Each stroke of your paddle sends a rim of ripples across the still ocean beneath your kayak. You are entering a quiet, secluded bay to run your boat ashore and spend a lonely hour swimming and snorkelling amid fringing coral gardens and colourful fish.

With more than 70 islands making up the Whitsunday Island Group, this area presents some of the most breathtaking and accessible paddling in the world. Spoilt for choice, you can take on exciting explorations to any number of isolated beaches, inlets, coves and bays. But sometimes you might have company. Turtles, dolphins and whales in season, share these clear tropical waters.

Hire a kayak to skim the waters at your own pace or choose a half day or full day guided paddle. For the more adventurous, why not camp out under the stars on an overnight tour or more extensive six-day paddle. Visit favourite spots such as Hook and Whitsunday Islands with their spectacular beaches, rugged coastlines and tranquil lagoons.

Getting there:

Shute Harbour is 1125km north of Brisbane and just 160km north or Mackay, easily accessed by road.

By train:

Catch the Tilt Train or The Sunlander to Proserpine. Catch a connecting coach to Airlie Beach. To book your rail adventure call Traveltrain Holidays on 1800 627 655.

Further information:

Salty Dog Sea Kayaking trips depart from Shute Harbour

Ph 07 4946 1388

Coral Sea Kayaking are based in Mission Beach

Ph 07 4068 9154

Aussie Sea Kayak Company

Queensland Holidays - Salty Dog Sea Kayaking

Queensland Holidays - Magnetic Island Sea Kayaks