The Whitehaven Beach Ferry by Mandalay Cruises offers a full-day return transfer from Shute Harbour to the southern end of Whitehaven Beach, cruising through the heart of the Whitsunday Islands aboard a beautifully restored timber vessel. Ideal for travellers seeking a relaxed, unguided experience, this ferry provides shaded seating, onboard amenities, and flexible beach access.
Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours before departure and get a full refund
9 hour Experience
Check-in: 7:30 am. Depart 8:00 am. Returns 5pm
1 Ticket Option
Ferry Transfer to Whitehaven Beach From Shute Harbour
Ticket Options
Ferry Transfer To Whitehaven Beach and Return
From $125 Adult | $100 Child
- Classic Timber Ferry
- South Whitehaven Beach Only
- Must bring own lunch and snacks
- Maximum beach relaxation time
- Self guided – This is just a ferry transfer)
- Departs Shute Harbour ( make own way)
- No tours, no guides, and no park entry activities are included — guests explore independently.
Everything You Need to Know
- Departure Point: Shute Harbour Marine Terminal – Lot 296 Whitsunday Dr, Shute Harbour QLD
- Check-In Time: 7:30 AM sharp for 8:00 AM departure
- Vessel: Classic vintage timber ferry with shaded seating, restrooms, and bar/snack service
- Duration: 9-hour full-day experience (approx. 2.5 hours each way)
- Destination: Southern end of Whitehaven Beach (intertidal zone)
- Experience Type: Unguided and self-paced – no structured tours or itineraries
- Return Pickup: Begins from 2:00 PM, with all passengers onboard by 2:30 PM
- Return Arrival: Back at Shute Harbour by approximately 5:00 PM
- Onboard Options: Optional stinger suit and snorkel gear hire available
- Suitable For: Families, solo travellers, couples – not wheelchair accessible
- Getting There: Local buses available from Airlie Beach to Shute Harbour (approx. $0.50)
- What to Bring: BYO lunch, towel, sunscreen, water, swimwear
- Maximum Capacity: Up to 150 guests per trip
- Flexibility: Guests may return to the ferry at any time for shade, rest, or refreshments
Important Information
- This is a ferry transfer, not a guided tour. There are no tour guides or structured activities included — your time at Whitehaven Beach is completely self-directed.
- No food or drinks are provided. You must bring your own lunch, snacks, and plenty of water for the day.
- Departure is from Shute Harbour, not Airlie Beach. The terminal is located 12km from Airlie Beach. You’ll need to drive or take a public bus to arrive by 7:00 AM.
- Public transport is available. Local Whitsunday Transit buses run from Airlie Beach to Shute Harbour every 30 minutes in the morning. The fare is approximately $0.50.
- Plan ahead. Late arrivals may miss the ferry and no refunds are issued for missed departures.
DAY TOURS
OVERNIGHT TOURS
ACTIVITIES
Accommodation
Author: Nath J
Nath J is a Whitsundays Tourism expert with over two decades of industry experience, beginning in 2001. Key roles have included Operations Manager at Tallarook Sail and Dive and founder of Ripple Effect Online. Nath J has delivered workshops on direct tourism bookings and authored the ebook, "Whitsunday Islands: A Journey through Paradise." Certifications include "Whitsundays Tourism Hero" and "Respecting First Nations Cultural Protocols in Australia" from the Queensland Tourism Industry Council. Testimonials from regional tourism businesses highlight a unique and genuine approach to tourism marketing.