Cruise Whitsundays (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Cruise Whitsundays?
What makes it 80% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 get discounted fares, child snorkel gear, semi-sub rides and Living Reef talks, yet long sea days, strong sun and jellyfish mean parents must supervise closely.
Positives:
- Free kids’ gear: Child-size snorkel sets and stinger suits come at no extra cost.
- Buffet meals: Lunch buffets include kid-friendly options like sandwiches and fruit.
Challenges:
- Jellyfish risk: Jellyfish appear November–May; always wear the provided stinger suits.
- Limited shade: Some decks have little cover; bring hats and UV shirts for kids.
What is Cruise Whitsundays?
- A marine cruise operator based in Airlie Beach offering day and overnight voyages across the Whitsunday Islands
- A fleet comprising pontoon platforms, catamarans and custom reef vessels outfitted with underwater observatories and on-deck accommodation
- A service provider facilitating direct maritime access to the central Great Barrier Reef and key Whitsunday Island landmarks
What is so special about Cruise Whitsundays for with kids?
- Guided snorkeling with child-size gear
- Beach BBQ and sand play at Whitehaven
- Safe stinger suits provided on all reef tours
- Catamaran sunset sail with drinks and snacks
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2-3 hour cruise lets kids see corals and beaches without getting overtired.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Cruise Whitsundays
Great Barrier Reef Full Day Adventure:
Snorkel from the pontoon to spot colorful fish and corals.
Tip: Ask for child-size snorkel gear and stinger suits before diving in.
Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet Chill & Grill:
Relax on pure white sand then enjoy a BBQ lunch on the beach.
Tip: Bring beach toys and a change of clothes for the kids.
Daydream Island Escape:
Explore the Living Reef exhibit, splash in the pool, and paddleboard.
Tip: Arrive before noon to grab pool towels and quieter spots.
Camira Sunset Sail:
Watch the sunset from a catamaran with food and drinks.
Tip: Pack a light jacket; evenings on the water get breezy.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Cruise Whitsundays
- Book early: Reserve family spots at least two weeks in advance to sit together.
- Choose morning departures: Early cruises offer smoother seas and brighter reef views.
Reviews of Cruise Whitsundays
Jon Hunter
Fantastic Great Barrier Reef day trip. Booked on the NRMA app so got a 15% discount. Attentive crew and plenty of time at the reef to go snorkeling and enjoy the free semi-submarine ride, which was a highlight. Lots of things you can pay extra for, so be ready to spend even more money if you want the premium experiences. Only disappointed by the food. Was promised a BBQ feast on the advertising...
Pamela Rivers
Got the boat at Arlie beach port, no hassles parked at the car park outside the Whitsundays cruise terminal. 11 dollars for 8 hrs or 13 dollars for the day. Pay by card easy to use no silly app required. We had morning tea of fresh fruit and biscuits before disembarking at Whitehaven beach. The weather was perfect not too hot and no breeze. They supplied games, castle building compotion and fish f...
Naruepornkamol Suriyatrakul
Had a full day chill & grill tour with CW the other day in August. Awesome weather a bit chill but sunny and no rain and you will have a good chance to spot whales along the way to Whitsunday island. Everything is amazing. We allow to spend sufficient time at beautiful hill inlet and whitsunday bay in the morning and whitehaven beach in the arvo after lunch on the beach. Anyway I feel like I would...
Xavier Nabet
Staff was really great, such friendly people and good energy, really made the day memorable! No complaints for the day itself! I have an important critique point however: I booked a dive in April 2025 to go dive in July 2025. In all this time I didn't receive a medical questionnaire. Then on board the ferry, I answered honestly and the guide told me that due to my answers, I wouldn't be allowed t...
David Cisneros
We had a SNORKEL trip to the outer Reef yesterday and it was Amazing. The ride out took longer than expected, as the reef is quite a distance from Airlie Port. It was a beautiful day and the whole time on the trip out we soaked up the sun and had wind in our hair on the upper deck in light seas. The Reef was spectacular. We arrived as the tide was dropping and immediately got into the water using ...
When is the best time to visit Cruise Whitsundays (Great Barrier Reef Area, Australia)?
Wear stinger suits November–May to avoid jellyfish. June–October offers calmer seas for kids.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Great Barrier Reef Day Adventure (family) | AUD 859 |
| Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet Chill & Grill (family) | AUD 769 |
| Daydream Island Escape (family) | AUD 399 |
| Camira Sunset Sail (family) | AUD 330 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 2,357 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Cruise Whitsundays
Address: 24 The Cv Rd, Airlie Beach QLD 4802, Australia
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About Cruise Whitsundays
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
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