To explore The Whitsunday's and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

The professional crew eliminate any stress with their local knowledge of the area and will guide you around the World Heritage Listed Whitsundays. Whether you want to sail, dive, snorkel, explore or simply relax the Operator has the ideal vessel for you.

The Operator is unique in that it is a co-operative of yacht owners who own and operate their own vessels and to this day often still skipper them. This guarantees high standards of vessel presentation, personalised service and a truly individual and unique experience. The fleet includes catamarans, tall ships, luxury vessels and a variety of racing and cruising sloops offering a unique sailing experience for the budget, moderate and deluxe traveller. The vessels are grouped into 8 categories, plus the Whitsunday Marine Academy which offers internationally recognised recreational and professional sail training.

The Operator prides itself on the fact the Operator has no set itineraries. Departing daily from Airlie Beach the top priority is Whitehaven Beach and famous coral reefs however the Operator takes guest requests into consideration to ensure everyone on board enjoys their holiday. Each vessel offers a choice of single and double berths, with several offering private cabins with ensuites as well as airconditioning. Vessels are also available on private charter and the Operator specialises in group bookings with the ability to offer many options and additional activities to suit each group’s interests and budget.

Experience Snorkeling
The Whitsunday Islands are a snorkelling paradise with coral gardens, warm crystal blue waters that are clear enough to see every subtle colour on coral or a fish's tail. Throughout your sailing cruise you will journey amongst the 74 Whitsunday Islands, snorkel over some of the 3,000 reefs on the continental shelf, swim amongst the 400 different types of coral and meet around 1,500 species of marine life including many turtles, dolphins and much more. The Operator even has the humpback whales visit the Whitsundays from July to September.

The Operator operates in one of the most beautiful nature preserves in the world. Everything you see and do is dependent on the good health of the environment. Please respect the marine and national parks in

which the Operator operates and take care to have minimal impact on the areas you visit. By doing so you help ensure it may be shared with others in the future.

EQUIPMENT: Snorkel equipment is included in the trip and stinger suits available to hire. All the vessels carry floating devices so even if you can't swim there is no reason why you can't see the amazing underwater world teaming with marine life.

Experience Diving
The Operator accommodates the demand for scuba diving on the range of live aboard sailing vessels. Participate in an introductory (minimum 20 minutes) or certified scuba dive aboard your chosen yacht on one of the scheduled departures or private charters.

Please note: A dive medical may be required from a local Doctor before you will be permitted to participate in diving activities.

ISLAND DIVING: Experience first hand what diving the Whitsundays Islands is all about? Sheltered coral reefs, challenging swim throughs, massive coral structures and overhangs with amazing fish tropical life, turtles, mantarays and gropers. Many of the fish are tame and will swim right up to inspect you at the same time as you being in awe of them! The Whitsundays are the best place for your first scuba experience with easy beach entries. The shallow water around the islands provides an excellent teaching ground.

OUTER REEF DIVING: Beyond the islands and their fringing coral reef lays the outer Great Barrier Reef and together they provide some of the most incredible snorkelling and diving you will ever experience. Cruise to the outer barrier reef, some 2-3 hours beyond the islands and witness the spectacular marine life. The vessels and crew will ensure that even first time divers feel safe and are able to enjoy the splendor of the magnificent coral reefs. 

This opportunity is unique to the Operator. Passengers who book this option participate in all the daily activities but at night enjoy the privacy of sleeping ashore at the secluded island camping locations.

Available on:
Derwent Hunter

What is Supplied:
All camping gear is supplied including a two man tent, double blow up matress, linen, sleeping bag, pillows and a torch. A crew member will stay on land with guests and they will endeavour to stay at campsites with ammenities.

What to Bring:
Warm clothes in winter, insect repellent and appropriate footware.

Exploring in the Whitsundays
The Whitsundays consists of 74 islands - only eight of which are inhabited. They are surrounded by one of the world’s seven natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef. This magic region will have you spellbound - pristine beaches, lush rainforests and dazzling waterways, in fact there are so many reasons why the Whitsundays is known as one of the greatest aquatic playgrounds on earth.

