7 Top Tips for Sailing the Whitsundays 2025

Sailing the Whitsundays: 7 Tips to find an Epic Ocean Adventure That suits you

1. How do I know which is the best tour for me for sailing the Whitsundays?

The good news? There are heaps of ways to experience the Whitsundays—whether you’re short on time, chasing a party boat, a backpacker-style adventure, a luxury escape, or something a little more laid-back.

At Prosail, we offer a unique Whitsundays sailing adventure that hits the sweet spot between exploration and relaxation. We’re not a wild party boat, but we’re also not here to nap the whole time—we’re all about good vibes, real sailing, and maybe a cheeky sundowner or two if that’s your style.

2. When is the busiest time to travel?

It’s best to book in advance for sailing the Whitsundays to avoid missing out on your chosen tour. If you’re after avoiding the crowds then visit out of school holidays (you can google these if you’re an international) as it’s a lot busier and the flights are often more expensive.

Generally speaking, our top tip for sailing the Whitsundays is to go in September or October—ideal weather, great conditions, and fewer crowds. That said, marine life like humpback whales and manta rays visit at different times throughout the year, so there’s always something special to see.

Want to know the best time for your trip?  Read our full guide to the best months to travel here.

3. How long do you recommend going on a tour for?

We recommend giving yourself at least 2 nights to really soak up everything the Whitsundays has to offer. Sailing boats aren’t speedboats—they’re all about the journey, not the rush. Unlike powerboats that can blast you out to Whitehaven in 90 minutes, sailing times between spots usually range from 30 minutes to 2.5 hours.

It’s a slower pace, but that’s part of the magic. More time on board means more reef, more beaches, more sunsets—and zero stress. If you can squeeze in an extra day or two, you’ll see so much more without feeling like you’re racing the clock.

4. Do all tours go to Whitehaven and Hill Inlet?

Most overnight tours include Hill Inlet, but not all day trips make it there. One of our top tips for sailing the Whitsundays: when booking your overnight tour, check how much time you’ll actually get at Whitehaven Beach.

That’s one of the reasons an overnight trip really shines, 2 day/night trips usually give you around 2–3 hours at Hill Inlet and North Whitehaven. Plenty of time to soak it all in, and never feel rushed.

5. Will I get to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef my sailing the Whitsundays tour?

If you’re doing any snorkelling around the islands (and honestly, we don’t know of a tour that doesn’t), then yep—you’ll be seeing reef!

There are two types in the Whitsundays: fringing reef and outer reef. All island-based tours, including ours, snorkel the fringing reef—which wraps right around the islands and is full of vibrant marine life and corals.

6. Do you recommend staying a few nights In Airlie before or after the tour?

Yes, we definitely do! When you’re booking your tour make sure you check the departure and return times, as quite often you actually won’t be able to fly in or leave on the same day as your tour. But regardless it’s a good idea to stay for a few days either side to explore the mainland attractions – there’s a couple really cool waterfalls and beaches. You can read about those here.

7. Any other tips for sailing the Whitsundays?

It’s the subtropics baby! We can have all 4 seasons in one day, so make sure you pack the right clothes – which is a little of everything.

It’s a good idea to pack a windcheater or raincoat no matter when you’re coming, but if you’re visiting in our winter months – pack a jumper. Sigh, yes the tropics can still get cold in the wind at night. We have a list on what to pack here.  

That’s all we have (for now), but if you follow these fun things to do the Whitsundays – you’re set for an adventure to tell for the rest of your life. 

How Can I Get More Information?

We have a live chat button at the bottom of your screen or feel free to contact us by email info@prosail.com.au