Old world charm and classic oiled timbers are combined with the modern convenience of a fully air-conditioned vessel with an onboard fresh water hot tub!
Snorkel in the fringing reef of the Whitsunday Islands, check out Whitehaven beach and Hill Inlet as well as jump in a sea kayak for a guided eco tour. This trip is action packed adventure!
Days
- 2 days, 1 night
Group size
- Max 19
Start / finish
- Airlie Beach / Airlie Beach
- Airlie Beach, 4pm on day 2
Return
- Airlie Beach, 4pm on day 2
Accommodation
- 1 night on board in fully air-conditioned cabins, at anchor among the islands. A private room is available as an option.
Transport
- Summertime, a lovingly restored 63 foot ketch, leaving Coral Sea Marina at 8:30am on Thursdays and Saturdays. She has an air-conditioned saloon, oiled timber decks with plenty of shade, a freshwater jacuzzi, and ten two-person inflatable kayaks.
Meals
- All meals are cooked fresh on board — morning and afternoon tea, lunch, sunset snacks and a barbecue dinner with dessert on day 1, then breakfast and a barbecue lunch on day 2. Gluten free and lactose free carry a surcharge, and vegan diets cannot be catered for.
Route
Included experiences
- Hill Inlet lookout — a short bush walk up from Tongue Bay
- Whitehaven Beach — a couple of hours on the world-famous sand
- Snorkelling the fringing reef — coral gardens with turtles, tropical fish and sea anemones
- Guided eco kayak tour — two-person inflatable kayaks over the reef
- Hook Passage — lunch under sail on the way to Whitsunday Island
- Sunset snacks and a drink on deck on the way to the overnight anchorage
- A barbecue dinner on deck, then a slideshow of the day's photos
- Waking up anchored among the islands
Reviews
5.0
Based on 33 reviews
Verified from
Real reviews from travellers who've done this tour, gathered from around the web and paraphrased.
AI summary of 33 reviews
Travellers consistently praise the crew, describing them as friendly, professional, knowledgeable and attentive to safety, and frequently note the good quality and generous quantity of the food, including catered vegetarian and gluten-free options. The most commonly highlighted features are the visit to Whitehaven Beach, the snorkelling and kayaking, and abundant wildlife sightings such as turtles, stingrays, dolphins and whales, alongside the clear night skies, the on-deck hot tub and the sociable atmosphere among guests. Many also mention the character of the older wooden boat and the comfortable sleeping arrangements. The most common caveat concerns the weather, with rain on some trips and reduced snorkelling visibility due to tides, factors reviewers note were beyond the crew's control. A few travellers mention minor points such as getting cold under the air conditioning, waiting while the boat was cleaned on the second day, and a wish for more snorkelling time.
How we collect and publish reviews
Where they come from. Our reviews are gathered from independent review sites and from guests who share feedback with us directly after their trip. They come from people who have actually travelled on the tour.
Why some are edited. Many of our guests travel in their second or third language. Where a review is hard to read, we lightly edit spelling, grammar and punctuation, or paraphrase a sentence for clarity. We never change the rating, the meaning or the sentiment, and we never write a review on a guest's behalf.
Reading the originals. Reviews sourced from public review sites appear there in their original form, and can be read in full at their original source at any time.
“Great!”
Ambience chill, no worries, great Time, good meals and best crew !!! We were a small group and we had the pleasure to be "alone". We discover the whitehaven Beach before the touristic boats full of people.
“The best days of my life!”
I felt so in love with the Summertime, the ocean and everything around me! We couldn't wish for better weather. There was no wind and sunshine all day long. The ocean was so incredible blue, I felt so much freedom when I jumped in and the sunset was the most beautiful sunset I've ever seen in my life!
The crew of the Summertime was amazing! Very kind and their hospitality is great. The food was perfect and even for me, a gluten-free vegetarian they made a wonderful meal.
