Whitsunday Sailing Backpacker Tours
The Whitsundays have been a backpacker's mecca for many decades. In the eighties, young travellers wandered in to Airlie Beach's town centre and found several boats working from the shore where they could join a tour and explore the Whitsunday Islands. Since those days, the Whitsundays have become a must-do item on every backpacker's bucket list.
There are many different boat tours to choose from, from luxury to budget boats. All of the boats have one main aim and that is to get you on the water sailing or cruising around our truly stunning islands! The most popular tours are overnight trips that range from 1 to 3 nights that have an itinerary that reflects affordability and maximum water time. There are several overnight trips available that are entirely suited for backpackers that will be both affordable and fun. These trips are best suited for those aged 18-35 years old and will have like-minded travellers on board.
The experience of sailing around the mostly uninhabited island paradise is a now must-do on every Australian visitor's must-see list! It's a great place to meet other backpackers, exchange travel stories and make new friends.
Best Backpacker Sailing Tours in the Whitsundays
Best Backpacker Sailing Tours
Atlantic Clipper 2D2N
Ages: 18-35
Capacity: 54 guests
The Atlantic Clipper has a reputation as one of the best social boats in the Whitsundays for a reason! Not only does it boast an action-packed itinerary of scuba diving, snorkelling, and exploring the Whitsundays, but it carries an epic water slide, a heated on-deck spa, and a pile of stand-up paddle boards. It's safe to say that anyone lucky enough to snag a spot on board the Clipper is never bored! Make new friends for life on board this 111ft sailing vessel and return to shore with stories you'll be telling for years to come!
New Horizon 2D2N
Ages: 18-35
Capacity: 32 guests
From the same company that brought you the Atlantic Clipper, meet New Horizon: one of the most popular tours on the entire East Coast of Australia! This authentic sailing boat takes young adventurers on the trip of a lifetime around the Whitsundays, complete with a dive board, an inflatable waterslide, stand-up paddle boards, and snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities. Enjoy this trip your way: get stuck in to all of the activities and social games, or kick back and relax on the top deck where you can soak up the sun.
Solway Voyager 3D2N
Ages: 18+
Capacity: 32 guests
Set sail on Solway Voyager for a full three days and two nights of fun and adventure. This historical tall ship comes decked out with a thrilling rope swing, snorkelling and stand-up paddle boarding opportunities, and a friendly crew who are eager to take you to Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, and the Great Barrier Reef. Meet likeminded travellers while you hang out on the bow net, chat over a cold beer in the saloon and swap contact details at the VIP afterparty!
Siska 2D1N
Ages: 18+
Capacity: 23 guests
Enjoy two days of fun in the sun on a spacious 77ft maxi yacht when you book with the racing legend that is Siska! Not only will you get to enjoy a visit to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout, and ample snorkelling opportunities, but the experienced Siska crew are ready to teach you and your new friends how to sail along the way! Hoist and trim the sails, take the helm, or sit back and watch your fellow adventurers take control of this speedy sailing vessel!
Apollo 3D2N
Ages: 16+
Capacity: 26 guests
Apollo is a 75ft maxi yacht kitted out with everything that fun-loving, sociable guests might need for a thrilling ride through the Whitsundays. Spend a full three days at sea aboard this trophy-winning vessel with like-minded adventurers. Explore the Whitsunday Islands, snorkel at the most colourful and kaleidoscopic reefs, and spend your evenings relaxing, socialising, and playing games with your fellow guests.
Defender 2D1N
Ages: 16+
Capacity: 26 guests
For backpackers who want to experience the best of the Whitsundays but are a little short on time, Defender is the perfect sailing trip! This budget-friendly vessel with an impressive racing history boasts a fun, social atmosphere that backpackers adore. Go island-hopping, snorkelling, and exploring the Outer Great Barrier Reef, or just chill out on the deck on this dreamy trip through the Whitsundays!
For more information on backpacking in the Whitsundays, take a look through our jam-packed guide!
