Airlie Beach & Whitsunday Cruises

If you’re taking a cruise to the Whitsundays from Airlie Beach, it typically takes 1 hour to reach your destination if you’re travelling aboard a high-speed vessel. However, slower-paced sailing adventures can take anywhere from 2-4 hours depending on where you’re going in the Whitsundays and what the wind speed is like on the day of your trip. 

As a large group of islands in the Coral Sea, the best way to explore the Whitsundays is by boat, which is why there are so many cruise and sailing trips departing Airlie Beach every day! These trips allow you to see everything that makes this stunning island paradise so special, from its colourful reefs to its white sandy beaches and lush green forests. 

With its idyllic conditions, you’re almost guaranteed to have a pleasant sailing experience no matter what time of year you choose to explore the Whitsundays. However, many seasoned sailors favour sailing out to the Whitsundays between late September and early November due to the trade winds that occur during this period. 

If you’re sailing from Airlie Beach to the Whitsundays, your trip will depart from one of two marinas. The first is the Port of Airlie Marina, which can be found along the outskirts of Airlie’s Main Street. The second is the Coral Sea Marina, which is located at the other end of town just off Shute Harbour Road.