Walk the Whitsundays 2026: Your Winter Adventure Aboard the Historic Solway Lass
Picture this: You’re standing on the deck of a 144-year-old tall ship, feeling the warm winter sun on your face as billowing sails catch the breeze. Below you, turquoise waters stretch toward 74 tropical islands, and ahead lies an adventure few travellers ever experience—an exclusive combination of sailing, walking, and snorkelling through one of Australia’s most spectacular destinations.
Welcome to Walk the Whitsundays, and we’re thrilled to announce our 2026 tour dates are now open for bookings!
The Journey That Has Everyone Talking
If you’ve been dreaming of exploring the Whitsunday Islands in a way that goes beyond the typical tourist experience, this is your moment. Walk the Whitsundays isn’t just another cruise—it’s an active, immersive adventure that seamlessly blends the region’s best experiences into one unforgettable 5-day journey aboard the magnificent Solway Lass.
What Makes This Experience So Special?
We’re not exaggerating when we say this is the only tour of its kind in the Whitsundays. While other operators focus solely on sailing or day trips, we’ve crafted something entirely unique: exclusive access to remote walking tracks that can only be reached by boat, combined with the romance of tall ship sailing and the thrill of snorkelling pristine coral reefs.
Your 2026 Adventure Awaits
We run Walk the Whitsundays exclusively during the winter months when the Whitsundays truly shines. Winter here means clear blue skies, comfortable temperatures, warm waters, and optimal conditions for both walking and sailing. Here are your opportunities to join us in 2026:
🗓️ June 26–30, 2026
Availability: Shared & Private Cabins
Start your winter escape early! This departure is perfect for those wanting to beat the mid-winter chill and enjoy the Whitsundays at its pristine best.
🗓️ September 22–26, 2026
Availability: Shared & Private Cabins
As spring approaches, enjoy the perfect blend of warm days and comfortable evenings on this late-season adventure.
Please note: Ensuite cabins have already sold out for our June and September departures—a testament to how quickly these exclusive tours fill up!
A Day in the Life: What Your Adventure Looks Like
Morning: Wake Up in Paradise
Imagine waking in your cozy cabin to the gentle rocking of the ship. You make your way to the top deck where a continental breakfast awaits—fresh fruit, croissants, yogurt, and hot coffee as you watch the sun paint the islands gold. Curious fish dart beneath the hull, and the crew is already preparing for the day’s adventure.
Midday: Explore Where Others Can’t Go
This is where Walk the Whitsundays truly sets itself apart. With your expert walking guide, you’ll venture onto tracks that most visitors never see:
The Whitsunday Cairn Walk – A challenging 5-hour trek that rewards you with jaw-dropping 360-degree views of all 74 Whitsunday Islands. The sense of accomplishment when you reach the top? Absolutely priceless.
Hill Inlet Lookout – That iconic Instagram shot of swirling turquoise and white sand patterns? You’ll experience it firsthand after a bushwalk that builds anticipation with every step.
Ancient Nara Inlet Sea Caves – Walk in the footsteps of the Ngaro people and view Aboriginal rock art that has endured for thousands of years.
Whitehaven Beach via Solway Circuit – Here’s the secret: you’ll arrive at one of the world’s most beautiful beaches before the day-trippers. For precious hours, that pure silica sand is yours to enjoy.
Spion Kop, South Molle Island – Your final walk takes you past an ancient Ngaro stone quarry before revealing stunning vistas of the Molle Island group.
Afternoon: Dive Into Crystal Waters
After working up an appetite on the trails, you’ll return to Solway Lass for a hearty, freshly prepared lunch. Then it’s time to explore underwater. With snorkeling equipment provided, you’ll discover the vibrant coral reefs of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, swimming alongside tropical fish, sea turtles, and an array of marine life.
Prefer to stay above water? Grab a stand-up paddleboard and glide across glassy bays, or simply relax on deck with a book and a cold drink from the licensed bar.
