Cumberland Princess Inaugural voyage with jetskis in tow!!
What an adventure..... 4 adults, 4 kids, 2 jetskis, lots of food and drink, fishing rods and no cares in the world!!
We came... We saw....we ate, we drank, we snorkelled, we jetskied, we fished, we navigated, we sang, we laughed....an awesome time had by all on board .
The Cumberland Princess is an amazing vessel, lots of space to get lost in and not be treading on toes. The galley in particular is well kitted out for culinary experimentation. We certainly ate well. The fly bridge was well used particularly by the bigger people after the kids had flopped into their cabins exhausted by the days excitement.
Having the jetskis allowed us a good mix of exploring and playing. Some of our most successful fishing was from the skis. The boys also used them to do a quick visit to Hamilton for supplies... And a cold one at the pub we expect.
Each stop we did was filled with fun and something different. The kids were amazed at wildlife at every turn....bat fish at duckboards, cockatoos on boat, turtles popping up for a quick hello, dolphins off Daydream, a close encounter with a rock wallaby with Joey on board, and the friendly possum who shared dinner with us while onshore at Hamilton.
Highlights...
The big boys...... Jetskis off course... Hammering the Hammo (Hamilton) and circumnavigating who knows how many islands!
The kids .....snorkeling, golf buggies on Hamilton, the living reef on Daydream and the endless encounters with the local wildlife!
We big girls....the smiles on the faces of our big boys n kids was priceless.
Thanks to all at Cumberland , especially Jeff and Shane for our brief and debrief. We had an awesome time and will definitely be back!!
After chartering “Lazyitis” from Cumberland, my sons and I were keen to return. We convinced the wife and she decided to come along this time on “Kick n Back”.
Due to high wind on the first few days, we had to be on the west side of the main islands. There was cloud and a little rain. This was a blessing for it caused us to do different things to what we did last year. This time we visited the inlets and did the walk trails including Whitsunday Peak and Whitsunday Cairn. The solar panels that recharge the batteries don’t work in cloudy weather. We had to bring forward our planned visit to Hamilton Island by two days to recharge them. An unexpected benefit was we then had sufficient days afterwards to head down to Burning Point, Shaw Island. As we left Hamilton Island for Shaw Island on the morning or our fourth day the glorious weather with ideal < 15 knot winds commenced. It did not change for the remaining seven days.
One of our objectives was to photograph our mascot, a rubber duck, at as many of the 20 designated campsites around the charter area. To do this we had to be very mindful of the given tides and winds. We got to ten of them. Many had to be accessed by dinghy from safe anchorage up to 4kms away. We also searched for informal trails marked by blue flotsam. We only discovered this informal trail marking at the end of last year’s trip. This year we discovered three more of them. The boys also hoped to give mum the experience of a rough night in Butterfly Bay. The previous visit we had been buffeted and swung about all night by strong bullets of wind. However this year, the wind was calmer and a catamaran is more stable. The variety of fish and sea-life seen this visit, was much more than the previous visit.
We need to come back again. We still have another ten more campsites to photograph. But really we do not need a reason especially when it is all made so hassle free by friendly and helpful assistance from the Cumberland Staff.
Mark - KALAMUNDA, WA 03 Jan 2012 Beneteau 43 Olivetta Chartered: 18 Jul 2011
Well it’s been a few months and already I am planning the next trip. We all had a fantastic time cruising to some really great spots. My crew was a mix one with a little experience and one who had sailed some years ago the other 3 no experience but we followed 100 Magic Miles and Cumberlands advise and all went smooth. We had a excellent boat in good condition that sailed like a dream with the Islands were so close we found ourselves taking the long way just to extend the sailing and enjoy the days. Navigation was easy with 100 Magic miles, charts, GPS and the fact you could see with landmarks where you wanted to go anyway. Our stopover plan worked well with only a few adjustments made along the way.
Cheers Mark
We will be back :-)
Monday 18 Jul 2011 Abel Point Marina to Nara Inlet
Tuesday 19 Jul 2011 Nara Inlet to Stonehaven
Wednesday 20 Jul 2011 Stonehaven to Butterfly Bay
Thursday 21 Jul 2011 Butterfly Bay to Cateran Bay
Friday 22 Jul 2011 Cateran Bay to Tongue Bay
Saturday 23 Jul 2011 Tongue Bay to Hamilton Island Marina
Sunday 24 Jul 2011 Hamilton Island Marina
Monday 25 Jul 2011 Hamilton Island Marina to Happy Bay
Tuesday 26 Jul 2011 Happy Bay to Cid Harbour
Wednesday 27 Jul 2011 Cid Harbour to Nara Inlet
Thursday 28 Jul 2011 Nara Inlet to Abel Point Marina
Started with the friendly staff and organised process to get us up to speed and get going on our way. The weather from day 1 through 7 was unbelievable. Sunny skies, 10-20 knots S/SE. Water was an amazing blue. Also mid-week was a full moon so the evenings were just a joy to sit out under the stars with a cool on or two. This was our second time in the area and we managed to visit a lot more islands and do much more snorkelling this time. Unfortunately my fishing skills were not too good, which I guess the fish (and Julie my wife) were happy about.
Kick n Back was as expected, comfortable, sailable and spacious.
John - FERNTREE GULLY, VIC 19 Nov 2011 Beneteau 323 Lazyitis Chartered: 01 Nov 2011
This was to be our third sailing adventure with Cumberland so we were confident of a good time. We were certainly not disappointed. Once again the staff were friendly and welcoming and we were soon on our way.
We were lucky with the weather and smooth seas. I'd say we had some of the most motionless nights ever! At times it was hard to believe we were even on a yacht.
The scenery was once again amazing, the water was warm with lots of turtle sightings and some of the friendliest and biggest fish we've seen. Mantaray Bay is certainly the spot for swimming with the fish! Cid Harbour is beautiful for swimming and relaxing, with a great walk up to Whitsunday peak. The resort on Long Island was welcoming and well worth the visit as was Daydream Island.
We are already planning our next sailing holiday with Cumberland.
John & Gillian Frey
What a fantastic week..weather was perfect, crew was excellent and Trinity Reign was a true lady.
This was our first charter in the Witsundays. We started at the Marina under the expect guidance and assistance of Graeme, our breifer and sail guide. After leaving and praciticing anchoring for a bit we were off and sailing. It was great to feel the wind in the hair, the silence of the motor and the music of the IPOD.
Debbie took the wheel straight up. Her previous boat experience had been travelling on the Sydney ferry. By the end of the day she had sailed us from Airlie Beach to South Molle Island...not bad for a first go..we moored for the night and obeyed the observation 'rules' laid down by Graeme. Two beers later..we were certain we were not going anywhere. Time for a cooling dip and then think about tea.
The week passed in a similar fashion. We sailed every day, swam every day, eat and drank every day and slept soundly every night. Some days John just wanted to sail..so we set sail...went out to point A, turned around and came back where we started.
We had the most relaxing week we have ever had. No phone, No laptop, no TV, no news, no contact with kids, work or anyone..It was fantastic.
Come up and talk to the people at Cumberland. They are very professional, very helpful and great to deal with. We also reckon this was one of the best value holidays we had been on, because once you are on the boat.you have all but met all your expenses.
We are already planning an annual 'pilgramage' to the Witsundays for another week on a yacht with Cumberland.
I am a sailing novice, so I took a one-day lesson at Southern Cross Sailing School at Manly for a very relevant few hours of training, then with a lot of trepidation from my family, and a briefing from Jeff we set off in Little One with two other families on cats Destiny and Fluffy Muffy.
First afternoon was rainy and poor visibility but the GPS guided us straight into Nara for the night. It was fine by nightfall and stayed that way for the rest of the trip
We spent our second afternoon and overnight on a mooring at Butterfly. Snorkelled in the stinger suits, which did not give any warmth and vowed next time to hire wetsuits instead. The mono rocked a lot at the mooring as the wind and the waves were at 90 deg to each other. Managed to settle it down by dragging the mooring around to the side and the boat swung around into the waves. Also had the idea to raise the main to try and reduce the rocking. Tried it in the morning as an experiment and I think it worked a treat.
Headed off the beach at Whitehaven for the night and went walking up the scenic track next day. Met the Goannas at the picnic grounds. Back north again to stay at Tongue Bay and enjoy the scenic lookout and cricket on the beach north of Hill Inlet. Headed back up again via coral gardens at Hook then to Macona for the last night. Wind finally blew up for the last morning back to Able Point. Little One finally got to show her form, and accompanied by screams from the crew as she heeled, powering back home on a tight reach pulling away from the cats.
Now I know zip about sailing, but there was just something about that Beneteau - can you fall in love with a charter boat? I don't know but I keep a picture of her as a desktop to remind me of the time we had and to rave to everybody what a great family holiday it was.
A Cat amongst the Turtles
Seven blissfully calm, sunny days proved that Psycho Puss is not a cat that is always wild! Our family of 6 (2 grandparents, 2 parents and 2 kids) enjoyed a week on our roomy catamaran meandering from Hamilton to the various anchorages and bays around Hook, Whitsunday and Long Island. We spotted one whale, one shark and dozens of turtles and the odd rock wallaby when hiking inland. The highlight (as always) was Whitehaven Beach and we were pleasantly surprised by all the work the National Parks crew had done to spruce up the caves at Nara inlet and the walks at Cid Harbour. The snorkeling wasn't up to expectations with murky water and a lot of damaged colorless coral but with the water and air temps at only 22 it wasn't the main reason we came. Evening sunsets toasted with Champagne and full moon evenings made the night time as special as the days and time rolled away. The boat was very well laid out with loads of head room and good sized beds but perhaps not quite enough seating around the outdoor and indoor tables. The sails were easy to operate as was the steering even for our young girls being trained by Captain Grandpa for their sea license. Graham provided an excellent briefing accompanied by good humour and we managed to remember (almost) everything he said (where was that converter switch....?). Overall a very special 3-Gen holiday that will be remembered forever.
Note from CCY - Visibility varies from location to location and is effected by weather, tidal flow and rain. Coral looses it's colour when viewed in overcast conditions or through water with a high level of suspended solids due to run off.
We had the best time on our lovely lady Lazyitis. We saw whales, Dugongs, Dolphins, Turtles and of course a couple of Nemos!
Considering we had only done 2 weekends away training in sailing prior to our trip everything went rather smoothly. There we were just the two of us with nothing but ocean and Islands. I have to admit the daily call ins were always good to have as it was our only way of getting the weather updates and of course the advice on where to go next and when the best time to go was which was fantastic.
Our first night was spent at Stonehaven. A lovely place to explore and of course as we are both photo buffs to take photos
Second night was spent at Buttefly Bay where I was brave and actually jumped in the water (I hate the cold!) and did a bit of snorkling and saw my first Doogong.
Third night was at Border Island....what a lovely place! Lots more snorkelling and of course a sip of champaign whilst watching the sun go down.
Fourth night was Whitehaven Beach, and yes it is white! Bring your sunnies everyone! We even saw a couple of Helicopters land on the beach. Went for a massive walk and even went for a dip!
Fifth night was spent on Hamilton Island. After surviving Solway passage in 20 knot winds (yes, I'm a chicken!) I was very glad to arrive on land at Hamilton Island. Actually we both fell in love with Hamilton Island as everyone was so freindly! Even the wildlife is freindly there! the next morning we managed to jump on a helicopter without doors! Woo Hoo (the only way to do it!)
Ahhhh our last night was spent at Cid Harbour....more champagne and a toast to a fabulous holiday!
Hmmm now for our next trip.............
Watch out Cumberland...we'll be back!
Now that our holiday is over and we are back to our humdrum lives, I just wanted pass on my thanks and deep appreciation to you and your company from all of us who came sailing up the Whitsundays with CCY in early May.
Your two boats, Stardust and Le Bon Reve, were fantastic and we all enjoyed living and holidaying on the yachts. The briefings by Graham and Shane were detailed and complete for the adventure ahead of us. Well done to all your support crew.
We had a great time visiting all the main spots such as Whitehaven, Hamilton, Blue Pearl bay, Butterfly bay and the folks at Club Crocodile Happy Bay Long Isd, where we stopped off on the last night and they put on a three course meal for all of us.
We had a wonderful time sailing, swimming, snorkelling, hiking and just relaxing in the best playground in the world.
I am positive most of the group will come back one day, individually or with other groups, because everyone just raved about how good a holiday it turn out in the end.
Once again thankyou for all your help and support. You have an excellent company and a valuable product.
After a week long drive from Sydney nsw through the monsoonal rain, the clear blue skies and warm sea breezes were a welcome change.
We arrived in the Whitsundays the day before we were due to depart, and after picking up the rest of the crew from the airport and collecting supplies to last us for our 14 day adventure we were ready and rearing to go.
After being put through our paces by the Cumberland crew we set sail from Abel point in our luxurious 40ft catamaran Crackerjack.
With captain Nick 'land legs' Hood at the helm and a steady wind filling the sails we headed for nara inlet for the night. Where we enjoyed the sunset with some cool beverages toasting the start of our trip.
The following 13 days can only be described as epic.
Some of the highlights included.
Catching fresh fish and lobster.
Enjoying some face time with the local wildlife
Climbing mountains
Sipping a cool sangria and shooting pool on hook island
Partying on Hamilton
Snorkelling and diving on some incredible reefs.
Exploring many of the pristine islands
Sailing through the squalls and rain made for some very exciting moments.
Archery on the beach
So to sum up the experience, you know it's a good holiday when you forget the day and date within two days of leaving port.
Time being measured in tides and moons and you're still swaying for a week after you get back. I can't thank Cumberland enough for providing such an excellent experience that I will carry with my for the rest of my life.
“Holiday of a lifetime cruising the Whitsunday’s” sounds idyllic, but if you are the nominated “skipper” with no experience – it’s a little daunting. Visions of anchors slipping and waking up on a reef, or getting the tides wrong and ending up high and dry, dying of embarrassment.
After completing the on-line quiz my fears were confirmed. My teenage years sailing skiffs and fishing in tinnies was not adequate preparation. Having seen the excitement of the family when announcing the holiday, what I had committed myself to?
First step - back to the Cumberland website and find a local sailing school to teach me about these bigger boats. Yes, I could get the basics with a handful of Saturday mornings down on Sydney harbor. After some hands on experience bringing a boat in and out of the dock, raising, lowering, and reefing the sails, and some explanation of radios and navigation - maybe I could do this.
A phone call to Cumberland, and yes, a sail guide for the first afternoon was more than possible. Feeling better, even excited about the adventure now.
With the boat manuals re-read it was time to depart. Our sail guide made us comfortable with the operation of “On the Double”, navigation around the area and gave us some great tips to improve our itinerary. Some practice anchoring, mooring, sailing and we were on our own.
The preparation had been worth it – I was really enjoying the adventure of being the skipper. All these great “big boys toys” – two engines, anchor, sails, a 30+ switch control panel, valves to turn, gauges a GPS/plotter and really big charts! And the big calculations for anchoring – loving it and soon doing it in my head.
One of my best days - a steady breeze from the east. We put up the sails, put the engines to neutral, and then the moment I had been waiting for – we switched off the engines and under sail alone enjoyed a peaceful seven knots. That’s me at the wheel with a smile on my face.
WHITSUNDAYS HOLIDAYS AS THE BEST THING HAPPENING TO ME
There you do enjoy every single moment: gentle sea, bright sunny day and white sand; fascinating underwater world and amazing “Jurassic Park” of Stonehaven. Fun is all around you - whatever you do: washing the deck or getting crazy on the endless beach that is all yours, enjoying the dinner - fresh out of the sea or gathering as a team under occasional refreshing shower. Some go into romantic mode - getting in equilibrium with the beauty of the surrounding Nature. There is only one sad side of my holiday – it was over far too soon…
Whitsundays is a dream that is still shining in me!!
by Elena Belousova, Sydney, 2011
(the text should really go with the provided slide show)
Charles - COFFS HARBOUR, NSW AUSTRALIA 25 Jan 2011 Beneteau 323 Lazyitis Chartered: 28 Nov 2010
Our 3rd trip with Cumberland and what a delight,
The boys at the helm and the girls hanging on tight.
We enjoyed our induction with the sun out all day,
But little did we know, it was not to stay.
The heavens opened and down came the rain,
Thank God, lazyitis lived up to her name.
She handled the white out, the wind, and the storms,
Whilst keeping us safe, content and warm.
We sailed to Whitehaven – all stormy and wet,
thru Solway passage our course was set.
the incoming tide and currents were tough
but we made it safely, albeit a bit rough.
We explored the island - on foot, getting wet,
And saw sights we’d never forget.
Raging streams, waterfalls, the fungi alive,
Leaving memories of the Whitsundays that’ll always survive
Our night at Whitehaven was a rocking affair,
But securely anchored we had not a care.
The anchorage was deserted - ours to enjoy,
With no other persons the peace to destroy.
Northwards we pressed thru drifting showers,
Squalls and rain filled the morning hours
We aimed for Nara to enjoy some respite
When the sun re-appeared with the anchorage in site
Our penultimate day we awoke to find,
A change in weather with the sun being kind.
To Butterfly Bay, we sampled the beauty,
Snorkling, sun-baking, the evening tranquillity.
Our final day dawned, and as often in life,
A thing of great beauty with no memory of strife,
At Blue Pearl Bay, we enjoyed the relaxed pace,
Before heading back to rejoin the rat race.
So thank you Cumberland for our unique adventure,
And yes we’ll be back in future to venture.
Thru the Whitsunday’s playground of fun
With friends or family to enjoy the sun.(hopefully).
I was so excited to be able to join my family at the last minute for this sailing holiday. Being at university now I miss out on alot of quality time with my family as I'm away at school. This vacation and sailing holiday was one I was so glad to have made. I enjoyed the quiet of the inlets and anchorages and getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city and school to relax and enjoy my family time in the beautiful Whitsundays. My favourite part of sailing is when I can grab a book and lay out on the front of the boat in the sun! I am now quite happy with my new moniker "the anchor woman".
Fancy going sailing in the Whitsunday Islands? This was Gordon's suggestion one winter evening in the Yacht Club bar, where many good sailing schemes are hatched out over a pint or two. Well, said my partner, even if you're not going I am!
Almost a year later we set sail with Gordon, and Pat, from Airlie Beach in "La Belle Vie". We'd had a long journey from England, but once afloat the transformation was immediate - warm sunshine and breeze in November! We'd all been sailing for many years, but helpful Tim, who came out to show us the ropes, was still able to show Gordon, and the rest of the crew, some useful new tricks with moorings.
Next day we sailed off to discover these wonderful islands. So many beautiful anchorages, with perfect shelter when needed. And those waterfalls, gentle at first, but some heavy showers brought them to life. At home Gordon is none too keen on getting soaked, but with warm rain it didn't matter, and as soon as it stopped we were dry again.
We needed to work the tides we thought, but no, Gordon pointed out that we had iron wind that could easily cope with the gentle tides around the Whitsundays if needs be. Then we dropped the anchor in Mays Bay but it dragged, so up anchor - but no, it was well and truly stuck now. Never mind, we had Gordon, who knew all about extractions!
Fishing seemed a good idea, but that's one skill that neither Gordon nor the rest of the crew possessed. But we met live-aboards Rex and Jeannine, who came to our rescue with fresh fish they had caught. Gordon's cooking skills weren't great either, but Pat and Lynaire excelled, leaving Gordon to prepare burnt offerings on the barbecue with the help of the odd tinny.
We'd never sailed with Gordon before, but now we're looking forward to sailing together again. The problem is to find somewhere as good as the Whitsundays, with a charter operation that can compare with the helpful and friendly team at Cumberland, where nothing was a problem!
Our holiday on the Belle de Jour was not your “run of the mill” holiday experience for us because it was in fact our honeymoon. Being pregnant our plans for an escape to a tropical overseas destination had to be put on hold so we looked for something special that could help celebrate our marriage. Who would have thought that the 3 nights and 4 days we spent cruising around the Whitsundays could have been better than any international holiday destination! The weather was perfect, the pace relaxed and we couldn’t imagine a better way to honeymoon. Our destinations and time together was remote, alone, and as newlyweds we were always in great company. The ever changing scenery was awe inspiring, and the unmatched feeling one gets of having a piece of our own private paradise in the Whitsundays made the entire experience quite likely the best trip of our lives. From a leisurely breakfast of tropical fruit in Nari Inlet or a mid morning swim and snorkel off Whitehaven beach or a cruise to a new lunchtime spot for a bbq dinner on the back deck, whilst watching dolphins play under the hull – the holiday was perfect!! Thankyou to the staff of Cumberland Yacht Charters. From first contact with the team, until the moment we dropped the Belle de Jour off at Hamilton Island the entire experience with Cumberland Yacht Charters was first class.The team were very experienced whilst at the same time being relaxed and approachable in their training of some real sailing novices, the boat was pre stocked with our ordered supplies and the 3 nights spent aboard the boat was the perfect and most relaxing way to spend our honeymoon. To say it was a great trip would be an understatement and we have already been singing the praises of Cumberland Yacht Charters to many people and have suggested to people that it is a must-do. I am sure you will be seeing some of our friends and we are already planning our return holiday – maybe our first wedding anniversary!
The 5th charter with our friends at Cumberland in September 2010 was a little different for the crew this time, in as much as we had 7 month old Jamieson join the crew as assistant to the early morning watchman, and he was very effective in ensuring we all awoke at 5.00 am to catch the morning sunrise. We had organised a special lifejacket for him, which when on, made him look like a mini Michelin man and we were waylaid at various ports of call for photo shoots. Our departure from Daydream Island on the tender was delayed by a plethora of photographers on the ferry that had just arrived and we understood how celebrities felt when confronted by the paparazzi.
Fortunately we were on board the Perry 44.5 Cumberland Magic so we had storage space for all 7 crew and the nappies, cots, strollers high chair and other necessities to ensure the welfare of a 7 month old baby. One remarkable thing from the 7 days in the beautiful Whitsundays was the benefit of the ocean life on Jamieson. He arrived with a bad cold and left a very healthy and happy “wee man” with a lot more energy and a smile on his face, as did the rest of the crew.
A little bit of engine trouble so us struggle back from Whitehaven through the Solway Passage or the “Washing Machine” as it sometimes referred to. Fortunately it was more like a mill pond and on one engine, all it meant was a slightly longer journey time. But before we could organise to be somewhere Cumberland had an engineer on the way whom we met at Happy Bay and whilst we had a swim and a bit of lunch on shore he had fixed the engine and we were back on our way. The service provided by Cumberland as always was excellent and prompt and at the end of the day the incident just added to the excitement of the whole adventure. Thank you Cumberland !
Regards
The Crew
Rod & Moira
Kirsty & James
Michelle, Jamie & Jamieson
When contemplating how to make my 50th birthday special and memorable for myself and my family my first thought was to spend it sailing the Whitsunday Islands. Having travelled 32 hours on airlines passing through 5 airports and travelling most of the way around the world to get to the Whitsundays I wanted this vacation to be one of ease and relaxation that I knew would be successful. That's why I chose to return to chartering with Cumberland Charter Yachts and I wasn't disappointed.
We felt very lucky to have the newest cat in Cumberland's fleet as Le Bon Reve was only a few months old. We have chartered elsewhere in the world with companies whose fleets are aging and neglected, in need of great repair, which in the end detracts significantly from the entire holiday sailing experience. In both our charters with Cumberland however we’ve noticed that they keep their boats in top condition and take pride in offering up the very best to their charter customers and as a result we can honestly say it makes all the difference to the lasting memories created on such a holiday.
Despite the rough weather conditions the family had a fantastic holiday, time to bond and without the distractions of the world around us.
Wow - what an adventure we had in November cruising the Whitsundays. We - 6 adults and a 2 year old - set sails on a sunny afternoon with high expectations (and special sea sickness bracelets).
The week turned out to be completely different than what we had expected. Day 2 we woke up to the sound of rain on the cabin windows. "Well, it's probably just a shower", we all agreed, and prepared to grab our swimmers as soon as the rain stopped.
Unfortunately, the "shower" lasted almost all week! You would think that we would all be devestated by the wet feet, the grey outlook and the damp cabins, but we actuallly had an amazing holiday! We quicly came up with all sorts of alternative activities on board, such as quiz games, draving and playing (adult style) with the 2 year old's playdough! When the sun finally emerged on day 4 for a few hours, we were so excited and happy - there was no doubt that it was all worth it. We quicly jumped into the dinghy and sailed to the nearest beach where we were lucky enough to meet some of the locals - 3 wallabies!
We would definitely go again any time and we encourage everyone to be bold and not let the weather affect you if you end up in a similar situation. The Whitsundays are amazing no matter what. Also, having a toddler on board turned out to be great! She really loved life on the ship and kept a smile on everyone's faces during the long rainy days.
The service from Cumberland was everything we could have hoped for. We were particularly happy about the detailed weather reports over the radio and the thorough instructions on the first day.
Shirley - A1H 0C7, Newfoundland Canada 25 Jan 2011 Elite 4000P Blueberry Hill Chartered: 31 Oct 2010
This is our second adventure with Cumberland Charters in the Whitsundays. The service provided by the staff is outstanding and the vessels are fabulous! The story of our latest adventure is detailed below….ENJOY!
Twas late one night on a Newfoundland dock, when the plan came into place
We’d fly off to Australia, Airlie Beach would be our base.
We met with Sue and Johnnie too, with smiles upon our faces
An introduction to our craft, and we were put through our paces
On Halloween night it was quite a sight, as the Pirates came into view
Neil’s shaven head caused Shirley dread, Daphne and Eddy too
Stonehaven’s calm and beaches with Palm, was booty enough for this lot
Butterfly bay remains to this day, one of our favorite spots
The starlit nights were quite a sight, as our “Cat“ would gently toss
We spent some time sipping our wine, beneath the Southern Cross
Hamilton Island came into view, and a visit was in the making
On One Tree Hill, we got a thrill, sunset shots we’re taking
Whitehaven beach was next in our reach, and snorkeling at Chalkies a wonder
As Oprah would say when she had her stay, “I love this land Down Under”
Cumberland Charters with Steve and the rest, made all of our dreams come true
Whatever we needed twas there with a smile, nothing that they wouldn’t do
So all of you Pirates and all of your crew, when seeking adventure and fun
Whitsundays the place at a leisurely pace, land of “no worries“ just Fun
Pack your bag lightly and count down the sleeps, a lifetime adventure awaits
Cumberland Charters won’t lead you astray, just call and set up the dates
As for the crew, in one year or two, it’s back to Australia we go
But while we wait, sadly our fate, is peg legs in two feet of snow
The parrots asleep, and nary a peep, does he make till he wakes with a sigh
And then a fine squawk, as he’s now learned to talk
Aussie Aussie Aussie , Oi Oi Oi.
