ZigZag Whitsundays FAQ Page

Frequently Asked Questions

What time is check-in and where do we meet?

Check-in is 8:20am at Meeting Point D, Coral Sea Marina, Airlie Beach; departure is 9:00am. Search “ZigZag Whitsundays” in Google Maps to navigate directly to the meeting point.

Please arrive on time so we can depart promptly. Allow 10–15 minutes for parking and walking.

Where does the ZigZag Whitsundays day trip depart from?

All tours depart from Coral Sea Marina, Meeting Point D, Airlie Beach. Check-in is 8:20am for a 9:00am departure.

Do you go to Hill Inlet Lookout on ZigZag Whitsundays?

No. We visit South Whitehaven Beach and the South Whitehaven Lookout, not Hill Inlet. This gives you more beach time and a calmer, less crowded experience.

How much beach time do we get at Whitehaven Beach?

Expect 4 to 5 hours on Whitehaven Beach with unlimited boat-to-beach transfers when purchasing tickets without snorkelling. Relax, swim, or explore at your own pace throughout the day.

Where does the day tour visit?

The itinerary includes the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach, South Whitehaven Lookout, and a snorkel location (for snorkelling tickets).

What is the difference between the Whitehaven Beach All Day ticket and the Whitehaven Beach + Snorkelling ticket?

Both tickets include South Whitehaven Beach with unlimited boat-to-beach transfers and a guided South Whitehaven Lookout walk. The + Snorkelling ticket also includes a snorkelling trip to one location, with gear and stinger suits provided. The All Day ticket skips snorkelling for extra time on the beach.

Do both ticket types travel on the same boat?

Yes. Both the Whitehaven Beach All Day and Whitehaven Beach + Snorkelling tickets travel together on our Super Flyer catamaran. Guests on the + Snorkelling ticket will take a smaller transfer boat to the snorkel site while All Day guests continue enjoying the beach.

What ages of children are allowed on the tour?

Children aged 3 month+ are welcome. Infants up to and including 3 travel free; children 4–14 require a child ticket. The Whitehaven Beach + Snorkelling ticket is suitable for children 4+ but you can take infants on this ticket however the parents will snorkel at different times.

Is the tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes. Our touris ideal for families. We provide life jackets and child-sized stinger suits, games, colouring i,n and our on-demand beach transfers make the day easy with kids.

Is this tour good for people with back problems?

Choose the Whitehaven Beach All Day ticket for the smoothest experience. The + Snorkelling option includes a fast-boat transfer that can be bumpy depending on conditions.

Can you take pregnant travellers?

Yes, however, we recommend avoiding travel in the final months of pregnancy. As with any boat trip, conditions vary; please consider your comfort and seek medical advice if unsure.

What is included in the ticket price?

Snacks, lunch, drinking water (bring a bottle), and stinger suits are included. Snorkelling tickets also include a mask, snorkel, and fins.

Dietaries catered: vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, lactose-free (advise at booking). Our lunch is freshly prepared with care by the owner’s mum.

Do you provide snorkelling gear? Can I bring my own?

Yes, we provide sanitised masks, snorkels, fins, and stinger suits for snorkelling tickets. You’re welcome to bring your own gear if you prefer.

I can’t swim — can I snorkel?

Maybe, depending on your confidence. We supply flotation aids (pool noodles), and our crew can offer tips. If unsure, the Whitehaven Beach All Day ticket is a great non-snorkel option.

How far is the South Whitehaven Lookout walk, and what should I wear?

The walk is ~900 metres each way (about 45 minutes return, including time at the top). Wear comfortable footwear, a hat, and sunscreen, and bring water.

Where can I park my car?

Coral Sea Marina has ample parking for cars and motorhomes. Expect around $10–$12 for the trip duration; use pay-and-display or the EasyPark app.

Is there phone reception and Wi-Fi on the tour?

Phone reception is typically available during the first and last hour of the day. Yes, we now have Wi-Fi on board.

Are there bathrooms on board?

Yes, there are 2 bathrooms and 3 changing rooms on the boat.

Do you sell alcohol? Can I bring my own?

Yes, we have a licensed onboard bar (card or cash accepted). BYO alcohol isn’t permitted, and alcohol can’t be taken off the boat.

Do I have to wear a stinger suit?

Yes, from November to May stinger suits are required. Like a seatbelt, it’s an important safety precaution.

What should I bring on the tour?

Pack light: sunglasses, sunscreen, towel, swimmers, hat, and a refillable water bottle. No large bags or suitcases on board, please.

Can I take fishing equipment?

No, fishing isn’t permitted on the tour.

What wetsuit sizes do you have?

We carry children’s sizes through to adult XXXL.

Will we see turtles or dolphins?

Wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, but turtles and dolphins are commonly seen.

Do you take cruise ship guests?

No. Our departure and return times don’t align with cruise ship schedules.

Who owns ZigZag Whitsundays?

ZigZag Whitsundays is owned and operated by Nicole and Ben, a local Whitsundays couple with two children.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Safety comes first. We may adjust the itinerary or cancel if conditions are unsafe. If we cancel, you’ll receive a full refund or can reschedule.

Do you offer group bookings or private charters?

Yes, we can arrange group bookings and private charters. Contact our reservations team for availability and pricing.

Where can I read reviews?

We display over 4,400 guest reviews across platforms. Check our Reviews page to see recent feedback about the ZigZag experience.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancel 24+ hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable and non-transferable. Third-party bookings follow the supplier’s terms.

Do you have a COVID Safe plan?

Yes, we operate under an approved COVID Safe plan.