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is the largest, most complex and diverse coral reef system in the world. It is made up of coral reefs, coral cays and islands, stretching along the Queensland coast from Cape York to Bundaberg. The Marine Park also includes seagrass, mangroves, sand, algal and sponge gardens, inter-reefal communities and other habitats, and many rare and endangered species. This underwater world makes for the best exploring above and below the water.

Whether you choose to bush walk, scuba dive or sail, there are a myriad of ways to explore the Whitsundays.  Snorkel at Blue Pearl Bay where you will discover some of most amazing coral reefs and tropical fish in the Whitsundays. Dive the outer reef and explore the amazing coral.  Walk along Whitehaven Beach's silica sand or kayak in turtle breeding grounds where you are sure to see one pop up.  However you choose to spend your holiday the Operator will help you explore idyllic worlds that no cruise ship can.

Experience Bushwalking
The region is a bounty of national parks great for the most serious of bushwalkers whilst the long stretches of silica sand on Whitehaven Beach caters for those who prefer to take relaxing strolls.

The Operator will take you to Tongue Bay where you will take a walk to one of the most famous lookouts in the World, Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach. The view will take your breath away. Crystal blue water, pure white sand and lush green islands make up the most magnificant view. Picture perfect holiday snaps just like a postcard.

A lookout highlighting the islands of the Whitsundays, can also be found at Spion Kop, South Molle Island. On islands without tracks, beach walking and rock hopping along the rocky coastline can provide an introduction to much of the island’s flora and fauna.

The Whitsundays include more than 74 continental islands that were once part of the adjacent mainland. National park status has been given wholly or in part to most of these islands. More than 96 percent of the 30000ha of wooded hills, rocky headlands and shingle beaches are managed to protect a range of values including fauna, flora, water quality and the scenic integrity. The waterways and beaches surrounding the islands are marine park‚ and fall within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.

Whitsunday's Weather

Tropical Climate
Situated at 20ºS Lat and 148ºE Long, the welcoming tropical climate of the Whitsundays rivals that of Fiji, Tahiti and the Bahamas.

Mean annual temperatures of 27ºC and a minimum of 21ºC and an estimated average of 8.25 Hours of Sunshine per day, ensure an attractive year-round climate.

Water temperatures remain a welcoming 25 degrees celsius all year round.

The tropical wet season occurs during January to March when days can be steamy and the summer heat is often broken by tropical showers.

Temperature (°C)

Average Rainfall (mm)

 
What to Bring & What's Included

What to Bring

• A sense of fun and adventure!
• BYO drinks on non-licensed vessels (no glass bottles please)
• Beach towel, bathing suit and sunhat
• Practical clothing, footwear & sunscreen (min. 30+)
• Camera, batteries (+ film or memory cards)
• Please put all items in a small soft bag!  

What's Included

•  All fantastic meals prepared on board
•  Fresh linen
•  Free use of snorkelling equipment

FAQs

Getting to the Whitsundays

By Air:
To Whitsunday Coast Airport and then take "Whitsunday Transit" coach (own expense) to Airlie Beach or Shute Harbour. Alternatively, fly to Hamilton Island Airport and take the Blue Ferries (own expense) to Shute Harbour, then take the Whitsunday Transit coach into Airlie Beach. Island Air Taxis also offer a beautiful scenic connecting flight from Hamilton Island to the Whitsunday Coast Airport, from which its just a short taxi fare to Airlie Beach.

Virgin Blue services Whitsunday Coast airport with 1 direct flight per week on Saturdays from Sydney, and daily flights direct from Brisbane. www.virginblue.com.au

Jetstar airlines service Hamilton Island airport, with direct flights daily from Sydney and Brisbane. Jetstar also services Whitsunday Coast airport, with direct flights daily from Brisbane and twice per week direct from Sydney. www.jetstar.com.au

By Coach:
A number of express coach companies offer multiple daily services from most major cities to Airlie Beach, Whitsunday's. See www.greyhound.com.au and www.premierms.com.au.  Oz Experience has a number of great packages to show you the highlights of Australia. See www.ozexperience.com for further information on packages.

