Whitsundays: Nature’s Ultimate Playground

Sail the Whitsundays

Embark on a budget-friendly, backpacker sailing adventure through the breathtaking Whitsunday Islands. Enjoy turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and unforgettable moments as you snorkel vibrant reefs, explore hidden coves, and relax on the iconic Whitehaven Beach.

This laid-back trip is designed for young, social travellers and includes all meals on board, snorkelling gear, and a fun, like-minded crew. Days are spent soaking up the sun and sea, while nights bring stories under the stars, chilled tunes, and that carefree Whitsundays vibe.

What travellers are saying:
“No words for how unreal this was. The sunsets, the snorkelling, the people – best part of my whole trip!” – @backpacking_bella
“Felt like a dream. We swam with turtles, danced on the deck, and saw stars like I’ve never seen before.” – @max_on_the_move
“Whitsundays boat trip = core memory unlocked. Would do it again in a heartbeat.” – @nomadic_joe

Departing from Sydney or Cairns, this flexible East Coast add-on is the perfect fit for your Aussie adventure. Book your spot now or chat with us to customise your route. Bring your mates—group discounts available!

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which trip to take?

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Follow the lead and experience what you see! Either book below or tailor your trip with a free consultation today.

Three women smiling and waving while swimming near a large sailboat named Atlantic Clipper on calm water with distant hills in the background.

— Hannah J, April 2023

“Had such a good time onboard the Atlantic Clipper! The crew did their absolute best in every aspect: the food was good, there were a lot of water activities (slides, paddle boards, snorkeling and diving, music quizzes etc)... I totally recommend going with the Atlantic Clipper if you want to spend two nights in the Whitsundays!” - tripadvisor.com
Honestly, this trip was one of the wildest highlights of my East Coast adventure.
I booked the Atlantic Clipper not fully knowing what to expect—just that it had a reputation. And wow... it lived up to the hype. Think: two full days sailing through the Whitsundays with a boat full of legends, diving off the top deck, hitting water slides straight into turquoise ocean, and crashing on Whitehaven Beach for the most unreal sunset of my life.
The crew kept the energy high the whole time, the food was way better than I expected (they even catered for my veggie mate), and every hour was either chill or full-on chaos—in the best way. Snorkelling reefs, paddleboarding, dancing on deck, night swims... it was just non-stop.
If you’re travelling solo, this is the trip to meet people. I made friends I’ve since road-tripped with up to Cairns. The vibes are social, inclusive, and let’s be real—there’s a bit of party on board too if that’s your thing.
I’d do it again in a heartbeat. Just book it.
🌴 Destinations & Activities:
- Sail through the Whitsunday Islands, visiting iconic spots like Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout.
- Snorkel vibrant coral reefs within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
- Enjoy onboard activities such as:
  - Two water slides, including an 8-meter inflatable slide.
  - A 6-meter dive platform.
  - Stand-up paddleboarding.
  - A 12-person hot tub.
  - Beach games and guided bushwalks
🛏️ Accommodation & Amenities:
- Air-conditioned cabins with options for 2, 3, or 4 berths.
- Fresh linen, sheets, blankets, and pillows provided.
- Five hot showers and seven toilets onboard.
- Spacious indoor saloon and shaded outdoor areas for relaxation.
🍽️ Meals & Beverages:
- All meals freshly prepared onboard, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.
- Special dietary requirements catered for upon request.
- Tea, coffee, and drinking water available.
- BYO alcohol (no glass bottles); large cold storage provided.
🧰 Equipment & Safety:
- Use of snorkelling gear and stinger/wetsuits.
- Flotation devices available.
- Experienced and friendly crew
  💸 Optional Extras
- Scuba Diving: Introductory and certified dives available at an additional cost (approx. $99 per dive).
- Soft Drinks & Snacks: Available for purchase onboard.
- Luggage Storage: Available at the marina for a small fee.

Two women jumping off the side of a sailboat into the water, with a slide attached to the boat, on a sunny day at the lake.

