The Whitsunday Islands are actually a chain of 74 islands and this truly spectacular area is home to the famous Whitehaven Beach and Hamilton, Day Dream and Hook Islands.
The best way to explore the islands is to head out on a backpacker boat or hire your own boat, if you are lucky and can or are with people who can sail a boat. There are plenty of boats to choose from, but you should check the facilities on board the boat and what expenses are included before handing over any cash. Also it is important to see what areas each boat heads to, if you are on a backpacker boat.
Hamilton Island is worth a stop off, although it is expensive and very resort orientated. Find out if the boat is heading out to the reef and Whitehaven Beach and make sure it is moving regularly, as you really want to see as much of the area as possible, especially if you are low on time or money.
If you are travelling with someone who is a semi-experienced sailor, you may be able to rent a charter yacht. A rather flexible option with fewer restrictions. Hiring a boat gives you the freedom to stay longer in areas you like to explore, where the usual backpacker boats do not enter and you will not be crammed on board like sardines with a tonne of tourists!
Day trip, overnight, and 2 day 2 night packages are available, however we recommend you do not skimp on this part of your trip, to save a few money. It is recommended you take a 4 or 5 days trip to make most of the area, as there really is a lot to see. With the islands littered with coral reefs the Whitsundays is a must do, on your trip on the Australian east coast.
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