By Car:
Driving south from Cairns and north from Brisbane along the Bruce Highway, turn off at Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine) and follow the signs 26 km to Airlie Beach.

By Rail:
Whitsunday Coast (26km inland of Airlie Beach) is the rail link to the Whitsundays and Queensland Rail operate regular services. The new high-speed tilt train services the Whitsunday region. Call 13 22 32 for further information.

Meals / Allergies
The Operator has a great menu for you, however the Operator does need to be informed at Check-in if you have special dietary requirements. If you have any medical conditions/food allergies please advise at booking and again at Check-in.

Is there any water on the boat?
Yes, all the vessels have fresh tap water suitable for drinking. If you prefer bottled water you can purchase this on board most vessels. Remember to drink at least 2 litres of water per person per day!

Do I need to bring my own drinks?
Most vessels are BYO (Bring your own) alcohol, soft drinks, spring water, juice and chocolates. In some cases the vessels have a licenced bar on board which sell alcoholic and soft drinks at very reasonable prices and it is a legal requirement that alcohol is not brought on board by guests. Please check the vessel information for details.

Do I need a sleeping bag?
No, fresh linen is provided on all cruises and some vessels even provide bathroom towels. Check in will let you know if your vessel does. Blankets are available in the cooler months.

Can I have my own cabin?
Yes you can have your own cabin, just look for one of the vessels with this option, some with their own private facilities.

Are there jellyfish in the water?
Stinger Season in the Whitsundays runs every year from October through to May. During this period, jellyfish can be found in the waters around the mainland, islands and have occasionally been found out on the reef. It is worth taking some simple precautions so that you can enjoy your holiday with peace of mind.

The Operator highly reccommends wearing stinger suits all year round, some vessels make it compulsory for the safety of the guests. Not only are they for safety but they keep you warm in the water, act as sun protection and are a great aid for buoyancy while snorkelling. These can be supplied.

Whitsundays Sailing Adventures Charter Terms for travel between 01-Jan-2008 and 31-Dec-2015

Important information about your voyage
Prior to departure you will be required to sign an agreement with the operators of this vessel. Here is a summary of the terms and conditions:

Definitions
The following definitions apply for the Terms and Conditions for this vessel.
-  The Supplier or Operator means the operator who supplies this vessel to you on arrival.
-  The Client is also referred to as the renter (s) or hirer (s)

Ticket Terms
Terms and Conditions: All prices are in Australian dollars and are inclusive of GST and  National Park, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park entry fees and administration fees. Any additional hire equipment is payable on arrival. There is a 2.2% surcharge for credit card purchases.

Prices for this vessel are based on multi-share accommodation unless otherwise specified and include professional skipper and host, all meals, live-aboard accommodation, and use of snorkel equipment. Prices do not include airfares. Clients should note that adventure travel involves risk. Whilst every effort is made to safeguard guests, the Operator cannot be responsible for any damage, personal injury or loss due to the actions of passengers that are beyond control. All cruises are subject to weather and the Operator's discretion.

Cancellations:
The initial deposit paid is non-refundable. In addition to forfeiting your deposit, the following charges also apply:

Cancellations made less than 24 days before departure will result in complete forfeiture of full price. The Operator reserves the right to substitute vessels without notice at any time for any reason. 

The area is subject to sub-tropical weather conditions and sudden inclement weather could arise at anytime and the Operator reserves the right to cancel the vessels without notice. The Operator recommends you take out travel insurance to cover any costs and disruptions caused by such events. The Operator takes no responsibility for policies offered by insurers that do not cover for such events. When taking out travel insurance you need to check with their terms and conditions to ensure you have the correct cover.

At certain times of year ‘Dangerous’ jellyfish inhabit these waters and passengers should take care for their own safety. Passengers entering the water do so at their own risk and the owners or operators of the vessel will not be liable for any personal injury, illness, death or any other consequences whatsoever of passengers being stung by jellyfish’. Dive prices are subject to change but are correct at time of printing.