We visited the beautiful White Heaven beach, snorkeled and saw amazing coral, much more beautiful as I saw during my scuba diving experience in Cairns. And we did sea kayaking. The turtles and stingrays were so close we could almost touch them!
I wish I could stay forever on Summertime in this perfect setting and perfect weather. Even now, a year later every time I throw back to those good memories it makes me smile. Those were the best days of my life!
“Had a fantastic time!”
Just got back from this amazing 2 day one night tour of the Whitsundays. We had a mixed group of families, couples and friends and all of different ages and everyone got along really well and had a fantastic time. Both me and my friend get seasick sometimes so I was initially a bit worried about spending 2 days at sea but we were both absolutely fine. The boat was really comfortable, had plenty of space and to my surprise the beds were really comfy too! Everything about this trip was spot on. The crew were brilliant and full of knowledge, were helpful, friendly and pretty hilarious too! Food was lovely and plenty of it. The stop offs and scenery were out of this world. We got to swim with lots of turtles and stingrays, experience some of the prettiest beaches and corals reefs etc. Cannot recommend these guys enough!
“Great tour through the Whitsundays with fantastic crew!”
We loved the tour - got to see the best of the Whitsundays! Our crew (Damian and Daniel) were fantastic, you really noticed their passion for the area and the underwater world. Not only saw a lot while sailing, kayaking and snorkeling, but also learned so much about local marine life. Food was also plenty and delicious.
“Fantastic taste of paradise.”
One of the best trips I have ever done. The crew is fantastic, they took us to the best spots according to the weather and tide. I know we were lucky in many ways, including the weather and water visibility, but I've done some of the most amazing snorkeling in my life on this trip. Saw dolphins, turtles mating (!), stingrays and so many fish varieties. Loved the boat as well, i slept on the top deck underneath the stars and waking up to a very serene and gorgeous sunrise. A hot tub on deck during sunset and good food only added to the experience. Thanks guys!
“Amazing trip, would highly recommend it”
Me, my girlfriend and parents did the 2days/1 night tour aboard Summertime and it was one of my favourite trips along the east coast. Not only were all the beaches and lookout spots amazing but the boat and crew (Jesse and Nacho) were ace too. We did kayaking and snorkelling and they knew all the best spots to take us, saw plenty of wildlife when in the water and from the boat too. Couldn't reccomend this trip enough!
“I really recommend it!”
The trip is really charming, I would recommend to all my friends do it.
Just to start we could see a whale in the way to Whitsundays, when we arrive, the guide bring us to a lookout so nice and the beaches were unbelievable. We had a little rest there and then we move to do a little bit of snorkel in the afternoon where the coral was so colorful. Maybe I would like to spend more time in snorkel and a little bit less in the white beach but that's just a little personal preference.
Then we move to another place to be in the night and we saw the sunset in the jacuzzi, so cool. Also, the sky was speechless in the night, without any lights close. All that stars... So beautiful.
And then, we went to snorkel and kayak in the next morning and we saw giant turtles and lots of fishes. Again, so great.
The food and all the snacks are good, so tasty! And it's good to have ready coffee and tea each time that we were doing activities in the sea.
Jessi made great his job, and he was pointing us all the time animals in the sea and making jokes to entertain us. So nice! And he made us a game in the night.
Nacho, the guide, was so kind with us too.
The only thing I would improve is in the second day. We were stuck in the boat while they were getting ready and cleaning everything for like 1-2 hours and I think it would be good idea let us doing snorkel in that time or has something ready like games...
But without doubts, I would love to do it again if I come back to Australia.
“Amazing experience - Highlight of our holiday”
We had the best two days on board of the beautiful Summertime. The crew Damien and Dan were really fun and made our experience amazing with their jokes and knowledge of the area. It’s not a party boat, just a relaxed and fun atmosphere. We spend about 3 hours on Whitehaven Beach, which was just stunning and the next day we went kayaking and snorkelling where we saw beautiful corals and heaps of marine life, such has manta rays, turtles and lots of tropical fish. We were also lucky to spot a few whales!
