General Information

A Brief History of the Whitsunday Islands

The Whitsunday islands take their name from ‘Whitsunday’s passage’, the main waterway among the islands. The name was given by Captain James Cook on June 3rd 1770 in honour of the Christian Festival on the day of its discovery.

While unofficial, the term ‘Whitsunday islands’ refers to some 70-100 islands spread over more than 100 nautical miles. The Whitsunday islands generally include Snare Peak Island north to Gloucester Island and the Cumberland Isles in between.

Where are the Whitsunday Islands?

The Whitsunday islands lie off Queensland’s central north coast, surrounded by the stunningly-blue waters of the Pacific Ocean & Coral Sea.

Situated latitudinally above the Tropic of Capricorn, the Whitsunday islands enjoy an average maximum temperature of 27ºC and a minimum of 21ºC. With similar water temperatures year round, Whitsunday island holidays are popular with sailors, divers, anglers and the generally aquatically inclined.

Whitsunday Island Holidays and Other Attractions

Whitsunday island holidays are anything but short of attractions. The Great Barrier Reef is only a short distance from the Whitsunday islands. This natural wonder spans around 1200 nautical miles and its diverse marine life makes Whitsunday island holidays popular amongst divers.

Whitsunday island holidays are also synonymous with sailing and cruising. However, whitsunday island holidays are more than just a visit to ‘one of the best boating playgrounds in Australia’. Whitsunday island holidays give you access to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches , temperate waters , protected rainforests and luxury resorts.

Book one of our unforgettable Whitsunday island holidays today!