We had a great holiday with Cumberland (CCY). Their service and professionalism were fantastic.
I have some tips for other punters that may help make the best holiday you will ever have, even better!
1. Pack light - you will only wear swimmers during the day.
2. Don't worry about the weather - It is balmy and warm most of the year round.
It is so warm that the kids spent most of the day snorkeling and swimming - giving you time to relax!
3. Listen carefully to barefoot sailing advice provided.
We did and had no problems. Others obviously didn't - as one night we noticed the yacht moored in front of us was only meters away. They were dragging anchor and had moored too close to us anyway. We were first time novice sailors and we gave them some advice about anchoring.
4. Radio CCY if in doubt - on the second day our tender stopped working (a very rare occurrance as the equipment is well maintained). Once we returned CCY told us that it was only a bush in the propellor and if we had told them about it they would have come out to us to fix it.
5. Take underwater cameras - there is so much to see underwater you will want to take photos.
6. Take fishing gear or hire some - the kids had a great time fishing every night.
7. Don't rush - don't try to do too much. You will not see the whole of the whitsundays in a 2 week holiday.
We would recommend Cumberland to anyone wanting a unique adventure holiday that is as strenuous or relaxed as you want it to be.
Don't say 'someday' - it never comes. Book it today, you won't be disappointed!
Stephen - EAST BALLINA, NSW 25 Jan 2011 Lipari 41 Le Bon Revé Chartered: 28 Nov 2010
My short story is below.
Holiday of a lifetime
After a number of very difficult years my brother Andrew shouted my son and I on a holiday to the Whitsundays with Cumberland Charter Yachts. The only thing I had to do was get myself there.
A friend of mine was kind enough to pay for our flights and we were under way.
Words cannot do justice to the beauty of this special place.
We had a mixture of rain and great sunny days but the weather could not dampen our holiday.
The kids leant to sail for the very first time which was fantastic for them.
As we walked off the boat we both said if you do anything you have to go to the Whitsundays at least once in your life.
Regards,
Stephen Russell
P.S. If we are lucky enough to win we will donate the holiday to a family who has suffered in the QLD floods.
Warwick - SUNBURY, VIC 25 Jan 2011 Mahe 36 Skedaddle Chartered: 17 Oct 2010
Skeddaddle - Excellent for 2 couples.
A little extra privacy by having berths on opposite sides, excellent storage. By having the galley upstairs the cook was never left out of the fun. We did have a day or two of not such great weather however, this only encouraged us to relax more.....we read those books you never get to read, completed crosswords and just sat back and enjoyed the scenery....the Whitsundays is beautiful and interesting even when its raining. The rain even seemed to bring out huge turtles that swam by to say hello. We enjoyed a couple of days snorkelling, getting some sun on the foredeck/net which is also a great place to sit and watch the stars in the evening with a glass of wine. We have sailed the Whitsundays before with another company however, this experience was much better. We did have a minor technical problem and had to stay a night moored in Hamilton Island which was organised professionally, promptly and with an apology - this was done with no expense to us. We would definately use Cumberland again and would use Skedaddle again for any trips with 2 couples.
How to have a perfect holiday? Two families &‘resort vehicle’, Gallivanter a recipe for an amazing time.
From the moment we booked the boat with CCY the excitement of the holiday started building. We embarked on preparing our Charter through the Web page & knew exactly every step of the way what was needed for the trip. Finally, the day arrived & we were able to step on to Gallivanter as her crew with our briefing done & only our sailing lesson to do.
We wore the provided raincoats, loaded provisions and with master sailor David were instructed about sails, the controls & safety features of the boat. We farewelled David & made our way to Nara Inlet.
We prepared ourselves to deal with the rain as it was looking to stay with us for the week. But we woke to a perfectly sunny skies & the sounds of a water fall cascading off rocks just on shore. A new feature of the island we hadn’t seen before. The weather was superb; we had brilliant blue skies & crystal, clear calm waters! Every anchorage became our haven. The Whitsundays is a place of sheer majesty.
At Manta Ray Bay we saw ‘Grommet’ the Maori Wrasse. The kids had a great time snorkeling, feeding the scores of small fish, & patting Grommet, more of a big puppy than a fish. We got to meet Grommet’s mate Trevor Trevalley who was equally happy with all the attention!
We spent the night at Macona & the intrepid fisher girl caught a Trevalley – hopefully a much distant relative of Trev’s. At Cid Harbour - we were lucky enough to catch sight of a dugong & the next morning we were escorted out of our anchorage by two playful dolphins.
The day at Hamilton we spent a relaxing, sipping cocktails & watching the kids play in the pool. It was then to Whitehaven Beach. The water was unbelievably blue & inviting & we had some of our best snorkeling among the bommies.
Very big thank you to CCY who made sure our boat was well equipped & the holiday booking & administration went smoothly.Our 5th trip is a definite!
Dreaming about The Whitsundays was always just that “a dream” until Sally Greg Jim & Cheryl made our dream come true when they invited us to join them on the “Cumberland Princess” for a holiday. Sal & Greg are veterans at this they have cruised around The Whitsundays 6 times with thanks to CCY. This was Jim & Cheryl’s 2nd time but for me & Earle it was our 1st our virgin adventure. Our flight to Hamilton Island was good, the ferry to Airlie was great but our 7 days on the Cumberland Princess was just awesome. Well the boys did their induction while the girls got supplies. We motored out about midday for our week of pure pleasure.1Nara Inlet was our first stop where we swam, relaxed, eat, drink & be merry. 2Heading over to Betty’s Beach (Sally’s Beach) we saw dolphins amazing site we also had to retrieve a few hats along the way! At the beach we had munchies, played Bocce and had a swim. Then off to Tongue Bay where we saw Turtles. Anchored here for the night to relax, eat, drink & be merry. 3We went ashore to do the walking trek, spectacular views. Next stop was Cateran Bay for my 1st ever snorkelling experience, just fantastic. Then off to Butterfly Bay where we relaxed, eat, drink & be merry. 4Woke up to some beautiful Batfish then after another snorkel we went to Blue Pearl Bay, yep more snorkelling. Off to Stonehaven for some swimming fishing relaxing eat drink & be merry. 5Back to Airlie for supplies etc (and some quick shopping for the girls) we then went to Cid Harbour and enjoyed more swimming fishing relaxing eat drink & be merry. 6Rain today, went for a fish at Mays Bay then back to Cid Harbour for more relaxing, eat, drink & be merry. 7 Manta Ray Bay for more snorkelling, simply breathtaking, luv it here. Then to Stonehaven where the fish were going crazy and for our last night we relaxed eat drink & be merry. Time to bid our Princess a final farewell with a tear in our eyes but I did tell her “we’ll be back”
Kerri Hosking
My sailing mad husband had said for years he’d love to charter a yacht and sail around islands with the family. So on the year of his 50th birthday I got on-line to check out what was available. The CCY website was the most comprehensive and got me hooked straight away. As we were in NZ and clueless of the Whitsunday area it was a dream to use the CCY site to find out everything we needed to know right down to booking the mooring and restaurant to celebrate the 50th birthday in style.
It was presented to hubby as a done deal with all the kids/their partners and grandpa coming along, 8 in total.
We met Sue and her friendly staff at Airlie Beach where we picked up “On the Double” and we’re extremely impressed by their service and knowledge.
We spent the first night there and explored the lovely little town. Next morning we had our final briefing and our provisions arrived. It looked like enough to feed an army and, we certainly did eat well, the portions were massive.
Our first night at sea was Halloween and pirate outfits were worn by all, which made for a good night and some hilarious photos.
Waking up to the lapping of the water against the boat gave it a real ‘desert island’ holiday feeling, the beautiful bays and misted mountains a pleasure to behold.
The sea life from the friendly, grumpy-faced Maori Wrasse in Manta Ray Bay to the beautiful turtles in Tongue Bay, and the pure white silica sand and crystal clear turquoise waters of Whitehaven Beach made the experience truly memorable.
The family dressed in their “stinger suits” looking like the crew of the Starship Enterprise was the best laugh I had all year.
The bushwalks and climbs, one to the aboriginal cave in Nara Inlet with drawings around 9000 years old, and a rainy forest walk in Sawmill Bay, were good breaks between the sailing and for non-sailors like me, the odd day at the resorts was a welcome change.
Just the right balance of relaxation and plenty to do – a real break from the rat race.
For years I looked out of the kitchen window at yachts sailing. “Don’t you wish you were out there?” was my standard question to my children, “No, you wish we were out there, we like watching television” was the standard reply.
While sailing in Tonga in 2009 I realised the coral and fish life was disappearing and I had to take my kids to where it was still alive and protected, the Whitsundays.
With suited three of the four children and a nephew we found our lost luggage and made a mad dash to Stonehaven where the rookie crew made a perfect job of anchoring.....perhaps no experience leads to better following of instructions!!
On a mooring in the morning we snorkelled from the boat, amidst amazed cries of glee as heads popped up around the reef. With a certain amount of reluctance and disbelief I got them back on board to head round the corner into Butterfly Bay with the assurance it was even better.
They had to admit yet again mother was right, and the coral and the sea life is the best we have seen inworld travels. With a storm was on its way and a day to see the sights on the eastern side we headed for more amazing snorkelling at Border Island then on the most beautiful beach in the world - Whitehaven. The sand is so white and crunchy underfoot, and the beach is so enormous yours can be the only footprints you see. After a safe and secure night in the calm of Macona Inlet as the winds raged outside, we listened to various radio schedules where charterer’s were told their plans “could be lumpy” or “character building”. With a berth at Hamilton Island we were off for cocktails and ice cream. “Could be lumpy” of course has now become a family joke for anything difficult.
Lesson learned: You don’t have to be a boating enthusiast, if you like the water you will have the time of your life on your floating caravan AND Do it now, if the ecological doomsayers are right, keep on coming, aither way you see a wonder of the world.
Edward - SOUTH YARRA, VIC 25 Jan 2011 Dehler 34 Treasure Chartered: 17 Oct 2010
We started our Charter onboard Treasure on the 17th of October 2010. We had been watching the weather forecast intently for the past 2 weeks trying to work out what was in store for us during our charter.
We spent the first night at Nara Inlet, the trip across from Airlie Beach gave us the perfect opportunity to familiarise ourselves with Treasure, overall a very user friendly yacht. Unfortunately we were sailing in Marcs fly season, so the walk to see the Aboriginal paintings at the end of Nara inlet was a quick one!
The sailing conditions over the 7 days were excellent, generally 15-25 kt winds and 0 – 1.5 metre seas. Highlights include: Sailing up the East coast of Hook Island and mooring up in Maureen’s Cove, waking up anchored off Whitehaven beach and dinner at the excellent Bommies Restaurant at the Hamilton Island Yacht Club. The easy sailing conditions were interspersed with some crossings that got the adrenalin pumping, a night being hit by “bullets” of wind at Stonehaven or crossing the Whitsunday passage in poor visability and 30+ kt winds.
By the end of our Charter we were planning our next one, probably on a slightly larger yacht with a few more people. Overall we were very impressed with the staff at Cumberland Charter Yachts, Treasure and the beautiful Whitsundays. Anyone need a crew member for Hamilton Island Race week this year?!
The suggestion that we have another sailing trip in the Whitsunday’s in September 2010 met without resistance amongst the family. Along with the unanimous vote to sail we decided to revert back to a monohull after previously renting ‘Scarlett’ a Seawind 1160 multihull in 2007.
With the briefing behind us, (which started late due to a delay caused by the road through the Cannon Valley being closed due to flooding), we scampered for Woodwark Bay only a short sail from Abel Point Marina. Leaving the marina behind as always gives an overwhelming sense of freedom and independence. From that point on for the next seven days all the decisions would be ours and what ever pace we wanted to set was up to us and the winds.
Day two produced great sailing conditions so we were able to sail on a reach all the way across to Nara inlet. This was the fastest we had experienced sailing as a family but I am sure to the experienced yachties we were just cruising. Even with ‘Olivetta’ healing well there was no anxiety amongst the crew just shear thrill and excitement that we were really sailing.
The next days were spent moving from Nara to Tongue Bay and a visit to the Hook island resort. Next on to Hamilton Island via Whitehaven Beach. Although we had quite a few heavy rain showers it all added to make it a genuine sailing experience which was a contrast to our previous sailing on the ‘Scarlett’ where the conditions were near perfect (but with only light winds and less sailing). An overnight stay at Hamilton Island resupplied the provisions, some shopping and caught up with friends who were staying on the island for dinner. We took our friends out for the day, and after dropping our guests off we sailed to Cid Harbour and then our final night at Macona inlet.
Our sailing in the Whitsunday’s has been a fabulous experience for all of the family, where we have been able to extend ourselves not only individually but also as a family.
This was our second trip with Cumberland to the Whitsunday's, taking my husband, parents and uncle, we went to all the favourite spots, the weather wasn't great but as we normally sail in the North Sea this was no problem.
The most memorable moments involved husband falling out of the dingy in South Molle, we can laugh now but it was probably the final straw for the rotator cuff in his shoulder, gladly 6 weeks post should reconstruction is arm is almost back to normal.
We also slightly over catered for food and wine and I think uncle ate himself into a coma on more than one occasion - photo attached.
Husband and I will never forget waking up to find uncle stuffing a cushion into the crockery cupboard as the swell in Butterfly bay was causing some grief - grainy photo attached.
Finally coming from a family of competitive racers in from dingys to 60 footers it was clear we had to increase the sail area - see picture of stinger suit.
All in all it was another great trip of sea, sun and relaxation.
Thank you Cumberland and Olivetta.
Joanne - SEAFORTH, NSW 25 Jan 2011 Salina 48 Serengeti Chartered: 07 Nov 2010
We’re with Cumberland Yacht Charters for our holiday adventure,
Shown around the boat and given our lecture,
To check that we’re safe and know how the boat works,
And to make sure we’re not irresponsible jerks!
After some helpful tips and support we’re sent on our way,
And so begins our first exhilarating day,
We send up the sails and cut through the water,
Whilst my wife tries to remember what the Cumberland crew taught her,
Through clear blue waters and with a refreshing strong breeze,
It’s across Whitsunday Passage to unexplored seas,
Sailing away to our own private beach,
As the sun starts to set it’s too far for others to reach,
Into the bay with dugong, dolphin, and turtles,
Drop the mainsail and keep clear as it hurtles
With anchor dropped and cool glass in ones hand,
We relax and admire the deserted golden sand,
In the bay and the beach you are now all alone,
With bushwalks to high lookouts to enjoy on your own,
The shadows of palm trees across the sand play,
But that’s all waiting to be explored on another great day
With light swell that evening and being rocked off to sleep,
From hatches the next morning the children excitedly peep,
While mummy makes coffee we put on our swimmers,
The deep azure water enticingly shimmers,
We put on our suits and check each other’s zippers
Into the water we slip with our flippers,
Snorkelling through the colourful valleys,
Of coral, anaenomies, reef fish and trevally,
Then back to the boat to prepare for today,
The sun warming up as we prepare to get underway,
Another day awaits and many more surprises,
Sunshine, sea, and good sailing as a cool southerly rises,
And at the end of the week once we’re all through and back in the harbour,
Greeted with friendly smile from Cumberland Yacht Charters,
We look back with fond memories of the wonderful fun,
And begin planning our next sailing holiday in the sun.
Denise - CAULFIELD NORTH, VIC 25 Jan 2011 Beneteau 323 Lazyitis Chartered: 14 Nov 2010
We first cruised the Whitsunday’s in 2004 with a few friends, sailing a 43ft Beneteau with CCY. It took us 6 years to return but we dreamed of it often. This trip was just the two of us and the aptly name Lazyitis was our craft of choice. What a pleasure!
After some much needed guidance from the staff at CCY we were on our way. First stop Nara Inlet and after a pleasant sail familiarising ourselves with the boat we were anchored, fishing, relaxing and sharing a snack with some local cockatoos that landed on the boat. Oh the serenity!!
Next day we explored the inlet in the tender and were amazed by the marine life in the shallows, turtles, stingrays as well as fish. We were able to get up close to the mangroves and even saw a tree snake. Overnight it has rained and the surrounding cliffs we a myriad of rainfalls. The place was so beautiful.
What a great start to a fantastic week where we swam, fished, sailed, visited islands & Whitehaven Beach and just relaxed in the sunshine away from the Melbourne weather.
One of the highlights of the trip was the Batfish at Butterfly Bay and Stonehaven. We were entertained for ages as these fish swam so close to the back of our boat in the hope of an easy dinner. After an afternoon of snorkelling in the crystal clear waters of this underwater paradise these tame fish capped off a perfect day.
Our final stop was Hamilton Island, which was timed perfectly as the calm harbour was the perfect shelter for a little bad weather. As is the local custom we hired a golf buggy and toured the island, taking in the magnificent views and the equally amazing real estate.
The week was over all too quickly and we are now planning our next visit, I don’t think we will wait so long next time but we will definitely sail with CCY again. We even managed to learn a few new skills thanks to Tony.
2 years ago we decided to plan an adventure of a life time. The staff helped from the day of booking until the end of our trip, you could not fault them.
Arriving on our boat Finnigan was just amazing, not knowing how big it was. Our guide explained all the in's and out's of the vessel in a humorous way but really being serious. Then were off cruising around the islands.
But the first night we were short of sheets but Cumberland offered to meet us in the middle of nowhere to deliver but we managed without them. Our second night on our boat was a little scary, I was sick as a dog, vomiting and in sooo much pain we had to call Marine Rescue to come and pick me up. I was taken to Hayman Island and then ferried over to Airlie Beach to a waiting Ambulance to take me to Prosipine Hospital where I found out I had a Gallstone Attack.
Luckly I was able to go the next day and by that time our fellow crew had anchored up at Airlie Beach Harbour. We were able to stay overnight there, with the staff feeling sorry for not having sufficient linen on board they greeted us with a bottle of bourburn.
My partner and I decided to have a tour around the Harbour, and would you believe, my camera strap broke and went straight into the water. After coming out of hospital that day and then this, happening to me, I just wanted to go home!!!!
Our friends cheered me up and then we set off again. We just loved every minute of cruising around the islands, so much to see and do we ran out of time to do everything. Our favorite place was Tongue Bay, watching the turtles slowly swim past and the fishing was good also. To walk through the forest to get to Whitehaven Beach was just beautiful also. Radio contact was just fantastic, just loved talking on the CB Radio advising of our day and location towards the end.
The last 3 days our friends were unable to enjoy themselves as they had family problems and were constantly on the phone trying to work things out.
For anyone who has wondered whether sailing is for them, stop wondering and start sailing!! Where else can you experience the magnificent weather that Queensland always seems to offer, along with warm crystal clear water, endless white beaches, fantastic walks on remote islands, fun times at the various island resorts, an abundance of wildlife including whales, dolphins, turtles and dugongs and all from your own floating luxury hotel! I would challenge anyone to come up with a better holiday.
Having hired from CCY on 3 occasions we are now firm devotees, and will be back again – Christmas presents this year included 100 Magic Miles and various other sailing books to keep reminding us all year around of the fantastic anchorages and sights that make Whitsundays the fabulous and unique place that it is.
Thanks to CCY for making yet another trip a trip of a lifetime and we look forward to the next!
2 years ago we decided to plan an adventure of a life time. The staff helped from the day of booking until the end of our trip, you could not fault them. Arriving on our boat Finnigan was just amazing, not knowing how big it was. Our guide explained all the in's and out's of the vessel in a humorous way but really being serious. Then were off cruising around the islands. But the first night we were short of sheets but Cumberland offered to meet us in the middle of nowwhere to deliver but we managed without them. Our second night on our boat was a little scary, I was sick as a dog, vomiting and in sooo much pain we had to call Marine Rescue to come and pick me up. I was taken to Hayman Island and then ferried over to Airley Beach to a waiting Ambulance to take me to Prosipine Hospital where I found out I had a Gallstone Attach. Luckly I was able to go the next day and by that time our fellow crew had anchored up at Airley Beach Harbour. We were able to stay overnight there, with the staff feeling sorry for not having sufficient linen on board they greeted us with a bottle of burborn. My partner and I decided to have a tour around the Harbour, and would you believe, my camera strap broke and went straight into the water. After coming out of hospital that day and then this , happening to me, I just wanted to go home! Our friends cheered me up and then we set off again. We just loved every minute of crusing around the islands, so much to see and do we ran out of time to do everything. Our favorite place was Tongue Bay, watching the turtles slowly swim past and the fishing was good also. To walk through the forest to get to Whitehaven Beach was just beautiful also. Radio contact was just fantastic, just loved talking on the CBRadio advising of our day and location towards the end. We loved to be considered and enjoy more next time without worrying of being sick!!!! 10/10
Our fabulous holiday started unexpectedly after a visit to the 2010 Boating and Great Outdoor expo at the new Melbourne exhibition centre. We arrived at Hamilton Island as our floating accomodation was being sailed into the harbour for our introduction session with Graham. After a pleasant sail and trial at hoisting sales, dropping anchor and getting familiar with our vessel we were left to enjoy 7 days of freedom. Our first night was spent in the Hamilton Island Mariner before heading out early the next morning passing the amazing new yatch club.
From then on we just had to keep pinching ourselves as we experienced an amazing part of this wonderful country. The wild life was just incredible as we came across a Whale and her calf, cheeky sulpher crested cokatoos going from boat to boat at anchor seeing what tasty morsils were on offer. Inquisitive angel shaped fish as round as a small bicycle wheel coming up to the back of your boat making sounds to get your attention so you would feed them. And the shy turtles popping up for a brief look to see what you were up to before dissappearing again only to pop up on the other side of the boat. An escort of 3 dolphins riding the bow effortlessly skimming along. The fishing was great and supplied a number of fresh meals while the snorkelling was just amazing, the under water colour and activity was endless. A day was spent on the luxurious Hayman Island enjoying all the benefits around the pool.
All too soon our 7 days were over and it was time to head back into the Hamilton Island mariner to once again be met by Graham for a debrief and handover. Although we were sad that our holiday was coming to an end we were laden with plenty of life long memories and photos to share. We couldn't reccommend the team at Cumberland enough they were just fantastic and thought of every little detail and were always happy to make suggestions and reccommendation on were to go. They just added that little extra.
We four decided to spend a nice spring break on a beautiful enchanted holiday sailing through the Whitsundays (without anklebiters aged from 1 to 28).
So excited we couldn't sleep so we walked up to the marina at 3am to try and guess which yacht was ours. We four had brekkie showered and headed straight back to the marina at daylight to wait for the briefing. The girls went shopping the boys ordered the drinks and ready we were.
Our tutor was "Ralph" to show us the ropes (literally) and give us a run through the do's and dont's. We sailed away all nervous and making sure our Skipper had all under control. We dropped Ralph off at our first stop once he was happy with our sailing skills.
Our greatest adventure was a recommendation by Ralph to go to Cid Harbour and check out the trails.
So off we go the Skipper, Gilligan, Maryanne and Ginger decided after much persuasion and promises from the girls to take the trail walk. Of course the boys declared war on the trail walk and suggested we take the short cut back along the rocks. Ginger decides the rocks are too hard for her classy heels (pluggers) and takes a detour down the rocks along the shallow water. Oho the water wasn't shallow as Ginger found out when she slipped off the rocks into the depths. Bye bye camera, dry towel and heels. Out Ginger crawls, cuts from oyster shells, rocks and continues on the uphill climb along the rocks. With blood oozing out from the various cuts which you could not identify as Ginger was covered in things the size of Terradactyls. It wasn't March so they couldn't possibly be March flies. We continued to climb, slide and jump over these damn rocks, about to give up and the Skipper appears around the corner in the tinnie.
This was definitely an adventure, well provided by Cumberland, luxury on water and wonderful service. Clean and tidy, well equipped and any assistance at your fingertips. Thank you all.
Sue - MALVERN EAST, VIC 25 Jan 2011 Mahe 36 Skedaddle Chartered: 02 Sep 2010
On the good ship Skedaddle we had one of these life time experiences. What better way could you think of to combine a break away from the rat race and a few of lifes little pleasures? For us although we are not novices when it comes to boats and sailing we are no means experts after an hours introduction and trail of everything we needed to know with the wonderful Graham we were off on our 7 day adventure. How lucky could you be?
As we set sail for Whitehaven beach one of the most famous and beautiful beaches in the world we come across a whale and her calf, we sat 100 metres off from them and watched them frolick in the water.
That night whilst at anchor we were able to sample our prearranged rations we were not let down a - feast of beautiful fresh seafood and tropical fruit was devoured and washed down with a nice wine. Not long after tea we had the fishing rods set up and lines in the water we were kept busy with plenty of action with the important task of replenishing the wine took priority as Stuart placed his fishing rod down to go in and get the bottle the rod just took off and went straight into the water.
About 1/2 hour later Sue had hooked something! as she wound it in it appeared she had snagged and tangled another line to our surprise and amazment she had caught the line of the rod that had been pulled overboard. As she kept winding it in we found the rod still attached and were able to recover it along with the shark that had pulled it into the water. This time there wasn't going to be a story about the one that got away. We enjoyed walks along beautiful beaches bush walks to amazing aboriginal cave paintings and stunning look outs. We paddled up far reaches of estauries, snorkelling on amazing underwater mini-cities of color and life of all kinds all the while enjoying the opportunity to improve our photography skills. We couldn't have asked for a better holiday.
If you think sailing holidays are just for adults, well think again. Children can have just as much fun; in fact anyone can enjoy a sailing holiday. Especially at the Whitsundays where the water is clear the islands are green and the lovely white beaches stretch on forever.
Some of my favorite things were - when we saw dolphins swimming around our yacht, walking on the islands, walking along Whitehaven beach, visiting friends at Hamilton Island and last but not least sailing.
Before I left my home, I was nervous about going over waves and healing over in the boat. But after the journey on Olivetta I am not nervous any more.
Peter - ANCASTER, ONTARIO CANADA 25 Jan 2011 Lipari 41 Le Bon Revé Chartered: 18 Nov 2010
In early 2010 while hunkered down in the dark, cold Canadian winter I asked my husband what he’d like to do to celebrate his 50th birthday in November. His reply was quite simply “my ultimate wish would be to go sailing with the family”. So it seemed a return to the Whitsunday Islands was in order. And what a fantastic trip it was!
41’ Lipari Sailing Catamaran “Le Bon Reve”
7 nights and 8 days
25-30 knot winds, lashing rains & 1.5-2m sea swells
2 adults, 2 children
One of the most rewarding family vacations of our life!