“Awesome trip!”
Could not say a bad word about the trip. Crew, food, snorkelling and Whitehaven beach were all outstanding, would do the trip again in a heart beat.
“Summer loving”
Such a great time, Jesse and Damo were awesome! We saw the very best spots of the Whitsundays sailing, snorkelling and kayaking! The hot tub was a real winner Summertime was mintttt!
“Best way to see the whitsundays”
We had the most amazing time on Summertime. The scenery speaks for itself out there but the crew we had were second to none. The tunes were pumping and the food was delicious and plentiful. We even had the pleasure of seeing a whale breach on our way back in which the captain stopped the boat for us to ooh and awe over. After your dip in the sea they have a Jacuzzi heated to 41 degrees for you to relax in overlooking the breath taking scenery. Could not recommend Summertime more for a relaxing and very enjoyable trip to the whitsundays.
“Great trip.”
The boat, crew/hosts, activities and overall experience was excellent. Our family (2 adults and 2 children ,14 and 12) really enjoyed this 2 day 1 night trip. It was relaxed and very enjoyable and the activities and sightseeing worked well. We would reccomend it fully as part of a visit to Australia.
“Best weekend”
Can’t recommend these guys enough. My cousins, their teenaged kids and I went on a weekend trip end-June 2019 and the trip itself is stunning: aquamarine seas, we saw dugong, stingray and hawksbill turtle, and my cousins who are more accustomed to the sea enjoyed the reef life more here than elsewhere around Cairns where we visited a few days later. It was the first time I saw the Milky Way and the Southern Cross! It’s 18 people on a boat so things may go awry, but the fantastic crew - the Double Ds, Damien and Daniel - made sure we had a terrific time with their fab food, fun playlist and warm camaraderie. One of the best weekends ever and I must say Whitehaven Beach sets the bar really high.
“Awesome Sailing Trip”
Unforgettable trip! Everyone had an awesome time including my two teens. The crew, Daniel and Damon, took good care of us and made sure everyone was well taken care off. Thanks for a great time.
“It was great”
I had a great time on summertime. The crew was nice and the food was good. Sadly the weather on the second day was rainy but I still had a good time on Whitehaven beach which is absolutely stunning.
“Great experience”
The crew was very nice and fun, the food was good and we had some amazing stops along the way. Definitely recommend! :)
“Unforgettable trip with the Summertime”
We had a wonderful weekend on the Summertime. The crew (Ed and Damian) did everything possible to make us feel comfortable on board. The activities (snorkelling, Kayaking and visiting White Heaven Beach where unforgettable). We booked a private cabin in the front of the ship which was perfect. We (older couple) were privileged to meet the other mostly much younger passengers from different countries en enjoyed their company, stories, dreams and music. Together we share valuable memories. And last but not least, the after party at ‘Beaches’ in Airlie was awesome! Thanks guys you where great!
“Great Trip around the Whitsundays!”
Nice old timber boat. Amazing crew. They really tried everything possible to give us the best experience! The views of the Whitsundays are breathtaking and worth everything you paid for. The food they served was delicious. The only thing I didn't like was the fact that I had to sleep under the air-conditioning and I got sick afterwards.
“Most amazing trip!!”
Had the best time during my trip to Whitsundays with Summertime! We did the reverse trip because the weather wasn’t too nice the first day, which was a good call. The kayaking and snorkeling was fun. Even saw dolphins during the night. The food and (many) were amazing and exceeded my expectations. Big compliments to Damian and Ed, they were awesome.
“Sailing close to nature”
My Sister and I had a great trip on Summertime. Daniel and Damien really looked after us, made sure we were safe and had fun. The activities were great too. Beach trip on Day 1 and the snorkeling and kayaking on day 2 were a great way to get closer to nature.
Our highlight was seeing dolphins fish off the front of the boat in the evening.
