Whitehaven Beach Ferry Full Day Return Transfer
Experience one of the most affordable and scenic ways to visit Whitehaven Beach with our full-day return ferry transfer aboard a beautifully restored vintage timber vessel. Unlike fast, impersonal rides, our journey is part of the experience — cruise through the Whitsunday Islands in relaxed comfort, with shaded seating, onboard amenities, and a friendly local crew. We drop you at the southern end of Whitehaven Beach at the intertidal zone, where you’re free to swim, walk, sunbathe, or relax at your own pace with no schedules or guided tours. Our ferry remains anchored nearby so you can return at any time throughout the day to enjoy the shade, restrooms, and refreshments onboard. With flexible return pickup, optional snorkel or stinger suit hire, and the freedom to explore as you wish, this is the perfect balance of value, comfort, and freedom — ideal for families, couples, or solo travellers wanting a more personal and authentic Whitsunday experience.
Options
Whitehaven Beach Ferry Full Day Return Transfer
Pickup included
What's included in Whitehaven Beach Ferry Full Day Return Transfer
(Subject to Option Inclusions)✅ Step-by-Step: Whitehaven Beach Ferry Service (Full-Day Transfer)
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- Booking Confirmation • Guests book a full-day return ferry transfer from Shute Harbour to the southern end of Whitehaven Beach. • Confirmation includes: departure time (8:00am), location (Shute Harbour Marine Terminal), and what to bring (towel, water, sunscreen, etc.).
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- Arrival at Shute Harbour • Passengers arrive at Lot 296 Whitsunday Drive, Shute Harbour by 7:30am. • Four local buses depart from central Airlie Beach before 8:00am (only $0.50). • Guests meet crew and are directed to the correct wharf (vessel rotates among the 3 main piers).
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- Boarding & Safety Check • Passengers board our comfortable vintage timber ferry. • A short safety briefing is given onboard. • Optional stinger suit or snorkel gear hire is available. • Facilities include toilets, shaded seating, and a small bar/snack service.
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- Scenic Cruise to Whitehaven • The ferry departs at 8:00am sharp. • Enjoy a 2.5-hour scenic cruise through the Whitsunday Islands. • Crew provide optional commentary or allow guests to relax and take in the view.
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- Arrival & Drop-Off • First drop-offs begin at approximately 10:30am at the southern end of Whitehaven Beach. • The vessel remains anchored nearby while a tender transfers passengers to shore below the high tide mark (intertidal zone). • Guests are free to swim, walk, or relax at their own pace — this is a self-guided, unguided visit.
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- Free Time on Whitehaven • Guests enjoy unguided free time on Whitehaven Beach, with the freedom to return to the anchored ferry for shade, drinks, or rest at any time. • No tours, no guides, and no park entry activities are included — guests explore independently.
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- Pickups Begin • Return pickups start at 2:00pm and are completed by 2:30pm. • Guests are brought back to the ferry in small groups via tender.
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- Return Journey to Shute Harbour • The ferry departs Whitehaven around 2:30pm, arriving back at Shute Harbour by approximately 5:00pm. • Passengers disembark with memories of one of the world’s most beautiful beaches — all on their own terms.
Inclusions
- Restroom on board
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Additional Information
Ferry departs from Shute Harbour Marine Terminal (Lot 296 Whitsunday Dr). Look for our classic timber boat at one of the 3 main wharves. 4 buses leave Airlie Beach before 8am (50¢ fare), or there’s plenty of parking on-site. Arrive early to check in.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
Please have your ticket ready to scan as you board the ferry