The four of us became quite the sailing team as we navigated our way around the northern side of islands and anchorages. Although our sailing was more physical than if the weather had been all sunny and clear the benefit lay in the team-building skills we quickly acquired with the rewards of anchoring mid afternoon in picturesque sheltered inlets and bays on the northern side of the islands. The sun even accommodated our travels plans to make its daily debuts upon anchoring affording us the time to relax and explore the islands.
“Le Bon Reve” was a very solid boat that served us very well in the rough weather. The large Bimini and clear plastic skirting around the table in the cockpit offered us protection from the winds and rain but also allowed spectacular unobstructed views and the freedom to move between the saloon/galley to the back deck safely and comfortably.
In both our charters with Cumberland we’ve noticed that they keep their boats in top condition and take pride in offering the very best to their charter customers and as a result we can honestly say it makes all the difference to the lasting memories created on such a holiday.
Thank you Cumberland for all your assistance in making our sailing holiday dreams come true!
When our piggy banks and penny jars fill again we will definitely make yet another return to sailing the Whitsunday Islands and we will most certainly be back!
Sailing the Whitsundays is an experience everyone should have. Cumberland offer sail boats with a variety for all types of sailors. They make sure you are full aware of all saftey procedures and are completely comfortable with you boat before sailing off into the wild blue yonder. I love the Beneteau 43 its a great Sailing boat easy to sail with one couple or three couples we have done both the cabins are very comfortable and the floor plan is perfect. A typical day in Paradise is waking up with the bird life, jumping in for a swim (skinny Dipping) before breakfast then decide where to go for lunch, find that lovely secluded beach, go ashore for a swim or bush walk, picnic on shore, back to the boat do some real sailing as the wind has just come up find that fantastic spot to drop anchor that no else wanted to. Sit back and watch the sun go down listening to the curlews calling to each other in the bush on shore as the smell of you Bar Be Que wafts up. You physically feel tired not exhausted but it has been a great day with your friends sailing amongst these pretty Islands that offer such a variety to all types of sailors to experience . I feel very fortunate to be able to experience sitting in a Beneteau in the evening sipping something delicious gently swaying on the ocean with some great company looking out to the horizon as the sun sets watching the colors change on the sky, sea, and Islands as the stars slowly appear trying to guess where Orion or Scorpio is. I do hope to be able to continue sailing with Cumberland for many years to come.
So many special places to visit, enjoying them with great friends, very relaxing and being our first bare boat charter we had the peace of mind that we had support and assistance if we required it, from the proffessional team at Cumberland Charter Yachts.
Mark - BELMONT, NSW 25 Jan 2011 Salina 48 Serengeti Chartered: 01 Oct 2010
Sitting around the dinner table four months after our charter, the memories are still vivid. Serengeti, the tropical fish, awesome sailing, great food, fabulus fun. Our 14 year old, 11 year old and 7 year old have very fond memories and are ready to do it all again. Manta Ray Bay was the highlight, with mauri wrasse coming to the surface to greet us at our mooring, using the underwater camera to record our trip and loads of room on the catamaran to do whatever we pleased. Cumberland were great with planning and organisation. All our questions were answered.
Ready to go again..next year.
I liked my sailing holiday in the Whitsundays because I could visit all the different islands. My favourite part of the boat was the really cool window hatch that was in my cabin that let me see into the water under the boat where the fish are. I really liked sitting with my sister on the stairs of the boat and when we were sailing.
Geoff - TOWNSVILLE, QLD 25 Jan 2011 Mahe 36 Skedaddle Chartered: 04 Oct 2010
W.....Water so crystal clear
h.......having champagne on the deck watching turtles swim near
i.........It was a dream come true
t........To be on this boat the
s.......SS Skedaddle was a magnificent boat
u.......Under the whitsundays sun
n.......No wonder we had so much fun
d......days spent, fishing snorkelling and sunbaking on the net
a......alot of memories made that will be kept
y......year after year its a plan so clear
s....sail through the whitsundays...onward we steer
thankyou cumberland charter yachts for the most memorable trip!
What a week !
We've had it all ... Rain, Sun, Rain, More rain, Burning sun, ... Wind, from the absolute zero knot to 30 knots ...
Amazing time sailing, snorkling, swimming ... and just relaxing ...
Imagine beautiful islands, covered with a lush vegetation and surrounded by beaches.
As a long time charterer with CCY it was time to head back to the Witsundays for the seventh time to celebrate turning 50 and to lift the spirts of a friend recovering from illness and continue our annual November pilgramage.
This year it was great to get aboard Charisma that was in immaculate condition as one several new vessels for 2010.
The wet season hit the Whitsundays unseasonly early this year but the cruising, scenery, snorkeling and relaxation and partying could not be stopped by the passing rain.
Whitehaven, Hill Inlet, Chalkies, Manta Ray an Butterfly bay all blew our new crew away wanting to stay longer.
Thanks to Sue, Steve and crew at CCY for making each year all to easy.
Just need an excuse for 2011 but that wont be hard to find
Firstly I must admit I was a little worried about spending 7 days in close range with two teenage daughters and a 8 year old son, and was very glad that the esky was stocked.
We arrived at Cumberland, Airlie Beach bright and chirpy the morning were to start our Whitsunday adventure, we loaded the boat and eagerly awaited our induction, this I must say was very painless and we did actually learn alot from it. We motored off to spend our first night at Cid Harbour and to catch up with family that were on the tail end of their holiday. We anchored for the night and had a absolute ball.
The next morning ,WOW, you wake up water lapping on the boat to the beautiful blue waters of the Whitsundays and the view is first class, someone pinch me. From there it only got better, Stonehaven Bay - what a find, Blue Pearl Bay - was totally magic, Butterfly Bay - my favourite, so quiet and serene, Manta Ray Bay - great snorkelling, Chance Bay - the night we stayed here we were the only boat anchored, we had dinner on the beach as we had it all to ourselves, Chalkies Beach - nearly as good as Whitehaven, and of course Whitehaven beach - the worlds most beautiful beach, they were all on our doorstep for the taking.
We were all getting along brilliantly and there were NO kids fighting, let me tell you that is a complete turnaround from being at home. It was wonderful, with no television or mobile phones or FACEBOOK we had our kids back and I cant begin to tell you how much fun we had.
My eldest daughter turned into quite the fisherman, much to her Dad's embarrassment and out fished us all.
We had the most wonderful holiday and can not wait to book again for this year, because at the end of the day we all work too hard and need rewards.
Thank you Cumberland, you are sensational.
Wow, what a week! Sailing arond the Whitsunays was amazing as i look back on our trip it felt like a wonderful dream.From the blue skies to the crystal clear water beneath, snorkeling through acres of brilliant, colourful corals was absulutely breathtaking. Aboard or ship, Stardust, there was endless things to do. We fished, catching a few small fish and a shark! We found it wrap around the anchor chain. We new when we were nearing Butterfly Bay because hundreds of butterflies fluttered arond our boat. Collecting shells along the beaches, walking to Aboringal caves and so much more! Thanks cumberland for an amazing time. A second trip? Count us in!
Grace Laird Aged 11yrs.
A wonderful week on a bareboat charter with your family... We do love adventure vacations, yet had never done anything like this! It was liberating being able to chart our course and once we got settled in each harbor, we loved the freedom to be able to explore by land and sea in our dingy. Our boat was Blueberry Hill and it met all of our expectations- we took advantage and welcomed the airconditioning! Our orientation covered everyhthing we needed and helped us feel confident in our task! We made seagull friends, saw many sea turtles, and loved the food! I think we all felt that we were experiencing something very special. To wake up to a cup of coffee looking at a gorgeous volcanic island, to see daughter and son realize this special time together and explore this beautiful part of Australia like few others was fun and memorable! Every day presented us with beach exploration and fabulous views- a truly wonderful adventure!
What a fantastic time to be on the Whitsundays! Early September 2010 and the weather was sparkling blue and just the right temperature - perfection. Our magnificant steed, the Beneteau Oceanis 411 La Belle Vie, carried us around to beautiful anchorages nestled in the coves of islands and stunning miles of white beach.
We visited Nara, Cid Harbour, Stonehaven, Cateran Bay, Whitehaven Beach and Macona. Whilst I would have liked to have had just a bit more wind my crew were very happy to be on an even keel most of the time. Still we used the "iron spinnaker" sparingly and were able to just cruise along on green-power (wind of course) as much as possible.
Whilst lunch was generally on the run under sail, breakfast and dinner was spent in the cockpit with the table up and looking at yet another marvellous view. I don't think I could ever tire of looking out across shimmering blue/green water at a tree encrusted wall of rock in some peaceful inlet.
It was only last Spetember but already seems like years ago and I look forward wistfully to the next opportunity to spend time in the Whitsundays with Cumberland. I hope it comes soon!!
26 years in the planning.
In 1984, 3 Perth adventures set off to Europe, met up with some wonderful Eastern Aussies and decided to cruise the Greek Islands together. We loved it and vowed one day we would meet up and do it again.
2010 was the year, Whitsunday’s our destination. Sue’s helpful & friendly emails decided us on Cumberland Charters. Finally the day arrived and we were reunited on the fantastic Gallivanter, 43 feet (13.1 metres) of sailing pleasure with wonderful company, sensational food and incredible scenery of the Whitsunday Islands.
The boys revelled in their sailing youth, sailing us to new bays each day. Snorkelling with enormous and friendly fish, paddling around deserted inlets, sunbaking of the softest whitest sand, watching the dolphins. But most fun of all was the sexy bodies adorned in those unforgettable stingers suits, “our condomoneries”.
To counteract the lazy days and good livings we put on the sandshoes and climbed the 5 km round trip to the top of Whitsunday Peak, enjoying the tropical rain forest and pine trees, while dodging the rocks Pete so craftily inserted into your backpack if you were not watching.
The weather was delightful, just enough sun for a fantastic tan, the torrential downpour was amazing, cleansing the deck and proving an unforgettable trip in the dingy for the boys to pick up supplies in the rain, don’t lose those thongs boys.
The stopover in Hamilton, stretched the legs and gave us an opportunity to pick up some souvenirs, a visit to the pub, and don’t forget the bakery. Then time for the girls to get out the party frocks and spoil ourselves with an indulgent and delicious meal. Lucky we didn’t stay long enough to let the boys loose on the carts.
Cocktails, cards, reading, relaxing with a book, late night chats with old friends surrounded by stunning blue oceans and tropical islands, it does not get any better than this.
By Ann Mackey
Shane - ANNANDALE, NSW AUSTRALIA 24 Jan 2011 Mahe 36 Skedaddle Chartered: 19 Dec 2010
Skedaddle - from the 19th to the 24th of December 2010.
Togs, sunglasses, hat and sunblock - check
Wine and refreshments - check
Yummy food from the provisioning guys - check
The cat booked into the cattery - check
Beautiful Whitsundays weather - oh?
And yes that "beautiful sunny tropical weather" was definitely not here the first morning as we waited at the Hamilton Island Marina for Skedaddle to arrive. It was bucketing down with rain, so much so, that we couldn't even see 200 meters in front. And yes we were thinking "What are we doing?" Mind you though our 6 year old daughter couldn't care less and was quite happy jumping around in the puddles.
But to give Mother Nature credit, she did take it easy on us.
With a thorough briefing from Geoff, we were soon on our own and anchoring in Nara Inlet for the first night. From there on, the weather was overcast every day with lightning to light up the night skies. But when it did rain, which was rare, it was refreshing. It actually cooled down an otherwise hot day.
Skedaddle was a perfect boat for the 3 of us (2 adults and 1 child). For 2 couples too, it'd be perfect. It had everything we needed and the self-selected provisionings was spot on. It is an easy boat to handle.
We didn't sail as much as we'd like to but then we did get to do lots of exploring and swimming among the many beautiful bays and beaches from Nara Inlet to Macona Inlet and then Cid Harbour.
Cid Harbour was our favourite spot. Our daughter loved the turtles, the shovel-nosed shark and goanna. Exploring Dugong beach was a definite highlight. For a first-timer, she couldn't get enough of it all.
And it was a perfect spot for overnights too. With the strong SE winds we were getting, Cid Harbour offered great protection.
Sure the weather wasn't perfect and it did throw us some challenges but this is something that we have taken away as an family adventure which we will cherish for a long time coming. Thank you CCY!
We couldn't resist the temptation for another trip. Slip one in just before the Christmas madness descended.
We decided that the Melbourne Cup week could take place without us attending, always a lot of fun, but this time a bit of r&r was a better option.
We felt we were heading back into Airlie to met up with our new friends at Cumberland, and so it was. With one trip experience under the belt, we took on the option for a partial provisioning that worked very well. We boarded Lazyitis and along with our good friends aboard Little One, headed out to Nara Inlet. Made good time in perfect conditions, 15 knot winds. The "team" competitiveness started right from the moment we exited Airlie Beach.
Feeling a little confident, we tried out Lazyitis, that proved anything but in her sailing.
Highlights included fine dining each night on each other's boat, Hawian matching shirts!, snorkeling at Manta Ray bay and the search for Elvis (Manta Ray resident). Fish amazing, conditions a little rougher to swim in, but fantastic fish surrounded us. We visited Happy Bay and enjoyed an island visit to South Molle (for coffee), Bauer Bay. During our travels we saw plenty of turtles. Cateran Bay was lovely too. Rosemary swam from boat to boat, and did the divers drop backwards from the dingy! Very brave.
We had a night in Hamilton Island, perfect planning. Rosemary's birthday during the trip, so good opportunity to get that last minute gift at the resort. It poured with a sudden tropical rain storm, so being tucked up there was a good decision. Loved the trip, the lazy afternoon with another rain storm at Nara, very special with the waterfall active that provided some wonderful photographic moments. To say we are hooked, annual event definitely! Next year.....bring it on!
Jonathon - HOLLAND PARK, QLD 24 Jan 2011 Seawind 1160 Destiny Chartered: 12 Oct 2010
We had a fantastic time cruising the Whitsundays with Cumberland Charter Yachts and would highly recommend it to other people with limited knowledge of Sailing and boating.
As long as you bring along your common sense and do some reading beforehand it is easy to get yourself around to all the tops spots on offer in the Whitsundays. My wife an I both had limited boating experience before charting with Cumberland. Only having the two of us on board Destiny was not a challenging task as all, nor was it alot of hard work and no play.
There isn't many opportunities in life where you can snorkel through a great reef, swim back to the boat, have a BBQ and an afternoon drink all within an hour!
We were both pleasantly with how professional Cumberland were from the initial booking right through to the debrief. Since our trip we highly recommend anyone looking to do a similar trip to speak with Cumberland first.
There were turtles almost the size of me and staggering views to take in. We cruised in our tender as we made like pioneers and conquered private beaches and secret coves. We snorkeled amidst brilliantly colourful corals, attempted to keep up with playful, shimmering, rainbow fish and peered at electric blue lipped clams which kept us infinitely fascinated.
Our yacht, Olivetta, sped us craftily around countless islands under full sail and kept us safe during the stormy weather. We manoeuvred to avoid reefs, rocks and anchor drag as we moored overnight wherever we fancied and with adequate protection. Our map, tide chart and copy of One Hundred Magic Miles became our holy trinity for the eight days we spent aboard.
It was not the relaxing, sun drenched, white sand, crystal water holiday I imagined it to be. It was better! It included hard core sailing, a nail biting crossing of the passage, concentration and focus as to itinerary dependent on weather and ocean conditions, scrutiny and pace under pressure to avoid reefs and land with little visibility and a huge faith in our depth sounder and GPS.
CCY were amazingly thorough in their service and we felt in very capable hands. The guidance and local knowledge we had access to provided for the very best places to visit allowing for the conditions. Our entire experience from pre trip planning to induction to radio check ins and advice all the way to our debrief and after sales service was an absolute pleasure. Everything was thought of and extremely easy!
I learnt so much about sailing in just over a week and am counting the days until our next voyage. After gaining a little more experience and enjoying the Whitsundays at their sunny best, we intend to sail through the Caribbean and along the Mediterranean.
Arrived at Airlie the day before to make last minute preparations for a week aboard Sunset Lady – still did not get it all done, but we were on holidays, so what does time matter?
Set sail for the wide blue yonder after a shake down and get-to-know-the-boat session – all very efficient and professional. Headed for the best dive spots at the top of Hooke Island, being pushed along by a fresh NW breeze in dazzling sunshine and gliding through glittering waters. Dragged a lure and spent 30 minutes trying to get a nice yellowfin tuna aboard to ‘enjoy’ the fun, but only to see it wipe off on the hull – plenty more fish in the sea! Got too hot so rigged a ‘catch line’ and bailed overboard – so refreshing..
Spent lots of time at Butterfly Bay, Manta Ray Bay and the Pinnacles – just what everyone said – spectacular, especially the massive GT’s and Bat Fish at Manta Ray. Overnighted at Border Island and Chalkies – memories of Melbourne Uni dive trips in the 70’s (it was way different back then however!)
Did the Whitehaven bit for the rest of the crew. The view from the lookout access from Tongue Bay was brilliant and an amazing photo opportunity location (plus a nice walk to boot).
Experienced a bit of rain (but nothing like later in December and early January) – just brilliant waterfalls off the islands and a well washed superstructure. Made the water a bit dirty but still plenty of clean water locations like Deloraine Island and the Pinnacles.
It was sad to get back to reality and leave our home for the last week, but we have wonderful memories and are already planning our next escape from reality.
Vessel: Beneteau Oceanis 37, Little OneEquipment: VHF, Barbecue, Dinghi 6BHP, 3 CabinsProvider: Cumberland YachtingJourney:: approx. 200nm, 10 daysSetting:Due to a mile special by US Airways we were able to fly for the price of an ordinary economy flight first and business class to Australia/ Brisbane. So we thought we could sleep and relax and just enjoy a lovely easy day up in the air with all amnesties one could ever dream off.And it worked very well with little jet-lag. 2 weeks Australia is really feasible. The area looks very nice. We knew that we would have whales with their babies in this area (between June and October) and thetemperatures were somewhat mild but not super hot. Water a bit chilly I have to say though.Pros were clearly easy navigation due to eyesight navigation, lovely and save area, coverage by VHF, whale season, wonderful holdingCons were very restricted cruising area, some areas a bit crowded, shaky anchorages at times (due to current and wind fetch)Is it easy? Well you have a bit of tide (3m) and thus some current which is not helpful when wind is against current. Moreover crossing upwards against tide of 1-2 knots of current - tricky. One has to plan the journey a bit which is fine however due to the limitations it tends to be difficult. We saw some sailing vessels motoring quite a bit - hmm. There is no formal licence required however one should have a bit of practice in sailing and they give you a little test i.e. jibs, etc. But thats really easy. The reward for this efforts and money one is spending for coming over from Europe is well spend though - check out the pics or www.bjulrich.de
Well, to be honest i didnt know what to expect, my friends had organised to go away sailing for two weeks on the whitsundays and they needed an extra person,
hmmm gimme a couple of seconds to think about it, YOU BET IM COMING, that was how it started and boy am i glad i went along,
We started early on the 9th of december, and after the night that some of us had had before (rather my night) we were a bit groggy, but we went through all our procedures with our helpful Cumberland instructor and he had us underway and off into the beautiful water in our floating home "Crackerjack" in no time at all, and sitting aboard that 38 foot catamaran was an amazing feeling.
From then on it was beautiful weather (luckily) and beautiful sailing for the entire trip we were so happy with everything about our yacht,
for some of us it was first time sailing but after a few days on the water we couldnt get enough of it, we spent our first days cruising around to daydream island and then off we went.
Our trip took us to some of the most beautiful places in the whitsunday islands, after snorkelling, spear fishing, diving and the odd spot of bush walking we more than happy to head back to our cumberland yacht fully equied to cook for ten people and sleep them as well.
the whitsundays was an amazing experience and we wouldnt have been able to do this without the help and guidance from the Cumberland Charter Yachts team, you can definately count me in next year guys!!
Jurgen - SAMFORD VALLEY, QLD AUSTRALIA 23 Jan 2011 Mahe 36 Skedaddle Chartered: 10 Sep 2010
We departed from the Marina with a stiff breeze towards Hook Island Passage, Skedaddle reached 7.5 knots after we got the hang of things. Passing through Hook Passage and towards Esk Island we had to tack in the SE winds, but made good way and moored at one of the provided buoys for the night. The famous Whitehaven beach was our next stop, what a great beach and swimming experience !
In our effort to circumnavigate Whitsunday Island we stopped at Hamilton Isl. Marina for the usual activities coupled with a great meal at the Italian restaurant overlooking the harbour. A crew change took place here and we continued up north again with a stop at Cid Harbour where we woke up the following day with turtles bobbing up to the surface every 5 minutes !
Here we also caught some good fish that was barbecued the following night. The highlight of the charter was Cateran Bay where we stopped the next day for lunch; the sea was calm, visibility was great and the coral was the best I have ever seen in all my professional diving off the coast of North Queensland in previous years.
We then dropped anchor at Mackerel Bay, enjoyed the fish for Dinner and caught a few squid.
The rounding of the northern tip of Hook Island took some time as by now the winds had calmed, but we were entertained numerous times by whales that kept leaping out of the water and obviously trained their calves in how to breach and roll and generally have a good time.
Another highlight was Manta Ray Bay. Although we missed out on seeing the Manta Ray we were duly compensated by the huge Mauri Wrasse that came to the boat. Then a huge school of reef fish surfaced. This was an experience to write home about and the memory of this will stay with us for a long time to come.
All in all, the skipper & crew have had a wonderful time enjoying the tranquillity, scenery and wildlife, add to this the professional touch by all at Cumberland Charter and Skedaddle, it goes without saying that we will be back !!
Brian and Lin - BUDERIM, QLD 23 Jan 2011 Seawind 1160 Destiny Chartered: 08 Sep 2010
In Airlie the Cumberland Crew
Are doing the best they can do
To make sure you will feel
That the Magic is real
When Whitsundays Dreaming comes true
“No Lin, you don’t have to stow those loose articles when we’re on the move, Destiny is a catamaran, a ‘stable table’, you can put a mug of coffee down in the cockpit whilst helming and yes, that’s single line reefing and even a Self Tacking Headsail - forget the winching!”
Well wow! In that case Miss Destiny certainly is the girl we left home for. So here we go, can’t wait to set sail and explore more of the 100 Magic Miles of the Whitsundays.
Just a quick scan through the dozens of enthusiastic accounts and happy pictures on the Cumberland website and it’s easy to see that this is a very special sort of holiday where everyone enjoys their own particular adventure in their own way. We are set free in a uniquely beautiful environment to go as we please, living the life of water gypsies, worlds away from the pressure of everyday life. Yet we have the security of knowing that the Cumberland Crew are keeping track of us and standing by to make sure all is well. Best of both worlds we reckon.
We’ll go with the wind and the tide to visit former favourite spots and hope to discover new ones too. Every day will show us a fresh aspect of even familiar and well loved places, not forgetting ‘faces’ like that of Big Elvis the friendly Maori Wrasse. We can stay aboard snorkelling and fishing or go island hopping ashore and take in a resort. Calmly idle Destiny under motor or, when the breeze gets up, hoist the main, unfurl the ‘headie’ and let her show her paces under sail - terrific.
This is what Cumberland Charters are all about and what keeps us coming back. Can’t choose any particular high spots from among so many; just all round pretty ‘blankety’ lovely. Always something new, but always the same magic. And that really is Magic!
This was first choice of special holiday to do for my 50th. Being a sailing man this was right up my alley. We chose the CCY website purely at random and were impressed by the amount of info and ease of navigating about the webiste. Having no prior experience in bareboat chartering we chose CCY purely on the fact that we could cost up all expenses on the website and a quick call to Cumberland to chat through a few things prior.
And what a good choice it was. We arrived at Airlie Beach shortly after lunch and after a friendly welcome by the CCY staff went straight into our briefing – spent the first night at the marina onboard “On the Double” and completed the briefing next morning then set off for Nara Inlet. Visited the aboriginal site and was amazed that people where living here when there was a land bridge to the mainland – fascinating!
We only had one day of bad weather when we had to change plans but was not a biggy.
The snorkelling highlight was Manta Ray Bay and getting close and personal with the Maori Wrasse – actually seems to have a bit of personality which is rather weird for a fish.
Whitehaven beach was a real treat – the white powdery sand is very unique and a must to experience at once in your life. It’s great to see most people respect this unspoiled spot for what it is and leave only footprints.
A “pirate party” was had onboard on Haloween which was a real hoot – most photos are not publishable!!
The stopover at Hayman Island was very nice but pricey, and a welcome return to “civilisation” for the girls.
The food provisioning was absolutely marvellous, with 8 of us onboard there was never a time we went hungry and the variety was fantastic.
“On the Double” could have done with a slightly larger foresail to better balance her sailing, (or smaller mainsail) we found that she was better balanced with one reef in the main. But this observation comes from a very picky sailor.
All up a jolly good time was had by all – especially me !
For our 6th wedding anniversary in Oct 2010 we decided to go sailing around the Whitsundays. After meeting Steve the operations manager of Cumberland Charter Yachts at the Sydney Boat Show and having never sailed before, he suggested a sailing Cat so this is where our adventure on ‘Serendipity’ began.
With the fridge packed, friends in hand, briefing complete, we were off!! After Our first stop, Cid Harbour. Surrounded by Turtles we enjoyed a great BBQ and a few cold beers.
The next day we sailed to Stonehaven Beach for some snorkeling followed by a night at Nara Inlet where a pod of dolphins circled the boat.
The following day was our wedding anniversary. A seafood dinner at Mariners restaurant Hamilton Island was the perfect way to spend the evening.
The next day a beautiful morning sail was in hand to the majestic Whitehaven Beach. It was so perfect that on our afternoon radio call in we informed base that we were spending the night there. With a chilled glass of wine and a cheese platter we sat on the bow watching the full moon light up the beach, it was as though the white sand was glowing. It was so tranquil, and the only sounds were of the water lapping against the boat and the ‘ting’ as we toasted our glasses to celebrate this truly magical place.
A short sail to Tongue Bay the next day enabled us to appreciate the grandness of Whitehaven beach and Hill inlet, the view from here is absolutely breathtaking.
Another highlight of our trip was the amazing sail around the top of Hook island to Manta Ray Bay. This is where we had our first ever experience of snorkeling along side a bale of turtles.
The only problem about our 7 day sail, it was too short and had to come to an end! We intend to sail again in a few years time to see the rest of what the beautiful Whitsundays has to offer. Thanks to the team at Cumberland Charter Yachts for an experience of a lifetime!