Vessel stand down procedure / policy
On occasions the vessel operators/owners will need to stand a vessel down due to maintenance, weather conditions, and low passenger numbers. As per our terms and conditions -

27.“The vessel operator reserve the right to substitute vessels or cancel cruises without notice at any time for any reason.”

28.“Cancellations and changes to the itinerary during the cruise due to weather, illness or to ensure passenger safety will not be refunded.”

• The vessel owner/operator should inform that the vessel will be stooddown before 5pm the night before the morning departure and before 09.30 for a lunchtime departure. If contact to the passengers cannot be made it may be necessary for operations staff to meet and help inform clients at the marina.
   
• Where possible, passengers will transferred onto a vessel within the same price / time frame and within the same fleet if possible. No transfer costs will be incurred by the passengers transferred onto another vessel within the same price/time frame and within the same fleet if possible.

• Overnight accommodation if needed or any additional costs incurred due to the standing down of a vessel will not be covered and should be claimed from your travel insurance provider.

PRIVATE CHARTER TERMS & CONDITIONS

Private Charter Deposits
The deposit for Private Charters is double to what is shown when you make your initial enquiry. When we have received your enquiry for a Private Charter an amended quote will be sent to you with the adjusted deposit amount for approval before proceeding.

Private Charter Balance Of Payment
The balance of payment for Private Charters after the deposit has been paid is 60 days prior to departure. This will also be amended and displayed on the adjusted quote when you make your initial enquiry.


Check in details:
Passengers must check in the day prior to departure between 11:30am-3:30pm.

Medical Requirements For Divers

To ensure your comfort and safety when diving, it is a requirement that you read the following questions carefully. If you answer yes to any of the questions, you will be required to obtain a Diver’s Medical Certificate. This certificate must be presented to your dive instructor prior to entering the water.

• Do you currently have an ear infection?
• Are you currently suffering from a cold, congestion, sinusitis or bronchitis?
• Have you had a collapsed lung (pneumothorax) or history of chest surgery?
• Do you have active asthma or history of emphysema or tuberculosis?
• Are you currently taking medication that carries a warning about any impairment of your physical or mental abilities?
• Do you have behavioral health problems or a nervous system disorder?
• Are you or could you be pregnant?
• Are you over 45 and have a family history of heart attack or stroke?
• Ear disease, hearing loss or problems with balance? Ear or sinus surgery?
• Respiratory problems, severe attack of hayfever or allergies, or lung disease?
• Colostomy?
• Heart disease or heart attack, heart surgery or blood vessel surgery?
• High blood pressure, angina, or take medication to control blood pressure?
• Bleeding or other blood disorders?
• Diabetes?
• Seizures, blackouts or fainting, convulsions or epilepsy or take medications to prevent them?
• Back, arm or leg problems following an injury, fracture or surgery?
• Fear of closed or open spaces or panic attacks (claustrophobia or agoraphobia)?

A doctor's medical certificate may be required for some medical conditions & without this you will not be able to dive.

Prices are per person in Australian dollars and are subject to change.

What to Bring & What's Included

What to Bring

• A sense of fun and adventure!
• BYO drinks on non-licensed vessels (no glass bottles please)
• Beach towel, bathing suit and sunhat
• Practical clothing, footwear & sunscreen (min. 30+)
• Camera, batteries (+ film or memory cards)
• Please put all items in a small soft bag!  

What's Included

•  All fantastic meals prepared on board
•  Fresh linen
•  Free use of snorkelling equipment

FAQs
Getting to the Whitsundays
By Air:
To Whitsunday Coast Airport and then take "Whitsunday Transit" coach (own expense) to Airlie Beach or Shute Harbour. Alternatively, fly to Hamilton Island Airport and take the Blue Ferries (own expense) to Shute Harbour, then take the Whitsunday Transit coach into Airlie Beach. Island Air Taxis also offer a beautiful scenic connecting flight from Hamilton Island to the Whitsunday Coast Airport, from which its just a short taxi fare to Airlie Beach.

