Sail your way to paradise on the Fraser Coast

Guide

By Sam Cummins

If pulling up in a secluded azure bay, surrounded by the sounds of the whales at play is your idea of the ultimate day out, look no further than the Fraser Coast. This little-known slice of sailing paradise is home to an array of sailing companies just waiting to help you explore the unspoilt coastline.

Here you can anchor off the world’s largest sand island – K’gari (Fraser Island), experience the world’s first Whale Heritage Site of Hervey Bay or navigate the Great Sandy Straight which covers 540,000 hectares of marine park. And to top it off Hervey Bay is regarded as the best spot to witness the heart-stopping beauty of humpback whales on their annual migration from July to November.

Perfect for the sailing aficionado or a first timer wanting to test the waters, base yourself at Hervey Bay (3.5 hours’ drive north of Brisbane) and discover how you can sail the days away.

Fraser Island Boat Charters

Choose your adventure onboard the Fraser Island Boat Charters yacht with a private tour or don your captain’s hat and try bareboating (self-drive). The untouched western side of K’gari (Fraser Island) calls to visitors with crystal clear waters, marine life, and secluded beaches. For those wanting to experience the world-class fishing opportunities unique to this area, upgrade your tour to include a full day guided fly and sports fishing charter. Keen fisheries have the potential to hook black marlin, longtail tuna, cobia and more.

Sweet Escape Yacht Charters

Make your island dreams come true onboard a luxury cruise with Sweet Escape Yacht Charters. Here sandy feet are welcome as you go from strolling along secluded beaches to kicking your feet up to count the stars back on the boat. Let the knowledgeable guides charter you to your next post-card perfect swimming spot while you relax and spot the marine life as the coastline glides by. If you prefer to be at the helm, book a bareboat charter and simply sail from bay to bay.

Blue Dolphin Marine

Eco-accredited Blue Dolphin Marine Tours is the longest-running sailing operator in the region, so they’re guaranteed to know the best locations for wildlife spotting. Join them for a Full Day Whale Encounter (mid July – late October) or Eco Adventure Sail off K’gari (Formerly Fraser Island) where you can spot dolphins, turtles, dugongs, and seabirds.

If you’re after something shorter, pair a breath-taking Queensland sunset with calm blue waters and a glass of bubbles – we’ll cheers to that! Perfect for those wanting a taste of sailing life, this 90-minute Champagne Sunset Sail will allow you to soak up the sun and panoramic views of Hervey Bay.

Still deciding where you’ll set sail next? Discover Queensland’s best sailing destinations or extend your Fraser Coast experience with some ground time on K’gari.

For a day trip with a difference join Tasman Venture’s Remote Fraser Island Experience to snorkel, kayak and bush walk through some of K'gari's hidden gems. If you're short on time Whalesong’s Fraser Island Beach & BBQ Cruise is the best way to get a taste of the island and an Aussie BBQ on a relaxed half day tour, complete with wildlife spotting, swimming and tube rides.