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?

The 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. Prior to departure you will have complimentary access to the Coral Sea Marina Lookout Lounge. This is located upstairs at the Coral Sea Marina South Terminal adjacent ‘Meeting Point C’. A member of our crew will
greet guests and commence check-in at the lounge 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?

You will be collected from Hamilton Island Airport and transferred to the Explore Group office to check in. You must be checked in between 3 - 4pm. 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 menu based on local seasonal produce. 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.

 

Where will the boat anchor for the evenings?
A sample itinerary has been provided as a guide, however the final cruise route will be dependent on the sea and weather conditions. There will be a briefing each evening to outline the planned activity for the following day.

 

What onboard entertainment, water activities and shore excursions are available?
Island walks, kayaking, tender excursions, beach games, swimming, snorkelling, board games, TV. All equipment will be provided including stinger suits and flotation devices when required for water activities.


Is there Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, Wi-Fi is complimentary onboard for all guests where service is accessible.


Are children permitted?
Guests must be 5 years and over. All children under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult.

 

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.

 

Is there a dress code for dinner?
Casual or Smart Casual is appropriate for all evenings.

 

Are there TV’s in the cabins?
No. A TV is located in the main lounge.

 

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


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 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.

 

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. 

 

Are there any items that are prohibited?
Dangerous goods must be declared before travel on all Explore Group products and services. Please contact us with any queries on dangerous goods.