Virgin Blue services Whitsunday Coast airport with 1 direct flight per week on Saturdays from Sydney, and daily flights direct from Brisbane. www.virginblue.com.au

Jetstar airlines service Hamilton Island airport, with direct flights daily from Sydney and Brisbane. Jetstar also services Whitsunday Coast airport, with direct flights daily from Brisbane and twice per week direct from Sydney. www.jetstar.com.au

By Coach:
A number of express coach companies offer multiple daily services from most major cities to Airlie Beach, Whitsunday's. See www.greyhound.com.au and www.premierms.com.au. 

By Car:
Driving south from Cairns and north from Brisbane along the Bruce Highway, turn off at Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine) and follow the signs 26 km to Airlie Beach.

By Rail:
Whitsunday Coast (26km inland of Airlie Beach) is the rail link to the Whitsundays and Queensland Rail operate regular services. The new high-speed tilt train services the Whitsunday region. Call 13 22 32 for further information.

Meals / Allergies
The Operator has a great menu for you, however the Operator does need to be informed at Check-in if you have special dietary requirements. If you have any medical conditions/food allergies please advise at booking and again at Check-in.

Is there any water on the boat?
Yes, this vessel has fresh tap water suitable for drinking. If you prefer bottled water you can purchase this on board most vessels. Remember to drink at least 2 litres of water per person per day!

Do I need a sleeping bag?
No, fresh linen is provided on all cruises and some vessels even provide bathroom towels. Check in will let you know if your vessel does. Blankets are available in the cooler months.

Can I have my own cabin?
Yes you can have your own cabin, just look for one of the vessels with this option, some with their own private facilities.

Are there jellyfish in the water?
Stinger Season in the Whitsundays runs every year from October through to May. During this period, jellyfish can be found in the waters around the mainland, islands and have occasionally been found out on the reef. It is worth taking some simple precautions so that you can enjoy your holiday with peace of mind.

All of the vessels supply stinger suits for the duration of the trip. It is highly recommended these be worn all year round, some vessels make it compulsory for the safety of the guests. Not only are they for safety but they keep you warm in the water, act as sun protection and are a great aid for buoyancy while snorkelling.

Do we need to pre book scuba dives?
No, both Certified divers and beginners. On the diving vessels and you visit the very best of the Whitsundays most famous diving locations. The favourites are Border Island, Mantaray Bay, Blue Pearl Bay, The Pinnacles, Butterfly Bay and Dumbell Island (weather permitting). All equipment is provided and will be suitable for experienced divers and those wanting to take the plunge for the first time.

Does the vessel supply wetsuits?
Yes and there is no extra cost.

Pre dive Information.
Onboard the vessel you will be asked to fill out a dive medical.
if you are concerned about any medical conditions you have please read the dive medical in advance.

Dive medicals
http://www.deir.qld.gov.au/pdf/whs/divecards_english2005.pdf

Dive Medicals in foreign languages
http://pan.search.qld.gov.au/search/search.cgi?query=snorkel+thai&collection=qld-gov&profile=deir&form=simple&num_ranks=10&tiers=off

No experience is necessary if you have never scuba dived before as long as you are in good physical health. If you wish to dive and are worried about some previous medical condition, then please allow time to get a dive medical from an Australian medical practice. (they can do this here at Airlie Beach for around $60).

The medical practices below on most occasions will be able to a dive medical with minimum notice.
To contact Australian Doctors in Airlie Beach:
The Doctors (07) 4948 0900 Located in the Main street Airlie Beach.
Or Whitsunday Doctors (07) 4946 6241 next to the Newsagent Shute Harbour Rd Airlie Beach.

Eco Friendly dive practices
1. Coral tissue is easily damaged, so don't touch any coral. Resist the temptation to touch other creatures. Some divers choose not to wear gloves, so they won't be tempted to grab the reef.

2. Passively observe organisms by floating in one spot Allow fish to swim past you.

3. Practice buoyancy skills in a pool or sandy area before diving near a coral reef.

4. Secure your gauges and equipment well to avoid accidental contact with the reef

5. Avoid swimming over the top of reef areas and try to remain in the sand channels between corals heads, which makes the contact with the reef much less likely.

