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7 Best Whitsunday Boat Tours and Why They Stand Out

Updated 16th May 2025 by Nath J

Whether you’re chasing pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, or the thrill of the open ocean, the Whitsundays offers a tour for every traveller. But with so many options, how do you know which one’s right for you? We’ve done the hard work—here are the 7 best Whitsundays boat tours, ranked for their unique value, comfort, and experience.

1. ZigZag Whitsundays Day Tour (Super Flyer)

ZigZag Whitsundasy offers a range of Airlie Beach Tours

Best for all travellers, including families, flexibility, and comfort
This tour sets the benchmark for versatility. ZigZag’s Super Flyer is the only boat that lets guests choose between two ticket types, snorkel or beach-only, so families and mixed groups can stay together on the same tour boat!

The experience includes:
– Free tickets for children under 3
– Pram-friendly boarding
– Air-conditioned comfort
– 3 change rooms and shaded lounges
Exclusive beach water taxi service: come and go from Whitehaven Beach as you like.

No other tour offers this level of freedom and inclusivity. Ideal for all ages.

Book ZigZag Whitsundays for the most adaptable Whitehaven day out.

2. Ocean Rafting Northern Exposure Tour

Best for thrill-seekers and reef lovers
Ride a high-powered semi-rigid raft through the Whitsundays and reach two snorkelling sites plus the swirling sands of Hill Inlet.
Ocean Rafting holds a special permit to access the inner inlet—few tours can get you that close to the postcard-perfect view.
This one’s fast, wild, and filled with natural wonders.
Check Ocean Rafting availability and secure a seat on the inside track.

3. Camira Sailing Adventure

camira Whitsundays at Whitehaven Beach Whitsunday Islands

Best for sailing, scenery, and all-inclusive fun
Step aboard Camira, the fastest commercial sailing catamaran in the Whitsundays. It’s spacious, stylish, and fully catered.
Enjoy:
– Snorkelling
– Beach time at Whitehaven
– Buffet lunch and drinks
All while slicing through the Coral Sea under full sail.
Learn more about Camira and set your sights on smooth sailing.

4. Big Fury Whitsundays

Big Fury Whitsundays Boat Tour

Best for beach lovers who want to see it all
Big Fury is built for speed and comfort, delivering you to both the north and south ends of Whitehaven Beach—a claim no other tour can make.
Plus, you get a guided Hill Inlet walk and a snorkelling stop on the same day.
Book Big Fury Whitsundays for a big day of variety.

» That’s the best day tours now, let’s explore the top Whitsundays boat tours that offer accommodation on the boat over multiple days.

5. Avatar Whitsundays (2D/2N)

Avatar Whitsundays Overnight sailing tour on a trimaran

Best for stability and social vibes
As the only commercial trimaran sailing the region, Avatar offers a stable and spacious deck perfect for sunbathing, relaxing, and meeting new mates.
It’s an ideal pick for backpackers and travellers wanting a chill-but-lively overnight adventure.
Explore Avatar’s route and join the fun.

6. Hammer Whitsundays (2D/2N)

Hammer Whitsundays yacht tour

Best for hands-on sailing and speed
Originally a racing maxi yacht, Hammer brings speed and adrenaline to your overnight trip.
Help hoist sails or just enjoy the ride as you visit Whitehaven Beach and snorkel top reef sites.
It’s fast, interactive, and full of character.
See Hammer’s availability and get ready to sail like a pro.

7. Broomstick Whitsundays (2D/2N)

the sailing deck on the yacht named Broomstick whitsundays

Best for fun crews and high-performance sailing
Broomstick is all about energy and atmosphere. This racing yacht attracts a younger crowd and has a reputation for having one of the most fun, experienced crews on the water.
You’ll hit all the scenic hotspots and snorkelling locations, but it’s the people onboard who make this tour memorable.
Book your bunk on Broomstick and sail the Whitsundays with legends.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all in the Whitsundays, but whether you want flexibility, thrills, sailing, or overnight island hopping, these seven tours consistently deliver the best experiences in the region. Pick Whitsundays boat tours that fit your style, and you’ll be rewarded with memories for life.

 

Day Tours

If you want to visit the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach, or the Great Barrier Reef, see all the day tours here.

Overnight Tours

Overnight sailing tours are very popular with the backpacker market. See our list of overnight tours today.

Activities

Check out the best activities available around Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays.

Accommodation

Check out the best activities available around Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays.

74 Whitsunday Islands Queensland Australia
Nath J
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.