How To Explore Australia’s Most Underrated Islands

In the heart of the Great Barrier Reef lies an archipelago so pristine it’s almost mythical. The Whitsundays are a group of 74 tropical islands scattered like emeralds across turquoise waters that represent the pinnacle of Australian luxury travel.

Seasoned boaters know that there is a yacht perfectly suited to every profile, personality, and interest. And when it comes to the Whitsundays, there’s only one way to experience this seascape in unparalleled style and luxury: a superyacht.

What to See

Each anchorage in the Whitsundays has something to offer. Whitehaven Beach spans seven kilometers of pure silica sand, while Hill Inlet’s swirling sand forms a mesmerizing natural masterpiece.

Discover ancient Aboriginal rock art just a few steps away from your yacht’s deck at Nara Inlet. At Heart Reef, viewers can find the naturally heart-shaped coral formation from above in a private helicopter.

What to Do

Yacht charters can include several off-boat experiences: snorkeling with sea turtles in Manta Ray Bay, kayaking through emerald mangroves in pristine inlets, or just enjoying cutting-edge water toys like Seabobs and E-foils. Those seeking tranquility can indulge in sunset spa treatments or private beachside dining under a canopy of Southern Hemisphere stars.

For golf enthusiasts Hamilton Island’s championship coursedesigned by five-time British Open winner Peter Thomson, offers one of the world’s most challenging and scenic rounds. It’s an 18-hole course set across Dent Island’s rugged ridges, surrounded by ocean vistas.

Where to Stay

The ultimate Whitsundays experience unfolds aboard superyachts that redefine floating luxury. These ships feature infinity pools, wellness suites with professional massage facilities, and sun decks with jacuzzis and teppanyaki grills.

They rival the world’s finest hotelswhile spacious suites and outdoor lounges that offer uncompromising comfort. And with crews attending to every detail, including glass-smooth sailing stabilizers and fold-down beach club terraces, these floating resorts offer the freedom to wake in a different paradise each morning.

We have curated a select collection of superyachts, including Ghost IIchosen specifically for their ability to deliver exceptional charter experiences in the Whitsundays.

Where to Eat

Private chefs craft menus showcasing the region’s finest ingredients, from trout caught in reef waters to tropical fruits harvested from island groves.

Imagine leisurely breakfasts with eggs Benedict and champagne on the aft deck, beachside lunches of flame-grilled barramundi beneath swaying coconut palms, and tasting menus served on bespoke china amid phosphorescent waters. Every meal becomes a celebration.

In a world where true wilderness is increasingly rare, the Whitsundays offer something even more precious: the perfect marriage of untouched beauty and uncompromising luxury.

Suzy Mercien-Ferol is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List and specializes in trips to Australia & New Zealand. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Mercien-Ferol by contacting her at (email protected).