Cruising Itineraries
The Whitsunday Mackay region offers superb cruising grounds and 74 magnificent islands of untouched paradise, making it the superyacht destination of choice in the South Pacific.
Just imagine cruising in complete luxury onboard a superyacht with the turquoise warm waters lapping against the boat, surrounded by a calm wind and exotic colours, swaying corals and magnificent marine life. All whilst holding a cold, refreshing cocktail on the deck, to watch the blazing red and orange sky fall. Where else... but the Whitsundays!
Documents for review:
- Zoning plan
- Plans of management
- Waste disposal regulations
- Anchoring requirements
- Compulsory pilotage regulations
- Best environmental practice
- Whale and dolphin watching regulations
Notice to Mariners/Charts/Legislation please visit www.msq.qld.gov.au.
The Great Barrier Reef is the most protected natural asset of Australia and is therefore regulated to ensure marine park sustainability. It is adviseable to research www.gbrmpa.gov.au before each visit.
GBRMPA contacts (enter "superyachts" in search function)
P: +61 7 4750 0775
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Website: www.gbrmpa.gov.au
Weather and Tidal information
Consideration of the tide should be given prior to planning an itinerary and passage for the day. The tidal ranges can be anywhere between 0.05m and 4.5m at spring tides. To assist in planning your passages please click here.
For additional daily weather, please view the BOM website
www.bom.gov.au/weather/qld/forecasts.html.
Areas of particular note where uncalculated leeway could endanger your boat:
- The southern reef off Daydream Island
- Reefs surrounding Langford and Black Islands
- The waters surrounding 'The Beak' close to the entrance to Shute Harbour
- Roma Point at the southern tip of South Molle Island
Suggested regional intineries
1. Cruising the Whitsunday Islands:(4-10 days duration)
Day 1:
Hamilton Island
Hamilton Island to Cid Harbour - anchor in the calm waters of this deep anchorage location and enjoy beach walks, swimming, and the pristine surroundings of the magnificent Whitsunday Islands.
Day 2:
Hamilton Island to Hayman Island
Cid Harbour to Nara Inlet - walk to the aboriginal cave paintings, swim and soak up the sun in another calm anchorage nestled between the steep slopes of Hook Island. Steam from Nara Inlet to Hayman Island and visit world class resort facilities, diving or snorkelling at Blue Pearl Bay.
Day 3:
Sea Plane to Hardy Lagoon at Hardy Reef from Hayman Island
OR Steam to Hardy Lagoon, Hardy Reef and enjoy the activities on offer at the Fantasy Pontoon - diving, snorkelling, helicopter view of the reef, glass bottom boats etc. Visit or anchor at Black Reef.
Day 4:
Hayman Island / Black Reef to Hamilton Island
Steam back towards the Islands visiting Whitehaven Beach and Solway Pass, returning to Hamilton Island to enjoy the activities on offer at the island.
2. Locations for cruising in the Mackay area. From Mackay Marina:
SE winds shelter
St Bees Island
Keswick Island (up to 60 tonnes)
Brampton Island
Scawfell Island
Goldsmith Island - North side
Lindeman Island (en route to Whitsundays)
Shaw Island
Newry Island
NE winds shelter
Keswick Island 3 bays to South
Brampton Island
Goldsmith Island South side
Lindeman Island
Thomas Island - “Dead Dog” Bay
Recommended Charts to review:
Aus 825 Whitsunday Island to Bowen
Aus 824 Bailey Islet to Whitsunday Island
Aus 252 Whitsunday Group Laguna Quays
Aus 253 Whitsunday Passage, Shute Harbour
Aus 254 Plans in Whitsunday
Aus 268 Plans of Airlie Beach and Bowen
The MQSYC recommend that captains purchase the book, '100 Magic Miles' by David Colfelt as this encapsulates all relevant particulars when planning a trip to the Whitsundays.
For more information on the region, please see the useful links below:
