Latest News

Chartering a Bareboat in the Whitsundays With Kids: Safe, Easy & Unforgettable Family Adventures 10:20am, Tue 11 Nov 2025

If you’re planning a family holiday and want something memorable, relaxed, and genuinely different, a bareboat charter in the Whitsundays is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have with kids. And unlike what many people assume, you don’t need a boating licence to do it successfully, just a little experience and some common scense.

At Cumberland Charter Yachts, we specialise in first-time and family charters. Families make up a large portion of our guests, and most of them arrive having never handled a boat before. We provide a full briefing, daily on-water support, and a choice of stable, family-friendly catamarans designed for comfort and ease.

This is a holiday that builds confidence, connection, and lifelong memories.

Why Families Choose Cumberland Charter Yachts

No licence required

We provide a comprehensive, hands-on vessel briefing before departure. You’ll learn how to handle the boat, anchor safely, plan your routes, and use onboard navigation.

Continuous support while you’re on the water

We conduct daily radio check-ins to ensure you’re comfortable, confident, and cruising safely. Help and advice are always just a radio call away.

Family-friendly boat layouts

Our stable catamarans with wide decks and shaded cockpits are ideal for children. Cabins are private, comfortable, and allow space for downtime.

Safety gear for all ages included

Child-size life jackets for kids are supplied, along with all required safety equipment.

Calm, protected waters

The Whitsundays are sheltered by the Great Barrier Reef, providing smooth, predictable sailing conditions perfect for families and first-time sailors.

The Freedom to Explore at Your Own Pace

One of the biggest advantages of a bareboat charter is the freedom it gives your family. There are no fixed timetables, no crowded day tours, and no rushing.

You choose your pace:

Spend the morning snorkelling with turtles

Wander ashore to soft white beaches

Move a short distance to a new anchorage in the afternoon

Switch off from technology and reconnect with each other

The days are simple, unrushed, and deeply restorative.

Family-Friendly Activities in the Whitsundays

You're never short on things to do:

Snorkelling & Marine Life Spotting
Kids can swim alongside colourful fish, coral gardens, turtles, and the occasional dolphin.

Visit Whitehaven Beach
Shallow water, soft silica sand, and plenty of space for sandcastle kingdoms.

Bushwalks & Lookouts
Short, easy trails lead to spectacular views and Ngaro cultural sites.

Paddleboarding & Kayaking
Launch straight from the back deck for safe, calm exploration.

Is a Bareboat Holiday Safe for Children?

Yes. The Whitsundays is one of the safest sailing regions in the world due to:

Sheltered waters protected by the reef

Short distances between anchorages

Calm bays suited for overnight stays

Comprehensive briefings and ongoing support

Safety gear included for all ages

We specialise in ensuring families feel confident and well-supported from start to finish.

What Other Families Say

"We just finished our very first bareboating trip in the Whitsundays with Cumberland Charter Yachts, and it was such an amazing and unforgettable experience. The whole process was smooth and easy, and the team made everything simple for us from start to finish.

A big thank you to Emily, Bob, and Charlie for all their help and guidance along the way — we really appreciated their support and friendly advice. And a special thank you to Robbie and Shaun for the warm and helpful debrief at the end of our trip.

We’re already looking forward to our next adventure with Cumberland Charter Yachts!"

~Tripadvisor Oct, 2025 Jennifer C

Ready to Plan Your Family Charter?

Call   Enquire    Rates & Availability   Specials

FAQ's

Do I need a licence to charter a bareboat?
No. Some boating experience is advantageous, and we provide a comprehensive briefing before you depart.

Are the Whitsundays safe for kids?
Are the Whitsundays safe for kids?

What if we’ve never sailed or driven a boat before?
Most of our family guests are first-timers. Training and support are included.

When is the best time to visit?
April to November for mild weather, smooth sailing, and great visibility.

Cumberland Charter Yachts is an award-winning company providing exceptional holiday experiences, leaving customers with a lifetime of memories that exceed all expectations.