Thanks guys
“Fantastic!”
Instantly made to feel welcome and that our safety and fun were top priority! Damien was so organised that everything was just ready for you and everything felt smooth. It was only a one night cruise but the two man team were so efficient that you felt like you were there for longer and fitted in so much! Food was great quality and the team made sure we had a great time.
“A great way to visit Whitsundays”
Just came back from a 2D/1N with the Summertime sailing company and can’t be thankful enough how the crew on board made my experience just great.
THE BEST:
Right off the bat, upon embarcation, the crew (Captain Ed and the sailor Damian) made clear the security of everyone is their top priority.
With wit, the explained us how the trip is going to be and what to expect and made themselves available, had anyone needed anything at anytime.
Cool playlist playing all along the 2 days. At night, the crew (after finishing what they had to do) joined us for chat and jokes and we just felt as if we knew each other since awhile.
The food, was great and the quantity was more than enough for everyone (look for that MASHED POTATOES at dinner... they’re just )
Plenty of space in the boat for the 19 guests we were. The summertime sail boat might be 70 yo but I rather have plenty of space than having to stand up or not having a shelter to hide from rain (yes it did rain in those two days).
Despite the rain, the Whitehaven Beach was just gorgeous!
The one thing I’d say that was effected by tte rain was the snorkeling experience, but hey, that is just out of any one’s control.
THE WORST:
Just before getting back to the shore, Ed stopped the boat and invited us to jump in that clear green fresh Pacific Ocean water for a swim. After everyone was done, he announced us that Summertime is offering a 20% off any we order at a local bar (forgot the name️️) and that themselves (Ed and Damian) will join us at 7pm.
As if it was not enough, he said that the owner/manager, will also join to thank us for having chosen Summertime to visit Whitsundays islands!!! I mean what else could be done!
Ps: I know, you by now are wondering, how’s this part bad or the worst
... I could not join as I have spent 4 days in Airlie beach and had to get to Noosa (a 1000kms south) the day after.
“Excellent Adventure and Experience”
I did this 2 day 1 night sailing trip on Summertime while staying in Airlie and have to say it was definitely a memorable experience and one where I made life long friends.
The crew Dan and Deb were excellent and made you feel very welcome and at ease and our group had a lot of fun.
I am not a confident swimmer but the crew really made sure I was looked after and I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed the snorkelling and Kayaking the most!
You get to go to Whitehaven beach which is stunning and also visit the lookout which is great for photo opportunities.
The food is excellent and you also get snacks and tea and coffee.
At night you get the opportunity to use the Jacuzzi on the top deck which is lovely especially under the stars and the beds are comfortable with air con down below.
I would highly recommend this tour to anyone who is spending time in Airlie and wants a great sight seeing sailing trip.
“Excellent sailing trip!”
We have just arrived from our trip to The Whitsundays in Summertime with Alex and Chris and could not recommend them enough! Lovely people super nice and with a great knowledge of the area! If you are in the area it’s a must do!
“We felt very much at home.”
mam" where doing an excellent job in looking after us : chilly atmosphere, preparing food, leading us on our trips to either Whitehaven beach, 2hours kayaking in a beautiful bay and snorkeling. We felt very much at home. Thank you for doing such a great job. I can only highly recommend this tour and if I had the chance I would just right away hop on the same boat with Fran, Ed and all the nice people we met to do this tour all over again. An unforgettable trip!!
“We felt very much at home.”
We just came back from a great trip on the Summertime. Ed our skipper and especially Fran our "boat mam" where doing an excellent job in looking after us : chilly atmosphere, preparing food, leading us on our trips to either Whitehaven beach, 2hours kayaking in a beautiful bay and snorkeling. We felt very much at home. Thank you for doing such a great job. I can only highly recommend this tour and if I had the chance I would just rightaway hop on the same boat with Fran, Ed and all the nice people we met to do this tour all over again. An unforgettable trip!!
