Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring?

Weather appropriate clothing, footwear for moderate walking, swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, light jacket, cash or card for any additional purchases, small backpack and water bottle for onshore excursions.

What time can I check in?

Whitsunday Explorer will depart from Coral Sea Marina at 4.30pm sharp. Please ensure you arrive at the marina between 3-4pm to ensure we depart on time. On arrival at Coral Sea Marina please make your way to ‘Meeting Point C’ where a member of our crew will greet guests and commence check-in from 3.00pm.

How do I get to Coral Sea Marina from the airport?

From Whitsunday Coast Airport there are multiple transfer services meeting each flight arrival. Pre-booking transfers on arrival is recommended or you can book at the airport. From Hamilton Island Airport Cruise Whitsundays operates ferry transfers to the Port of Airlie. From the Port of Airlie there’s a taxi service for a short ride to Coral Sea Marina. 

Where can I park at Coral Sea Marina?

Uncovered, long term parking is available at Coral Sea Marina South car park - formerly Abell Point Marina Long Term Carpark. Pricing is $10 a day for 1-7 days.

How do I get to the Whitsunday Explorer from Hamilton Island Airport?

Check in for Whitsunday Explorer cruises on Hamilton Island is at the Explore Group office, located at 227 Front Street, between 3:00pm and 4:00pm. Transfers from the airport can be pre-booked through the Hamilton Island Concierge team, or a taxi service operated by Resort Link is also available. If you arrive early, you will be able to store your luggage and explore the island returning to the Explore office by 4pm. Your transfer to the Whitsunday Explorer will depart Hamilton Island at 4:30pm.

 

What type of menu is available?

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner will be a buffet style family friendly menu. Morning and afternoon teas will include a selection of muffins, cheese, biscuits, and fruit. Tea & Coffee will be available throughout service times. Please see our sample menu.

Do you cater for specific dietary requirements or food allergies?

Please ensure you advise any special dietary requirements and/or medical conditions at the time of booking. We can cater to most requirements.

Can I take my own alcohol?

Alcohol is available for purchase from our fully licensed bar on board and features a handpicked selection of Australian & New Zealand wines, tap beer,cocktails top shelf spirits and liqueurs. BYO Alcohol is not permitted.

What onboard entertainment, water activities and shore excursions are available?

Island walks, kayaking, beach games, swimming, snorkelling, board games, movie night. All equipment will be provided including stinger suits and flotation devices when required for water activities. Please note our equipment for children is suitable for ages 5 and up. You are welcome to bring your own equipment if you prefer.

Is there a baggage limit?

Baggage is limited to one large suitcase and one travel bag per person.

How often is the cabin serviced?

Cabins receive a light service daily.

What bathroom amenities are included in the room?

Soap, shampoo, conditioner and body lotion are supplied in all cabins.

What is the bedding configuration and what size beds are in the rooms?

Rooms will have either a king sized bed or two king single beds. Please note rooms are not interconnected but families will be allocated rooms opposite or adjacent to eachother.

Are there TV’s in the cabins?

No. A TV is located in the main lounge.

Do you have babysitting services available?

No we do not have babysitting services and children are the responsibility of caregivers at all times during the cruise.

Does the boat have accessible cabins & facilities?

Mobility access to this vessel is limited and there are multiple stairways to get between decks. Please contact us for more details if you have limited mobility.

Are there cots and highchairs available?

There are no cots or highchairs available onboard. Please advise us in advance if you wish to bring your own travel cot.

Are medical services available on board?

Multiple crew are first-aid trained, please advise any medical conditions at time of booking and before boarding the vessel.

Is smoking permitted?

Smoking is only permitted in the specifically designated outdoor smoking area.

What is the refund and cancellation policy?

A full refund will be provided if bookings are cancelled 14 days or more before departure. Bookings are non-refundable if cancelled within 14 days of departure, or in the event of a no-show. Please note, all departures are subject to minimum numbers, sea and weather conditions and Explore Group reserves the right to cancel departures in the event that requirements are not met.