Aug 20, 2024
Relax your way round the Whitsundays - We booked the full day eco tour online from the UK, sailing on the Tongarra catamaran from Airlie Beach. We researched all the different options to experience the Whitsundays, and decided that we didn’t want a speedy tour zipping to Whitehaven and the other headline locations. We had such a lovely day with Patrick and the crew, and were very glad that we chose to enjoy this beautiful area at a more leisurely pace.
The journey from Airlie Beach took around 2 hours and it didn’t take long until the sails were up, assisting the engine. The Tongarra has a lot of space up front, and we all lounged about on the comfy giant bean bags. It didn’t take long before Patrick brought round the first of the food - delicious brownies!
We were lucky to see several whales and their calves on the way out and back, and our skipper slowed right down so as to avoid disturbing them and so we could get a decent look. Lunch was delicious, and we ate out on the front deck.
When we arrived at the tiny island of Langford Island, we were taken ashore in the small rib/tender. Patrick showed us where to spot lots of stingrays in the shallows. He then led us up the short walk to the lookout and gave a really interesting talk about the history of the islands.
After some time on the beautiful beach we moved to a mooring alongside a fringing reef and enjoyed a lovely snorkelling session where we drifted with the current/breeze from our drop off to the collection point. Top notch safety cover from the tender and everyone had a great time.
After that it was time to start heading home, under sail (assisted by the engine) and my kids were delighted that they got to steer for a while. More food of course: crisps, dips, cookies, fruit skewers, cheese cubes and cheese biscuits.
More whales, and a stunning sunset!
It’s probably really obvious but it goes without saying that on this tour you’re likely to spend longer at sea and a little less time on beaches or snorkelling. This suited us perfectly. We had a lovely relaxing day.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Aug 17, 2024
Airlie Beach day sail with everything - This was a great adventure. We were blessed with perfect weather for a day on the water and had the good fortune to be looked after splendidly by our hosts, Patrick and Ben. Multiple whales were sighted slapping and spouting; a lone turtle ventured in a leisurely manner towards the boat; and the ocean sparkled and glittered for us all day. The biggest thrill was snorkeling as a group over a world of living coral, pwatching hundreds of coloured fish just going about their business in spite of our gentle intrusion. Wow! I loved it! Ben, thanks for the chance to steer. Patrick, thanks for the safety briefing, the lively historical anecdotes and the environmental information. Most of all, thanks for taking the time to teach me how to use the snorkeling equipment properly. Hooked on it now!
This is a day trip really worth taking!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Aug 16, 2024
THE BEST DAY EVER - The best day ever !! So much fun 10/10 recommend, the crew were amazing go Patrick and Ben we loved you 🤿🐠🐋🐡
Review provided by Viator
Jul 31, 2024
10/10 - We had a great experience today. Reece, Anthony and Shannon were great! They made sure we had everything and were very friendly.
Would defo recommend!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jul 22, 2024
Nice trip , but it doesn’t go to Whitehaven beach - Nice trip , but it doesn’t go to Whitehaven beach.
I’d prefer to pay a bit more and visit Whitehaven beach.
Crew was lovely
Review provided by Viator
Jul 16, 2024
Epic day out swimming with massive fish and amazing views - An epic day out in the Whitsundays! We cruised out on the boat with a great crew skippered by Rhys who kept the day filled with light fun, some jokes and the best music playlist.
We snorkelled in two spots, one with great Corel and loads of small fish; then another with masses of schools of fish and a few massive Maori Wrasse (over a metre long) and many other species, right up close and swimming all around you.
We then went to the picturesque spot to walk up to the lookout to take epic photos and finally a walk down to the beach.
Lunch on board was good and our boat had a bar to buy some drinks after snorkelling.
Best day out on this holiday so far, highly recommend this trip to anyone.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jul 16, 2024
The best tour ever! - The best day ever! Sam and Kaz were our guides and could not have been more professional, fun and caring for all ages and nationalities with varying swimming ability. We saw whales and got the opportunity to learn about the reef. Thank you Red Cat for the memories and especially Sam and Kaz for your professionalism and knowledge and making our family holiday so enjoyable.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jul 16, 2024
Very friendly staff. - It was amazing, and our guides were very friendly (PK and Emily). The lunch was fine, and the snacks were delicious. So many fish surrounded us!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jul 15, 2024
Grrrreat day out with the Whales. - Tony and Rosie were super cool. Tony was super knowledgeable and interesting. Rosie very attentive and the perfect host. Amazing day out. Thanks guys!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Aug 18, 2024
Great Day - Great day, perfect weather, pick-up and drop-off worked well. Hill inlet is stunning - so much better than photo. Snorkelling site showed diversity of fish and coral species.
Review provided by Tripadvisor