30.04.2026

Our excursion today lasted from 6 to 6, from dark to dark. In the twilight, we set off for Airlie Beach, a vacation hotspot, 'near' the Great Barrier Reef. Check-in for the tour with a Cruise Whitsundays boat was at 6:30 AM, and we departed at 7:15 AM. On the way, we stopped at two more islands to pick up passengers. With strong waves, we headed into the 'Whitsunday Islands National Park' to the island of the same name. To get ashore, we had to transfer to a smaller boat that brought us as close to the beach as possible, where we disembarked into the water. Since the waves were strong there as well, our shorts got wet too. But what a beautiful beach! White sand as far as the eye can see! With our guide, we took a short loop through the forest to the lookout point. Wonderful! This is the place that is photographed the third most in Australia: Place 1: Sydney - Opera House, Place 2: Ayers Rock. We also were reminded again of Robinson Crusoe. By the way, we did not meet Friday, but we encountered a 'few' island visitors from the Middle Kingdom and a few others. But it all dissipates ... On the other side, our dinghy awaited us and took us to Whitehaven Beach. White sand, turquoise water, many seabirds, and near the barbecue area, 3 goannas (about 1.5 m long) tried to get some food. It rained a few times in between, but in the water, you get wet anyway... Around 4 PM, we returned to the dinghy, once again all our shorts were wet, and then back on board. The tour included lunch on the island, where you assemble your own wrap or burger, and back on board, there was coffee/tea, fruit, and some snacks. The return trip took place on calm seas, and at 5:30 PM we were back in Airlie Beach. The day was relaxing, and we soaked up some sun. Since we have been back at the bungalow, it has been raining. The forecast for the next few days: no rain! We will see ...