Fish feeding!
The highlight of our underwater world adventure agreed by all was Manta Ray Bay. After mooring at the bay, applying our sun screen and stinger suits the mother of the crew let out a squeal! ‘What was wrong?’ was the thought that ran through my head as I ran to the side of the boat. After waiting a moment and realizing that no words were going to come out of her mouth I peered into the water to see a dark shadow swimming below the boat. My instant thought, a shark! My biggest fear! Others gathered and after much discussion and debate it was decided my brother was to be thrown into the water to have a closer look! Before this could be achieved the ‘shark’ came right up close to the back of the boat for us to discover it was not a shark but rather a massive groper.
There was no stopping us now as the crew of On the double jumped into the water to swim with this impressive fish. There were hundreds of different kinds of fish, all different shapes, colours and sizes! We also discovered that our once thought ‘shark’ had friends and even bigger friends at that!
After exploring this incredible bay we swam back to our boat where our ‘shark’ still remained. Maybe our friend is hungry – a thought that ran through my head. Some bread will do. Without warning the others I proceeded to the kitchen to retrieve the bread and returned to the side of the boat where the others continued to swim and I began to feed the fish!
The fish went crazy! They were jumping out of the water and splashing about right in front of my crew’s unsuspecting faces. They began squealing as the fun really began. Other crew members joined in as I returned to the water with bread in hand and began to feed these incredible creatures by hand – not without a few nibbles of my fingers! This was an experience like nothing else!
Our week at sea is an adventure that neither I nor my 5 other crew members will ever forget!
As one of us was limited to dinghy sailing experience prior to this trip, there was a sense of trepidation about spending 6 days cruising around the Whitsundays.
We were greeted by a friendly and patient Cumberland staff member who gave us a very comprehensive induction on Lazyitis, our home for the next 6 days.
We saw first hand the beauty and charm of the Whitsundays. We were fortunate to see some wonderful wildlife, dolphins, sea turtles, many tropical fish in some top snorkelling spots at the top of Hook Island. We were also able to enjoy the hospitality of a couple of resorts scattered about the Whitsundays where we could moor the boat and head ashore. We were very lucky to meet a few local characters and share an evening on the back deck of another Cumberland charterer's boat.
We learnt plenty about sailing and also about ourselves. There were times when the weather was a bit of a challenge, but this gave us a couple of good stories to take home!
Sailing was fairly comfortable with the main sail reefed even when it was blowing 20+ knots.
It was reassuring to have daily radio contact with the base whenever we needed it. We looked forward to our radio calls and the advice about what we could do that day given the weather conditions.
The boat itself was a joy to be on, and we were sad to leave it. We certainly weren't short of food, and through the provision service we had everything we could have needed, even glad wrap and aluminium foil.
We would love to come again and highly recommend Cumberland to anyone who is considering chartering boats in the Whitsundays. All staff had a friendly, relaxed and professional attitude.
This was our first charter and after an enjoyable and exciting six days, we hope the first of many!
Just wanted to send a big thankyou for allowing us to charter Sunset Lady. From the 10 /01 to the 17/01/2011.
The boat was big and comfortable for the 9 of us..
We had an amazing time on the boat. We sailed when the wind let us. We snorkled
fished, Went on walk and explorered some of the Islands.
The most memorial will be the walk up the mountain at Sawmill Bay at Cid Harbour. It was a hard trek up but the most awesome view from the top we have ever seen.
The fishing at Tongue Bay was awesome. We snorkled at Blue Pearl Bay and Cataran Bay. It was amazing to see the reef and all it colours and types of fish.We stayed over night at StoneHaven. Cid harbour, Tongue bay and Macona Inlet.
It is an amazing piece of the world and would encourage all to see it.. Especially by catamaran.
The Friends we had on this trip was their first and they were amazed by the Islands and all their glory. This was mine and my wifes 4th charter with you. And it seems to get better each time we come..
Want to say thanks to Cumberland for all your help throughour trip. Will certainly be highly recommending your services..
Cheers
stephen, Sharon, Pau,l Mandy, Dave
Corey, Tullia, Rob and Ella
Twas two weeks before Xmas and onboard we came
Charisma would surely never be the same
Kathy & Dave were happy with glee
Whilst James & Josh, overboard they pee!
The bubbles were poured, hooray, here we go!
Couldn't wait all round to get started with the show
"Charades? Oh no!" said James, "Not me!"
But slowly and surely, entangled he'd be
With sea turtles, GT's and bat fish galore
It took some courage to swim to the shore
Plantation Bay was abuzz with sting rays
But nothing beats a swim with Wally at Manta Ray
Whilst Izzy was becoming the paddle board 'queen'
Even though Joshua wasn't always so keen
Big people drank up some more fine bubbly
Enjoying the sunset at Blue Pearl.....how lovely!
So onto our next venture we go......
Bringing Charisma into Hamo with dinghy in tow
Another great holiday, Cumberland Crew
And we'd like to say a big THANK YOU!
The Danes are back and this time on Kick'n'Back.
11 years have passed since our Danish family cruised the wonderful Whitsundays on one of Cumberlands many yachts. No need to say we had a great time in 1999 and we simply had to come back for another bareboat charter with Cumberland Charter Yachts.
So 2010 was going to be the year where the Danes are returning for 9 days of fantastic cruising in the Whitsundays.
The wessel and our home for the next 9 days was again a Seawind 1000, "Kick'n'Back"
Knowing the Seawind 1000 from our previous charter and with all the help from the staff at Cumberland, departure was too easy and we set of from Abel Point Marina 28'th of December, all very excited about finally being back in these pristine waters and surroundings.
These 9 days were also going to end our Down Under trip that started in cold and snowy Copenhagen 4 weeks earlier. Our charter turned out to be all we had dreamed of and hoped for and what an ideal and fantastic way to round of a great Aussie trip.
In our 9 days on Kick'n'Back we managed to visit all of the more known places and even a new one to us, which was Windy Bay, which we had all to ourselves on New Years Eve.
Nibblies, champagne and some good wine on the beach in the afternoon and some succulent seafood on the Barbie later on. No other noisy boats nearby and a magnificent southern sky of stars above. What a privilege to experience moments like this. A perfect end to 2010
for the Danes onboard Kick'n'Back. HAPPY NEW YEAR !
Weatherwise we felt rather lucky considering the wet weather this summer in QLD.
We actually had pretty good conditions most of the time and especially the last 4 days exploring the Northern Bays of Hook Island were just picture perfect.
All good things come to an end, and so did our charter.
Kick'n'Back served indeed as a perfect home and made cruising the Whitsundays so easy.
Thanks to Cumberland for making the dream come through, again..
The Danes will be back....
The Kidd and Co Crew, under Captian Robert Kidd set sail on 20 September 2010 on the lovely La Belle Vie!....Correction, we set sail on the 21st September after very unusual rain conditions saw us stranded at the Marina on the first night....In no way did it spoil our trip, we were off and sailing by 9am on the 21st and we never looked back. As it was our first trip with Cumberland we played it safe and settled at Nara Inlet over night, we swam every morning and evening no matter where we were, the water temperature was fastastic. On our second day we headed for Stonehaven and on the way, under full sail, I lost my cap in the water....We came back to Nara inlet that night and the next morning headed for Cid Harbour. On our way, under full sail again, we passed something in the water...Yes it was my cap..over 24 hours since it blew off my head. Our quick thinking and risk taking crew member 'Chris', despite my protests, jumped in the dingy and took off to find the cap. By the time he was in the dingy we had lost site of the cap bobbing in the water, but Chris returned victorious and we are still laughing about it. And yes, I still have the lucky cap. We only had one mutiny, where in 20 knot winds on the way from Cid Harbour to Happy Bay, the Captain asked his crew to put a reef in the sail, we said almost in unison "nah we don't need a reef!"but we changed our mind when the winds got to 26 knots...and it was too late to reef...The Captain was not happy! We snorkled in Butterfly Bay, took the bush walk to the lookout in Tongue Bay and spent a beautiful day on Whitehaven Beach. We also stopped in at Happy Bay for a drink at the bar and a Pizza. There are so many desitinations that we did not see and I think we played it safe the first time around, so we definitely be back to explore this beautiful piece of QLD again. Thank you to the wonderful people at Cumberland Charter Yachts who went out of their way to help us and ensure we were confident and comfortable.
Steve - WODONGA, VIC 17 Jan 2011 Salina 48 Serengeti Chartered: 16 Oct 2010
The time had come again, the 5th time with Cumberland and the 10th in the Whitsunday’s. As for the boats, they just get bigger, Serengeti, this is a big boat, in ever respect. Cumberland and their crew, great to deal with again, Customer service with a smile.
Three couples on this trip plenty of room for all, Third day in one of our crew found out what sea sick is all about, lasted 24hrs and had to get off. Rested on Hamilton for a couple of days, no better. Had to fly home, all disappointed. The Captain doesn’t get seasick, but tried to find out what is was like on the first night, need to make my own drinks in future, the drinkies went down to fast. Not so happy the next morning. Some of the guys had never snorkelled before, dropped over the side at Manta Ray bay and swam with the big Fishes. There were some pretty excited faces, even under the masks. Could not understand what was being said under water, I think it was “Are they hungry”. Down to Whitehaven on the outside, everyone excited about the beach. Time to get off the boat and go walking on that famous sand, white and squeaky. Spent the night at tongue bay, up to the lookout, what a view. Spent a couple of nights in Hamilton Island hoping for a recovery of our sick friend, Heading into Hamilton we felt like the king of the castle. Serengeti, 48ft did I mention she’s big. Until you sail into Hamilton Marina, “Yep, we found bigger, there’s lots of money floating around in that Marina”.
Ten days on this boat, had a few wet ones in the middle of the trip, Stonehaven to Hamilton, 38 knots of wind on the nose, short sharp chop, 1 to 4 knots, the sail drives purring away at 1700rpm, everyone inside, myself “lonely at the helm”, good thing about the rain, it washed all the salt water of the me and the Boat, there was plenty of spray coming over the front.
Whitsunday Adventure 2010
We headed off for 10 nights on our third Whitsunday Adventure. Although we encountered unusual wet conditions this season for our charter we still had a fantastic time. No matter how many times you charter there is always somewhere new to explore. The luxury comfortable vessel 'Cumberland Princess' handled all conditions with ease.
We visited Nara & Marcona Inlets, Cid Harbour, Hamilton & Daydream Islands. New anchorages this time included Chalkies Beach across from Whitehaven has its own lovely secluded white sandy beach to explore. Stonehaven with overnight moorings & bommies, Gulnare Inlet was a great fishing spot if only the rains held off!! Homestead Bay off Cid Harbour was a lovely quiet anchorage. There is something magical about the Whitsundays that keeps drawing you back time & time again.
We wish to thank Sue & the Cumberland Crew for upgrading our vessel due to our chartered boat being unavailable and we have always found their customer service, knowledge, website and vessels 'terrific' thats why we keep using them and can't wait to do it again.
Three of our regular past charterers with Cumberland will be turning 60 next year and would love to celebrate with a cruise around the magical Whitsundays, hopefully with more favourable weather conditions!!!
Pat, Charlie, Dave, Jeanette, Ron, Anne
'Cumberland Princess'
8 - 18 November 2010
Valerie - STONY CREEK, VIC 19 Dec 2010 Voyager 1040 Finnigan Chartered: 20 Sep 2010
Well adventure number 2 to the Whitsundays was as wonderful as expected. The weather at times reminded us of home with the rain but soon reminded us that we are in QLD due to the heat and humidity.
The first night the weather kept us in the Marina, the next day we headed off into the wild blue younder and went to Marcona. The next day we travelled up through the HOok passage and back to Stonehaven, one of our favourite destinations from our previous trip, the boys trawled around stonehaven and caught some nice fish.
The next morning we headed off to Butterfly Bay, we never got there 2 years ago so it was much anticipated place to go. We have never had our girls swimming or snorkelling in the ocean much so Butterfly Bay was our chance to try and teach them these things, and it was na amazing experience which we all loved, after that the girls would jump off the back of the boat and swim every chance they got.
From here we went around Pinnacle point and down to Tounge Bay, we walked the lookout and loved the view over Whitehaven, Caught some great fish in Tounge Bay.
We then went to another of our favourite spots in Cid Harbour. Dean captured a Spanish Mackeral here and Natalie a 84 cm Golden Trevally, ( her first one).
The next morning w headed for land, a night in Hamilton Island Marina and as it was AFL grandfinal and I had a family of Collingwood Supporters on board they sat in the Marina watching the Grandfinal whilst I went for a Hot Stone Massge, it was heaven and I am sure Hamilton Island Marina will never be the same after all those Victorians watching Footy.
From here we went to Whitehaven and more swimming and snorkelling, saw some amazing Turtles too.
Went to Apostle Bay and captured some more great fish, Then back over to Woodwark Bay and Double Bay for some amazing fishing, nice 89 cm Golden Trevally. The kids once again could not stay out of the water and loved all the fishing and swimming.
Cumberland Thak you for another amazing Holiday.
Some of us spend our lives wondering and some of us just do it.
If for a moment you have given a slightest thought to doing the Whitsundays on a boat then do yourself one of the greatest things you can ever do. Do it!!!!
Whether you have the skills or not the crew at Cumberland will help you out. You will learn lots about what and what not to do and you will have an amazing time.
You will forever reflect upon your journey and you will smile everytime.
Everything that is said and written about the Whitsundays is true and every individual takes home their own little bit paradise forever and more.
You owe it to yourself to live life.
We did and we now have our own special memory. We will be back.
Little One carried our little one "George" around the beautiful Whitsunday Islands. We enjoyed a wonderful week of sailing in 10-15 knot winds and managed to allude the wet weather being experienced further south.
It was lovely to see lots of turtles popping their heads up above the water for a short glance but only managed to catch one unlucky fish.
We once again enjoyed our Whitsunday experience and are already planning our next sailing adventure. Thank you Little One
Frank - CROYDON, VIC 02 Oct 2010 Dehler 34 Treasure Chartered: 05 Sep 2010
With the comptetent crew course under our belt and dire need for fresh air and sunshine, we headed to the team at Cumberland Charter Yachts to pick up the fabulous "Treasure" the Dehler 34' monohull.
Our flotilla included two other families who were on Kick N Back and Indigo (cats). The first funny moment, the look on Terry and Charlie's faces when they saw our provisioning. "How many people?" Rosey has the reputation for over catering, true to form, we had enough food for two weeks, not that I'm complaining, we ate like kings.
With a great deal of excitment, fully briefed and now actually being on our 'own' boat, we headed off on a nice easy run across to Nara Inlet. We were quickly at ease with Treasure. A couple of goes to anchor, for no other reason than being a bit cautious about the 'how close' factor. Very settled night and the start of a fabulous week which offered a variety of wind conditions and experiences.
Our highlights of the week.
Morning tea aboard in Hook Island passage. The sailing to Border Island and back.
The frivolity of the swimming in Cid Harbour with the KNB & Indigo kids!
Whitehaven - walk on the beach and anchorage. The sand is just so perfectly soft and white.
Butterfly Bay for a quick lunch drop in and snorkel, pretty spot.
Blue Pearl Bay, awesome snorkelling and easy mooring.
The peace and tranquility of Nara Inlet (Top end) gorgeous views.
The sailing, sailing, sailing. Blue water, heavenly views, perfect surroundings
Turtles and dolphins, no whales, but other families did.
Testing our skills and offering up some challenges. Treasure was very accomodating and easy to sail and handle.
Radio calls.... Kick'N Back, Kick N Back... Indigo, Indigo...
Finally, the CCY team were fantastic. Happily assisting and sharing in our travel stories, in getting going and then heading home too! We are hooked and heading back sooner than later.
Peter - PICTON, NEW ZEALAND 12 Sep 2010 Hanse 430 Lady Fay Chartered: 24 Jul 2010
Owing to the Christchurch earth Quake I hope you will accept our late entry
“Lady Fay” departed Airlie beach on Saturday 24th July 2010. On board the beautiful Hanse 430 yacht were ………..Vasco, The Chairman and Three Presidents. (The combined experience on board was in excess of 200 years)
The intention of this great voyage was to explore the famous Whitsunday Islands. Nightfall found the ship anchored in the lee of South Molle Island. Prawns and Pino Griggio, on the poop deck as the sun went down, set the mood for the days to come.
Day break, with the crows, the charts, sextant and dividers heralded a committee meeting to plan the week ahead. The choice of Islands was too numerous to be able to visit them all in the week we had.
The following days were filled with:
• Snorkelling, The fish life on the reefs (so much more colourful than ours)
• Swimming
• Exploring various Islands- Island walks
• Leisurely sailing
• Observing the abundance of the Whitsunday sea life , Dolphins, Turtles, Whales
• Great Sunsets and Sunrises and balmy weather
With three Presidential cook on board the galley was a continuous source of culinary delights, not to mention Vasco and the BBQ’s on the poop deck. All washed down with a great selection of Australian fine wines.
On the final Saturdays early dash back to Airlie Beach, Vaso’s Lava Lava, made a great gennaker, to end the most memorable week of fun, on a brilliant, well appointed Cumberland Charter Yacht.
We all would like to thank the Cumberland Crew for their exceptional attention to detail before, during and after our very memorable Charter experience.
Peter – Vasco
Doug – The Chairman
Chris, Jill and Vonnie – The Presidents
Cumberland Magic through the Whitsunday Islands a truly memorable experience.
First night at Nara Inlet was spent in seclusion with fresh Oysters off the rocks.
Come morning we snorkelled among the coral forms, then off to Mays Bay for a swim. After to Butterfly Bay, It’s amazing with the cockpit surrounded by butterflys on a safe anchorage.
Next day up anchor to Blue Pearl Bay for a swim among a school of large fish then across the top of the Whitsunday Island Chain and down to Hook Island trawling for Mackeral. We moored in Cateran Bay.Snorkeling in the morning was incredible, an easy distance from Magic.
Tongue Bay,where everyone enjoyed a walk on the island and the view over Whitehaven Bay. Fresh mackeral at hand we anchored for the night, and enjoyed another fish BBQ aboard. Chalkies beach the next morning was an absolute delight.
Through the Pass across the top of Hamilton Island with the first signs of civilization again. After a quick radio ashore, we were escorted to our Berth for the night. Island buzzing, the jet airliners landing across the face of the Marina, a truly international feel.
Cid Harbour, anchored easily and quickly a family of turtles welcomed us. A tender over to the small island beside Cid Island for some snorkelling and a late afternoon walk on Dugong Beach.
Off to Day Dream Island and on to anchor. A couple of whales 50m astern of Cumberland Magic, having never been this close we were enchanted, they just hung out and swam enjoying the sun much the same as we were.The Girls were keen to catch up with Greg Evans from A Perfect Match!
Back in Abel Point Marina, a Cumberland escort was available to guide us in and the cruise had come to an end all too soon.
With this being our first bare boat charter, it definitely wont be our last with Cumberland. The boat was immaculate, reliable. We feel we have only scratched the surface of what we could see and are keen to return.
First off, I'd like to thank all of the staff at Cumberland for making our trip unforgettable. When we arrived at the marina on our first day, we were all shocked at the warm and humid weather. Our first sail in our boat (On The Double) was fun and exciting for us kids had never been sailing before. In the first hour of us being there, we saw whales and during our trip we saw every creature you can imagine finding in the sea, including: whales, turtles, dolphins and even blue hump headed Maori Wrasse! When we stopped at Manta Ray Bay, we swam with two Giant Trevally and Grumpy the hump headed wrasse. At Mackerel Bay, we snorkelled for the first time and it was incredible!! I have never seen so many fish in my life. When we anchored at Butterfly Bay, I went oyster collecting with some members of my family. We ate them during 'Happy Hour' and boy were they yummy! After Butterfly Bay we went to Nara Inlet and went for a walk to the Aboriginal caves where we saw some paintings done by their ancestors. After Nara, we headed into Airlie beach to stay for the night. I enjoyed meeting Sue and some of the other crew members before we headed off in the morning to catch our flight back to Melbourne. Now we are sitting here, absolutely freezing, wondering why we can't just stay in the Whitsundays forever! (Trust me, we've thought about it!) Thanks for making our charter so enjoyable and hope to see you again next year!
I loved the whole Holiday.
When we flew in & saw all the racing yachts.
Our Boat which was HUGE - It had lots of beds & we could swim off the back, which was heaps of fun.
The Coral Viewing Board – we hired one and I could swim around and look at everything under the water.
All the whales – there were lots of them!
The Turtles – they were REALLY cute.
We saw lots of dolphins too.
The snorkelling was fantastic – we saw heaps of fish, heaps and HEAPS of them.
Some of my favourites are –
The Hump Headed Maori Wrasse at Manta Ray Bay.
The Yellow-tailed Fusiliers.
The 5 Banded Damselfish.
Blue Puller.
Yellow Damselfish & maybe the cutest of all, the Threadfin Butterfly Fish.
It was like swimming in an aquarium.
Thanks very much Sue and all the CCY crew – we had a ball.
Our 2010 Whitsunday charter with CCY was such a fun holiday that we are already planning our 2011 escape! A good escape always need’s a little planning and that’s a cinch with the CCY website as it’s top shelf. Their site is a treasure trove of info and the interactive charterers centre is a great feature. The CCY boats are modern and well maintained and the range covers the full spectrum of craft imaginable. Our choice this year was the power cat Finnigan a roomy well-equipped boat with a huge flybridge that made you feel like “ king of all that you surveyed”. Our first stop was at Border island for a snorkel and the variety of fish life was amazing. At Maureen’s Cove we hand fed a couple of giant batfish and we named them Bill and Betty. A short hop across to Blue Pearl Bay and we were swimming among bombies that were brimming with Coral Trout, Parrot and other colourful species. We found ourselves viewing the undersea and then looking up and spotting wedge tail eagles soaring over the Hayman Island hillside. Halfway into our trip the trade winds began to freshen so we headed to Whitehaven Beach and nearby Hill Inlet for some Kitesurfing action!We blissfully settled into a routine of a 10.00am cook up of bacon and eggs and, (an optional) hike up the walking track to the Whitehaven Beach viewing platforms to take in some of the cleanest air in the world and one of the most panoramic views bar none. We imagine that our brightly coloured kites whizzing around must have been a curious sight for the people at the viewing platforms. A short cruise at the end of each day saw us anchoring in the tranquil waters of Tongue Bay with plenty of time to relax with a drink, recall the highlights of the day and watch the sun silhouette behind the distant pine trees of Whitsunday Island. With our bodies and minds in recharge mode we would sleep contently knowing that tomorrow we would do it all again! Our 2010 CCY charter was one of the best holidays ever. See you in 2011!
It’s pretty rare to get the time to connect with the entire family in a full, ‘No stress’ environment.
We did in the Whitsundays.
No need for the electronic games & distractions.
We had Whales, Turtles & fantastic weather to keep us entertained.
CCY did a fantastic job of making our family holiday easy & the best holiday we’ve had yet.
We’d wake up and have a swim, followed by a shower on the back of the boat before changing into dry boardies & having breckie in the ‘Alfresco’ dining area outside.
How relaxing is THAT!
The most stressful part of the day was working out where we’d have lunch…
Everything was great.
The Boat.
The provisioning.
CCY even organised for perfect weather – how good are these guys!!!
Thanks very much for all your assistance – we’ll see you again next year.
Our French guests Annik and Alain were visiting Australia for the first time. Their dream was for sunshine, sailing on beautiful seas, snorkeling, watching whales and dolphins, relaxing, and forgetting the 9 to 5.
My wife Susie is a Queenslander and she knew where to take us – a sail in the Whitsundays with Cumberland Charter Yachts. After all we had to prove to our French visitors that there is more to this planet than just France.
Sue from Cumberland Yachts made our booking and preparations easy with all our questions answered and excellent on-line guides.
At Abel Point Marina, Terry took us straight out to sea to demonstrate the Cat’s facilities - a very useful introduction to currents, anchorages and general navigation tips.
We decided to avoid Race Week and head for the more remote islands. Our weather forecasts brought us light northerlies, shifting to southerlies mid week. Our plan was to head south to Thomas Island, wait for the southerlies, and then head north through Whitehaven passage and around Hook Island.
What were the highlights?
The sounds of wind against sails, the BBQ sizzle of our daily catch, the chink of wine glasses, and most important - constant laughter.
Hump Back Whales and their new borns weren’t scared to swim by us. Watching breaching Whales was breath-taking. Whilst snorkeling at Border Island we were amazed to hear under water the melodic and beautiful sounds of whales calling – an experience I’ll never forget.
At Border Island a Dugong greeted us at Luncheon Bay. My guests concluded these to the most natural islands and beautiful dives they’ve ever seen. We swam with Hawksbill Turtles, Angelfish, Parrotfish, Mackerel, Butterfly fish, Surgeon fish, Gropers, sea urchins, corals clams and sponges.
We caught Spanish Mackerel and Giant Trevally – our canned food supply remained unopened.
We’ll be back sailing the Whitsundays – all we need is the next shipload of visitors asking us to show them the impossible.
The countdown had finaly reached zero, we kissed melbournes 10 degrees goodbye.
Airlie Beach had its best face forward and displayed a clear blue sky.
We knew what to expect as we have chartered 3 times before,
but every time we leave, were left longing for more.
Our selected vessel was Finnigan, it has heaps of room for five.
Very layed back as no sails, so no jive.
We snorkelled at blue pearl bay, only 2 meters from the shore,
a world of colorful coral and amazing fish galore.
We lunched at white haven with its magic white clean sand.
good food for all, with camera and champagne in hand.
We rested at Tongue bay and took the walk to the lookout,
the view from the top is breathtaking, find better I do doubt.
We collected fresh oysters as the tide was now low,
our bellys were full and it cost us no doe.
We saw whales in abundance, they dived and they played,
we watched them for hours they seemed happy and stayed.
We took refuge in Cid Harbour as the weather turned grey,
we fished whilst we waited for the sunrise of the new day.
We visited some resorts they are wonderful to see,
but its chartering a boat that truely makes you feel free.
We eyed our next vessel, its "charisma" all the way
we will see you all in 2011, I cant wait until that day.
Super duper. What a holiday. As a past charterers my husband and I have always holidayed with other adults in a group, but on our last trip we decided that the kids just have to see and experience what we have. We nearly bought them all, 6 out of 7.
