great way to experience the Whitsundays with authentic sailing, a great itinerary and fun for the whole family. This traditional sailing boat has small numbers and will take children aged 8 and up.
Kiana: 12+
Kiana is one of the few overnight tours that venture to the Outer Great Barrier Reef and the only one that will take children. This tour offers scuba diving, snorkelling and sailing around the Whitsunday Islands as well, making this a well-rounded family escape.
Please note that age restrictions can change at any time. Always check with us before booking to ensure your boat of choice is right for your family. We'll help you to find the perfect tour for you and your family so you can enjoy the upcoming school holidays to their fullest!
Check out our best day trips for families if you're looking for a shorter experience with the kids!
