Hi all,
We are leaving to Australia in just 2 weeks (early February) and were thinking about renting a yacht to sail the Whitsundays islands for 4 days (3 nights). We have some basic sailing knowledge which enables us to go on our own.
We have some doubts that you guys may help us:
1. Is February a good time of the year to sail the WI? Does it rain a lot, as much to spoil the trip?
2. I read somewhere that we might find jellyfish. Is that likely?
3. Any suggested itinerary? We plan to leave from Airlie beach and return to Hamilton Island in order to take our flight back to Sydney. Also, we would love to stop for some snorkeling…
4. Any recommendation on yacht rental places that would rent for such a short period of time?
Once again, thank you all for helping us with our vacation plans!!!
Best regards,
-brsp


- Hard to predict the weather, but February should be fine.
2. Jellyfish are very likely. It is recommended to rent stinger suits - you can ask at a local dive shop in town at Airlie Beach.
3. I would ask the company you're renting the yacht from for a suggested itinerary and conditions are always changing. Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island is a must.
4. You should be able to find somewhere in Airlie beach that will let you rent a yacht, if not then you can at least take a trip for 3 -4 nights.
Have fun!

Hi there,
The best company would be Sunsail, or Whitsunday rent a Yacht. Both will offer pickup from either Hamilton Island or Airlie Beach (Abel Point Marina). However, all companies have a 5 night minimum for rentals. Your other option is to organise a sailing trip on board one of the boats that travel around the Whitsundays, and there are plenty of options ranging from budget to first class.
At the moment its a bit wet here in Queensland, but hopefully by the time you are here the sun will be shining here, it doesnt rain very often!