Landing in Hamilton Island the weather was spectacular compared to where we came from. After our briefing and settling into "On the double" we headed off on our adventure. The boat was stocked with our provisioning order and ready to go. On the promises of seeing whales, dolphins and turtles, the children saw them all on the first day, they were estatic. Could it get any better, well I think getting up at 6.30 every morning to warm weather and a swim was fantastic. The days were filled with sailing, snorkelling, eating and exploring. We visited many Islands including Lindeman, Hook and Hamilton but one of the best stops was Manta Ray Bay where the children actually swam with Grumpy the blue wrasse. In Nara inlet we made the climb to the aboriginal artwork and in Butterfly Bay we collected oysters for happy hour.
We delivered the boat back to Airlie Beach and were really taken back by the beautiful town and enjoyed a night out as our final night. It was a pleasure to meet Sue and some of the crew before we headed back to Hamilton Island on the ferry. On approaching Hamilton Island we saw a spectacular display of coloured sails as the Hamilton Island Race was in full swing.
We arrived back in our home town freezing and wondered why we aren't still there, we will definitley be back, thank you Cumberland.
Wow, where to begin? Well first of all I'd like to thank all the staff for making our trip possible! When we landed on Hamilton Island we were all so excited and couldn't wait until we got to our boat: "On The Double". Whilst we were still in the marina we were already poking our heads under the pier and seeing fish. When we were about 15 minutes out we were already spotting whales! We saw lots of cool animals like dolphins, whales and turtles. My most enjoyable memory was probably swimming with "Grumpy" the Maori wrasse. He was so big and fun to be around. At some places we snorkelled over to the beach and collected some shells. I loved being on the boat because it was just like being on a floating caravan. It was really enjoyable being around the table on those warm nights with the whole family talking about what a great day we had and what we would like to do and explore the next day. At Nara inlet we went for a walk up to the caves and saw the old aboriginal paintings, it was quite interesting. I also really enjoyed swimming through big schools of fish and being surrounded by so many cool animals. I cant wait to go again and I am already thinking of what I'd like to do next time!
“It used to be the fashion, many years ago, to run away to sea. By all accounts it was quite easy. All you had to do was put all your belongings in a spotted handkerchief. Tie the handkerchief to the stick. Put the stick over your shoulder ... and off you went.” 1
As it turns out, booking a charter through Cumberland Charter Yachts was even easier than that!
Our holiday to the Whitsunday’s pretty much began as soon as we booked. Their website provided us with all the information and tools we needed for planning our holiday. Hours were spent exploring all of the possible anchorages, working out who was going to sleep where, designing our menu, checking the current weather and wind speeds in the area and just dreaming about being warm and relaxed.
When it came to our actual holiday we were not disappointed. We had the best, best time. Next time we will go for longer.
What did we love most about our trip to the Whitsundays? We loved feeling warm again. We loved being together as a family in such a beautiful place. We loved the simplicity of living on a boat, watching the weather and just slowing down. My husband loved it when we achieved 10 knots under sail. Our son had the best snorkeling experience he has ever had. Our daughter just loved playing with buckets of water on the back deck. I loved hanging out at Whitehaven beach and exploring the islands. And we all loved the fact that we did not have to deal with all the normal bug bears of our usual life. There was no hurrying the kids out the door, no car seats, no deadlines, shops, or TVs (we told the kids the one on the boat was a radar).
Our trip to the Whitsundays has left us all inspired and wanting more. Cumberland Charter Yachts and the service they provide was fantastic. I can not recommend them enough.
Thank you.
Steve, Bishi, Jamie, Sam (6yo), Hannah (2yo)
1 Barnaby Shrew Goes To Sea, 1978, by Steve Augarde
Jen - SURREY HILLS, VIC 06 Sep 2010 Mahe 36 Skedaddle Chartered: 02 Jul 2010
WHITSUNDAYS REPORT – JULY 2010 .....by Jen Curtis Crew Member “Skedaddle” Our sailing adventure began with the warm and friendly assistance of CCY, months before we entered the waters of the Whitsundays. Arrangements were finalised – it was all too easy – and in what seemed like no time at all, we were welcomed by the CCY staff and shown over what was to be our ‘seafaring accommodation’ for the next 7 days : our brand new Mahe 36 “Skedaddle”. we ‘four’ should never have shopped whilst so hungry! Abel Point Marina turned on a magical sunset which followed with the perfect morning to hoist the sails and enjoy our cruising life. “Skedaddle” was the ultimate in comfort and ‘she’ and her crew enjoyed the challenging winds and waves - even the confirmed ‘monohullers’ on board, yet to be convinced of a Cat’s performance, couldn’t fault the way ‘she’ carried full main and headsail in 25 knots of wind... and yes – more to the point - no heal to spill the drinks! With continued support from our ‘CCY land crew’ and ever faithful charts and channel markers, we were guided into beautiful anchorages such as Butterfly Bay, Cateran Bay, Whitehaven Beach and Tongue Bay. What is it they say? – “beautiful one day, perfect the next” which is where we found ourselves sitting with legs over the edge of “Skedaddle’s” hull, peering into the crystal clear waters of Manta Ray Bay, pondering our morning of snorkelling, when we decided this was an anchorage to which we must definitely return ...........even though two of us had already been here before... of course, one (or four or more) can never have too much of a great thing! With deep regret we leave with so much more to explore and to share with you but that will perhaps have to wait till we report on our next voyage to the idyllic isles of the Whitsunday Passage.
We minimal sailing experience we excitedly (and apprehensively) woke on the morning of our new adventure. The briefing was completed, Serendipity was loaded with belongings and lots of food and we were away. After dropping off our sail guide, Matt, at South Mole Island we made the crossing of Whitsunday Passage for the first time to Cid Harbor. What a place for our first night. A magical sunset and the moon rising behind us, we snuggled in the net and relaxed - finally, after so much planning, we were here.
Our first morning was going to be a big trip; we were off to Whitehaven Beach. Whilst our in-house Chef made crepes and strawberries for brunch we witnessed three whales playing in the sea. Extraordinary – on our first morning we were treated to whales!
The beauty of having a home on the sea is that you can set your own pace. We were so taken with Whitehaven Beach, that we anchored nearby at Tongue Bay and went back to Whitehaven the next morning. Tongue Bay also treated us to our first fishing catch, a baby Queenfish whom we affectionately named Tonguey and placed back in the water. Hopefully, when we return to Tongue Bay on our next Cumberland Charter, Tonguey would have grown a little bit bigger and will visit our boat again.
For the remainder of the week Serendipity treated us to some of the most wonderful experiences life could offer. More whales, turtles, beautiful reef fish, sailing, snorkeling, fishing, eating and most importantly, friends.
Many thanks to the crew at Cumberland Charter Yachts, your professionalism and guidance made our holiday and adventure relaxing and enjoyable, and more than we could have hoped for.
Before we went on our long awaited charter, i wanted to remind myself of the definition of our home for the next weeks name - Serendipity. The first meaning found, seemed quite apt - "the lucky tendency to find interesting or valuable things by chance... / an aptitude for making desirable discoveries by accident.". The second - "luck, good fortune..." was something we were hoping we were not going to need as first time bareboat charterers...
With our "bible" - 100 Magic Miles, and with the expert knowledge supplied by Matt, we left Able Point Marina with the confidence that "luck" (in regard to sailing) would not be needed. We were not wrong.
As for the desirable discoveries - the breathtaking sunsets at Cid Harbour, the spectacular site of whals breaching off Hamilton, the awe inspiring expanses of Whitehaven, the friendly visits from the turtles at Tongue Bay, the inquisitive batfish off Stonehaven (some may say "stalking" batfish), the seclusion and beauty of Hook Island. Not even the 3m swells through Whitsunday Passage could put us off returning (although i'm sure the swells were closer to 10m...!).
I guess the only good fortune we will require next time will be the ability to cook up some of our catch. Although we found many schools of fish, I believe we were finding the "pre-schoolers"?
So to Serendipity and CCY, Thank You and see you next time.
Kelvin - PULLMAN, WASHINGTON USA 06 Sep 2010 Seawind 1000 Indigo Chartered: 06 Aug 2010
Our five nights in the Whitsundays stand out as the best part of our three week excursion to Australia. The Cumberland staff was especially helpful during the planning stages of the trip and quickly responded to emails. There were four of us aboard Indigo-- all college friends. Since we're now in our 60's, we've had lots of years of friendship. It was our first bareboat charter. One of us is an excellent sailer and another an excellent navigator. The other two were more or less ballast! We went scuba diving, snorkeled and enjoyed Whitehaven and other superbly beautiful beaches. The book, 100 Magic Miles, was invaluable in giving us succinct details that enabled us to plan each day. Our favorite part of the excursion was the night skies. The stars were mesmerizing and overwhelming to behold. We thank the Cumberland Staff for helping to make our time in the Whitsundays so very memorable. We're already trying to figure out when we can return! Kelvin, Dave, Dutch & Cindy
With minimal sailing experience we excitedly (and apprehensively) woke on the morning of our new adventure. The briefing complete, Serendipity was loaded with our delicious provision. We dropped off our sail guide after an informative session around South Mole Island we made the crossing of Whitsunday Passage for the first time to Cid Harbor. What a place for our first night: a magical sunset on the bow and a full moon rising behind the hills of Whitsunday Island off the stern. We thought it appropriate to celebrate the beginning of our holiday with a few sunset Gin & Tonic's. Finally, after so much planning we were here.
Our first morning was going to be a big trip; we were off to Whitehaven Beach. Whilst our in-house Chef made crepes and strawberries for brunch we witnessed three whales playing in the sea. Extraordinary – on our first morning we were treated to whales!
The beauty of having a home on the sea is that you can set your own pace. We were so taken with Whitehaven Beach, that we anchored nearby at Tongue Bay and went back to Whitehaven the next morning. Tongue Bay also treated us to our first fishing catch, a baby Queenfish whom we affectionately named Tonguey and returned to the water. Hopefully, when we return to Tongue Bay on our next Cumberland Charter, Tonguey would have grown a little bit bigger and will visit our boat again.
For the remainder of the week , on Serendipity we experienced some of the most wonderful experiences life could offer. More turtles than you can poke a snorkel at, mother whales teaching their calves how to dive and breach, beautiful reef fish, sailing, snorkeling, fishing, eating and most importantly, great friends.
Many thanks to the crew at Cumberland Charter Yachts, your professionalism and guidance made our holiday and adventure relaxing and enjoyable and surprisingly easy.
Stephen - COLLAROY, NSW 06 Sep 2010 Fusion 40 Infusion Chartered: 21 Aug 2010
Dear Cumberland Crew,
Just thought we’d drop a note to you to say a huge thanks for our amazing holiday. We loved every moment that we spent on “Infusion” so thought we’d provide some hopefully entertaining feedback about our experience.
Cheers
Steve & Karen Garmston
Idyllic holiday
New skills – sailing, chart reading, checking tides, anchoring and mooring
Fantastic food and plenty of it
Under the stars lying on the trampolines enjoying a fine wine and great company
Snorkelling, swimming, sightseeing, sunsets, safety and support
Infinite array of beautiful, sheltered beaches and bays
Outstanding support from the Cumberland crew
Next year – same again!
Ten mates, five days, and one amazing catamaran..... the scene was set for the perfect winter escape. What started as a far-fetched daydream back in March, became the sailing adventure of a lifetime this August.
With supplies loaded and the bar fully stocked, we set sail on the turquoise waters that bring the Whitsunday’s their fame. A quick sail to South Molle island brings our skills up to speed, and from there we are going solo to tack and jibe our way into tropical bliss.
With the freedom to go where only mariners can, we took in the sights at Nara Inlet, Mays Bay and the picturesque South Molle Island. Like kids in a candy store, we soaked up resort life with a round of golf and explored deserted coves in our handy tender.
Immersed in the beauty of this unspoiled wilderness, we hit the jackpot as we sailed towards the famous Whitehaven Beach. Against a back drop of pristine coastline, a Humpback whale was spotted frolicking and breaching with her new-born calf.
Whitehaven beach proved why it was voted best beach in the world, with a never-ending stretch of pure white sand that lent itself to hours spent sunbaking and bathing in crystal clear waters..definately a place we would have been happy to anchor for the week!
Heading north we cruised passed curious turtles and dolphins to the remote Cataran, Butterfly and Blue Pearl Bays. Below the surface, coral reefs straddled their beaches, alive with schools of tropical fish and a colourful array of corals and plantlife. Snorkelling was the activity of choice, with plenty of time to test our culinary skills on the BBQ and relax on the boat’s massive trampolines.
With wining and dining a plenty, and i-tunes playlists to set the mood for our boating adventures, watching the world go by from our luxury vessel was the perfect escape from the wintery south. With a beer in one hand, and a snag in the other, we all were left thinking one common thought, “Is it too early to plan for next year?”
Dave and Anne - ORANGE, NSW AUSTRALIA 06 Sep 2010 Leopard 40 Crackerjack Chartered: 10 Jul 2010
Crackerjack provided the opportunity for eight of us to relive our 1998 maiden voyage with Sunset Lady, the original 'This Is Living' experience.
Following a thorough briefing we had the Whitsundays for a week of great weather, boating, beach and water activities, laughter and an assortment of cool drinks.
Once again we had a great time together in a way completely different to our everyday lives with a variety of bays, beaches, open water and experiences each day, followed of course by the 'apres anchor' evening entertainment.
Our favourites this trip, in a difficult choice, were probably Whitehaven, Chalkies and Cid Harbour with the sunset from Sawmill Beach. Whitehaven Beach from Hill Inlet lookout is quite a sight, particularly at low tide.
It's just the best way to have a great time with your friends.
Thanks to ccy for making it all possible.
We saw and heard whales, when we entered the water a whole new world awaited with the most amazing colored fish and coral. The isolated beaches, sunsets and the many walks were just a joy. We sat on deck watching the stars and enjoyed the gentle rocking with a glass of wine.
One of our crew had never been sailing before. 'Little One' was ideal for her first of many sailing lessons and she is now eager to do it all again.
To everyone, Sail the Whitsundays and experience 'wonder'.
Thank you all for your help and advice throughout our journey.
Andrew - PORT MELBOURNE, VIC 05 Sep 2010 Hanse 430 Lady Fay Chartered: 25 Jun 2010
Dear Cumberland Charter Yachts
We’ve just returned from our our fifth sailing holiday in the Whitsundays and I want to congratulate you on the excellent service you provided. This is the second trip we’ve done with CCY and we’ll definitely be choosing you guys for the next one. Little things, like the daily countdown (yes, I looked at it every day!) and the fact that we could go straight from the plane at Hamilton Island to the yacht made a real difference.
We booked Lady Faye this year, a magnificent Hanse 430 in immaculate condition. She had the performance and speed to keep the enthusiast happy (Dad) and the comfortable fitout meant the rest of the family were in love with her.
For eleven days we got to dream that she was all ours. Every day was an adventure full of swimming, snorkeling, sailing and siestas. No electronic games for the kids and not once did I hear “I’m bored, there’s nothing to do”
We had a visit from a Pilot whale and a minke whale. The pilot swam under the yacht and the minke launched itself right out of the water. What a thrill, and great memories for the kids. We enjoyed perfect weather and got to visit all our favorite spots: Border Island, Whitehaven, Maureens, Luncheon and Manta Ray Bays, Stonehaven and Narra Inlet.
With a 14 year old daughter, two twelve year old boys and a five year old, it’s not easy finding a family holiday that keeps everyone happy. What’s more, mum and dad came home feeling rested and refreshed instead of welcoming the escape back to work. In short, our only regret was having to come home, and the whole family wants to know when we can go again.
Thanks to all the staff at CCY for providing a great service. It was the perfect family holiday and we look forward to the next sailing adventure.
Mark - POINT LONSDALE, VIC 05 Sep 2010 Beneteau 43 Olivetta Chartered: 28 Aug 2010
We had one week to complete our mission: Explore the Whitsundays Bareboat Charter.
A good de-briefing on day one sent us on our way across the Whitsundays Passage, with some excitement and trepidation for what lay ahead; our journey was soon to be an exciting adventure!
As the waves washed against the hull, the pressures of normal life also washed from our minds as we began our mission.
We explored inlets and sheltered in coves – early to bed and early to rise with some exhilarating sailing. In between all this was great food, sundowners and conversation – what could really top it off would be to see some wildlife!
We were not to be disappointed:
A Marlin fish jumping through the water;
A turtle, that after three breaths, we still couldn’t catch on the camera as he circled the boat in the evening;
A pod of dolphins, passing the boat on a morning sail;
Sea eagles flying high and circling their nest on land at Cid Harbour;
Snorkelling with the many delightful coloured coral and fish;
After many claimed sightings of whales in the distance, we were delighted on our last day when, screaming in to Airlie Beach on a swift reach at 8.2 knots, we slowed down to be blessed by the sight of a whale and her calf – words cannot describe, nor a camera reflect that special moment.
Keith - SORRENTO, VIC 05 Sep 2010 Fusion 40 Infusion Chartered: 08 Aug 2010
Sailing Cumberland Yacht Charters’ boat ‘Infusion” was, in a word, magnificent. In just a week we experienced the best of the Whitsundays, visiting Nara Inlet, Stonehaven Bay, Blue Pearl Bay, Butterfly Bay, Cid Harbour, Tongue Bay, Macona Bay and of course spending the day swimming and lazing on the beach of Whitehaven.
The first three days under sail with fair winds and seas were ideal, even if “Infusion” was built for comfort and not for speed. The last three days the seas were flat and hardly a breath of wind, so motoring was the go. The night between these was somewhat dark and stormy, highlighted by a medical emergency on board. A radio call for help was answered and “Fearless’ came to our rescue and took the patient off to Hayman for medical assistance. After a short hospitalisation he recovered and continued on.
Swimming, snorkeling or just sitting on board “Infusion” looking at the magnificent views across the bays and inlets, the pure white sandy beaches, the blue sky, the brilliant sapphire water and glorious sunsets and even the cockatoo that dropped in for breakfast made it very hard to return to home and work.
Firstly, a big thanks to the team at Cumberland Charter Yachts, because without you guys, we wouldn’t have had such an unforgettable trip on the ‘On The Double.’
At first touchdown in Hamilton Island, we all instantly fell in love with the area. The beaches, the weather, the surroundings; everything was amazing! We cruised during Audi Yacht Race Week so it was great to see Hamilton Island hustling and bustling.
We sailed around Lindeman Island, Whitsunday Island, Hook Island and many more!
My favourite place was Manta Ray Bay, where we swam with Grumpy, the Maori Wrasse. It’s amazing the experiences we had, like swimming with amazing coloured fish and a gorgeous, bright green sea turtle!
Many of the warm nights were spent around the table, all chatting about what adventures we had had during the day and what fun we were having.
Now that we’re home in Hamilton, Victoria, the weather is freezing. We were all missing the beautiful beaches and warm water as soon as we got into the plane leaving Hamilton Island. It’s a shame we couldn’t have just stayed there forever, believe me, we talked about it! Can’t wait to come again next year!
Clive - MUNDARING, WA AUSTRALIA 04 Sep 2010 Beneteau 43 Olivetta Chartered: 17 Aug 2010
Wow! What a wonderful holiday we had sailing around the Whitsunday Islands. I can honestly say that my family, three generations, aged from four to seventy years of age, came back to land with the joy of our wonderful experiences.
The coral within swimming distance of our yacht was of the type you see in picture books or nature films. Fish of all sizes and colours glided through the pinks and purples of amazing coral structures. Then there were the whales, literally frolicking in front of the yacht, their fins in the air as though they were waving to us and on another day dolphins playing in our wake.
In the evening we sat on the back of the boat, with the barbque cooking dinner and spotted the turtles rising in the clear water of Cid’s Harbour and it was there we went ashore and walked to Dugong Bay and although it was fleeting, we were pretty sure we saw the nostrils of a Dugong.
It didn’t matter whichever inlet or harbour we dropped our anchor, as we ate dinner amongst the twinkling lights of the other boats, the talk was of ‘wasn’t that amazing,’ ‘weren’t we fortunate to see,’ and ‘what a great holiday this is’.
This fabulous holiday was made possible, from beginning to end, by the efficient staff of Cumberland Charter Yachts. They booked and provided us with the yacht ‘Olivetta’ in pristine condition and gave a proficient introduction to the boat and its working.
The friendly voice of Cumberland Charter Yachts came over the radio promptly at 8.30am each morning, giving the weather forecast and from the previous day’s report Cumberland Charter Yachts knew our whereabouts and our plans for the day were given to them. This service and knowing they were a call away if we needed advice, allowed us the feeling of security and safety, which is so essential on a sailing holiday and for us added greatly to the pleasure.
My advice is, go sail the Whitsunday Islands with Cumberland Charter Yachts.
On Saturday 7th August, an eclectic crew from Sydney descended upon Airlie Beach arriving at Cumberland Yachts excited and ready to take over the islands! We’d booked our trip back in January after years of hearing about all the wonderful things the Whitsundays had to offer, and finally we started our journey in style with champagne in our glasses and laughter in our hearts. With our course set for Macona Inlet, we arrived on dusk and marveled at the beauty. The colours that appear at twilight in the Whitsundays are amazing to say the very least! The sound of wildlife erupted and another bottle of champagne was opened.
The sun was warm and the gentle rocking of the boat pushed all thoughts of city life far into the distance. Fishing, island hopping, sun bathing, kayaking and reading soon became a normal part of daily routine and we could feel the The Whitsundays seeping through our bodies.
Even on the one day when the sun was hiding, The Whitsundays still managed to spoil us when we were greeted by a soft “swooshing” noise which announced the arrival of a majestic hump back whale breeching ahead of us to wave lazily, leaving our crew staring in wonder and awe. Time after time the whale surface to show-off an oversized fin or large powerful tail. And not a day passed when we didn’t have turtles for visitors.
The boat itself was beautiful, still new, fully equipped, and no luxury spared. Having the full standing height bathroom up front was a blessing. We found we could all 8 sit comfortably up in the flybridge for happy hour every afternoon, and we were still finding new storage spaces at the end of our trip!
After 7 days afloat we left Charisma with sun kissed faces and bronzed bodies. It will forever be a trip to remember and we would like to thank Cumberland Yachts for turning on the weather and doing an amazing job in a town that is all about tourism. Cumberland are a standout and we thoroughly recommend them. We’re already talking about our next charter!
Wow is a word that was used so often on the voyage of a lifetime.
We made it to Hamilton Island and our first night started well.
In the morning we relaxed to leave by 11am with the ladies taking a walk coming back overwhelmed by the thousands of butterfly in the trees.
As we left we waved to the crew on Maxi Race Yacht Wild Oats before heading south only to give way to a humpback whale showing off. Light afternoon sail.
Day 2 We anchor off Lindeman Island “turtles and dolphins”. 3 walked up to the top of the island where WOW was again used. 360deg prefect views. The boat moved to the other side of the island and the adventurers rendezvoused with them.
South Whitehaven for the night. Great afternoon on the beach. Champagne at the end of day.
Day 3 dropping anchor in Tongue bay trying not to hit a turtle was a challenge. We walked to the lookout over Hill Inlet and Whitehaven beach. Awesome very and it has to one of god’s special places. Words do not give Whitehaven justice.
Day 4 Great sail north with about 20kts. Snorkeling with the fish made the girls scream with 100’s and 100’s swimming around right up to their masks (Luncheon and Manta Ray Bay) then in came the big fish. A giant wrasse blue in colour with lips like Mike Jagger about 40kg and 1m long.
Day 5 Cid Harbor. We climbed the highest peak in the Whitsundays to enjoy a perfect view without a cloud in the sky. “WOW” again.
More sailing and whales then we anchored of South Molle Island. Nachos on the roof with sunset.
Day 6 We were greeted by the colorful birds called Rosellas they were so tame that you could hand feed them while they where in your hair. We sailed to Blue Pearl bay (Hayman Island) for more snorkeling with magnificent coral and fish life and a final sunset.
We have sailed on some of the most beautiful places in the world. Whitsunday is up there with the best.. With natural offerings it can not be beaten. Less than 7 days would be an injustice.
Sanchia - NOSS, PLYMOUTH U K 03 Sep 2010 Beneteau 323 Lazyitis Chartered: 14 Aug 2010
As a sailing family, with children aged 6 and 8, from the South West of England we were a long way from home and a little nervous before our first chartering experience, especially as my Australian cousin was also joining us... However Tony our Sail Guide reassured us with a comprehensive 3 hr briefing and before we knew it he was off and we were heading for our 1st anchorage. We all fell hook, line & sinker for Lazyitis - our well presented & equipped sailing vessel!
The Whitsundays were our adventure playground for the next week and we were in awe. It was also a real life aquarium- by day 2 we had watched (and heard!) a hump backed whale breach and play as well as seeing many turtles (often heard gasping for breath like old men). Later in the week we added manta ray, dolphins and the Maori Wrasse to our list. In fact we got picky about snorkelling and would only go to 'gold ringed' spots as directed by our 8 yr old son! We would thoroughly recommend hiring a coral board for younger children - our 6 yr old daughter was not confident enough at snorkelling but loved spotting fish and coral whilst being propelled about by a snorkelling adult.
It was a delight to find deserted beaches, and even an anchorage to ourselves one night - Esk Island was our favourite spot with its beautiful coral & shell beach promontory. The work of the Marine National Park in preserving the Whitsundays - a piece of paradise - with conservation areas, mooring buoys and so on is impressive.
The ease of chartering - thank you CCY! - and beauty of the Whitsundays made this week the highlight of our 6 weeks travelling in Australia & New Zealand. My memories of this area as a backpacker 14 yrs ago had served me well ... it was even better this time.
PS We never found the butter in our provisioning and the genoa was a little on the small side but such trivial matters pale into insignificance as I relive our week through the many photos...
I have owned my own boats for years and have enjoyed every minute of the sea on many adventurous fishing trips. However, I have a family of 5 and had yet to share the experience with them. I knew I would need to invest a fortune into a vessel to accommodate my family as the ages range from 5 months old to 15 years.
To my amazement, I found a web page with bare boat charters in the Whitsundays!
After visiting the office of Cumberland Charter Yachts and finding out all the info, I was hooked! I booked the boat for the following day and set off on our adventure. We visited so many beautiful spots and seen so many wonderful things, words would not do the trip justice. Although we spent 7 nights aboard the beautiful Cumberland Fling, I would say that it was about 40 to 50 years short!
Both my family and I will be back for another fantastic holiday with Cumberland Charter Yachts again, I highly recommend you do this at least once in your life time.
Cumberland, Cumberland this is Psycho Puss, Psycho Puss, reporting in for
our sailing adventure of a lifetime.
We can’t believe that the sea can provide us so much fun and pleasure.
