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High-Speed Sailing Adventure to Whitehaven Beach with Hill Inlet Lookout and Snorkelling
Tour Information
Tour Operator:
Cruise Whitsundays
Duration:
Full Day (9-10 hours approx)
Departure Point:
Port of Airlie Terminal
Phone:
07 4846 7000
Departure Time:
8:15 AM (check-in 7:30 AM)
Group Size:
Maximum 75-80 guests
Where This Tour Goes
Departure Point
Port of Airlie
Islands Visited
Whitsunday Island, Hook Island
Beaches
Whitehaven Beach (northern end)
Snorkelling Sites
Fringing reefs around Whitsunday Island
Lookouts
Hill Inlet Lookout
Marine Park
Whitsunday Islands Marine Park
Departure Location & How to Get There
Meeting Point
Cruise Whitsundays Terminal at Port of Airlie, 24 The Cove Road
From Town Centre
1.5km from Airlie Beach Lagoon (15-20 min walk)
Hotel Transfers
Available for additional cost ($13 adult return, $7 child)
Parking
Available at Port of Airlie terminal
About Camira Whitsundays
Camira is a high-speed sailing catamaran tour operated by Cruise Whitsundays, departing from Port of Airlie in Airlie Beach. The full-day sailing adventure visits Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout on Whitsunday Island, with snorkelling at protected fringing reef sites in the Whitsunday Islands Marine Park.
This stunning purple catamaran is one of the world's fastest commercial sailing vessels, capable of speeds up to 30 knots. That speed means you'll spend less time travelling and more time actually enjoying the islands. The 85-foot catamaran features spacious deck areas, comfortable indoor seating, two bathrooms, and the famous bow nets where you can lie back and feel the spray as you cruise through the Whitsundays.
What sets Camira apart is the genuine sailing experience. Weather permitting, the crew hoists the massive sails and you'll glide across the water powered by the wind. Unlike some tours that just motor everywhere, this tour gives you that authentic sailing feeling. The all-inclusive drinks package (beer, wine, cider from 11am) and continuous food service throughout the day make it excellent value. Perfect for anyone who wants a relaxed day exploring the Whitsundays without the crowds you get on the bigger tour boats.
What Guests Are Saying
"Great sailing boat! Clean and lots of room. Fantastic staff. The short hike on Whitsunday followed by time on the beach was spectacular. Stunning beach. Snorkelling was good. Great BBQ lunch. Lots of food provided throughout the day. You won't be hungry! Highly recommend. Great value for your money."
TripAdvisor
"Fantastic trip all round. Crew were awesome, very funny but super helpful. Sails were up for a bit, food and drink flowing. Whitsunday is simply out of this world and a must see. Views were incredible and beach and water was pristine. Snorkelling was class from what my partner told me. Definitely worth it for the price!"
TripAdvisor
"The scenery was amazing, food was delicious, the service was great and snorkelling was an awesome experience. We also saw whales, dolphins and turtles on the way. As we cruised along we spotted whales and a turtle. Overall I 100% recommend the Camira sailing adventure."
Google Reviews
Good to know: The tour requires a moderate level of fitness for the bushwalk to Hill Inlet Lookout and climbing in and out of tenders for snorkelling. The walk is about 1.3km return. Snorkelling requires adequate swimming ability as flotation devices may not always be available. In summer months, expect high temperatures and humidity.
What's Included
Snorkelling Gear
Mask, snorkel, fins & stinger suits
BBQ Lunch
Tropical cuisine and fresh salads
Morning & Afternoon Tea
Fresh fruit, biscuits and cakes
All-Inclusive Beverages
Beer, wine, cider, soft drinks, water
Guided Bushwalk
To Hill Inlet Lookout with eco guide
Authentic Sailing
Up to 30 knots under sail power
Expert Crew
Experienced, friendly local guides
Marine Park Fees
All environmental fees included
The Experience
A Camira sailing adventure is the classic way to experience the Whitsundays - under sail, at speed, with the wind in your hair and a cold drink in your hand. This isn't one of those massive crowded tour boats where you're just another face in the crowd. With a maximum of 75-80 guests on an 85-foot catamaran, you've got plenty of space to spread out and relax.
Your Itinerary
Check-In (7:30 AM): Arrive at the Cruise Whitsundays terminal at Port of Airlie 30 minutes before departure. The terminal has airport-style check-in, a cafe, gift shop, and comfortable waiting areas. Look for the big purple catamaran - you can't miss Camira.
Departure & Sail Out (8:15 AM): As soon as Camira leaves the marina, the crew gets to work hoisting the massive sails. Watch as they use mechanical winches and manual technique to raise the canvas. Once the sails are up and catching the wind, you'll understand why this is one of the world's fastest commercial sailing catamarans. Grab morning tea and find your spot - the bow nets are popular for those who want to feel the spray, or settle into the comfortable indoor seating if you prefer shade.
