3 Day Whitsunday Sail - Kiana
Jump onboard the Wonderful Kiana and explore the magic of the Whitsundays. Over the course of 3 days we visit Whitehaven beach, Inlet Hill Lookout, Scuba Dive and Snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef and soak up the sun. All the while learning to sail, eating delicious food and making new memories and friends.
Below decks, Kiana is fitted out for maximum comfort for 14 passengers. Relax in Kiana's large roomy saloon and comfortable cabins. Kiana's saloon and all cabins are fully air-conditioned to ensure your comfort during those steamy tropical evenings. Above deck there’s lots of room for gearing up to go diving, snorkelling or relaxing in the sun. Our skipper, hostess and dive instructor will ensure you enjoy the best of both worlds, sailing, and diving by day and great food and a relaxed atmosphere in the evenings.
- Explore the Great Barrier Reef
- Sail through the Whitsunday Islands
- Scuba Diving and Snorkel
- Cabin Style Accommodation
- Learn to Sail
- Max 14 Passengers
- Visit Whitehaven Beach
- Explore Hill Inlet
- Snorkeling and Diving Equipment
- Delicious Fresh meals
- BYO Alcohol
- Knowledgable & Experienced Guide
- Fun and Relaxed Tour
- Roomy air-conditioned interior
- Trip length:
- 3 Day
- Group size:
- Max 14
- Start:
- Airlie Beach
- End:
- Airlie Beach
- Vehicle:
- Yacht
- Sleep:
- Cabin Style
- Physical Demand:
- Comfortlevel:
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Itinerary
Departure Times
Departs: 8:00 am - Mon & Fri
Returns: 4:00 pm - Wed & Sun
Departure Point: Coral Sea Marina, Airlie Beach
Sample Itinerary
Kiana operates in the Whitsunday area of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, a world heritage listed area that stretches from Bundaberg in the south to Cape York in the north. To ensure that our guests get the most out of their three days in the Whitsundays Kiana visits that best locations that the Whitsundays has to offer. Diving
Diving is definitely a major focus on board, and our crew will ensure that even first-time divers feel safe and are able to enjoy the splendour of our magnificent coral reefs. The crew love to dive so much they want everyone to try scuba diving by offering the 1st scuba dive FREE! This will allow you to relax with the equipment, feel comfortable underwater if it is the first time, and of course improve your abilities for future diving. The crew onboard are all fully qualified Dive Instructors and Divemasters. All the dive equipment is new and the boat also includes its own diving compressors. Please note that scuba diving is subject to age, medical questionnaire and conditions.
- First dive: free
- Second dive: $90.00
- Third dive: $70.00
- Additional dives: $50.00 (conditions permitting)
DAY 1
Arrive at Coral Sea Marina South to begin your Whitsunday sailing adventure!
Your skipper and hostess will be waiting to greet you and welcome you aboard your floating home for the next few days. Once we complete our safety briefing, we are off sailing through surreal island scenery taking in the sights and sounds of the ocean and enjoying the fresh air and sun. The Whitsunday beauty is seemingly endless while we cruise the open water. Take the opportunity to learn from your knowledgeable crew on the works of a sailing boat while we search for the perfect bay to drop anchor for the night.
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned sailor, we encourage you to try your hand at sailing and learn as much as you can from the experienced crew who are always happy to share their skills, love and knowledge of the ocean life! Alternatively, sit back and relax with a refreshing drink instead, soaking up the serenity of the sailing vessel while the crew go about their duties.
Today is a brief but exciting one as we venture out deeper into the Whitsunday’s - Enjoy your evening with some pre-dinner drinks and make some new friends with your fellow travellers. Your hosts will be prepare your first gourmet meal. After dinner, continue relaxing with the company of your new mates, taking in the tranquillity surrounding you. When you’re ready to sleep, head down to your chosen beds and cabins and turn in for a pleasant nights rest being gently rocked to sleep by the movement of the ocean.
DAY 2
Today we’re up early with a nice hot cup of tea or coffee while the crew prepare your delicious continental breakfast.
After a pleasant morning sail, it’s time to visit the world famous Whitehaven Beach, with its beautiful white sand and tranquil coastline. Experience first hand why so many visitors rank this as one of the best beaches in the world.
After enjoying a few hours sun and sand on the beach, your crew will take you on an informative guided bush walk through to Hill Inlet lookout. This view is not to be missed as it is a once in a lifetime opportunity to view the stunning and intriguing swirling sands that make this place so well known.
After a superb buffet lunch near the beach, its time to get back onboard the boat and continue our adventure to the northern Whitsunday Islands to snorkel some of the best reefs in the world - full of beautiful and vibrant marine life, this is truely to be a highlight of your trip.
As the evening starts to set in, we set sail and prepare to drop anchor for the night at another spectacular location. Time to relax and reflect with new friends on the days activities.
DAY 3
Enjoy your final breakfast and take the opportunity for one last snorkel on todays chosen reef, or try your hand at stand-up paddle-boarding ( if available ). Afterwards, as we sail back towards Airlie Beach, take in all the beauty of the Whitsundays and it’s incredible archipelago whilst soaking in the sun and atmosphere of being on a sailing vessel.
When we have returned to mainland, we guarantee you will remember this trip with fond memories and new friends. Back home on the land, we say farewell and wish you all the best for your future travels. Returning to Coral Sea Marina South.
*Please note, this itinerary and menu is a sample only and is subject to changes with no given notice.
Sample Menu
All meals are prepared on board Kiana from fresh ingredients. Our unique "marine hangi" (pronounced hungy) will satisfy the gourmet within you. The Hangi is a traditional New Zealand Maori method of cooking in an earth oven. On Kiana we have adapted this concept with our own marine version.