We’re from the river down in South Australia 250km for any sea. My husband Stu has always had a dream that he would like to sail the Whitsunday’s. He had told his brother in-law some twenty years ago that he would love to sail. Well…together we have now achieved that dream. They charted ‘Destiny’ a Seawind 1160 and we had ‘Psycho Puss’ a lightwave 38. Together we sailed around the Whitsunday islands for seven nights. It was the best thing we have ever done, and it definitely won’t be the last.
The experiences were enormous. Stu got to sail, a dream come true and enjoyed ever moment of it, while the boys hoist the sails Stu navigated the lightwave into the wind and then attacking and jiving we made our way along the coast. It was exciting, peaceful and enjoyable. Terry our sail guide, taught the boys (3 of them) how to sail, they also snorkelled, crabbed, swam with turtles and played soccer on the beaches. Me, I got to snorkel, this may not seem unusual to some, but I have never put my head under water (never in the sea before) well I did it! Yeah, it’s the best thing seeing the beautiful, brilliant colours of the tiny fish. I tell everone how wonderful it is. I felt nervus and excited at the same time, a crazy feeling.
The boat was well appointed it had every thing we needed. The boys got around in the little tender ‘Mad Kitty’.
The Islands had the most beautiful scenery, big white beaches to walk and play on. At Butterfly Bay we saw the most magnificent butterflies with brilliant colours. This was the best snorkelling area for the week. Whitehaven, it is just a gorgeous place to anchor.
We would like to thank the helpful and lovely staff at CCY for letting us achieve this dream. Lets hope that we see you all again.
Tiffany - ALBANY, WA 03 Sep 2010 Salina 48 Serengeti Chartered: 08 Aug 2010
Because of our previous experience with Cumberland Charter Yachts they were our first and only choice for choosing a boat, but which boat. After plenty of research we chose a boat and booked it. Then we promptly upgraded to another boat. This went on for a while until we finally settled on a Salina catamaran, the mighty Serengeti. Was this the right choice? As we were to find out, too right it was.
We like to be well organised so many fun get togethers were had sorting out food, drinks etc. We all had to do 2 meals each, a lunch and a dinner. Hope the kitchen would be big enough. It was! Plenty of frothies were ordered; hope there was enough fridge space. There was!
Nara is a beautiful place to moor. Very calm and peaceful. That afternoon John and Steph from Cumberland motor over and take some video of the Serengeti and us at play. Yes you can see it on You Tube.
In the morning the bay is a mill pond but we are off to snorkel at Blue Pearl Bay at Hayman Island. It is the best coral reef we come across. Deano and I found if you swam down deep and stay still you could hear the whales out at sea singing. Amazing!
Goodbye Serengeti maybe we will meet again one day.
After a thorough 3 hour briefing, we motored across the Whitsunday Passage. At Nara Inlet we walked to the aboriginal sites and visited Hook Island resort seeing the effects of the cyclone on the Island helipad. The snorkelling at the jetty on Hook Island was great with lots of fish hanging out there.
With a strong wind warning in place we headed to Cid Harbour for some pleasant walks and some sensible shelter with other charterers.
“Sure need to know more about anchoring” couldn’t have been a truer statement. Must have dropped and raised the anchor 4 times and we were still drifting! “What did Tony say again?” Pretty soon some helpful sailors yelled out to put the whole lot (length of chain) out. “OK let’s try that, drop 40m.”
20 minutes later back inside Finnigan, ”Oh that’s right, Tony said: ‘ scope it out and times it by 4, and add 10 metres for wind’”- definitely need to allow for wind! By day 3, we’d sure learnt more about anchoring!
The morning sked (radio schedule) gave us the all clear to tackle the 1.5m swell coming in on the starboard bow south of Whitsunday Island. From our journal: “Alex was laughing, Ryan was hanging on, and I certainly had a wide stance and held on as we rocked and rolled.”
Once through the Solway Passage all was good. Sunshine and smooth water waited for us at Whitehaven beach. Our excitement grew as we sighted Mackerel, turtles, reef sharks, and even whales. Snorkelling was our new passion in the clear waters of Chalkies beach, and also at Cateran bay. It was so spectacular and so special to be seeing this wondrous place as a family.
We experienced more delights when we called in at Manta Ray bay-it was so magical to view all of the aquatic wonders below the surface. Good things should take a bit of effort and it was a reward for the rough weather of the first couple of days.
We spent our last night at Shoalhaven anchorage relaxing and reflecting on our voyage, and planning when we would return.
Joanne and Shane
So..where do you start to write about a trip like this - where the worst that happened was finding one last beer at the back of the fridge that we didn’t know about - without sounding....smitten!!
But smitten we were. From sunrise dives into a mill pond sea to exhilarating match race sailing, a close look at whales, turtles and amazing sea life to amazing gourmet meals (sorry fishes), knocking back a beer in the sun on deck to being silenced by the beauty of the full moon.
We had a lot of laughs too, saw the Whitsundays in a way no other type of holiday could offer and learned lots about sailing and boating. With two sailing cats and a crew of 12 there was lots to arrange. Our trip was like clockwork from our itineraries and provisioning to our day to day activities – we lacked nothing!
Best of all, after a week at sea, we still like each other and will be back for more.
What a fabulous holiday we have just had. Six couples on two cats for a week of sailing, swimming & enjoying the Whitsundays.
We were lucky enough to coincide with Hamilton Island Race Week, so we saw lots of colour and excitement around the islands. But no-one could have had a better time than us.
Cumberland arranged for our boats to be fully provisioned with top-notch quality food and drinks. We were under way within 15 min of arriving at Hamilton marina. It was all organised so well
The weather was very kind to us so we swam, snorkelled and lazed on deserted beaches whereever we liked. Seaforth Island was one of our favourites, along with Chance Bay and of course the magnificent Whitehaven beach. What a gem!!
The coral and tropical fish only got better as we headed north to Luncheon Bay and Blue Pearl Bay.
A real highlight was to see whales every day. They were mangificient and seeminly not at all concerned when they surfaced near our boats.
Our friendly competitions between our two boats included a sailing race from Border Island, providing cocktail parties on each other's boats every night and a synchronized snorkelling exhibition by our very own 'snorkel-ettes"
We have been home for just over a week now and all I can think about is the beautiful Serengeti and the Whitsunday’s.
My husband and I along with 5 other great friends revisited (8th to 16th August) the Whitsunday’s (our last visit was 8 years ago)
Last time we had “Just Rosey” and this time our home for 8 days was “Serengeti” – and what a home she was!
We couldn’t believe our eyes when we saw her come into Hamilton Island – Serengeti you little beauty.
Graham was excellent in his role as teacher to the men; both serious yet light hearted and we all felt quite prepared by the time we dropped Graham back at the jetty to catch the ferry home.
We had ample room both outside and inside the boat – the sundeck and the trampoline were well used by the ladies as we motored around the islands.
The outdoor area was perfect for our needs and the esky – what can I say!
The upstairs galley was a great source of enjoyment for those whose turn it was to prepare one of the many gourmet meals we ate.
The bedrooms were roomy and there was plenty of cupboard space for Dean to put his ironed jocks.
The beauty of the Whitsunday’s is still as breath taking as I remember it – the colour of the water is postcard material and really has to be seen to be believed.
The coral and the fish were a constant amazement at how beautiful life is under the sea (not to mention the show the whales put on)
We have shown our hundreds of photos to many of our friends since we have been home and they are all green with envy – the You Tube has been a constant source of laughter and happy memories for me and anyone willing to watch it again with me.
Thank you Cumberland; for giving us the opportunity to have such a memorable holiday again
Regards,
Fiona Mountford
Anne Marie - GREENWAY, ACT 31 Aug 2010 Dehler 34 Treasure Chartered: 04 Aug 2010
To sail away to a place where there;
There are more whales than cars
There are more butterflies than people
And the water is bluer than blue
The decisions are as hard as;
To fish or watch the fish
To walk or swim
To resort or cocoon
To sail or motor
Where;
The boss is the wind
The rules are the tides
And you have the ever helpful and reassuring
Cumberland team as your partner.
Your view is ever changing;
From islands and beaches
To a fascinating array of other boats:
Some fast and sleek
Some old and crawling with backpackers
in the rigging.
The only neighbours you can’t choose are the turtles
The only visitors are the parrots or butterflies,
Or the occasional sundowner.
Ah the Whitsundays with Cumberland…
When can we come again?
Cumberland Charters, Cumberland Charters, Cumberland Charters, this is Cumberland Fling, Cumberland Fling, Cumberland Fling, calling in our report on the awesome holiday onboard a beautiful power boat, with all our needs taken care of. Arrived at the quay to take over our home on the sea and knew immediately, that the dream we had had for so many years was about to come true.
Powered out of Hamilton Island heading to Nari Beach for our first night. So many things to think about with so little time to do it all. Weather was overcast with low cloud on the mountains which made for a lovely first evening.
We visited Hook Island, Dumbell Island, Cateran Bay, then there was Maureens Cove, what a beautiful place, evening sitting on the deck of our luxurious boat enjoying top quality food and drink and enjoying the company of our brother and sister-in-law.
Even now with the holiday over we only need to close our eyes to see all the magnificant places we saw aboard our Cumberland Fling. Butterfly Cove, Manta Ray Bay - where we found Nemo, Tongue Cove, Peters Bay, Heslewood Island and of course beautiful Whitehaven Beach.
A glorious night on board Cumberland Fling in Tongue Cove, perfect weather, the sounds of the other boats and people enjoying the evening could be heard, laying in our cabin listening to the water lapping around the hull, shear magic.
Snorkelling, diving, whale sights, butterflies - Fling took us to all these places in such a short time.
Last evening spent at Whitehaven juggling the drinks to make sure there was enough for our last celebration - toasting a wonderful holiday and planning our next trip.
Start our journey back to Hamilton Island where we returned the boat and then off to the airport to fly back to Perth via Sydney.
We take with us memories that will last a lifetime.
What a great choice we made contacting Cumberland Charter Yachts.
This was our 4th Whitsunday Charter. 5 Adults and 5 kids all aboard on Serrengetti for 7 nights. As usual the weather was on its best behaviour allowing for some stunning days at Blue Pearl Bay, Maureens Cove, Luncheon Bay, Manta Ray Bay & Funnel Bay. The next destination was Whitehaven Beach to impress our international guests. Whitehaven turned on an absolute cracker of a day that was post card picture perfect. On the way we were entertained by whales including a mother and calf that drifted within 20 metres of the boat for about 25 minutes as the mother fed the calf. Next stop Hill Inlet for a bit of a walk on land and a look at the view from the lookout. Once we departed here Nara Inlet & Hamilton Island kept us comfortable as the winds increased.
Serengetti provided us the most comfortable of homes for the week. 5 children under the age of 8 was no problem with loads of space and room to relax. Looking forward to the next trip!
Raymond - MANY PEAKS, WA 30 Aug 2010 Salina 48 Serengeti Chartered: 08 Aug 2010
Sunday - Graham from Cumberland Charter Yachts familiarises us with the boat – does a great job giving us the drill.
A short motor sail from Hamo & we anchor in Cid Harbour. Tiffany has prepared our food plan including the shopping list for the eight nights. This document was a work of art and I think could be a best seller on the Whitsunday charter circuit.
Monday we wake & go for a swim & pass several boats including Michael Doohan’s boat “My Way” - obviously a bit of money in motor bike racing.
Next stop Nara Inlet. This is a beautiful and mystical spot fully protected from the weather, lined by cliffs with hoop pines and a walk which includes Aboriginal paintings.
Tuesday we head out of Nara and pass dolphins and then further out spot whales. We are head up past Stonehaven, into Blue Pearl Bay for a snorkel and lunch before sailing to Butterfly Bay.
Wednesday back to Airlie Beach. It’s nice to get into port, calm weather, proper shower and walk around on dry land for a bit.
Thursday breakfast and a walk around the streets at Airlie Beach then sail to Long Island. 3 hours sailing. Once there we explore the island and have a fun night with live entertainment.
Friday sail around to Whitehaven beach. Serengeti up to 8 or 9 knots. Now at Whitehaven we swim & walk the pristine beach. Onto Tongue Bay tonight.
Saturday we walk over the hill to Betty’s Beach and then up to the lookouts – this is without doubt a fantastic spot. We sail onto Manta Ray Bay & do a snorkel. Some low cliffs here provide for some rock diving.
Sunday the weather is good. We head to Blue Pearl Bay for a morning snorkel. Could hear whales communicating whilst diving under water. Then off towards Mocona Inlet our mooring for the last night. A stop at a small bay around from the entrance to Mocona for lunch & then into Mocona Inlet for the night.
Monday sail back into Hamilton Island. A fantastic trip on a great boat and great friends.
We love bareboat sailing but this year planning our Whitsunday holiday was a bit challenging with a 3 year old and a new baby in tow. We needed crew, but our crewman was only available in July.
A mid-winter holiday was our only option and after much studying of the Hamilton historical weather we packed warm clothes and wetsuits as a max air temperature of 21C and water of 19C seemed a bit chilly. How wrong we were.
Charter day dawned a gloriously warm day, almost too hot for lugging all our baby paraphernalia onto La Belle Vie (chosen for her water capacity, enclosed cockpit and ample hardware for harnessing the 3 year old to) and we were quickly underway heading for majestic Nara.
A minimum of two beaches a day and plenty of dingy trips kept the ships boy happy whilst boat sailing speeds often of around 8 knots kept the skipper happy, our crewman on his toes and rocked the baby to sleep.
From Nara we headed north slipping into the bays on the top end of Hood Island for snorkelling, wetsuits languishing in the locker as the water really wasn't that cold, and overnighting at Butterfly Bay before heading down Hook Passage into Macona.
Macona will be forever etched in the ships boy's memory, he caught his first fish, eating it with great gusto. We had a blistering sail over to Cateran Bay on Border Island and then to Whitehaven beach for a couple of days of sandcastles, oysters and exploring Hill Inlet.
Whitehaven is astounding one of the world's best beaches and yet after 3 pm when the daytrippers had left we had it, in all its unspoilt glory, to ourselves.
For our last couple of days the winds picked up, the hull sang as we surfed down big waves and headed back inside for a quiet anchorage at Stonehaven and a hike up Whitsunday Peak to admire the views and work off some of the delicious rations we enjoyed.
La Belle Vie certainly lived up to her name, and next time we go chartering in July we'll leave the beanies and wetsuits behind!
Blueberry Hill Crusin'... to be sung to the tune of Gilligan's Island
She was past her prime but still a worthy boat
Six intrepid sailors keen to be afloat
We headed cross the passage
In waves both large and small
Across to quiet Cid Harbour
Brave sailors one and all!
Food was of the essence
So fishing lines were cast
Each bite met with anticipation
A fish was caught at last!
Next morn saw wind and rain
An ugly looking day
The sea was far from friendly
In Cid we chose to stay!
Tuesday dawn was fine and fair
A move we all were cravin’
The anchor was hauled up
We motored to Whitehaven.
The above song, composed on one of the fun filled nights on Blueberry Hill illustrates the relaxation and good times that a charter with the wonderful Cumberland company brings to all who sail or cruise with her.
Our fifth charter with Cumberland in July lived up to all expectations. Even though we always intend travelling to different bays and beaches, the lure of Cid, Whitehaven and Macona and well loved familiar overnight moorings pull us under their spell each time. Each trip gets better and better and the experience on each vessel is different. Blueberry Hill was no exception.. …lots of jokes about finding our thrills on Blueberry Hill!
The Cumberland experience is enhanced by the tremendous people that work there. Nothing is a bother and there is always a joke to be shared from the original briefing with Grahame, through the daily scheds to the debrief and refuel at the end of the trip when all our crew are extremely reluctant to vacate the vessel!
Best of all .. lots of laughs, total and absolute relaxation in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Going to sleep at night with the gentle rocking of the boat and the slap of waves on the hull is unsurpassed.
Words cannot describe the experience… for the best holiday of your life… charter with Cumberland!!!!!!
Hi one and all at Cumberland!
We had a fantastic time again in the Whitsunday Islands, this time on Serengeti. We loved the space with which we could move around and the bed size in captains quarters were great, with much more room than I remembered having last time.
We had one rough night and had a lot of water come in the little window over the bed, we hadn't shut it properly, so the grand suite became a waterfall!! Other than that no dramas!
We covered some of the same sites as well as exploring new. I don't think fat Albert wanted to come out to play the day we were in Manta Ray Bay, as there was a million other tourist trying to see him as well. Loved the snorkelling, though, we thought Butterfly Bay was the best.
Don't let on to the day trippers, as it will get ruined, save it for us when we come back again. That's a little bit selfish of me, but I hated seeing the damaged coral!
Anyway, I can't wait to do it all again in the future. I will have to give myself a little time for my liver to recover from over indulgence first!
C come escape from your old life for just a short while
U unburden your mind and recharge your smile
M meander the beaches, stop and have fun
B bask in warm waters then dry off in the sun
E explore and enjoy the peaceful surround
R rest and relax, swim with fish that abound
L leave worries behind it's so easy to do
A and the moon and the stars will glow just for you
N no holiday will compare to a Whitsundays stay
D do yourself a favour, go, go and play
C calm and serene the days will drift by
H home be the oean azure blue be the sky
A all care will be taken by staff who can guide
R recommending safe anchorage at eventide
T turtles cruise by to watch as you float
E everyone sleeps to the gentle sway of the boat
R rich are the memories as you head into port
S sad to be leaving but wait, go again, there's a thought
Dean - ALBANY, WA 30 Aug 2010 Salina 48 Serengeti Chartered: 08 Aug 2010
After spending a few hours with Graham from Cumberland Charter Yachts familiarising us with the boat – we are off. Got to say Graham did a great job giving us the drill.
After a short motor sail from Hamo we anchor for our first night in Cid Harbour at the base of Whitsunday peak. After some drinks and nibbles Horace cranks up the first nights meal. We have 8 nights onboard and it was decided that we would each do a dinner and a lunch, leaving one day in Airlie Beach where we would eat at local spots. As part of the planning we all had to provide Tiffany with our menu for lunch and dinners and then she prepared our food plan including the shopping list for the eight nights. This document was a work of art and I think could be a best seller on the Whitsunday charter circuit. Ray had been stressed all day about his meal – it was sensational and set the high jump bar for the rest of the week for the level of culinary experiences. Very special checking out the lights from neighbouring yachts and talking about life and the universe before retiring to bed after our first day back in the Whitsundays.
The rest of the holiday was more of the same.... Fun, sun, magnificient days in great places...
Go for it!! Don't think that you can't do it and put it off another year. Take us for example - we were a crew of ten from Inverell, the Sunshine Coast and the Blue Mountains with only one sailor on board (a dodgy one at that!!) and we ripped it!! If you thoroughly read the Cumberland guides, use the 100 Magic Miles book, take a sail guide on day one (thanx Graham, you were super), have a bit of fitness, take it easy and check your daily plans with the Cumberland radio crew, then you'll be right and will have a ball. Some people just chill and motor around, but you can have a bit more fun and the chance of a good argument if you get the rig up and go sailing!!
On a seven day July cruise we parked our superb catamaran Stardust at twelve to die for anchorages (six overnighters) and seven islands. We were on our lonesome at a couple of spots, but never felt crowded elsewhere and enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow cruisers. Our itinerary was:- South Molle (just us); Nara Inlet (the Koorie cave paintings and stories were a highlight); three days around the north end of Hook Island, via Hayman (unreal snorkelling); Border Island (v. nice spot and great snorkelling); Esk Island (we had the place to ourselves - highly recommended day spot); Whitehaven Beach (WOW!! - do the lookout walk on Tongue Point via Betty's Beach - easy and exo); and Hamilton Island, from where we flew home.
Some other highlights were:- dolphins at Dolphin Point; butterflies at Butterfly Bay; a ginormous Maori Wrasse at Manta Ray Bay; swimming with a friendly turtle; catching and eating fish; lovely and interesting weather; warm, clear water; unreal snorkelling; a tour operated scuba dive at Maureen's Cove; BBQ's at sunset; and loads of up close bird and marine life. The best of the best snorkelling was on the east side of Alcyonaria Point, Butterfly Bay - go there and be stunned. Our photo diary tells more of the story. We will be baaaack!!
There was movement at Arlie Beach for the word had passed around
The mob of six from Dubbo were soon to depart solid ground.
Aboard Cumberland’s Kicknback we were ready to hoist the sails
Off we set with our Skipper Grahame; we were clinging to the rails.
Our first day was a little rocky for we hit YES Twenty five knots!
But the mob from the bush didn’t worry; we admit we did not know a lot!
Arriving safely at South Molle we farewelled our trusty skipper Grahame
But just quietly we were a little nervous our trip may turn to mayhem.
We woke at sunrise relieved to find we had not drifted out to sea
Then off to Nara Inlet was our next destination we all did agree.
The smooth water was pleasant after crossing the ocean’s waves
Then off we trekked up the cliff to explore some stunning caves.
Now it was here that fisherman Dad made our one and only catch
A crab he flung on board straight down mum’s cabin hatch!
By morn we were ready to explore the beautiful Butterfly bay,
The kids and mum splayed out on the deck, lapping up the sunny day.
Never had this family out west lived so close with one another
Captain dad’s occasional SHUTUP then peace restored by our mother!
Day 4 took the Samuels to the home of Fat Albert the great fish
Through the coral we swam to hug the maori wrasse was our wish.
When we thought the bright coral and fish were such a sight to see
The dugongs and turtles at Tongue Bay brought a huge WHOOPEE
The views of Whitehaven were just as the post cards resembled
Keen to touch this famous sand into the tender we quickly assembled.
The luxury of Hamilton Island was beckoning us to its lights
And with a berth secured we jumped ashore to sample its delights.
Refreshed we sailed confidently past the pioneer rocks
Into Abel Point as Kicknback was home nestled back in the docks.
After our final debrief the only question that did linger
Was ‘Is whoever named Fluffy Muffy and Psycho Puss still getting the finger?’
BLUEBERRY HILL SONG (Sing to the tune of Gilligans Island theme song)
Just sit right back
And you'll hear a tale
A tale of an excellent trip,
That started from a tropic port,
Aboard this 40 ft ship.
The mate claimed to be a sailin' man,
The Skipper was not so sure,
Six passengers set sail that day,
For an 8 day tour,
An 8 day tour.
So here is the tale of our dynamic crew,
They're having an absolute ball.
They'll have to catch a fish or two,
Lets hope their big not small
Whale spotting took a while
We had a wine or two
The shout went up – there’s whales ahead
As we sailed past Lindeman Isle
The boys complain of our NAGigational skills.
BUT we’re still a float!
A gauge moves freely, it spins & spills,
It’s the compass, appears to be broke!
There’s mutiny, on the Blueberry Hill,
The crew drank all the rum,
Pirates stole the captain’s hairdryer,
Now there on the run.
Now there on the run.
Our Cat set aground off the shore
Of the Whitsunday & Hook isles
With Snorkeling
& turtles too,
Breaching whales & their calves,
This trip has really got it all
We don’t do things by halves.
No phone, no kids, no motor car,
But all the luxuries
This holiday really is
As exquisite as can be.
So holiday like us my friends,
You're sure to tie some knots
From Whitsunday’s tropical waters and
Cumberland Charter Yachts
And Cumberland Charter Yachts!
Sona - ROCKDALE, NSW 26 Aug 2010 Seawind 1000 Indigo Chartered: 07 May 2010
We spent the week where the sun keeps shining
on the best spot in the world.
Got "good mornings" from cocktatoos in Nara Inlet,
visited Nemo in Butterfly Bay,
caught goldfish and didn't have anything more to wish,
swam with dolphins near Whitehaven Beach,
tried not to disturb turtles in love at Tongue Bay.
Week full of snorkeling in azure water, fishing, kiting, sun baking in soft white sand…
while everything that we needed was on board.
We didn't even know that sailing can be so easy, that we can enjoy adventure and amazing nature surrounded by luxury and comfort at the same time.
Sending many thanks to Cumberland Crew for an awesome holiday!
Kelvin - SUBIACO, WA AUSTRALIA 24 Aug 2010 Beneteau 323 Lazyitis Chartered: 08 Jul 2010
The welcoming and hassle free approach of the Cumberland staff in the morning was more than appreciated. We were exhausted from 24 hours of travel and noisy night from State of Origin and World Cup football final revelry in Airlie Beach. The beautiful presentation of “Lazyitis” for our ten day sail just made it even better.
There were only three of us, my two teenage sons aged 15 and 16, and I. Although competitive Laser /dingy sailors, the boys had no cruising yacht experience. I had sailed some 15 year before. I could have taught them but kids rarely listen fully to their parents. So I had arranged a skipper, Graham, for the first day. He soon had the boys trained to be an obedient and competent crew with enough knowledge to check my calculations and be back-up skippers in an emergency.
We had no plans but it was not long before our love of sailing had the objective being, to sail to all the distant points of the charter area. This saw us visit some lonely remote islands which we had to ourselves all day, experience both smooth calm weather and weather that many non-sailors may say was not so pleasant.
Along the way we saw lots of turtles, coral and more coral, dolphins, manta rays, white sand, fantastic sunsets, colourful fish, one monstrous and friendly Wrasse, crabs, and many varieties of butterflies and birds. We also misjudged a tide that had us carrying (not dragging) the tender over some 20 metres of exposed coral between us and the water’s edge, experience some rolling nights when our choice of anchorage was not the best for the tide and wind. But these were few and added to the memorable ten days. Of course, in my sons’ seafaring stories Dad is always to blame for these misjudgements!
When we returned on the 11th day it was very hard not to go straight to the Cumberland office and immediately book a yacht for same time next year, without even consulting the females of the household. Who could not enjoy this lovely area and activity?
Sharon - GEELONG, VIC 23 Aug 2010 Dehler 34 Treasure Chartered: 14 Aug 2010
‘Let’s sit right back and you’ll hear a tale...
Cheeky friends were singing the theme song from ‘Gilligans Island’ before we left. We were inexperienced and did feel foolish!
We needed a good, easy, satisfying holiday so trawled the net for what was available in the Whitsundays (we heard that a sailing trip here was unequalled). Several of my cousins had sailed with Cumberland Yacht Charters and continued to come back. They said they were the best. Who knew!?
Cumberland seemed to offer the best prices. Tempting! We booked. Got to the Whitsundays. Arrived at the Cumberland offices and from there were put on a lovely picturesque conveyor belt. Briefing to boat, boat to ropes, ropes to water, water to the islands. I was surprised. Surprised by how well equipped and maintained the boat was, by the lovely staff, by the weather, water, and how close the islands. The whole holiday turned out to be one tasty surprise. For us, it was a strangely concentrated experience, a like a fantasy wonderland of water, a crazy variety of coral and tropical fish, so many huge whales (one within 30 metres of our boat), dolphins, turtles, gorgeous inlets, cracker sunsets, superbly tranquil seas (on some exquisite days), beaches, great landlubber walks, eagles, owls......even the resorts turned out to be a sparkly side trip.