6. Remain at least arms length from the reef unless your looking at something very carefully.

7. Avoid kicking up sand because this smothers corals when it settles and is stressful to other reef animals.

8. Always be aware of your body position in relation to the reef, especially your fins, and never stand on coral.

9. Avoid feeding reef fish. This may introduce unhealthy food items and disrupt their natural behaviour.

10. Don't collect souvenirs, including dead shells and coral rock because everything on the reef has a function and anything removed affects the reef ecosystem.

11. Use a camera to bring back memories to share, but keep a safe distance from the reef while taking pictures.

12. Encourage others to be aware of coral reef conservation and pass on your knowledge.

Dive medical in foreign languages: http://pan.search.qld.gov.au/search/search.cgi?query=snorkel+thai&collection=qld-gov&profile=deir&form=simple&num_ranks=10&tiers=off

Whitsundays Sailing Adventures Charter Terms for travel between 01-Jan-2008 and 31-Dec-2015

Important information about your voyage
Prior to departure you will be required to sign an agreement with the operators of this vessel. Here is a summary of the terms and conditions:

Definitions
The following definitions apply for the Terms and Conditions for this vessel.
-  The Supplier or Operator means the operator who supplies this vessel to you on arrival.
-  The Client is also referred to as the renter (s) or hirer (s)

Ticket Terms
Terms and Conditions: All prices are in Australian dollars and are inclusive of GST and  National Park, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park entry fees and administration fees. Any additional hire equipment is payable on arrival. There is a 2.2% surcharge for credit card purchases.

Prices for this vessel are based on multi-share accommodation unless otherwise specified and include professional skipper and host, all meals, live-aboard accommodation, and use of snorkel equipment. Prices do not include airfares. Clients should note that adventure travel involves risk. Whilst every effort is made to safeguard guests, the Operator cannot be responsible for any damage, personal injury or loss due to the actions of passengers that are beyond control. All cruises are subject to weather and the Operator's discretion.

Cancellations:
The initial deposit paid is non-refundable. In addition to forfeiting your deposit, the following charges also apply:

Cancellations made less than 24 days before departure will result in complete forfeiture of full price. The Operator reserves the right to substitute vessels without notice at any time for any reason. 

The area is subject to sub-tropical weather conditions and sudden inclement weather could arise at anytime, the Operator reserves the right to cancel the vessels without notice. The Operator recommends you take out travel insurance to cover any costs and disruptions caused by such events. The Operator takes no responsibility for policies offered by insurers that do not cover for such events. When taking out travel insurance you need to check their terms and conditions to ensure you have the correct cover.

At certain times of year ‘Dangerous’ jellyfish inhabit these waters and passengers should take care for their own safety. Passengers entering the water do so at their own risk and the owners or operators of the vessel will not be liable for any personal injury, illness, death or any other consequences whatsoever of passengers being stung by jellyfish’. Dive prices are subject to change but are correct at time of printing.

Vessel stand down procedure / policy
On occasions the vessel operators/owners will need to stand a vessel down due to maintenance, weather conditions, and low passenger numbers. As per our terms and conditions -

27.“The vessel operator reserve the right to substitute vessels or cancel cruises without notice at any time for any reason.”

28.“Cancellations and changes to the itinerary during the cruise due to weather, illness or to ensure passenger safety will not be refunded.”

• The vessel owner/operator should inform that the vessel will be stooddown before 5pm the night before the morning departure and before 09.30 for a lunchtime departure. If contact to the passengers cannot be made it may be necessary for operations staff to meet and help inform clients at the marina.
   
• Where possible, passengers will transferred onto a vessel within the same price / time frame and within the same fleet if possible. No transfer costs will be incurred by the passengers transferred onto another vessel within the same price/time frame and within the same fleet if possible.

• Overnight accommodation if needed or any additional costs incurred due to the standing down of a vessel will not be covered and should be claimed from your travel insurance provider.

