← Airlie Beach cruise guide
scenic · Airlie Beach

Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet: Reef & Sail Whitsunday Icons

Sail to the world's most spectacular silica-sand beach and witness the swirling tidal art of Hill Inlet Lookout — a double-header that defines the Whitsundays. This is the one experience every visitor to Airlie Beach must do.

What to expect

Board a high-speed sailing catamaran from Coral Sea Marina and skim across the Coral Sea to Whitehaven Beach, where 7 km of 98% pure silica sand squeaks underfoot and the water runs an impossible shade of aquamarine. Hike to Hill Inlet Lookout for the iconic swirling sandbars view, then snorkel pristine fringing reef with expert marine naturalists before sailing home. Catering, snorkelling gear, and a cold drink on the return leg are all included.

Book it with
Cruise Whitsundays
AUD 495 per person (Reef & Sail – The Whitsunday Icons combo)
Book it →

Good to know

Pre-book directly with Cruise Whitsundays well in advance — this tour sells out. Departures are from Coral Sea Marina, a short transfer from the cruise tender wharf. Confirm the all-aboard time with your ship and choose the morning departure to guarantee ample time back at port.

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at Airlie Beach — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Azamara · Azamara Pursuit
20 nights · calls at Airlie Beach
from $4,587
View sailing →
Regent · Seven Seas Navigator
12 nights · calls at Airlie Beach
from $6,499
View sailing →
Regent · Seven Seas Mariner
14 nights · calls at Airlie Beach
from $9,499
View sailing →
Regent · Seven Seas Explorer
12 nights · calls at Airlie Beach
from $10,299
View sailing →
See all cruises to Airlie Beach →
← Back to the full Airlie Beach guide

⚓ Your bucket-list concierge

Doing the whole cruise?

Tell us your sailing and we'll send the bucket list for every port — the operator to call, real prices, and an honest verdict on each ship tour.

No spam. The honest plan, even when it says skip the ship’s tour.