Ever thought about taking your kids sailing? Maybe you love the idea, but also picture yourself wrestling with tangled ropes, the wind howling as your five-year-old asks for a snack for the 87th time that morning. I get it. But here’s the thing—sailing in the Whitsundays is nothing like that. It’s calm, it’s breathtaking, and it’s one of those rare, pinch-yourself experiences that will stay with your family forever.
The Whitsundays is a dream for families because the waters are sheltered, the marine life is straight out of a nature documentary, and the beaches are heaven. And here’s the kicker—you don’t ever need to own a boat. You can either jump on a skippered cruise (hello, relaxation) or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try bareboating — where you hire your own yacht or catamaran and live your best ‘we’re so outdoorsy’ life, even if you’ve never done it before.
Mother and daughter on the Whitsundays. Credit: Sailing Whitsundays
Cruising the Whitsundays with kids: Stress-free and stunning
If you love the idea of sailing but also love the idea of someone else doing the work, a family-friendly cruise is the way to go. The Whitsundays has loads of options designed for families, with overnight cruises, day cruises or even private charters.
Expect spacious cabins, proper bathrooms, and plenty of spots to lounge while the crew takes you to iconic places like Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet. Your kids will be snorkeling with Nemos, spotting sea turtles, and splashing in crystal-clear water before lunch. You, meanwhile, will be sipping a cold drink, wondering why you didn’t do this sooner.
There are cruises tailored to families, so you won’t have to worry about side-eye from honeymooners as your kids sing the Bluey theme song on repeat. Instead, you’ll be surrounded by other parents who are also just trying to have a good time while keeping tiny humans alive and happy. Check out these family-friendly cruises on the Whitsundays for a full list of cruises available.
Snorkelling straight off the boat when cruising the Whitsundays with kids. Credit: Sailing Whitsundays
Bareboating: Be the captain (yes, really)
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous (or just love the idea of having your own floating home for a few days), bareboating is for you. It’s exactly what it sounds like—you hire a boat, stock it with food, and set sail on your own itinerary.
The best part? You don’t need a boat license. No, really. Charter companies will give you a full briefing before you head off, making sure you know the ropes (literally) and feel confident navigating. They also check in daily and can help if you need a hand.
Bareboating is perfect for families who love a bit of freedom and flexibility. Want to spend the whole afternoon at a secluded beach, letting the kids run wild? Done. Want to snorkel in a different spot every morning? Go for it. It’s like camping but way more luxurious and with fewer insects.
Of course, with great freedom comes great responsibility. You’ll be doing your own cooking and navigating, so there is more to plan for and to do each day. But if the family is up for the challenge, it also comes with great reward.
Making family memories sailing the Whitsundays with kids. Credit: Sailing Whitsundays
The verdict? Just do it!
Sailing the Whitsundays with kids is not just possible—it’s magical. Whether you choose a cruise where everything is taken care of or a bareboat adventure where you set the pace, you’ll make the kind of family memories that last a lifetime.
So, if you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to turquoise waters, snorkeling with your kids in a coral wonderland, and watching the sunset from the deck of a boat, this is your sign. Pack the sunscreen, embrace the adventure, and set sail for the kind of holiday you’ll be talking about for years.
The kids will have a blast sailing the Whitsundays as a family. Credit: Sailing Whitsundays
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Spanning Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and beyond, Kids on the Coast is an online guide and printed free magazine for parents. With kids events and activities, attractions & things to do with kids, schools and education, school holiday guides, health & wellbeing for families, parenting and lifestyle news. Located on Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast & Brisbane, QLD. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through the links, at no cost to you.
