Whitsunday Nerves
Thinking of travelling to The Whitsundays? Wondering what all the fuss is about?
Considering a sailing adventure but not quite sure if it's right for you? Are you plagued by questions about water activities in the Whitsundays? Concerned about sea sickness? Are you worried about rough weather or living conditions? Not confident in your ability to swim or snorkel?
You're not alone! When considering an overnight sailing trip in The Whitsundays, these are the questions asked daily by tourists and locals alike. Let us calm your nerves with our local advice!
About Airlie Beach, the Whitsundays & the Great Barrier Reef
Airlie Beach and The Whitsunday Islands are leading tourist attractions on the East Coast of Australia due to their unique position nestled in between the world-famous Great Barrier Reef and mainland Australia. It really is the perfect location to experience sailing, whether it's your first time or your fiftieth time.
The Great Barrier Reef provides protection from weather and waves, so our weather patterns are milder. It is a natural barrier that stops large waves and gusting winds, ensuring your trip will be more relaxing and peaceful.
Expert Skippers on Whitsunday Boats
The skippers on board have a thorough understanding of weather and tidal patterns in the Whitsundays. They will choose the best places to visit to give you a relaxing holiday. They know where the best snorkelling is throughout the year, but more importantly, they know the places NOT to go in any given weather condition.
You can sleep easy at night knowing you are securely moored in a safe place with a professional crew on board. Most people actually find they have some of the most restful nights of sleep of their life, with the gentle rock of the boat and the movement of the waves.
The crew are experienced sailors. They do all the hard work. If you want to help or learn about sailing, the crew are happy to share their knowledge. But they understand this is your holiday, you're here to relax!
While sailing is an adventurous and fun activity, the crew know the risks involved and will only sail in safe conditions.
All your meals are provided. You will be asked if you have any special dietary requirements at the time of booking your trip and these will be catered for on the boat. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks throughout the day, so you will never go hungry. Most boats allow you to take your own snacks on board or have snacks available for purchase.
Snorkelling in the Whitsundays
Swimming and snorkelling may be an issue for guests. All overnight sailing boats tow smaller boats called tenders. These are used for ferrying passengers to shore and to snorkelling areas. When passengers are in the water, a crew member remains in the tender to keep an eye on guests. There are also the crew on standby on the larger boat to assist if required.
Many snorkelling areas are accessed from the beach, so most times you will be wading in to snorkel directly from the beach. No need to jump into deep water when you can just swim out from the shore. Noodles, or flotation devices, are provided for everyone. If you're snorkelling for any period of time, noodles make the experience very comfortable! If you do get tired in the water, just raise your hand. A crew member will be with you in no time.
On boarding the boat, a full briefing will be given by the skipper. Safety advice will be given and they will answer all your questions. In the meantime, booking agents are available online to help you make a decision about which boat is the right choice for your perfect holiday.
