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Airlie Beach is a popular sailing destination located in the heart of the Whitsunday Islands, Queensland, Australia. This stunning location is a must-visit for sailing enthusiasts, with its turquoise waters, abundant marine life, and 74 stunning islands to explore. You can explore here how to get to Airlie Beach, why it's an outstanding location for sailing, the nearby islands and nautical miles, flora and fauna, and the best bars and restaurants in Airlie Beach.
Airlie Beach is a sailing paradise with a tropical climate, ideal sailing conditions, and diverse marine life. The calm, protected waters offer ideal conditions for beginners and experienced sailors alike. The average temperature in Airlie Beach is around 26 °C, making it a perfect destination for sailing year-round. The Whitsunday Islands are also home to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's natural wonders, and provide a stunning backdrop for your sailing adventures.
Whitsunday Coast Airport, contrary to what its name suggests, is not near the coast. But it is the nearest airport, 20 kilometres from Airlie Beach. With the connection via Whitsunday Coast Airport, connections from the Netherlands are reasonable. Australians are less spoilt than Europeans when it comes to long journeys. Take that into account.
With over 74 islands to explore, each with its unique character and beauty, it can be challenging to decide where to go. Our team can help you plan your route, considering your preferences, experience level, and time frame. Our team can provide suggestions and tips to ensure you get the most out of your sailing holiday.
Are you ready to explore the hidden treasures of Airlie Beach? Our 7-day sail route will take you to some of the most beautiful spots around Airlie Beach. You'll have the chance to anchor in secluded coves, explore stunning beaches, and admire the magnificent Whitsunday Islands.
Day 1: Airlie Beach to Cid Harbour (15 NM)
Starting from Airlie Beach, our first destination is Cid Harbour, a secluded bay on the northeast coast of Whitsunday Island. The journey covers 15 nautical miles, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to admire the stunning landscapes of the Whitsunday Islands. Once you arrive at Cid Harbour, drop your anchor and take a dinghy to explore the bay. You can also hike up to Whitsunday Peak for breathtaking views of the surroundings.
Day 2: Cid Harbour to Hill Inlet (12 NM)
On day two, we'll set sail to Hill Inlet, located on the northern side of Whitsunday Island. The journey covers 12 nautical miles, and you'll have the chance to admire the stunning beaches of the Whitsunday Islands, including the famous Whitehaven Beach. Once you arrive at Hill Inlet, take a dinghy to explore the inlet and its turquoise waters. You can also hike up to Tongue Point for panoramic inlet views.
Day 3: Hill Inlet to Border Island (15 NM)
On day three, we'll sail to Border Island, located on the eastern side of the Whitsunday Islands. The journey covers 15 nautical miles, and you'll have the chance to anchor in secluded coves and admire the stunning coral reefs. Once you arrive at Border Island, take a dinghy to explore the island's beaches and rocky coves. You can also go snorkelling and discover the underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef.
Day 4: Hook Island to Whitsunday Islands (10 NM)
On day four, we'll sail to Hook Island, located on the northern side of the Whitsunday Islands. The journey covers 10 nautical miles, and you'll have the chance to admire the stunning coral reefs and marine life. Once you arrive at Hook Island, take a dinghy to explore the island's beaches and hidden coves. You can also go snorkelling and discover the underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef.
Day 5: Hook Island to Langford Island (10 NM)
On day five, we'll sail to Langford Island, located on the northern side of the Whitsunday Islands. The journey is approximately 10 nautical miles, and you'll have the chance to anchor in secluded coves and admire the stunning beaches of the Whitsunday Islands. Once you arrive at Langford Island, take a dinghy to explore the island's beaches and enjoy a picnic on the sandy shores.
Day 6: Langford Island to Butterfly Bay (8 NM)
On day six, we'll sail to Butterfly Bay, located on the northern side of Hook Island. The journey covers 8 nautical miles, and you'll have the chance to admire the stunning coral reefs and marine life. Once you arrive at Butterfly Bay, take a dinghy to explore the bay and its turquoise waters. You can also go snorkelling and discover the underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef.
