Preparing for the trip
Where can I get more information about this trip?
If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have.
Can I travel with my chidren?
Children’s age limit varies from 5-12 yrs, some vessels do not take children at all or are not suitable, please contact our office with age of children and our reservations staff will be able to assist you in choosing the best sailing experience for you and your family.
What immunisations do I need?
For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.
Do I need to take any medical supplies?
It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour will carry an first aid box and our guides are all certified in First Aid.
How do I get to Port of Airlie Marina for my vessel departure?
Port of Airlie Marina is 5 minutes walk towards the bus terminal from our check-in office. Follow the map and directions you will receive at check-in.
How do I get to Abell Point Marina for my vessel departure?
Abel Point Marina has two departure area’s which you will be shown on your check in. Taxi is approx. $10, Buses do go to the Southern end of the marina but limited service.By foot! Bicentennial walk follows the foreshore from Airlie Beach Lagoon – To the Northern end of the marina is approx. 15 min walk and to the Southern end approx. 20min.We do not have a pick up service.
How fit do I need to be?
Our tours are made to be fun, informative and active and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking/walking up to 5km each day.
Do I need travel insurance?
Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended. Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.
Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?
You can use your mobile while touring in Australia or New Zealand, but coverage may be limited in remote areas. For best connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international roaming plan.
Do I need to check-in at the office?
Please ensure that you call to reconfirm with our office 48 hours prior to departure. Check in is preferably the day prior between 7:30am to 5pm, if you can not check in then please call us on 1300653100. Our office is located at next to Airlie Waterfront Backpackers in Beach Plaza at 6 Airlie Espanade.
Do I need to bring my own drinks?
Most Whitsundays Sailing Adventures vessels are BYO (bring your own) alcohol, soft drinks, spring water and juice. Three of our vessels have a licenced bar on board which sell alcoholic drinks at very reasonable prices. It is a legal requirement that alcohol is not brought on board by guests onto these vessels. At publishing these vessels are Pacific Sunrise, Derwent Hunter and Kiana.
Can I have my own cabin?
Yes you can have your own cabin, just look for one of our vessels with this option, some with their own private facilities. The following are the types of accommodation that our vessels offer:Shared single – single bed in a dorm situation Shared double – double bed in a dorm situationPrivate twin – two single beds in a private cabinPrivate double – double bed in a private cabinPrivate Stateroom – double bed in a large private cabin
Private tours and families
Is it possible to travel in a private group?
If your looking for a private tour based of one of our trips please contact us directly and we may be able to help. Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip.
Booking the trip
Do I have to book this tour online?
Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.
If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?
Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.
How do I know when a tour is available?
You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.
Does the tour price include flights?
No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself. If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!
How far in advance do I need to book my tour?
As a rule of thumb, try to book at least 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible. Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.
If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?
Balance on tours need to be paid at least 30 days prior to departure. Failure to do so could result is the cancellation of your seat with a fee charged. If you need more time to clear your balance then let us know ASAP and arrangements can be made.
Who travels with us
Is this tour for me?
Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of different ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Generally people who travel with us are between 20 and 49, though we also get alot passengers much older onboard - everyone is welcome! On tour we get equally as many males as females and everyone shares an enthusiasm for the out doors, nature, adventure and culture. Our tours are for those wanting to really explore and share the experience with likeminded travellers. Whether we are camping by a billabong in Kakadu National Park or sharing a cabin in Tasmania, our travellers want more than just a site seeing tour. They are chasing a hands on group experience. The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast. There may be some long drives and passengers should expect to help out when setting up camp or cooking food - this is a group adventure. However, there’s always time to chill out, have a cold beer ( or wine! ) and soak up your surroundings. As always, if in doubt then contact us directly with your concerns.
Cost and Fees
What does Paid Locally mean?
Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.
Will I need additional money?
Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. Its handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.
Do I need to tip our guide?
If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip the guide, then that is completely up to you. However, tipping is not customary and is not at all expected.
Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?
Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.
Whilst on tour
Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?
We know our country inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations. Please contact us for recommendations.
Can you cater of special diets?
We can certain cater for most dietary needs. Please advise us at the time of your booking so arrangements can be made. For travellers with more extreme diets we may ask that you bring along additional snacks.
What is the weather like on the east coast?
The east coast of Australia is an extremely long piece of coastline and it traverses very different weather patterns, from the temperate south in Sydney to the tropical north in Cairns. Irrespective of the season, In summer, if you are travelling between Sydney and Cairns, you are probably going to either experience wetter more humid weather nearer Cairns. In winter months, clear and dry conditions near cairns and cooler and wetter weather nearer Sydney.
Can I travel with children?
Children’s age limit varies from 5-12 yrs, some vessels do not take children at all or are not suitable, please contact our office with age of children and our reservations staff will be able to assist you in choosing the best sailing experience for you and your family.
Is there drinking water on the boat?
Yes, all our vessels have fresh tap water suitable for drinking. If you prefer bottled water you can purchase this on board most vessels. Remember to drink at least 2 litres of water per person per day!
Can I have my own cabin?
Yes you can have your own cabin, just look for one of our vessels with this option, some with their own private facilities. The following are the types of accommodation that our vessels offer:Shared single – single bed in a dorm situation Shared double – double bed in a dorm situationPrivate twin – two single beds in a private cabinPrivate double – double bed in a private cabinPrivate Stateroom – double bed in a large private cabinThis can be booked through our "Optional Extras" Section.
Will there be jelly fish?
At certain times of year ‘dangerous’ jellyfish inhabit these waters and passengers should take care for their own safety. 'Stinger Season' in the Whitsundays runs every year generally from October through to May. During this period, jellyfish can be found in the waters around the mainland, islands and have occasionally been found out on the reef. Passengers entering the water do so at their own risk and the owners or operators of the vessel will not be liable for any personal injury, illness, death or any other consequences whatsoever of passengers being stung by jellyfish. To minimise this risk you will be provided with a full length protective ‘Stinger Suit’ to wear whilst swimming and snorkelling during the cruise. We highly recommend these be worn all year round, some vessels make it compulsory for the safety of the guests. Not only are they for safety but they keep you warm in the water, act as sun protection and are a great aid for buoyancy while snorkelling.
Meals / Allergies
We have a great menu for you, however we do need to be informed at check-in if you have special dietary requirements. If you have any medical conditions/food allergies please advise at booking and again at check-in.
Is there any water on the boat?
Yes, all our vessels have fresh tap water suitable for drinking. If you prefer bottled water you can purchase this on board most vessels. Remember to drink at least 2 litres of water per person per day!
