Itinerary
Queensland, Australia
Captain Bo Cameron of Sanlorenzo's 44.5-metre Aix plans a trip to experience the kaleidoscopic marine life and landscapes of the Whitsundays
The 44.5-metre Aix is a yacht for charter with Burgess
THE ITINERARY
Whitsunday Island
Meet the yacht in the morning at Airlie Beach Marina as the crew welcome you on board with brunch. Aix will weigh anchor and immediately cruise to Whitsunday Island, dropping anchor at Tongue Bay.
In the afternoon hike up to Hill Inlet for views of the white-sand Whitehaven Beach, upon which you will spend the rest of the afternoon.
Manta Ray Bay
Hop into the tenders to Manta Ray Bay, home to some of the best snorkelling and diving in the Whitsundays, known for its colourful coral gardens.
After lunch, visit the Ngaro Cultural Site on Hook Island and learn about the region’s rich culture. Spend the night anchored in the tranquil bay with dinner under the stars.
Blue Pearl Bay
In the morning cruise less than one nautical mile to Hayman Island. Aix will drop anchor in Blue Pearl Bay, on the northern coast with pristine beaches and kaleidoscopic marine life.
Explore the spot by kayak before lounging on the beach. After dark, choose from one of the many waterside restaurants for dinner.
The crew will have set up a spectacular beach barbecue for a lunch cooked on the hibachi grill.
Hamilton Island
Cruise 17 nautical miles south to Hamilton Island, the largest inhabited island of the Whitsundays. After breakfast, tackle the Hamilton Island Golf Club course on its own nearby island, before lunch on board or at the club.
Take a scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef in the afternoon to see the coral formations and marine life from the skies.
Daydream Island
While Aix cruises to the aptly-named Daydream Island in the morning, enjoy a decadent brunch on board. Visit the Living Reef, an open-air aquarium where you can snorkel and interact with stingrays and sharks. Upon your return to the beach, the crew will have set up a spectacular beach barbecue for a lunch cooked on the hibachi grill.
South Molle Island
Awake as you arrive at South Molle Island in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The island’s proximity to the reef makes it an excellent base for snorkelling and diving excursions. Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colourful fish and turtles.
As the day cools, hike to Mount Jeffreys for views of the turquoise waters and lush greenery.
Airlie Beach
During breakfast, Aix will cruise nine nautical miles back to Airlie Beach for a final glimpse of the islands. After a celebratory glass of champagne and a farewell lunch on board, the crew will see you safely off the yacht.
Aix is for charter with Burgess.
First published in the August 2024 issue of BOAT International. Get this magazine sent straight to your door, or subscribe and never miss an issue.