Day 7: Butterfly Bay to Airlie Beach (10 NM)
On day seven, we'll sail back to Airlie Beach, located on the mainland. The journey covers 10 nautical miles, and you'll have the chance to admire the stunning landscapes of the Whitsunday Islands one last time. Once you arrive back in Airlie Beach, dock your boat and head to one of the local restaurants for a delicious meal. Our favourite spots include Fish D'vine, La Tabelle Trattoria, and Hemingway's.
Airlie Beach is a beautiful destination for sailing and island hopping and home to a thriving food and drink scene. There are plenty of restaurants and bars in the area to satisfy any appetite, from seafood to Italian cuisine and everything in between. Some of the most popular dining options in Airlie Beach include Fish D'vine, Hemingway's, and La Tabella Trattoria, each with its unique flair and menu.
Fish D'vine
Fish D'vine is a seafood restaurant that prides itself on serving only the freshest local catch. The most popular dishes on the menu include the seafood platter, barramundi, and oysters. Recently, the restaurant expanded to have a new bar and wine cellar, where visitors can enjoy a glass of wine or one of their signature cocktails. With an outdoor seating area overlooking the marina, Fish D'vine is the perfect place to enjoy a meal while enjoying the stunning views.
Hemingway's
Hemingway's is another popular spot on Airlie Beach, located on the Airlie Esplanade. The restaurant is named after the well-known writer Ernest Hemingway and is known for its delicious food, cocktails, and relaxed atmosphere. The menu features a mix of local seafood, classic American fare, and tropical-inspired dishes. Hemingway's has also recently introduced a new range of cocktails, including the signature 'Hemingway Daiquiri' and 'Tropic Thunder.'
La Tabelle Trattoria
La Tabella Trattoria is a family-owned Italian restaurant located in the heart of Airlie Beach. The menu features a range of classic Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, and antipasti. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list featuring a selection of local and imported wines. Recently, La Tabella Trattoria has introduced a new range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, catering to the growing demand for plant-based options.
Dreaming of a sailing holiday but need help figuring out where to start? Look no further than Tubber. We offer sailing yachts and catamarans with or without a skipper to make your Airlie Beach holiday unforgettable.
Airlie Beach, located in the Whitsunday region of Queensland, is a popular holiday destination known for its beautiful beaches, super clear waters, and great weather. It is also an excellent starting point for a sailing adventure. Organizing a sailing holiday can seem overwhelming if you've never sailed before. But fear not, Tubber is here to help. With our range of sailing yachts and catamarans, we can make your sailing holiday a reality, even if you have no experience.
We have a vast range of sailing yachts and catamarans available to suit your needs, budget, and experience. From smaller yachts perfect for couples or solo travellers to larger boats ideal for families or groups of friends, we have something for everyone. All our boats are well-maintained and have essential safety equipment, ensuring a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.
If you're new to sailing or want to relax and enjoy the scenery, we offer boats with a skipper. Our experienced and knowledgeable skippers ensure you get the most out of your sailing holiday. Alternatively, if you have some sailing experience, you can rent a boat without a skipper and enjoy the freedom of navigating your own way through the Whitsunday Islands.
The best months to sail here are in Queensland, Australia, around the Whitsunday Islands, from May to December. We have briefly listed the differences in seasons for you.
These months have the most rain, thunderstorms, and occasional tropical cyclones occur.
Autumn is the time here to cool off and recover from the hot, wet summer.
This time of year is generally considered the most pleasant in every sense of the word - of low rainfall, comfortable temperatures during the day, and cool nights. The days are sunny, and even though this is the coldest time of the year, it remains warmer than in many parts of the world in summer.
The spring months are very similar to the autumn months. Locals start preparing for the next rainy season as each day gets hotter and hotter.
Do I need a licence to sail a boat in Airlie Beach?
No, you don't need a licence to sail a boat in Airlie Beach. However, we recommend you have some sailing experience or take a skippered boat to ensure your safety.
Do I need to bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you'll need to bring your food and drinks. You can buy supplies from the local supermarket or order online and have them delivered to your boat before your departure.
What if there is bad weather during my sailing holiday?
Our team will provide you with the necessary weather information before your departure. If bad weather is forecasted, we'll help you reschedule your trip for a more suitable time.
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