The 100 magic miles of the Whitsundays is the introduction to the cruising world for many Australian sailors. The 128 anchorages of the 74 islands of the group, all protected to windward by the Great Barrier Reef, offer a host of opportunities to sit back and relax.

The Whitsundays as a yacht charter destination is the most popular place within Australia for yacht charter enthusiasts and beginners alike. The Whitsunday Islands are situated on the north east coast of Queensland next to the Great Barrier Reef which is a World Heritage National Park.  It is famous for its perfect sailing conditions, beautiful scenery, ideal weather conditions and unique marine life.

These stunning waters, sheltered by the Great Barrier Reef, are by no doubt one of the best diving and snorkelling regions in the world.  There are 74 islands in the Whitsundays all within close distance to each other, making a sheltered anchorage never more than 1 or 2 hours away.  There are two main marinas in the region – Hamilton Island Marina and Abel Point Marina – and a variety of other resorts you may wish to stop off at along the way.  Hamilton Island is in the middle of the cruising area and with a jet airport located here it makes it an ideal place to start your yacht charter.

The Whitsundays is an all year round yachting destination however there is a monsoon season during the summer months (November – March) and the area can experience cyclones although this is very rare.  The climate is warm all year round and the temperatures do not vary a great deal – usually staying in the late twenties.    During the months of July and August be sure to keep a look out for the hump back whales who come to the region to breed.

Or for the more serious sailor why not charter a yacht and enter into the Hamilton Island Race Week.