“Time of my life on summertime.”
I had a time of my life on summertime. Crew was amazing, food was delicious. Kayaking and snorkeling in second day and Whitehaven beach on first day. And Jacuzzi. No minuses. Everything was perfect.
“A trip to remember”
We couldn’t have asked for a better trip. A group of three, we opted for the 1 night 2 day trip which included a stop to Whitsunday Island (Whitehaven beach), snorkelling and kayaking. The crew were excellent. Made us all feel at home, remained professional but were also very approachable and sociable. The staff really made the experience for us and Ed and Kati were both amazing. We never felt hungry, the food was really good quality and freshly prepared and we were all big fans of the BBQ. The vegetarian options were also really tasty and not just the lettuce and salad that many places provide.
Highlights of the trip - the stars at night were phenomenal, we saw some stingrays kayaking and also a turtle. On the way back to the marina we were incredibly lucky to see several whales and dolphins!
We made some great friends and some memories we will treasure for a long time! Thanks again to Ed and Kati, you guys rock!
“A Trip To Paradise”
Having paid a travel agent to pick a boat i wasn't sure what to expect but Summertime did not disappoint! Should you choose this you will not be disappointed. Everything from the sleeping areas to the food & activities are amazing not to mention the opportunity to see turtles, stingrays & dolphins. Brad (skippy) & Becky were amazing! The food on board was actually better than i'd eat at home. Totally recommend this wonderful experience
“Amazing time on Summertime”
Such an amazing time on Summertime. A cruisey 3 hours heading out to Whitehaven Beach which was absolutely incredible - picture perfect! Plenty of time spent taking pics and relaxing before heading back onto the boat for an incredible sunset sail. Snorkel spot on day two was beautiful, just a shame the visibility wasn't too great due to the high tide, but nothing we could do about that!
Food was great, team super friendly and everything so well organised. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend.
“Amazing sailing in the Whitsundays on the Summertime”
We came for a school reunion after 30years apart and had the most amazing trip we could have imagined on the Summertime. The crew was brilliant and the trip every thing we could have hoped it would be. If you want a sailing adventure I could not recomend it high enough.
“Visiting Whitehaven on the Whitsundays was top of my bucket list”
The highlight of my 3 week trip to Oz was our 3 day/2 nights sail on board the Summertime, a wooden former crayfishing boat, 15-17 th March 2015.Stupendous is the word,it was recommended by our travel agent Adventure Cairns & Beyond and they got it right. Trip promised sailing, diving, and kayaking and we absolutely loved it.Excellent food with full breakfast, morning tea/coffee, lunch, afternoon tea with homemade cake, snacks before huge dinner.We were never hungry so big shout out to Noelle who prepared all on board and the lovely Lucas, diving instructor, who barbqued for us. Take your own alcohol and stash in fridge for pre dinner sundowners. Brad was top skipper and safety was paramount. Loved eating up on deck with great gang of young people and hearing the feeding frenzy of a bull nosed shark which Brad illuminated for us with a spotlight. Highlight was the walk to the beautiful white Whitehaven beach & swim in the turquoise ocean. Of course sizzling temperatures were the icing on the cake.We were able to buy the DVD of our trip with super underwater photography & beach antics. This is a not to be missed trip of lifetime on Summertime, a highly professional set up. Thanks Brad & crew. Enjoyed our dinner & get together on land afterwards. Very good value as all inclusive.
“Summertime special”
My sailing boat was called 'summertime' and I felt very lucky to be aboard her. Skipper Brad and deck hands Pascale and Noël did everything they could to make it feel special. What was best? Excellent and plentiful food? Superb tuition from Pascale over scuba snorkelling and kayaking. Seeing coral? Seeing turtles?
For me it was being able to lay on the boat deck on cloudless nights studying the Southern sky and seeing shooting stars with NO air pollution to spoil it. It was a majestic sight. The Milky Way was clearly visible.