— Jonathon L, Melbourne

“Had the best time on this trip. If you’re unsure about whether to book this or not—do it! I went solo... Amazing people and amazing crew who brought everyone together to have the best 2 days.”
- tripadvisor.co.uk
Honestly, this trip was one of the wildest highlights of my East Coast adventure.
I booked the Atlantic Clipper not fully knowing what to expect—just that it had a reputation. And wow... it lived up to the hype. Think: two full days sailing through the Whitsundays with a boat full of legends, diving off the top deck, hitting water slides straight into turquoise ocean, and crashing on Whitehaven Beach for the most unreal sunset of my life.
The crew kept the energy high the whole time, the food was way better than I expected (they even catered for my veggie mate), and every hour was either chill or full-on chaos—in the best way. Snorkelling reefs, paddleboarding, dancing on deck, night swims... it was just non-stop.
If you’re travelling solo, this is the trip to meet people. I made friends I’ve since road-tripped with up to Cairns. The vibes are social, inclusive, and let’s be real—there’s a bit of party on board too if that’s your thing.
I’d do it again in a heartbeat. Just book it.
🚤 Sailing Adventure Highlights:
- 2 days, 2 nights exploring the Whitsunday Islands
- Visit to Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet Lookout
- Multiple snorkelling stops on the fringing reefs of the Great Barrier Reef
- Stand-up paddleboarding & waterslide fun
- Bushwalks and beach time
🍽️ Meals & Accommodation:
- All meals freshly prepared on board (vegetarian options available)
- Tea, coffee, and drinking water
- Air-conditioned cabins and dorm-style accommodation
- Clean linen and pillows provided
🎉 Onboard Experience:
- Social atmosphere ideal for backpackers (ages 18–35)
- Chill-out areas, beanbags, music, and games
- BYO alcohol (no glass bottles)
🏊 Gear & Safety:
- Snorkelling gear and wetsuits
- Stand-up paddleboards
- Safety briefing and trained crew onboard
🚫 Not Included (Typically):
- Scuba diving (available as an optional extra)
- Alcohol (BYO only)
- Soft drinks and snacks (some available to purchase)
- Luggage storage at the marina (optional fee)

People sitting on the edge of a sailboat, enjoying a day on the water with clear blue skies and distant mountains.

— Lisa K , May 2024

If you're after an unforgettable sailing experience through the Whitsundays, the Broomstick tour is a must-do. Over 2 days and 2 nights, you'll explore pristine beaches, snorkel vibrant reefs, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow travelers aboard this ex-racing maxi yacht.
The crew—like Tommy, Claire, and Mathias—are not only skilled sailors but also fantastic hosts who make everyone feel welcome. Whether you're traveling solo or with friends, the atmosphere is both relaxed and social, striking the perfect balance between adventure and downtime.
Expect delicious meals, comfortable accommodations, and the chance to witness marine life like dolphins, turtles, and even manta rays. The itinerary includes iconic spots such as Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout, ensuring you capture those postcard-perfect moments.
One of the best things I’ve done on the East Coast.
I jumped on the Broomstick sailing trip not really knowing what to expect—and it turned out to be epic. We spent two nights cruising around the Whitsundays, snorkelling in crystal-clear water, paddleboarding at sunset, and hitting up Whitehaven Beach (yes, it really is that white).
The crew were absolute legends, the food was way better than I expected, and the group vibe was super chill. Everyone was there for a good time, and it honestly felt like a floating hostel full of new mates.
Everything's included—gear, meals, good times—and you just bring your own drinks. If you're backpacking the East Coast, this trip’s a must.
🌴 Adventure & Destinations:
- 2 days, 2 nights sailing the stunning Whitsunday Islands
- Visit to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout
- Multiple snorkelling stops on fringing reefs of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
- Bushwalks and beach time at secluded island spots
- Authentic sailing experience aboard a fast ex-racing maxi yacht
🏄 Gear & Activities:
- Snorkelling gear and wetsuits provided
- Stand-up paddleboards
- Small group experience (usually fewer than 20–25 guests) for a more chilled and personal vibe
- Trained, experienced, and super friendly crew
🍽️ Meals & Drinks:
- All meals included: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners + snacks
- Tea, coffee, and filtered drinking water available
- Special dietary requirements catered for (with notice)
- BYO alcohol (esky/fridge onboard for storage – no glass)
🛏️ Accommodation & Comfort:
- Comfortable single or double bunks in shared cabins
- Fresh linen and pillows provided
- Onboard bathrooms with hot showers
- Shaded areas for relaxing on deck and sunny spots for tanning
💸 Optional Extras / Not Included
- Soft drinks & extra snacks (can bring your own)
- Luggage storage at the marina (for a small fee)
- Scuba diving is not offered on Broomstick—focus is on sailing, snorkelling, and beach time
- No Wi-Fi (but that’s part of the magic)

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