Cruising Through the Islands: Camira sails past Daydream Island, Hamilton Island, and Hook Island on the way to Whitsunday Island. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, turtles, and during whale season (June to September), humpback whales. The crew provides commentary about the islands, the reef, and the traditional Ngaro people who lived here for thousands of years.
Hill Inlet & Whitehaven Beach: Camira moors at the northern end of Whitehaven Beach, giving you access to both the beach and Hill Inlet Lookout. The guided bushwalk to the lookout takes about 15-20 minutes through native bush, following paths once used by the Ngaro people. The view from the top is that famous Instagram shot - swirling sands and turquoise water creating natural art. After soaking in the view, you'll have time on Whitehaven Beach itself - 98% pure silica sand that stays cool even in the summer sun, and water so clear you can see rays swimming near the shore.
BBQ Lunch on Board: Back on Camira, a fresh BBQ lunch is cooked and served with tropical salads. Think steak, chicken, sausages, fish, and plenty of vegetarian options. The all-inclusive drinks package kicks into gear from 11am - beer, wine, and cider are freely available, along with soft drinks, water, tea and coffee throughout the day.
Snorkelling Stop: Camira anchors at one of the fringing reefs in the Whitsunday Islands Marine Park. The exact location depends on conditions, but expect to see colourful coral gardens, tropical fish, and if you're lucky, turtles and reef sharks. The crew provides full snorkelling instruction - perfect if it's your first time. Snorkel gear, fins, and stinger suits (during wet season) are all provided. Entry is directly from the boat via steps, so you need to be comfortable climbing in and out of the water.
Sail Home: The return journey is the perfect time to relax on deck with afternoon tea. Find a spot on the bow nets, grab a drink, and enjoy the sailing as Camira cruises back through the islands. The crew often shares stories and answers questions about life in the Whitsundays. Arrival back at Port of Airlie is around 5:30-5:45 PM.
Before You Book
Important Information
Cancellations must be made more than 48 hours before departure for a full refund. Tours run in most weather conditions, though Cruise Whitsundays may cancel or modify the itinerary due to severe weather, strong winds, or dangerous sea conditions. They'll contact you the day before to confirm. The visit to Hill Inlet Lookout depends on tides and weather. Reconfirm your booking by calling 07 4846 7000 the day before departure.
What to Bring
Swimwear (wear it under your clothes), towel, reef-safe sunscreen, hat with a strap (it gets windy on the water), sunglasses, light jacket for cooler weather or wind, waterproof camera or phone case, and a small amount of cash or card for photos or souvenirs. The boat has secure storage areas for your belongings. Don't bring too much - you're climbing in and out of tenders for snorkelling.
Who Can Come
Minimum age is 4 years. This tour requires a moderate level of fitness and agility for bushwalking, snorkelling, and climbing in and out of tenders. The walk to Hill Inlet Lookout involves some uphill sections and uneven terrain. Not suitable for people with severe mobility issues or pregnant women. If you're prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand - while Camira is a stable catamaran, seas can get choppy. Adequate swimming ability is required for snorkelling as flotation devices aren't always available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does Camira depart from and what time?
Camira departs from the Cruise Whitsundays terminal at Port of Airlie at 8:15 AM, with check-in at 7:30 AM.
Do I need to be a confident swimmer to snorkel?
Adequate swimming ability is required as flotation devices aren't always available, but the crew provides full snorkelling instruction and assistance.
Is alcohol included in the tour price?
Yes, beer, wine, and cider are included and available from 11am onwards, along with soft drinks, water, tea, and coffee throughout the day.
Which islands does Camira visit?
Camira visits Whitsunday Island and passes by Hook Island, Daydream Island, and Hamilton Island.
What makes Camira different from other Whitehaven Beach tours?
Camira offers genuine sailing at speeds up to 30 knots, smaller group sizes (75-80 max), and all-inclusive food and beverages throughout the full day.
More Tours to Whitehaven Beach
If you're interested in visiting Whitehaven Beach, check out other Whitehaven Beach tours departing from Port of Airlie. For more snorkelling adventures, explore our snorkelling tours, or see all day tours from Airlie Beach.
Why Trust This Guide?
We're Airlie Beach locals who've called the Whitsundays home since 2001. Over more than two decades living and working in this stunning corner of tropical North Queensland, we've personally experienced the tour operators, walked every beach, and know which tours genuinely deliver on their promises.
Cruise Whitsundays has been operating in the region for over 20 years and Camira has consistently been one of the most popular sailing tours in the Whitsundays. The boat is well-maintained, the crew are experienced locals who love what they do, and the all-inclusive food and drinks make it excellent value for money.
The recommendations are honest, unbiased, and based on genuine local knowledge to help make your Whitsunday holiday unforgettable.
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