- Breakfasts: fresh fruit salad, a choice of cereals, toast and jams for breakfast, to pre-dinner chips & dips, pastries and bruschetta
- Snacks: chocolate cake and doughnuts for afternoon tea
- Lunches: cold meat platters, coleslaw's, potato, Indian rice and egg salads for lunch, to Italian pasta night
- Dinners: Aussie BBQ on the first night (featuring tender steaks, giant snags (Aussie sausages), choice of yummy crispy salads and bread rolls, Italian pasta night, featuring delicious pasta sauce, garlic & herb bread and Italian salads
You are going to be overwhelmed with the amazing menu and the never-ending array of food. All our meals are freshly prepared in the alfresco galley and all our juicy meats are cooked on the BBQ, giving you that true Aussie feel. There is morning and afternoon tea as well, so you will never go hungry!
Other Info
Fully Equipped for Diving including Compressor
Kiana is fully equipped for both snorkelling and scuba diving so all you need to bring is a smile. Kiana has an onboard high capacity dive compressor so your diving will not be limited to the number of spare scuba tanks that can be carried as is the case with most sail and dive vessels.
Maximum 14 Passengers and Crew of 3
Kiana carries a maximum of 14 passengers ensuring that our guests are never crowded. Our crew consists of a qualified Skipper, Dive Instructor and Cook/Deckhand. A crew of three ensures that Kiana's guests never lack attention.
Roomy Air-conditioned Interior
Being a deep draft vessel Kiana is particularly roomy below decks. All cabins and the saloon are fully air-conditioned to ensure comfortable temperatures in the heat of the tropics. The quality of Kiana's teak finish provides an ambience that cannot be matched by the plastic alternatives.
Kiana has single and double accommodation in shared cabins. If you require more privacy we have private twin cabins available for a small extra charge.
Kiana has two large bathrooms with electric toilets and freshwater showers. Our high capacity hot water system ensure that hot water is always available.
Large Permanently Shaded Aft Deck
The tropical sun can be very severe, particularly on those with fair skin from cooler climates. Kiana provides the best of both worlds with ample deck space for sun baking and a huge permanently shaded rear deck where you can cool off. The rear deck also provides protection from the elements on those rare occasions when there is a tropical rain shower.
Diver Certification in Australia
All dive operators in Australia need to sight your "C" Card (Certification Card) or qualification papers prior to diving. To dive as a Certified Diver on Kiana you will need to be certified as a PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent.
If you have been certified through an organisation other than PADI, check below to see if you are a PADI Open Water Equivalent.
- ACUC: Open Water
- ANIS: One Star Junior or One Star Diver
- AUSI: Level 2 Diver
- BSAC: Ocean Diver or Club Diver or Sport Diver
- CMAS: One Star Diver
- FFESSM: Niveau I
- FIAS: Base Avanzato
- IDEA: Open Water
- IDD: Open Water Diver
- IDF: Two Star Diver (with Alternate Air Source Ascent and 50 yard compass swim)
- NASDS: Open Water
- NAUI: Scuba Diver or Open Water One
- PDIC: Open Water
- SAA: Club Diver
- SSI: Open Water Diver
- SNMP NICEAU: Level 1
- SSAC: 3rd Class Diver
- YMCA: Bronze Star or Open Water or Scuba Diver
What to bring
CLOTHING
- Long Sleeve shirt for protection from the Sun
- Shorts and T Shirts
- Comfortable shoes or sandles
- Swimwear and Towel
- Hat and sunglasses
Passengers need to take caution during December/January period where temperaturs in Central Australia can get quite high. Its advised to prepare accordingly.
EQUIPMENT / OTHER
- Sunscreen
- Refillable water bottle
- Camera
- Bring your own alcohol
What is included
TRANSPORT
- Beautiful Yacht Kiana
MEALS
- Fantastic food prepared fresh daily on-board - Refer to itinerary(we can cater to most diets)
EQUIPMENT
- Free use of snorkeling and Scuba Diving equipment
OTHER
- Plenty of drinking water and snacks
- Experienced and knowledgable diving guides
Personal travel insurance is not included but visitors are advised to have it. This can be organised through your travel agent.
Trip Info
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 we generally say 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.
What type of groups go on these tours?
Onboard our tours there are usually around 5 - 24 people ( depending on the tour and destination ). Lost In Australia's travellers want to explore the country and develop a real sense for the land, nature and its people. We travel in small groups which allows us to get from destination to destination quickly and effortlessly whilst being flexible and free!
Is it ok to travel alone on one of these tours?
We have many travellers jumping onboard our tours by themselves. Those travelling by themselves are very much welcomed and encouraged. During your outback adventure you'll meet new and interesting people and forge relationships that will last a life time.
Those who do travel by themselves will probably be sharing a room with a travelling companion of the same sex, but even if you do get your own room, you won't be charged extra. For camping tours, generally there are enough tents available that you can have your own if you choose to.
For more information please contact us directly.
How many people will be on tour?
Group sizes vary from tour to tour. You can find the size of your group by checking out information at the top right hand corner of the tour page. Group sizes range of 5 - 24 people.
Is there an age limit?
We get a large range of travellers from all over the world and from a very large age range. We get people of all ages joining these trips; generally our travellers vary between 21 - 45 though we also get many happy travellers in their 60s and 70s. Some tours however have a restriction on children under the age of 16 - 18. This will depend on the destination so please email us for more info.
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 situation
- Private twin – two single beds in a private cabin
- Private double – double bed in a private cabin
- Private Stateroom – double bed in a large private cabin
This 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!
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