PRIVATE CHARTER TERMS & CONDITIONS

Private Charter Deposits
The deposit for Private Charters is double to what is shown when you make your initial enquiry. When we have received your enquiry for a Private Charter an amended quote will be sent to you with the adjusted deposit amount for approval before proceeding.

Private Charter Balance Of Payment
The balance of payment for Private Charters after the deposit has been paid is 60 days prior to departure. This will also be amended and displayed on the adjusted quote when you make your initial enquiry.


Check in details:
Passengers must check in the day prior to departure between 11:30am-3:30pm.

Medical Requirements For Divers

To ensure your comfort and safety when diving, it is a requirement that you read the following questions carefully. If you answer yes to any of the questions, you will be required to obtain a Diver’s Medical Certificate. This certificate must be presented to your dive instructor prior to entering the water.

• Do you currently have an ear infection?
• Are you currently suffering from a cold, congestion, sinusitis or bronchitis?
• Have you had a collapsed lung (pneumothorax) or history of chest surgery?
• Do you have active asthma or history of emphysema or tuberculosis?
• Are you currently taking medication that carries a warning about any impairment of your physical or mental abilities?
• Do you have behavioral health problems or a nervous system disorder?
• Are you or could you be pregnant?
• Are you over 45 and have a family history of heart attack or stroke?
• Ear disease, hearing loss or problems with balance? Ear or sinus surgery?
• Respiratory problems, severe attack of hayfever or allergies, or lung disease?
• Colostomy?
• Heart disease or heart attack, heart surgery or blood vessel surgery?
• High blood pressure, angina, or take medication to control blood pressure?
• Bleeding or other blood disorders?
• Diabetes?
• Seizures, blackouts or fainting, convulsions or epilepsy or take medications to prevent them?
• Back, arm or leg problems following an injury, fracture or surgery?
• Fear of closed or open spaces or panic attacks (claustrophobia or agoraphobia)?

A doctor's medical certificate may be required for some medical conditions & without this you will not be able to dive.

Prices are per person in Australian dollars and are subject to change.

What to Bring & What's Included

What to Bring

• A sense of fun and adventure!
• BYO drinks on non-licensed vessels (no glass bottles please)
• Beach towel, bathing suit and sunhat
• Practical clothing, footwear & sunscreen (min. 30+)
• Camera, batteries (+ film or memory cards)
• Please put all items in a small soft bag!  

What's Included

•  All fantastic meals prepared on board
•  Fresh linen
•  Free use of snorkelling equipment

FAQs
Getting to the Whitsundays
By Air:
To Whitsunday Coast Airport and then take "Whitsunday Transit" coach (own expense) to Airlie Beach or Shute Harbour. Alternatively, fly to Hamilton Island Airport and take the Blue Ferries (own expense) to Shute Harbour, then take the Whitsunday Transit coach into Airlie Beach. Island Air Taxis also offer a beautiful scenic connecting flight from Hamilton Island to the Whitsunday Coast Airport, from which its just a short taxi fare to Airlie Beach.

Virgin Blue services Whitsunday Coast airport with 1 direct flight per week on Saturdays from Sydney, and daily flights direct from Brisbane. www.virginblue.com.au

Jetstar airlines service Hamilton Island airport, with direct flights daily from Sydney and Brisbane. Jetstar also services Whitsunday Coast airport, with direct flights daily from Brisbane and twice per week direct from Sydney. www.jetstar.com.au

By Coach:
A number of express coach companies offer multiple daily services from most major cities to Airlie Beach, Whitsunday's. See www.greyhound.com.au and www.premierms.com.au. 

By Car:
Driving south from Cairns and north from Brisbane along the Bruce Highway, turn off at Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine) and follow the signs 26 km to Airlie Beach.

By Rail:
Whitsunday Coast (26km inland of Airlie Beach) is the rail link to the Whitsundays and Queensland Rail operate regular services. The new high-speed tilt train services the Whitsunday region. Call 13 22 32 for further information.

