Top 5 tips for planning a holiday in the Whitsundays

1. Consider which tour is best for you

The Whitsundays offers a huge variety of day and overnight tours to suit every type of traveller. Day trips are a variety of scenic flights, fast speed boat-style trips as well as more relaxed, family-friendly tours around the islands. The overnight vessels are certainly the most popular choice, are great-value and allows guests to see and experience the best of the region.

Because there are so many trips, our travel consultants may ask you the following questions:

• What dates would you like to depart? Are you flexible with dates?
• Are you looking for a party, fun, backpacker boat or more of a quiet relaxed trip?
• Do you want to scuba dive or happy with lots of snorkelling?
• Do you want a private cabin (based on 2 people sharing) or happy with shared/open plan accommodation?
• Do you have a budget in mind?

2. Plan travel arrangements

Whether you are travelling from somewhere overseas or somewhere within Australia, it is a good idea to think about the logistics of your holiday. Airlie Beach is approximately 1,000 kilometres north of Brisbane and some 600 kilometres south of Cairns, and there are direct flights operating from Brisbane and Sydney on Jetstar, Virgin Australia and Tiger Air. We encourage all travellers to arrive the day prior to any tour departures (particularly overnight sailing trips). We also encourage every traveller to obtain travel insurance.

3. Check availability

Some of the most sought-after vessels are almost always booked out, so it is vital to check availability before booking anything. The most popular trips are generally on catamarans or feature low passenger numbers and feature private cabins, so if you are considering one of these vessels PLEASE check availability with our travel consultants. Also, we encourage travellers to have some flexibility with their departure dates, to ensure you get the vessel of your choice.

4. Book ahead

As a world-class destination, all holidays to the Whitsunday region must be booked well in-advance to avoid disappointment. When booking ahead, it is important to look at when the peak times of travel are such as school vacations, the Christmas period, Easter and public holidays. How do you book? Chat to our travel consultants who can book all tours, accommodation and airport transfers for you.

5. Pack appropriately

Though the Whitsundays is generally sunny all-year round, it is important to pack according to the season. Eg. Bring a coat/cardigan and long pants during autumn and winter, and light, sun-protective clothing for spring and summer. Other suitcase essentials are a wide-brim hat, comfortable everyday clothing, comfortable shoes, swimmers and a towel. Also don't forget your sunscreen (and lots of it) as well as a water bottle. Please remember, you will only be permitted to bring one small overnight bag on any overnight sailing trips.