Sailing Holidays in Queensland's Whitsundays
Australia’s Answer to the Caribbean – Only Better
There are few places on earth to compare with the Whitsundays for sailing. From experienced sailors to those only just discovering the joys of this timeless pursuit, the Whitsundays offer the perfect location to harness the breeze and enjoy this spectacular part of the world under sail.
The islands of the Whitsundays are considered by many to be Australia’s answer to the Caribbean – only better. Every one of the 74 islands that make up the Whitsundays, plus the Great Barrier Reef and a sizeable chunk of the mainland lie within a 30 nautical mile radius of Hamilton Island.
Hotels, Resorts and Accommodation on Hamilton Island
Before or after your sailing adventure relax and unwind on Hamilton Island. Hamilton Island's range of accommodation has something for every type of holiday. Whether you are looking to indulge in complete luxury at qualia, enjoy beachside accommodation at Beach Club or relax in your own island bungalow, Hamilton Island accommodation is all about choice.
- qualia - Hamilton Island's luxuriously appointed resort on the northern most tip of the island
- Beach Club - a adults only retreat perfectly suited to romantic getaways. Privately located overlooking Catseye Beach
- Reef View Hotel - 4 star accommodation overlooking Catseye Beach
- Palm Bungalows - free standing tropical island bungalows. Affordable accommodation in a romantic setting
- Holiday Rentals – 1 - 4 bedroom holiday rentals scattered across the island
World Class Facilities for Sailors and Yachties
The iconic Hamilton Island Yacht Club is a destination for those who appreciate international boating excellence. Inspired by the rich colours of the Coral Sea and the soaring silhouette of full sails, the Hamilton Island Yacht Club is the home of sailing in the Whitsundays.
Hamilton Island offers sailors a base to explore the Whitsunday Islands catering for every type of vessel. There are 205 berths, all well protected in the case of bad weather and with access to first-class marina facilities.
Stay and Sail
An increasingly popular option for sailors wanting to explore the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef is the stay-and-sail option. Fly direct to Hamilton Island from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Cairns and stay for one or two nights before going out on your cruise. Then, when you return, you have the option to stay another couple of nights before flying home.
Sunsail, based on Hamilton Island offers yacht charters 365 days per year. Choose either one of their monohulls or catamarans ranging in size from 32 ft to 50 ft, set your own itinerary (or allow one of their highly experienced skippers to take you to the best areas) and explore the delights of locations such as Whitehaven Beach at your own pace.
Hamilton Island Sailing School
For those with little to no sailing experience, Sunsail on Hamilton Island offers the chance to gain an internationally recognised professional qualification whilst exploring the tropical waters of the Whitsundays. Sailing schools are run every week of the year and depart from Hamilton Island Marina.
The Bare Essentials
It would be almost impossible to do everything on even an extended visit to Hamilton Island and tbe Great Barrier Reef, but for those wanting to get a good 'feel' for the area, below are some essential elements to any sailing holiday on Hamilton Island.
Charter your own yacht or join an experienced skipper to explore the 74 Whitsunday Islands. Read more about Sunsail Yacht Charters
Complete a fully certified learn to sail course on Hamilton Island whilst exploring the tropical Whitsundays.
A sailing icon in the Whitsundays. Offering sailors from all over the world first class facilities whilst sailing in the Whitsundays. About Hamilton Island Yacht Club.
Your base to explore the Whitsunday Islands is Hamilton Island Marina. First class marina facilities in the heart of the Whitsunday Islands.