If you are planning to visit the Whitsundays Islands with your loved ones to celebrate a special
occasion or deserved holidays, and you feel a little bit lost with the number of options and
boats, don’t worry, we got you covered! Please continue reading to better understand the market
and the two main offers for small or large groups looking for a private trip: private charters
and bareboating.
From sunset cruises to outer reef extended visits, the Whitsundays Islands and the Great
Barrier Reef have so much to offer to nature lovers. Having an adventurous trip doesn’t mean
you need to sacrifice comfort and privacy. There are many ways of enjoying marine life, the
stunning beaches and unbelievable views, and feeling the whole scenery is just for you and your
family and/or friends.
Bareboating and private charters are the two main alternatives for a private and exclusive trip
around the Whitsundays Islands. This means that on the boat and during the whole journey, just
your group will be there.
Although the duration of the trip will depend on how much time you have, we strongly recommend
spending at least one night, which will make the experience unforgettable. Let the sound of the
ocean lull you to sleep, wake up in paradise and be the first ones to arrive at Whitehaven
Beach, before the crowds.
All right, so what is the main difference between private charters and bareboating? In the
first one, a skipper and host will take care of absolutely everything, from driving the vessel,
understanding the tides and the best spots to anchoring, to catering and preparing everyday
meals, while on a bareboat there is no crew to help with any onboard anchorages or in water
activities.
If navigating is your thing, you probably will find many advantages on bareboating, as you or
someone else from your group can skipper the vessel for the whole duration of the trip.
Meanwhile, the cooking, cleaning and organising of your own provisions will also be under your
control. Don’t forget to buy enough provisions and water before leaving as you can imagine,
there are no shops in the middle of the ocean! Any additional in water activity equipment need
to be hired and paid for before departure.
If you are an adventurous multi-tasker it probably won’t get better than this. You do not need
a license to hire a bareboat but you will be given a full brief before departure. Then you can
pick your anchorages and itinerary based on the prevailing weather conditions.
Bareboating challenges could be the kind of holiday you have always wanted. Keep in mind a
bareboat is restricted to travel on the water only up until 4 pm.
You will find the same freedom and independence on a private charter, and although the price is
slightly higher, it could be worth every cent. An all-inclusive skippered charter has its
benefits as you just need to sit back, relax and enjoy it all while the crew take care of you.
A professional skipper will be in charge of the directions, the wind, the tides and everything
else, while you lay back and read a book or connect with family on the deck of the boat. You
can choose to sunbathe, even have a go at driving the vessel with the guidance of the skipper
then hand over the wheel back to crack open a cold beer or sip champagne in the onboard
jacuzzi. All-inclusive skippered private charters are designed for groups that don’t want to
worry about cooking or cleaning, a friendly and experienced host will prepare all the meals on
board. No need to organise or carry provisions to the vessel as all the food is ready to go.
Wings Sailing Charters Whitsundays offer all-inclusive skipper private charters catering to your
every need, offering sunset cruises, half and full-day cruises, and overnight charters ranging
from 2 to 8 days. Their experienced skippers ensure your day is tailored to your preferences,
whether you seek adventure or tranquility. We plan our routes based on optimal tides and the
breathtaking Whitsunday sunsets, ensuring you experience the best of this stunning region.
Their high-quality 60ft catamaran is fully equipped for family or friends gatherings, hens and
bucks parties, birthdays and more. Delicious meals are prepared on board so you can relax at
the front deck spa or explore the coral reef on a kayak or snorkelling before lunch is ready.
WIngs vessels have cold filtered drinking water so you do not need to carry heavy bottles to
the boat which also helps to protect the environment.
Are you still asking yourself which options suit better your group needs and holiday goals?
Give us a call and we will be happy to help you!