The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven wonders of the natural world. It is larger than the Great Wall of China and the only living thing on earth visible from space.

The Great Barrier Reef is considered one of Australia's most remarkable natural gifts, blessed with the breathtaking beauty of the world's largest coral reef.

Take the time to cruise and explore it in the best way possible, on a superyacht!

Whitsunday Islands

Some of the better-known idyllic destinations include world famous island resorts such as Hayman, recognised as one of the Leading Hotels of the World, and Hamilton which has just opened Qualia Resort a six star luxury establishment.

There are many other beautiful islands with resorts in the Whitsundays including: Daydream, South Molle, Long, Hook, Lindeman, Brampton & Keswick, and an abundance of other un-inhabited islands.

There are secluded coves, private bays, wooded peninsulas and tropical warm waters to enjoy. The island resorts also offer activities such as: reef joyflights, scuba diving expeditions, reef snorkelling, deep sea fishing and water skiing just to name a few.

Mackay

Situated on latitude 21°07' South and longitude 149°14' East, Mackay is a vibrant exciting tropical city, booming from the richness of sugar and mining. Early pioneers brought sugar cane to the region and began an industry that has become one of Australia's largest. Within a decade of settlement, Mackay became Queensland's largest sugar producing area and still is! Mackay grew with its industries. As sugar boomed so did the frontier town developing into a vibrant city offering good restaurants and shopping, a relaxing marina villlage and glorious beaches.

Mackay boasts beautiful mild weather year around and with a good climate and environment the area soon attracted families, and today more than 75,000 people live in Mackay. Nestled between ancient national parks, enchanting rainforests in the hinterland and islands and beaches by the sea, Mackay is a great place to start cruising.

Mackay is a Port of Entry for Australian Customs Clearance. The Mackay Marina Village and Shipyard offer comfort for vessels as well as a lively atmosphere.There are several restaurants, a Yacht Club, a hotel and shops as well as hair and beauty salons.

There are plenty of activities to entertain you including: bush walking, fishing, arts, culture, shopping, entertainment, tennis, golfing, bird watching, beaches, and islands for sunbathing, snorkeling and water sports.

Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is situated on the coastline 22km from Proserpine and north of Mackay. With Abel Point Marina central to the middle of town, it is a great place to bring owners, guests and crew before setting off to cruise the reef. What was once a small beach side town is now a fantastic shopping, dining and entertainment retreat. Airlie Beach provides a desirable destination for family holidays, romantic stays and weekend escapes.

Airlie Beach has a selection of restaurants offering international cuisine. There are numerous shopping centres and the many pubs, clubs and bars providing a buzzing nightlife.

Visit the markets on Saturday mornings along the Airlie Beach esplanade. Head into the rainforest for walks or visit the crocodiles in their habitat. Take a scenic flight and see everything from the air - don't miss heart reef from above!

Climate

The Whitsunday Islands are situated on latitude 20° 4' South and longitude 148° 5' East; the same latitude as Rio de Janeiro, Mauritius and Tahiti. The climate is tropical with an average daily temperature of 27°C. January is the warmest month averaging 30°C and July the coolest month averaging 23°C. Highest rainfall is usually recorded in February with October traditionally the driest month of the year.

Transport

Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Islands can be accessed via Hamilton Island Airport or the Whitsunday Coast Airport (Proserpine). Virgin Blue, Jetstar and Qantas have daily flights throughout Australia and local ferry transfers make crossing to other islands or the mainland very easy.

Mackay also has many daily flights. With adequate notice the region's airports may also cater for private jets.

There is also the option to hire a chauffeur driven limousine, rent a car, or hire a taxi once you arrive in the Whitsundays.

To transport your superyacht to Australia from Europe or America, please see Dockwise Transport Link

Please view the below links to learn more about the region:

Tourism Whitsundays

Tourism Mackay