Meals / Allergies
The Operator has a great menu for you, however the Operator does need to be informed at Check-in if you have special dietary requirements. If you have any medical conditions/food allergies please advise at booking and again at Check-in.

Is there any water on the boat?
Yes, this vessel has fresh tap water suitable for drinking. If you prefer bottled water you can purchase this on board most vessels. Remember to drink at least 2 litres of water per person per day!

Do I need a sleeping bag?
No, fresh linen is provided on all cruises and some vessels even provide bathroom towels. Check in will let you know if your vessel does. Blankets are available in the cooler months.

Can I have my own cabin?
Yes you can have your own cabin, just look for one of the vessels with this option, some with their own private facilities.

Are there jellyfish in the water?
Stinger Season in the Whitsundays runs every year from October through to May. During this period, jellyfish can be found in the waters around the mainland, islands and have occasionally been found out on the reef. It is worth taking some simple precautions so that you can enjoy your holiday with peace of mind.

All of the vessels supply stinger suits for the duration of the trip. It is highly recommended these be worn all year round, some vessels make it compulsory for the safety of the guests. Not only are they for safety but they keep you warm in the water, act as sun protection and are a great aid for buoyancy while snorkelling.

Do we need to pre book scuba dives?
No, both Certified divers and beginners. On the diving vessels and you visit the very best of the Whitsundays most famous diving locations. The favourites are Border Island, Mantaray Bay, Blue Pearl Bay, The Pinnacles, Butterfly Bay and Dumbell Island (weather permitting). All equipment is provided and will be suitable for experienced divers and those wanting to take the plunge for the first time.

Does the vessel supply wetsuits?
Yes and there is no extra cost.

Pre dive Information.
Onboard the vessel you will be asked to fill out a dive medical.
if you are concerned about any medical conditions you have please read the dive medical in advance.

Dive medicals
http://www.deir.qld.gov.au/pdf/whs/divecards_english2005.pdf

Dive Medicals in foreign languages
http://pan.search.qld.gov.au/search/search.cgi?query=snorkel+thai&collection=qld-gov&profile=deir&form=simple&num_ranks=10&tiers=off

No experience is necessary if you have never scuba dived before as long as you are in good physical health. If you wish to dive and are worried about some previous medical condition, then please allow time to get a dive medical from an Australian medical practice. (they can do this here at Airlie Beach for around $60).

The medical practices below on most occasions will be able to a dive medical with minimum notice.
To contact Australian Doctors in Airlie Beach:
The Doctors (07) 4948 0900 Located in the Main street Airlie Beach.
Or Whitsunday Doctors (07) 4946 6241 next to the Newsagent Shute Harbour Rd Airlie Beach.

Eco Friendly dive practices
1. Coral tissue is easily damaged, so don't touch any coral. Resist the temptation to touch other creatures. Some divers choose not to wear gloves, so they won't be tempted to grab the reef.

2. Passively observe organisms by floating in one spot Allow fish to swim past you.

3. Practice buoyancy skills in a pool or sandy area before diving near a coral reef.

4. Secure your gauges and equipment well to avoid accidental contact with the reef

5. Avoid swimming over the top of reef areas and try to remain in the sand channels between corals heads, which makes the contact with the reef much less likely.

6. Remain at least arms length from the reef unless your looking at something very carefully.

7. Avoid kicking up sand because this smothers corals when it settles and is stressful to other reef animals.

8. Always be aware of your body position in relation to the reef, especially your fins, and never stand on coral.

9. Avoid feeding reef fish. This may introduce unhealthy food items and disrupt their natural behaviour.

10. Don't collect souvenirs, including dead shells and coral rock because everything on the reef has a function and anything removed affects the reef ecosystem.

11. Use a camera to bring back memories to share, but keep a safe distance from the reef while taking pictures.

12. Encourage others to be aware of coral reef conservation and pass on your knowledge.

Dive medical in foreign languages: http://pan.search.qld.gov.au/search/search.cgi?query=snorkel+thai&collection=qld-gov&profile=deir&form=simple&num_ranks=10&tiers=off

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