Uncover the Whitsundays by boat with Explore Expeditions in 2023

Uncover the Whitsundays by boat with Explore Expeditions in 2023

Expedition cruising options are on the way to the Whitsunday Islands, part of a new Explore Group offering to give visitors more opportunities to experience the beauty of one of Australia’s favourite destinations.

Explore Expeditions offer small ship voyages onboard the Whitsunday Explorer comparable to owning or chartering a superyacht, meaning the tours are more versatile and able to get to different locations.

Explore Expedition Cruises will launch on 14 April,  with passengers able to take a two-night cruise departing Coral Sea Marina to visit many of the islands that make up the Whitsunday Island group with longer offerings also available later in the year.

Image: Tourism Whitsundays

“There’s currently nothing quite like this expedition-style cruise available,” managing director, Explore, William Goodfellow, said.

“With increased demand on mainland and island accommodation, Explore Expedition Cruises offer visitors and locals the chance to experience the beauty of the islands, spot a huge range of sea and bird life, and participate in a range of water and island activities.”

The 45m boat, named Whitsunday Explorer, being used for the venture has capacity for 60 passengers on overnight cruises in 30 ensuite cabins, configured either twin-share or king double.

Activities during the day include everything from snorkelling, guided walks, visiting historic sites, through to wildlife encounters and sea kayaking.

“We’re focused on helping to grow and enhance the Whitsundays as a tourism destination for locals, as well as visitors from around Australia, and overseas. Book the cruise as a standalone Whitsundays experience or add a cruise on to a land-based stay,” Goodfellow, said.

“An on the water experience like Explore Expedition Cruises showcases the beauty and history of the Whitsundays and ultimately entices more visitors to the region,” he says.

Ocean Explorer named “best large tourist vessel of the year”, is based on Hamilton Island and operates daily from Shute Harbour and Hamilton Island to the outer Great Barrier Reef.

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