Evening: Sunset, Stories, and Stars
As the day winds down, you might find yourself anchored in a secluded bay, sunset platter in hand, sharing stories with fellow adventurers who’ve become fast friends. Dinner is served buffet-style on deck—BBQ in true Aussie fashion, followed by dessert under the stars. The crew is always ready with fascinating tales about the islands, the ship’s 144-year history, or the best spots for wildlife viewing.
This is the magic of small-group travel: with just 24 guests maximum, every evening feels intimate and special.
The Solway Lass: Sailing History
Let’s talk about your home for five days. Solway Lass isn’t just any vessel—she’s a living piece of maritime history. At 144 years old, this magnificent tall ship has sailed the world’s oceans and now calls the Whitsundays home. When her sails unfurl and catch the wind, you’re not just traveling; you’re experiencing the golden age of sailing.
Guest cabins are surprisingly cozy and comfortable, with air conditioning for those warm afternoons. Choose from shared cabins (perfect for solo travellers or friends), private twin cabins for couples or friends wanting more space, or ensuite cabins for added comfort and convenience.
What’s Included in Your Adventure
We believe in making your experience as seamless as possible. Here’s what’s included in your investment:
Before & After:
Complimentary return airport transfers from Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP)
During Your Tour:
- 5 days, 4 nights aboard Solway Lass
- All accommodation in your air-conditioned cabin
- Experienced skipper, crew, and dedicated walking guide
- All meals and snacks—breakfast, lunch, dinner, morning and afternoon tea
- Unlimited filtered water, tea, and coffee
- Complete snorkeling equipment and instruction
- Stinger suits (seasonal protection)
- Stand-up paddleboards
- All national park, marine park, and marina fees
- Linen and bath towels
The only extras? Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks from the licensed bar (reasonably priced and payable at the end of your trip).
Who Joins These Adventures?
Our typical guest is 30+ years old, active, and passionate about authentic outdoor experiences. You’ll find yourself among like-minded travellers—bushwalking enthusiasts, nature lovers, couples seeking adventure, solo travellers making new friends, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of experiencing destinations at a slower, more meaningful pace.
You don’t need to be a fitness fanatic, but a reasonable level of activity is required for the walks. The crew and guide are excellent at accommodating various fitness levels, and the walks offer plenty of opportunities to catch your breath while taking in the views.
Why Book Now?
Here’s the reality: we are only running two Walk the Whitsundays tours in 2026. With a maximum capacity of 24 guests per departure, that’s just 48 spots available for the entire year.
Our guests frequently tell us this was their “trip of a lifetime,” and many book their next tour before they even disembark!
The Whitsundays winter season (June through September) offers the most reliable weather, calmest seas, and comfortable temperatures for walking. These four months are genuinely the best time to experience everything this tour offers.
Real Stories from Real Adventurers
Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what past guests have said:
“A most fabulous adventure from beginning to end! Actually, didn’t want it to end, that’s how good it was. My husband and I are bushwalking fans and each of the walks provided was amazing and all levels of fitness were catered for. The meals, including morning & afternoon snacks, were hearty & plentiful and the service at all times was perfect. The Whitsundays are a precious part of Australia and I don’t think there is a better way to experience it.”
— Tina (Christine), Gold Coast
“It was all incredible. The crew were awesome – really easy to get along with and super helpful and kind. The hiking and snorkeling was my favourite part of the trip.”
— Adam, Sydney
“It passed all my expectations. It was unbelievable. The crew were amazing. I hadn’t sailed before but found it thrilling in the high winds. LOVED IT. Overall it was an amazing experience and am hoping to book again next September.”
— Lynda, Brisbane
Ready to Book Your 2026 Adventure?
Spaces are limited, and with ensuite cabins already sold out on two departures, we encourage you to secure your preferred dates soon.
To Book or Learn More:
Phone: (07) 4967 7555
Email: [email protected]
Website: Book Online
Download our digital brochure here for a detailed itinerary, watch testimonial videos from past guests, or contact our friendly team with any questions. We’re here to help make your 2026 Whitsundays adventure a reality.
For more information about Walk the Whitsundays or to explore our other unique charter experiences, visit Explore Whitsundays or contact our team today.