My suggestions: head for the snorkel spots at the top of Hook Island and Cateran Bay on sunny days. Don’t go around The Pinnacles in wind against tide conditions (we were warned). Do go to Hook Island Resort for a laugh. Do dinghy down Gulnare Island. Don’t go on a low tide and get stuck. Do go through Solway Pass with your motor on, no matter how much the overconfident landlubber says to hoist the sails in the middle of the maneoveur. Go.
The team anticipated every pocket of possible pleasure and steered us in that direction. It did make for a seamless holiday and could easily have ended with a man overboard. Thank you
Richard - BURNETT HEADS, QLD 23 Aug 2010 Beneteau 37 Little One Chartered: 27 Jul 2010
We came across some islands fair
We called up Cumberlands to get Us there
The boat was waiting, The briefing fine
We shopped, we stowed and dropped the lines
The sails went up, we were on the move
She took to wind and sat in the groove
A distant bay grew within reach
We dropped the anchor and made for the beach
Up Whitsundays peak, wow what a view
So many sights and things to do
A week of sunshine and Friends to share
So Thankyou Cumberlands for all your care!
We could not have asked for a better way to celebrate our collective 50th birthdays than on a luxurious yacht in an idyllic setting with good friends. The yacht was aptly named Carpe Diem and sieze the day we did !
Thanks to the wonderful people at Cumberland Charter Yachts our dreams were realised with fabulous food loaded aboard for us and support throughout the trip offering tips for daytime activities and sheltered places to stay the night.
Tracking down lost luggage for us was no problem for them and a trip back to Airlie to collect the bags meant fresh sheets which was a welcome bonus!!
Enjoying the breathtaking sunsets, relaxing with a cold drink in our hands was a partcularly memorable part of the trip and waking up each day to a swim before embarking on another day in paradise.
Snorkelling in Manta Bay with a friendly wrasse and swimming with the turtles in Sth Dugong were highlights and who wouldn't be in heaven on a pristine day at Whitehaven Beach.
Despite much travelling throughout our lives this was undoubtedly the best trip any of us can remember. We will definitely be back for more and would highly recommended Cumberland Charter Yachts and this fabulous experience to anyone .
When my husband first suggested a bare boat charter in the Whitsundays, I must admit I was hesitant. I had done a fair amount of day sailing in southern California, but had never done a bareboat charter myself before (my husband had many times). There were so many things I didn’t know-how to read a chart, how to pick up a mooring etc.
I am SO glad I let him talk me into this adventure! The Whitsundays are beautiful-we saw turtles, whales, lots of fish while snorkeling, beautiful corals, had wonderful day hikes in the bush and arranged a trip to the Outer Great Barrier Reef. We did some remote anchorages and also moored at beautiful resorts. And I actually learned some new things along the way. Have I mentioned that it was all beautiful?
The folks at Cumberland Charter Yachts are great and everything was just as it should be-professional and friendly. And when we ran into snags (like losing our boat hook-our fault), there were “no worries” and they arranged to get another to us. I would highly recommend Cumberland to anyone!
Thanks so much for a great vacation (holiday). I hope to see you all again soon!
I had a dream of sailing in the Whitsundays. Ever since hearing about these islands it struck a chord and I felt that sailing there was something I really had to do: not very easy from distant and landlocked Zimbabwe in Africa. Over the years what seemed a dream became more tangible. Two visits to Australia in 2000 and 2006 gave opportunities to envisage how it could materialize. Finally in 2010, the chance of another holiday in Australia and a base in Airlie Beach became available! The only thing that needed to fall into place was a ‘last minute’ place on a boat.
All was well however and our Whitsunday sailing was going to be on Lazyitis, a Beneteau 323 from Cumberland Charter Yachts. Once the boat availability was confirmed we finalized our route based on the expected weather conditions. During our five day cruise places which had been no more than names or photos on calendars - Nara Inlet, Cayman Bay, Tongue Bay, Hill Inlet, Whitehaven Beach, Solway Passage, Cid Harbour and Daydream Island - were experienced personally.
A daily routine emerged - raising anchor, having breakfast while making way with the motor, sailing as the winds freshened, picking up moorings, snorkeling, swimming, excursions on the tender, walking on beaches and exploring trails, setting anchor and relaxing watching another marvelous sunset. Sightings of a whale, dugong and turtles all added to the magic.
The Beneteau is a great boat. It sails well, is very comfortable and extremely well equipped. For our 2 families and the 6 of us, this was a 5 day luxury cruise – the 2 ladies were delighted with the galley and cooking facilities, not to mention the ‘head’ and hot water showers.
It was a wonderful experience and one to savour and reminisce on in the years ahead and truly a dream come true thanks to Cumberland and their excellent service.
'CUMBERLAND MAGIC'
My story, short and sweet.
'The Whitsundays' - no place on earth can beat!
Aqua blue waters, a delight for your eyes,
I swear it's the truth, I tell you no lies,
Cruising around by motor or sail,
There is so much more I could detail,
With lobsters, crabs and fish galore,
What else could you be wishing for?
Drinks to relax and cardgames at night
This is the perfect holiday, alright,
Sad, all things must come to an end
This really is 'heaven on earth' my friend!
Thanks CCY for yet another great experience sailing Stardust. What a great way to recharge the batteries (so to speak). Even though it was busy on the water we never felt over crowded.
Our experience at sailing is improving each time we visit. We hope to have another opportunity in the not to distant future, to once again enjoy the beauty and fun of the Whitsundays. I can't not mention how professional and safe the whole experience is when dealing with CCY. Thanks to all the staff for making our trip another great one.
The Walker's.
I tried for days to put our experiences cruising the magnificent Whitsunday’s in writing. However, I could not find strong enough words that fully expressed the thrill of this adventure, which was unlike any other we had undertaken as a family.
It wasn’t just that we were had taken control of a fabulous vessel, or the way we were so well looked after throughout this adventure by the Cumberland crew. Nor was it the shear beauty of the islands, or the way in which, as a family, we re-bonded.
But after several attempts to write a touching and complete account of this fantastic voyage, only to be disappointed by the outcome each time, my wife penned out this poem:
WHERE DO I BEGIN TO TELL
The tale of an adventure at sea?
Filled with anticipation, what joys and wonders will there be?
Days together bonding, walking through rainforest trails.
Sailing the ocean, photographing whales!
Casting a line, what fish will we catch?
Checking “the book”, to look for a match.
On deck the pleasure of barbequing your catch of the day!
Deciding… tomorrow on which island will we stay?
Like a veil falling over your face
You’ll soon forget about the rat race!
Experiencing a sense of calm and bliss
Not unlike, a lovers first kiss.
Each day spent under the Whitsunday sun.
Casting down its golden rays, until the day is done.
A new mooring – a new island to explore.
Pulling up in your dinghy – to a pristine white shore.
Each sunset from the boat, what can I say?
It truly does take your breath away.
As the boat gently rocks you off to sleep.
You wonder beneath you, what secrets the sea does keep?
Nights spent under the stars, looking up at the moon.
But alas, it was over, and far, far, too soon.
The weather wasn't great for us on our first day on the water, but there were no complaints as we cruised through the beautiful Whitsunday Islands. The Blueberry Hill was well equipped for all weather conditions, with plenty of space to take shelter for the brief period where we copped some heavier rain. Once that passed, we put on the spray jackets which were supplied and got into some fishing. The fishing was incredible! Heaps of fish were caught across a wide variety of species. Although there were a few clouds around, the snorkelling was also good and the water temperature was perfect. The weather improved over the next couple of days and the true colours of the Whitsundays were on display. The scenery is breathtaking. We picked up moorings to do some snorkelling and go ashore during the day. The regular contact with Cumberland base was reassuring and the staff there gave excellent advice on where to go each day according to the weather conditions. The maps and information on board Blueberry Hill made navigating the area very easy. Highlights for us were Chalkies Beach, Whitehaven Beach and Butterfly Bay. We had Chalkies beach to ourselves for most of the time, with a few tourist groups coming ashore to go snorkelling. Whitehaven was fairly busy, but with plenty of room for everyone, it was definitely worth going ashore and walking up to the lookout. We used the provisioning option Cumberland offer and were glad we did so. All the food and drinks were ready for us on board and we were able to start our holiday as soon as we arrived.
By the end of our trip, we had become used to living the good life, and none of us wanted to leave.....can't wait until we can do it again!
For anyone considering this kind of holiday, I highly recommend it.
Gerard - ALBANY, WA 14 Aug 2010 Salina 48 Serengeti Chartered: 08 Aug 2010
Cumberland - Cumberland - Cumberland . . . . This is Serengeti - Serengeti - Serengeti.
Our overnight anchorage (until we next charter) is Albany, Western Australia and we envisage being moored here for another few years before once again, visiting the Whitsundays, and Cumberland Charter Yachts in particular.
Our charter is over yet we are all still wishing we were there.
Our second holiday with Cumberland proved as much fun as the first and even better at times. Serengeti provided a wonderful atmosphere and the sheer size compared to Perrywinkle, a Perry 43 from 2002, was well suited to our crew of 7. We loved the upstairs galley as being on the kitchen roster, meant you were still included in the goings-on of the rest of the boat - and there were plenty of goings-on not to be missed. Check us out on youtube.
Our skipper found the vessel easy to manouvre even though she is one big boat. We all found the cabins spacious with plenty of storage and room to move - although the size of our skipper meant he had to ablute with the door open and his legs actually in the bedroom. This was ok as long as we all stayed well away from their ensuite cabin at the time.
We loved the extra linen provided this trip and were happily able to change our bedding and towels as and when we felt we needed to.
Heres hoping we can return to bareboat chartering with you sooner rather than later.
This is Serengeti . . . . Serengeti . . . . Serengeti . . . . Over and Out.
We have just returned from a most memorable holiday onboard the beautiful vessel “Cumberland Fling”. The Whitsundays has been a holiday destination on our list for many years, the only thing not planned was how we were going to explore this beautiful part of the world. The bareboat option was given to us by friends that had just returned from their adventure, Cumberland Charters came highly recommended.
The adventure started as soon as we booked, planning began, what islands should we visit? What do we take? The book 100 Magic Miles became our best friend; many hours were spent studying the information that was soon to become our bible.
We started our cruise from Hamilton Island marina; spending our first night in the beautiful Cid Harbour .Our adventures gave us the opportunity to explore many of the stunning bays and coast line of Whitsunday Island, Hook Island, Border Island, Dumbell and Haselwood Island.
Every day we plunged into the beautiful waters with mask, snorkel and fins, the marine life was amazing. The corals in Butterfly Bay in particular were breath taking. We were lucky enough to see a lot of migrating whales along the way, some a little more interested in us than we were with them!
We found the Ngaro Cultural site at Nara Inlet really interesting, as well as giving us the opportunity to stretch our legs.
Our final evening was spent anchored on the pristine Whitehaven Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
After spending five wonderful nights on the waters of The Whitsundays, we can sincerely say it was THE most restful, fun holiday that we have ever had the opportunity to take.
From our initial enquiry via email, to our final debriefing, Cumberland Charters have provided a service second to none. The provisions that were supplied were of the highest quality.
We look forward to planning our next adventure with the wonderful staff at Cumberland Charters.
Many thanks
Rhett & Sue Simons
Rockingham, Western Australia
It was almost a trip back in time. 3 old school mates 35 years on. Feeling 18, but just seeing old guys looking back at us from the mirrors. This trip brought back some of the magic times we used to have all those years ago. Cruising, fishing, diving, snorkelling, a few drinks, music, BBQs, laughter. Add to that, good weather, lots to do, or nothing to do and a warm, soft comfortable bed each night.
Just good old fashioned fun.
And so easy. No hard work, just the skipper, Gilligan and the professor having the time of our lives. Who says old guys can't party?
Never thought that such an experience could be so economical. 100% safe, with full support. Worse part was cruising back to Airlie beach to hand back the good old Cumberland Princess. She served us well.
Next year? For sure!
Yet another outstanding Cumberland Yacht Charter holiday! This time we chose Cumberland Princess, and true to her name, we lived like royalty for the week.
Day 1. With 4 couples on board, 3 of which are all repeat CCY "fans", we headed off from Airlie for Cid Harbour, choosing the protection of Whitsunday Is. from the SE winds, which proved perfect. A spot of fishing, off the side of the boat, proved fruitful for the boys and our fresh catch tasted magnificent cooked straight from water to the back deck BBQ.
Day 2 saw us head up & around the top of Hayman and nestle in the beautiful surrounds of Butterfly Bay. The snorkelling was superb and the reef & fish life spectacular.
Day 3 was an absolute highlight with the sighting of a mother whale & her calf NE of Whitsunday Is. on route to Whitehaven Beach. We weren't quite in reach of her spray, but her display had us in awe of these magical creatures of the deep.
Day 4 was also spent at Whitehaven, with an early morning walk along a desolate beach, watching a stunning sunrise. The serenity and spectacular backdrop a vast & welcomed change from City life! Also, feeding a beautiful school of Batfish our left over tomatoes off the back deck BBQ rated another amazing experience.
Day 5 saw a visit to Chalkies Beach for the MOST amazing snorkelling encountered to date. We thought we did pretty well in managing to anchor securely after only 2 shots given the steep reef decent. The snorkelling however was worth every bit of the anxiety of managing to anchor!! Needless to say, we opted for the more secure confines of Nara Inlet for our overnight stay.
Day 6 tended more a "land-loving" day. With a morning walk to the Aboriginal caves of Nara Inlet, followed by the amazing views of the walk from Sawmill Beach to Dugong Inlet. Truly invigorating!
Day 7 had us back at Hamilton Is. to experience “habitation” once again...and the end of our truly magical Island break. Thank you CCY and we’ll see you again!
A plaque at Blue Pearl bears a William Shedd quote “A ship is safe in harbor, but that's not what ships are for”. The forecast for our charter was the same every day: strong SSE wind warning, isolated showers, swell and seas to 3m. We could have stayed in safe harbour, but inspired by this, we took “Serendipity” as far and wide as she could in these conditions.
The nature and appeal of area is the good protection found from every wind direction, and we enjoyed calm nights in the eastern anchorages on Hook and Whitsunday Islands. The best time to sail was in the morning when the winds were lighter. Heading northwards with the wind and sea behind us we surfed along; southwards had us ploughing into the waves with spray flying.
Of the beautiful bays for snorkelling, Stonehaven, Butterfly and Blue Pearl were best. The water was clear and among the bright coral we saw an amazing array of fish, squid, rays and turtles. On leaving Butterfly Bay, we were entertained by mother whale and calf 50 metres off the entrance.
When not swimming we enjoyed fossicking on the beaches. Our walking party was brought to a halt by a 2 metre python making its way across the walk trail from Sawmill Beach to Jones Point –wisely, we waited patiently until it lazily moved off into the morning chill. We appreciated the warm comfort of sleeping on board rather than camping on the island!
Serendipity earned its name revealing delights in water and on land at each island we visited – Hook, Hayman, Whitsunday, South Molle, Double Cone and finally tranquil Woodwark Bay. We handed the yacht back on the last day in perfect sunshine on an almost windless day. Our charter in the Whitsundays three year earlier has been frustrated with too little wind. This holiday was in contrast blustery – as we stepped ashore on wobbly sea legs we pondered that this shouldn’t have been a great holiday. And yet it was. And immediately started planning the next charter.
Andrew - STRATHFIELDSAY, VIC 24 Jul 2010 Salina 48 Serengeti Chartered: 27 Jun 2010
Our adventure with Cumberland started the Friday before we left with another company canceling our boat. We contacted Sue and she was fantastic in securing Serengeti for us. We met Graeme at Hamilton Island and were blown away with the size and presentation of Serengeti. With Graeme's tuition and guidance by the time we arrived back at Airlie beach, we felt comfortable in handling this magnificent vessel for the next 10 days. Highlights of our trip included Stonehaven where we enjoyed the thrill of snorkeling fort the first time, Nara Inlet, Whitehaven Beach, Cid Harbour, Lindeman Island reef and Tongue bay.
Fishing was fantastic and the recommendation to travel to Shaw island, in particular, was great as we had the the ocean all to ourselves and enjoyed some tranquil walks.
The service was first class from Day 1 to our final day and the twice daily radio contact most informative. We have recommended Cumberland Charter Yachts to all our friends and would sail with them again!
12th july-16th july 2010
On board the Cumberland Fling we had the best time ever, we went to Cid Harbour where you are surrounded by Turtles everyday and the anchorage is great, the fishing is good fun there, snorkeling was also good here.
We visiterd Nara Inlet where we went for a short walk to see the Aboriginal paintings which was beautifull also. Whitehaven Beach is a slice of Heaven really must see to believe.
Stonehaven Anchorage was great for snorkeling and the sea just bubbles with fish of an evening. Sunset here was amazing. Over the 4 days we never took our bathers off, great weather.
The Staff at Cumberland where all fantastic and taught us everything to needed to know to have a wonderfull holiday.
To anyone thinking of doing a Bareboat Charter DO IT!
Dont hesitate you will have the freedom to see what you want and there's so much to see..
Next time we go (which we are already planning) we plan on going for a lot longer.
Thanks Cumberland for the best Holiday ever.
WOW! What a fantastic holiday we had on Little One, our beautiful Benetau 37' yacht and home for 7 nights.
Having just recovered from major surgery this was just the break & tonic we needed for Dina & I to put all of that behind us. The Cumberland Team were fantastic and arranging everything remote from New zealand was sooo easy - thanks guys!
The weather was great, the water warm, the breeze fresh for fun sailing and the anchorages calm at night.
For Dina, being her first experience sailing in a monohull it couldn't have been better and we will definitely be returning for a longer stay and will be bringing friends with us who all want to share the experience we had, so next time it will be a bigger boat!
Thanks again Cumberland Team - we cant wait to return. Oh, and your website is so easy to use and it made our choice of charterer so simple!
We certainly "found our thrills" during our charter on Blue Berry Hill, from the heart stopping to the hilarious we managed to pack in enough fun and experiences to make the trip a must repeat adventure. Hilarious nights of self generated fun in isolated bays, or high energy sessions at Day Dream and Hamilton island were perfect ends to great days traversing the different islands and passages.
The boat was great. It might be a bit older than the rest, but it was huge and had everything you could want, especially air-con. Despite our novice sailing experience we found that we could navigate all anchorages and harbours with ease.
Highlights:
Snorkling with two massive manta rays at Turtle Bay (Heart stopping then awesome)
Laughing hysterically as we sent our farmer mate off in the tender with a full esky and glow sticks to try his luck with the backpackers on the dive tour boat (what happens on tour stays on tour)
Realising that we were anchored over the biggest fish frenzy any of us had ever seen, and the subsequent fishing bonanza on a simple hand line with improvised bait.
We were greeted with 30+ knot winds and a strong wind warning so decided to enjoy the restaurants in Airlie for the night. Great way to unwind with some fresh seafood then enjoy the 10 minute walk back. The next day had Tony come by to brief us on the 'Psycho Puss' and bring me up to speed after not doing much sailing in the past 5 years and the new wife having never done it at all.
Still strong winds but managed to get us to South Molle Island under his guidance. Very cool coach and gave us both the added confidence before he departed, leaving just the two of us to enjoy the islands... the honeymoon had begun!!
Waking up in the anchorage off South Molle, the bride still sleeping, I enjoyed the book and can hear the birds ashore all mixing it up before most people wake up and it starts warming up. Feeling inspired I threw the odd piece of bread up to try and get some seagulls attention when they see it and before I know it there are a dozen seagulls getting stuck in. Then, out come the fish.. heaps of them and massive fish. Pretty cool.. and then looking back at the mast, there are a dozen lorikeets perched along the boom. Almost as soon as I see them they fly straight to me, onto my head, on my arms hopping down to my hand for a peck at another piece of bread.
I love this place and its still not lunch on day one! But alas, limited text leaves it there but hopefully the photos show a bit of how much we enjoyed it.
Hi CCY,
This was our 3rd trip sailing the Whitsundays and definitely the best yet.
Thanks to Grahams tip to check out Manta Ray bay we swam with the big wrass.
The weather was fantastic - nice SE winds for sailing and to keep us cool.
Fishing was good at Shaw island.
I kitesurfed at northen end of Whitehaven however the it would have been better if there wasn't so many stingrays in the shallows.
Me and Brad (age 9) walked to the top of Whitsunday Is and the view was worth it.
See you again soon.
Your team was great to work with.
Bill
Hi CCY crew,
Thanks for yet another (our 5th charter) great time. As always the boat went well, the service was great and we all had a fantastic time. 9 days aboard Latitude Lady.
We started out from Abel Pt. to our traditional first night anchorage - Stonehaven to watch the sunset over mainland Australia. The next few days were spent diving, snorkeling and relaxing amoungst the many beautiful northern anchorages. We had a swim with "Wally" at Manta Ray Bay, great diving at Luncheon Bay and Blue Pearl.
Then we toured the central and southern anchorages (Marcona, Nara, Hamo, Happy Bay,Cid Harbour) We had to change some of our plans due to weather conditions (northerlies) but this just gave us the opportunity to explore some new places (turtle bay, chance bay etc..).
No trip would be complete without a visit to Whitehaven and Hill Inlet/Bettys Beach... simply stunning !
Whilst is is always hard to hand back the boat keys at the end of the voyage, it does mean that its time to plan our next trip, which I am pleased to report is almost finalised and we can't wait.
Jason - ELTHAM, VIC 18 Nov 2009 Fusion 40 Infusion Chartered: 07 Nov 2009
Hi CCY people,
20 years ago I had a dream of sailing the Whitsundays, enjoying what the experience and area had to offer. This dream was put on the back burner as life tends to lead you in other directions. Last year I happened to work with a collegue who had chartered boats on previous occassions. Almost daily he would show me the wonders of the Whitsundays via the CCY website.
This was it, this was my chance to once again reunite my passion to hire a cat and sail into my own nirvana. Emails to friends to round up a crew and dinners previous to work out the logistics and all was in readiness.
We hired the Infusion on Sat 7th Nov for 8 nights. Whilst the weather wasn't quite what we had expected no ones enthusiasm was curbed. 4 days in and the weather was perfect. Life was good.
I can't quite put into words how I personally enjoyed this holiday but let's just say that the day I got back home I was on the website looking at next years Whitsunday sailing adventure.
Thanks Deano and CCY for helping me realize my dream and make the process easy and effortless.
Firstly, thanks to the Cumberland staff for all their support from booking, to prepping the vessel, to briefing, and taking care of us while we were out in the Islands. Everything worked great! The coaching from Sue, Graeme and the staff was appreciated, and helped us enjoy every single day we spent out in the Islands. Setting out, Geoff's thorough review of all the handling procedures, local area items, and safety brief got us on our way feeling confident sailing across to our first night at Nara Inlet. I also know that there is a tremendous amount of work that goes on behind the scenes to prep the vessels, and keep everything running smoothly in the office, and we appreciate that as well.
Our favorite spots on the trip were Chalkies and Blue Pearl Bay. We also really enjoyed Esk, Stonehaven, and hiking to Betty's beach near Tongue Bay. We were able to get sails up almost every day, and had lots of fun cruising around, enjoying the sights, sounds, and atmosphere. The kids had a great time riding around in the dinghy, and couldn't get enough of jumping off the boat for a swim. The reef life was just spectacular, and the water in the Northern anchorages was gin-clear! The best thing was we could snorkel, swim and dive to our hearts content without being rushed back to a resort cattle boat as we would have been on a tour. Planning passages was a piece of cake with helpful advice from the team at Cumberland over the radio scheds every day. Even though we were on the smallest cat, we found we had plenty of room to stretch out and relax. The Seawind was easy to maneuver, and a breeze to sail (no pun intended).
I enjoyed everything about our picture-perfect sailing holiday. I cannot recommend it highly enough. We spent some extra time in Airlie on our return admiring the rest of the fleet so we can plan our return booking.
Daryl - APPLECROSS, WA 02 Nov 2009 Dehler 34 Treasure Chartered: 20 Oct 2009
Just finished our time on Treasure. I have chartered at Whitsundays twice before and can only recommend your crew in the highest.
I have done so in fact since I returned and hopefully some bookings will come your way. Treasure was a delight beautifully maintained. Every morning we sat and listened to the scheds and while we had a sound and true boat we heard again and again charterers having precious time taken out of their holiday with problems with their boat.
Thanks so much for a great holiday and a delightful boat. I am looking into purchasing and charter so please keep me in mind and email me if anything comes up
Thanks Cumberland for giving us such a great time in the Whitsundays. The boat was presented well and we enjoyed being briefed by Graybags - he is very laid back and knows the Whitsundays very well.
Highlight of the trip was landing that GT, lowlight was having to leave :-(
Zeev - TEL AVIV, ISRAEL 01 Nov 2009 Seawind 1160 Scarlett Chartered: 07 Aug 2009
We had a magical week in August 2009, sailing the Whitsundays with Cumberland.
One of the main highlights happened while sailing in the open water north of Hook Island. We've been watching Humpback whales swim by when this whale has jumped completely out of the water. What a sight! You can her our screams of joy in the video.
We had an unexpected pleasant surprise diving at Dumbell Island. It was one of our best dives, and it does not even show as a dive/snorkel site in the 1000 magic miles book.
We can't believe we left it so long to come back and do it again. Twelve years ago we did our first charter with Cumberland and this year came back with some friends to show them what a great time bareboating in the Whitsundays can be. Once again we had 7 days of fantastic weather, great vessels and wonderful memories. The whole Cumberland crew are friendly and helpful and operate a very professional operation. We wouldn't charter with anyone else.
Gavin - FRENCHS FOREST, NSW 16 Oct 2009 Hanse 430 Lady Fay Chartered: 20 Sep 2010
Dear everyone at Cumberland,
What a fantastic time we had! Fabulous scenery, sublime beaches and coral, wonderful sailing (even in one day of 35kt gusts which made things entertaining).
Everyone we met from the moment we landed at Proserpine to the day we left were fantastic, welcoming, helpful and fun. In particular the Cumberland Crew who made the whole experience a breeze and were so helpful to a bunch of first time charterers.
I could waffle on endlessly about the turtles, dolphins, rainbow irridescent sea life, starry night skies that you feel you can just reach out and touch etc etc but words cannot do justice to the experience. You have to be there.
Testament to the good time we had is the fact that we're coming back next year and this time we have booked TWO boats for 10 days. Our friends are so jealous of the stories we've told that they've decided to tag along as well.
