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Sunsail's Hamilton Island base

Six thousand years ago the Whitsunday mountain range was cut of from the mainland by rising sea levels and the Whitsunday Islands were created. Inhabited by the Ngaro Aboriginies when Captain Cook discovered them in 1770, many of the islands are still uninhabited and the only people on the beaches have swam there from their yacht. Sailing this heaven on earth is the only way to discover the instant appeal of these dense green islands with their spectacular sandy shores.

Hamilton Island is perhaps the most commercialised of all the Whitsundays and its ever-developing marina is a major draw for sailing enthusiasts. Still retaining its tropical charm, the island is home to Sunsail’s Whitsunday base. With everything you would expect from a resort, the shops, restaurants, bars, take-aways, sports centre, nightclub and fauna park are all within easy reach of the base, particularly with the help of a golf-like buggy – the islands unique mode of transport!

Beaches are synonymous with the Whitsundays, particularly Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island. The largest of the islands, wander inland to explore the tropical forests or head straight for the main attraction, the long, white, welcoming beach. With no facilities at all, you can indulge in a castaway fantasy, but you may be joined by other Robinson Crusoes as the day wears on!

Cruising notes

Hook Island is directly north of Whitsunday Island and very similar in appearance. Two magnificent inlets cut into the southern end of the island providing all weather anchorages for yachts, and Nara Inlet is very popular for a trip to the small cave displaying Aboriginal Paintings on the roof and the more recent graffiti additions close by!

South Molle is the largest of the North, Mid and South Molle Island group and the only one with a resort. A source of stone for Ngaro Aborigines, tools made from this material have been found elsewhere and have helped track their old trade routes. It's a hilly continental island known for its prolific bird life and excellent walking paths. The trails behind the superb nine-hole golf course lead to gum trees, rainforest and encompass stunning views of the islands from the top of Spion Kop and Mount Jeffreys, plus some of the quieter south side beaches.

Cast off from South Molle and chart a course for Airlie Beach on the mainland. A lively little town with an even smaller beach, it’s perfect for stocking up or letting your hair down. Take advantage of the busy high street lined with cafes, restaurants, bars and shops or hire a car and explore the scenery inland.

Diving and snorkelling are a must when in the Whitsunday and dive companies can be found in almost every resort. Explore colourful coral atolls teeming with rainbow coloured fish and get an underwater perspective on your yacht!