We had such a fantastic time with the Calypso cruising around all the islands... Enjoy it so much, will definitely be back one day to vist these places! Thanks CCY for the unforgettable memories. From all of us! The Calypso CREW.
We had a ton of fun on our charter of Calypso. The Whitsundays are truly sensational and have to be seen to be believed. Best way to see the Whitsundays is on your own charter boat. We will definitely be back next year and hope this time to have a catamaran. It was a great first time for us and we cant wait to get there again. Cumberland Charter were incredible. Their service is second to none and Tina in the office helped us out so much before we went on our adventure. The guys who helped teach us to use the boat and get it back into the marina safely were exceptional also. Would recommend to anyone who wants a troublefree, relaxing and enjoyable holiday.
Thanks, thanks and thanks for a great holiday. Four friends from the UK came sailing with us and they were blown away. We snorkelled with turtles, had a exilarating sail every day and the moorings were very accessable.
Our family had the fortune of sailing Psycho Puss (and tender - "Mad Kitty") for 7 days during August 2009. Psycho Puss is a wonderfully comfortable boat and beautiful to sail/motor. We saw whales and lots of turtles which our French exchange student found absolutely amazing. CCY were great to deal with - as usual, as this was our third charter from them. A great bonding holiday for any family.
No words can describe our holiday, but I will try. Despite sailing into a headwind most of the time, we accomplished our plan to circumnavigate the Whitsundays from as far south as Lindeman Island and north as Hayman Island.
Within hours of sailing out from Abel Point Marina we were thrilled to see a pod of humpback whales heading south. From there the holiday just got better! Over the 8 days we chartered we caught glimpses of a reef shark, whales, a (huge) manta ray, heaps of turtles and too many fish to count. Including a friendly Bat fish that was hanging out under the Lavezzi while anchored at Blue Pearl Bay. Not to mention the bird life, the sea eagles catching fish metres off the stern was great to see. We constantly found ourselves on deck looking at the stunning scenery, not saying a word to each other for hours at a time.
Its so hard to pick a highlight from the trip because all the Whitsunday Islands are so picturesque, but the fact that we all decided to spend 2 and a half days at Whitehaven Beach might be some indication of our favourite location. In saying this I wish that we had spent more time snorkelling up at Blue Pearl Bay and around the north of Hayman island, 1 day just wasn't enough!!
I must also give a mention to Esk Island just east of Hill inlet. If you are lucky like us and get the only available mooring after 2pm you get the entire island to yourself for the night. The beach here consists of dead coral that washes ashore with the tides. Thanks to the entire area around Esk Island being a marine conservation zone, the island is surrounded by reefs easily visible from the surface at low tide. We took over 100 photos from Esk Island alone, every one perfect. Then again its hard to not take a good photo in the Whitsundays.
Thanks to all the Cumberland crew for a great holiday that is going to be hard to beat.... but don't worry, I will be back next year to try and top it you can count on it!!!
We are so glad we went with Cumberland Charter Yachts. Great info site and helpful staff. We decided on a motorised boat for starters but will definitely be back for a yacht next time. 6 of us in the beginning and the boat was roomy enough to party. Saw the best in the first 5 days, went to Marcona Inlet, where we snorkelled and fished. (Looking like the Incredibles in our lycra suits). Onto Butterfly Bay, snorkelled again, very different in each area, and saw my first real Cone Shelland bright blue stag horn coral! Then to Luncheon, Manta Ray Bay, for the most magnificent corals and fish, better than NEMO! Witnessed George the HUGE Maori Wrass. No food so he gave us the tail!
Afternoon drinks on the back deck, raving about our snorkelling, when from the depths come the huge Bat Fish, amazing! We all hung over the boat like kids feeding them. Off to Whitehaven beach, truly as glorious as the postcards. Apostle Bay for champers in the arvo watching the beautiful sunsets, then retire to the front deck rugged up with a good shiraz and watch the stars come out, even shooting ones! Friends walked the gang plank at Hamilton Island, and we had 5 nights to ourselves.
Round to Cid Harbour, for the most colourful sunsets over the water. BEAUTIFUL! Ventured to Hook Is observatory & resort, don't pick up the ocean liners buoy! OOPS! and fished at Hayman Island and Mackeral Bay, lots of different fish, but we couldn't be bothered cooking them! Revisited Marcona Inlet for moonlit still water and like something out of disney land, phosphorescent algae! We wrote out names with our fishing rods in the sparkling sea! Laid back counting the shooting stars. Sigh......So romantic.
On our return we stopped at Daydream Island Resort for a lovely lunch. Contemplating mutiny we reluctantly returned.
JUST DO IT! the boys can play Pirates and the girls can play Titanic LOL!
It was awesome!!!!!!!!!!As Arnie would say "I'll be back."
It has been a week since we had to hand "Finnigan" back to you guys & already it's sad to be back in the real world.
From the day we spoke to John at the Sydney Boat show till the day we finished our charter with you, the service provided by your wonderful staff has been great. Having never done a bareboat charter before, we were a bit nervous about the whole process (how silly of us). It was all so easy to organize with the great web site helpful staff.
We spent a very relaxing 11 nights cruising around the beautiful Whitsundays, just sitting back enjoying the sights. Being Easter, of course the weather didn't start out to good (a few showers) but that's Easter for you, it's supposed to rain. After 3 days however it cleared up & we had perfect weather, Sunny, hot & very light winds.
Our days were spent fishing, swimming, snorkeling & relaxing, then the evenings were spent with a nice drink, some more fishing & lot's of discussion about what to do tomorrow. The girls had a ball discovering the underwater world & trying to identify the next fish Dad caught.
Thank you so much for a wonderful holiday & rest assured we will be back.
Ahhhh.... where to begin.
Firstly - the Whitsundays as a holiday destination.
I've been fortunate enough to holiday in some very nice places around the world and around Australia, but the Whitsundays takes some beating.
A week there feels like a fortnight.
But to make your holiday a holiday, you need a team you can rely on to have your best interests at heart, that's CCY & staff.
We've chartered 3 times in the Whitsundays now.
Firstly with CCY, then with an International firm based on Hamilton Island and then back to CCY and that's where we'll stay.
There was nothing wrong with our first CCY experience, I simply thought that being based on 'Hammo' which is where we fly into, the large International firm would be at least as good as CCY.
How wrong I was.
I could go on about the poor condition of the boat & the indifference of the staff & the total unwillingness to address issues after the charter, but I'm here to advocate using CCY & let me assure you, they are the type of people you want to deal with.
The CCY team couldn't be more helpful and the vessels and gear are maintained beautifully.
What else is there to say?
If I were going to put a vessel in a charter fleet, it'd be with CCY.
In short a brilliant team with all the expertise you need for a hassle free holiday.
Claire and I set out on an 8 day, 7 night cruise on Finnigan. We were fortunate to have incredibly good weather the first few days/nights before high winds/rain came in on the final few forcing us into Hamilton Island Marina twice.
Having been through the process of selecting a charter company, completing the paperwork/planning the trip, sailing with them and listening to stories from others that went with different companies - I highly recommend Cumberland. Their boats are kept in very good condition, the website is by far the most informative/easy to use, the initial briefing and boat orientation provided by Malcom got us off to a great start and the support/advice they provided throughout the trip was first class.
If you are considering a sailing trip on the Whitsundays, dont hesitate. It was much better than we expected and is a trip that will be remembered as one of the best holidays I've ever been on.
I'm sure other charter companies are fine but from our experience, Cumberland was head and shoulders above the rest.
This is the 5th time we have been on a catamaran with Cumberland and again have thoroughly enjoyed our time. We had amazing weather for this time of year (except for one day with 25-30 knot winds).
I have been to Europe, UK & Thailand and still believe this is the best holiday right here on our own back doorstop!
There is nothing on the Cumberland website that you can't find or they can't answer. It is easy to navigate and is a bundle of information for charterers.
Thanks Cumberland again for making our yearly holiday memorable.
Trudy, Michael, Danny, Gail, Ian & Debbie
Well, we just want to say how fantastic we think you guys are and how much we enjoyed our holiday. James and I think it's the best holiday we've had sailing to date. I guess in light of 2008, why wouldn't it be? I think it was our 5th time with you guys and as always it was incredible.
We think you guys are really special. You all took that extra time and effort and paid so much attention to us and we just want to say 'Thanks very much'.
Watching the kids snorkelling, swimming, driving the dinghy, running up and down the boat, sitting on the 'special seats' on Sunset Lady was a real highlight for the kids, they had a ball and are already asking when we will be back again (actually, I don't think we had left Hamilton Island before that question came out!)
We were lucky enough to see lots of turtles, dolphins, bat fish, we met Wally the mauri wrass at Manta Ray Bay and we swam with GT's at Pinnacle Point. We climbed the hill at Nara inlet and read about the aboriginal tribes, we went to Hill Inlet and walked the trail to the lookout, which is always breathtaking and James's favourite, we climbed Border Island at Cataran Bay, in 40 degree heat!! But it was all worth it and very memorable.
See you VERY SOON!
James, Helen, Isabella and Joshua
Hi Tina, Steve (& the rest of the Cumberland Crew),
It has been about a month since we returned home from this, our 4th charter with CCY. The weather was great, the boat performed very well under sail and as always a fantastic time was had by all !!
Sailing in the Whitsundays truly is the ultimate holiday in paradise.
We spent 9 lazy days onboard Latitude Lady, diving, fishing, swimming and of course sailing. The evenings were spent on deck with a cold beer regaling each other with stories of the days activities and planing tomorrow's adventures.
After hearing of our sea-borne tales, one of my work colleagues has already booked with CCY, Another one is about to book and my wife Ania and I are already planning our next trip.
For those of you considering chartering a yacht in the Whitsundays, I cannot recommend Cumberland enough. They provide first class vessels in excellent condition, exceptional (and friendly) customer service and represent fantastic value for money.
Thanks again guys, see you soon
Dean Isles
Sandringham, Victoria
Latitude Lady
November 2008
When you think of a sailing holiday in the Whitsundays you always hope that the weather will be kind. You will just have to fill your days with carefree sailing,snorkeling and sunsets. Well we had that perfect holiday! Thank you Cumberland. Dehler Magic was the perfect vessel She preformed faultlessly was easy to sail, had everything that we needed on board.
A big thanks to the crew at CCY, our well appointed vessel, Belle De Jour and of course the beautiful Whitsundays for making a very memorable 14 day charter.
While every day delivered wonderful and relaxing moments here are a few of our special mentions for others to consider;
Setting off in 2-3 metre swells, 25 to 30 knot SE winds and reaching the calm waters of Cid Harbour on night 1.
Meeting and swimming with "Grumpy" the resident Maori Wrasse at Manta Ray Bay.
Watching the sunset at Stonehaven in behind the bommies at the southeren anchorage.
Viewing Whitehaven from the look out at low tide and wandering down the beach.
Catching a large mud crab at Tongue Bay.
Being joined by our son Matt and his girlfriend Carina for 4 days.
Taking an overnight anchorage and having a romantic candle lit dinner at Palm Bay.
A year in the planning and every day of waiting was worth it.
We had no set itinerary other than this time we wanted to visit the Lindeman and Shaw Island area. My son was allowed to bring a mate along (Tom) Hiring the paddleboards allowed the boys to go off exploring and the extra bed in the front port cabin on Mystique meant they had a room to themselves. My sister and brother in law (Maz and Ian from Eungella just down the road) were thrilled with their first Whitsundays charter experience and Maz kept a detailed diary of the trip. Rowan (my best man) was with us for the first 6 nights and then replaced by Craig and Jen from New Hampshire. Hadn't seen Craig for 10 or so years and we had never met his wife Jen. The lure of a cruise in the Whitsundays was too much for them to resist so they made the journey across from the USA and caught up with us at Hamilton Island.
We saw whales, dolphins, snorkelled, fished, ate well and had a great time even during the character building trip through Fitzalan Passage to Solway. We actually put the sails up on three occasions and while we weren't winning any races we may even be tempted to read up on how to sail properly for the next trip.
There is no doubt we will be back and the timing of fourth charter with Cumberland has already been discussed. Thanks to Tina and all of the Cumberland team for making the trip painless.
Wanted to let you know we had a great time on board La Belle Vie recently.
This started from your impressive and informative website, and the way it made selecting vessel and booking our charter so easy. The Charter Centre is a great way to keep track of progress towards the holiday - important during our cold Sydney winter this year.
On arrival we were greeted by friendly staff, and John our briefer, was most helpful, and insisted on helping load trolley and push it along to where vessel was berthed, and then help to load.
Briefing was clear and easy to follow, and we were soon on our way to Nara for our first night.
Boat was well presented, easily handled, and extremely comfortable with just the 4 of us on board.
The Whitsunday area is a special and beautiful part of Australia, and we were lucky enough to have close encounters with whales and their calves, turtles and other wildlife. White sandy beaches, crystal clear water and colourful coral and fish make it all a spectacular destination and recommended to all.
At the end of our charter we were again met by John for our de-brief, and once again he was most pleasant and helpful.
I had such a good time I was reluctant to get off and let La Belle Vie go.
What a beautiful week we just had as one of the first charters on Belle de Jour. Such a gorgeous boat. We were first-time bareboaters and all went far smoother than we could have expected. Exceptionally easy to sail in the perfect weather. Thankyou thankyou thankyou! to Steve and Margaret for letting us have first go at your baby, and all at Cumberland who helped us.
Also the Whitsunday Provisioning was excellent (we'd highly recommend the full platinum package with the extras... crabs and lobsters etc)
Thank you for making our family holiday a wonderful experience.We cannot emphasise enough the professional attitude of Cumberland Charter Yachts. Starting from the website charter centre, through the briefing, boat preparation and provisioning, skeds and general support, you could not have asked for better attention. We have to mention in particular Tina in the office, Peter our briefer, and the guy briefing another boat at Hamilton Is (Rick), who went beyond his duties to help us. Although he was there for another job, he dropped what he was doing just because our boat had Cumberland on the side, and would not even let us coil our mooring lines because "we were on holidays". What an ambassador for your company. The provisioning was a wonderful option, and although we had special dietary needs, nothing was a problem, and we had more than enough yummy food. My wife was apprehensive about sailing, but the comprehensive support and safety throughout the whole experience put her at ease, to the point on Day 3 she said we are definitely doing this again. Our family and friends were kept up to date with our movements through the e-postcards, even though it made them green with envy! The weather was glorious, we snorkelled, hiked, swam, fished, and even saw a mother and calf whale! As you can see we got some awesome photos. To anyone who's ever thought of a Whitsunday's holiday, just do it, and do it with Cumberland. The hardest part is giving the boat back at the end.
Thank you again we will be back!
Simon, Gina and Lily. (Delher Magic)
Embarking on a 6 night charter with friends we were all a bit unsure, will we get under peoples feet, feel too crowded or get upset with each other or worse still will someone end up sea sick? Well there was no sea sickness despite having 2 people on board with previous experiences and we definitely had fun and didn't feel crowded at all. Chartering Annabelle was an awesome experience. We tuned our sailing/ cruising/radio skills, becoming confident with passages and anchoring, others learning that they might actually learn to like sailing. We had the biggest winds that you could expect, 20-25 knots with strong wind warnings at the end of the week. Border Island /Cateran bay had the best snorkeling and Whitehaven is a must see. Tongue bay and Whitehaven have turtles and we saw dolphins south of Hook Island while sailing to Cid Harbour.
To One and All
This is our 2nd charter with Cumberland, the first some years back on Sunset Lady, a very comfortable & big cat. This time with friends Mike & Julie we had Nomad a 36ft Beneteau, still comfortable but considering we had a 15-20 km breeze for 5 of the 6 days we were out....a very good choice. Nomad is well appointed & maintained, Graeme briefed us & gave us a few tips he also told us where to find Wally the Wrass & off we went. I think Able Point is a great start because you have a lot of open water to settle in on day 1. We went through the Moles & on to Cid Harbour, a favourite for me, turtles, & a great sunset.
Day 2 slipped around to Hamilton then on to Whitehaven FANTASTIC! We swam & walked & ate, & walked & swam & ate and when all the day trippers turned up the next day,
Day 3 we let the main out & cruised up to Makona, just beautiful. That's where I do the 'yabba dabba' thing & Mike dives off the bow in the video.
Day 4 we headed back out into a following breeze & sea making our way to the top of Hook Island. All the while 2 daily schedes with Cumberland base, short sweet & always informative helping to make our sailing adventure a successfull one. When we rounded the top of Hook we moored at Manta Ray Bay to go and introduce ourselve to Wally, & there he was right where Graeme said he would be, Wally is in the video too. That night we moored at Butterfly Bay, magnificent!
Day 5 still a good 20k SE breeze so we tacked all the way down through the Whitsunday Passage to Cid Harbour, a really excilerating day & a magnificent evening, our last
Day 6 not a breath of wind all day, we motored across a mirror like passage, through the Moles & back to Able Point, another gobsmacking cracker of a day on a beautiful yacht curtousy of Cumberland.....Thank you.
Lynne & Bruce
My fiance and I booked the Blueberry Hill based on only the info I was able to get off of the Cumberland website. The trip was a complete surprise to her (other than she knew we were going to Australia). Long story short this trip was labeled the"trip of a lifetime" after our voyage was over. The weather was not as perfect for us as I have heard it has been for others. It was not a traditional prevailing wind so we had to plan our course carefully which of course the staff, as with everything ,was happy to assist and provide excellent advice. I was a little nervous the ole Blueberry Hill was possibly not in great condition because it read 4 out of 5 stars. She was launched earlier than the other power boats but I must say it was in great shape. The galley had great room, the cockpit was perfect size. All the extras, windlass, large freezers, good showers just made life aboard excellent. I dove and my fiance loves to fish and our plan put us somewhere different every night but one and we were able to accomplish both successfully. Our tender had a small issue because I had squeezed the fuel line between the tank and the gunnel and they sent somebody out within a half hour - such a great guy I forced him to then have a beer and lunch with us. Loved the underwater observatory idea however it is a little run down also they do not require a fee however donations are appreciated so make sure you bring whatever cash you feel free donating to get it back into good shape. Chalkies Beach was a hit and fishing was excellent. Best dives were up at Luncheon Bay and Butterfly Bay. Views were breathtaking, wines and food were spectacular from the provisioning. We are fortunate we did not leave pregnant - ok maybe a little tmi. Staff at Cumberland thank you so much!!
2nd time round for some of 22 people on Magic, Gallavanter, and La Belle Vie. O/nite Cid Harbour, 2 nights Macona Inlet - snorkelling great, and not even snorkel rated in "100 Magic Miles". Great beach, with inlet to ourselves.
To Whitehaven next day and out Apostle Bay for overnight, Tongue Pt too busy. Storm pre dawn showed cascading waterfalls down the boulder like cliffs. Anchored Tongue Pt for walk to Hill Inlet lookout.
Plan to go outside of Hook Island appeared great timing, winds 10-15 knots and apparent from scheds a lot of boats heading for Whitehaven - we're going the opposite way! Confirmed by scheds, when we relayed heading for Manta Ray, he said "you guys are doing it right!" Moored at Butterfly and snorkelled there, then overnight at Butterfly II. Again great snorkelling and water flat as a tack!
Manta Ray Bay for another great snorkel, huge fish, and of course again flat as a tack - no current or anything. After lunch to the top end of Hayman, Blue Pearl Bay, the weather and winds were perfect for this area, and the coral and snorkelling was again magnificent and different from the other areas on the outside.
Our last night, at South Molle, saw us at the seafood buffet, and meet up with a group from Tassie, attending a wedding. Never have I seen the bride, groom, and all bridal party all in the pool fully dressed! Pretty funny night, and of course some of us had to join them in the pool!
The winds came up on Friday night, gusting to 34 knots, and Sat. morning saw lots of rain, and CCY base advising that winds were expected to be up for the next 3 days, and all charters would have to stay on the inside. Time for us to depart!
We had the best time, many memorable moments, never laughed so much, eaten soo much and swam so much for a long time. Cumberland Magic was truly a fantastic boat and we are so lucky to have a great boat, tremendous crew, magnificent weather, smooth seas, even on the outside.
Joe - EAST VICTORIA PARK, WA 22 Apr 2008 Voyager 1040 Finnigan Chartered: 22 Mar 2008
Dear Sue, Tina Jeff and Steve ( sure hope we got the names right..)
We chartered Finnigan from late March till the begining of April this year ( 08)
I can honestly say that not a day has gone by since that we haven't spoke of our wonderful experience and what a great time we had.
This is probably the best holiday we have ever had and we will definitly be doing it again.
Everything was perfect. From our long lazy days of planning where to moor up next to our evenings of fishing, relaxing and laying on the bow trying to identify the constellations.. all of it beautiful.
Our typical day started early with brekkie and a snorkel and swim, then it was a picturesque cruise to our lunchspot with a bit of trolling. After lunch another beautiful afternoon spent getting to our evening anchorage and then usually a fair bit of exploring in the dinghy before an afternoon nap and then a quick swim and snorkel before a great bbq with the best view in the world.
Sitting in our backyard at home in the evenings after looking out over the beautiful sunsets and majestic islands of the Whitsundays for 10 days was a bit of a shock - and a little depressing.
My husband was in fishing heaven and I fekt like I was in paradise... Our top spots were so beautiful they took my breath away.
We were a little nervous when we first took the boat ( never having chartered before )but the staff at CCY were so helpful, friendly and patient we felt comfortable in no time.
Thank you Cumberland for the best holiday ever !!
Suna
Hi Guys
Fantastic holiday - Finnagan is an exellent vessel, eazy to handle, comfortabe at rest and roomy through out.The layout for diving, fishing & game fishing is brilliant.Hot spots are Blue Pearl Bay, Butterfly Bay, Whitehaven Beach & Palm Bay.
We LOVED it
Joe
Hi everyone at Cumberland,
We are about to head out on 2nd charter with Cumberland. Last Easter we spent a fantastic week on Indigo, a Seawind 1000 with our 2 teenage sons. The weather was kind to us with sunshine every day. We visited Cid Harbour, Hamilton Island, Butterfly Bay, Nara Inlet and South Molle to name a few. The boat was fantastic, my wife especially liked the fact you she could cook bacon and eggs for breakfast in 25 knots of breeze and still the boat stayed flat. Our kids had a great time snorkelling, sailing and relaxing playing games. I would recommend the Seawind to anyone considering a charter, particularly if you are not used to sailing due to its stability. There was ample room for everyone, the BBQ was used most meals, the tender was fantastic to get to the beaches and she sailed well. We liked it so much as soon as we got back to Airlie we looked over the new Seawind 1160 that Cumberland just received and booked it immediately for this year. It is now 14 days till our next charter, this time we are going with another couple as our boys are off doing other things. We are like 4 kids waiting for Santa counting down how many sleeps to go. Finally a comment on Cumberland Charter Yachts. We have always found them very approachable, their web page is 2nd to none and their radio skeds are very professional and always helpful.
Glenn Hammond
Indigo
Six couples who'd be friends, that's the truth.
Since the heady days of our misspent youth.
Felt the siren call of a Whitsunday sail,
And there my friends, hangs a whale of a tale.
Cumberland Charters were the first port of call,
Highly recommended by one and all.
When it comes to boats, they're the best by a mile,
And no one can beat Sue's on-line chat smile.
Our vessels were booked and the teams allotted,
To Princess and Magic, then a course was plotted.
Lateral, Cardinal, starboard and Port,
Compass Navigation also some thought.
The two teams were determined, to compete,
With neither boat wanting to face defeat.
As we battled it out with a range of tests,
To determine the crew that was best of the bests.
Invent a cocktail was challenge One,
Magic's "Abracadabra" clearly won.
While the "Princess Colarda" was rather nice.
but it lacked some kick and a little spice.
The fishing contest was abit of a bust,
As the lack of worms had us all nonplussed.
"Where was the bait" is the question you're posing.
Why, back on the dock---- decomposing!
Cricket on Whitehaven was the next big clash,
The Princess crew body-lining to win by a dash.
Meanwhile some of us took our ease,
With Champis and Lobster served under the tree's.
While enjoying Palm Bay in it's glorious splendour,
The skippers decided to teach us of the tender.
Which went really well except for a small mistake,
By one crew member confusing the throttle and Brake.
Snorkeling revealed the glorious reef,
With colous and wildlife that beggars belief.
And those who had never dived before,
Fell in love with beautiful ocean floor.
An unbeatable days on the boats we spent,
The time it flew. Came and Went.
We loved every minute, every hour, every day,
And Yes, it was OUR VERY BEST HOLIDAY.
The question was asked, Are we coming back?
Cumberland Cruises can hang their hats on THAT!
We really had a lovely time sailing around the Whitsundays even though we were in the Monsoon season. Weather, considering all the media reports, was very good...
We sailed from Airlie to Nara Inlet, Mocona, Cid Harbour and Hamiliton . Unfortunatly we couldn't get to White Haven because of the choppy seas but we saw turtles, dolphins and countless birds.
The daily weather reports from CCY were terrific and very detailed as with their advice on where we wanted to sail to. The only negative we have to say about the boast was it needs a bit of TLC and the toilet could do with a good service.
In November, 2007, Geoffrey, Dave, John and I once again set sail on La Belle Vie to discover more of the hidden delights when sailing the Whitsundays. I say "discover more" because all of us had done it before and in fact could not wait to do it again and even do it all again and again and again.....
For us there is no better holiday - sun, sea, sailing, warm water and good winds. Its total relaxation in a great environment.
Although we have been many times before, we discover new places each time - the snorkelling at Manta Ray Bay, anchoring off Esk Island and combine those with the old favourites - Whitehaven, Border Island, sunset at Stonehaven and the fish in Blue Pearl Bay.
We used to plan these trips but these days we tend to go where the wind takes us, only occasionally trying to impose our authority to go somewhere off the beaten track.
We love La Belle Vie - having notched up at least 5 trips based on her sure handling, reliability and layout. Its a buzz to finalise the loading of the essentials and to work through the briefing. It doesn't take long to re-familiarise and the briefings are always focussed, appropriate and to a high standard.
The sails are generally up within 20 minutes of leaving Airlie and any hint of the time and activities since we gave her back last time are forgotten moments later.
We have often asked ourselves, "would we like to own a yacht"? The answer is always "no". When you can rent great boats all year round that are well prepared, well looked after and appropriate for our needs, why would you own one ? We have sailed in other countries but we will always return to the Whitsundays.
In short, when you have perfection, why change ? We love these trips and we are absolutely sure you will too !
Sunny, South-East Winds 20 to 25 Knots
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