Type: Performance Yachts
Minimum Price: AUD $ 345

*British Defender - winner of the 2001 and 2004 Whitsunday Fun Race* 

If you're after an adrenalin rush then British Defender is the boat for you.

Spend 2 days/2 nights days sailing the top destinations the Whitsundays have to offer. Average age of guests is between 21-35.

British Defender is one of the Whitsunday's most popular boats, and for good reasons! Perfect for those who want to just relax, soak up the sun and spend their days mingling with the other passengers or for those wanting to give the crew a hand and learn what sailing's really about. There are 74 Islands here in the Whitsundays, so British Defender will be showing you the best of them, including the world famous Whitehaven Beach. It's not often you get to see a 7km long stretch of pure white silica sand, with crystal clear waters just waiting for you to jump in.

Give the crew a hand with sailing and learn a thing or two. If inclined, why not just snorkel the days away on the fringing reefs? Then in the evening, take a seat after your delicious dinner, and relax with a drink in hand... Is there any better way to experience the Whitsundays? You have a choice of either double or single berths, all with curtain for privacy. Downstairs also feature 2 dining tables, 3 bathrooms and hot showers. There is never a lack of excitement aboard a British Defender sailing cruise.

 
What's included:

All meals prepared fresh
Fresh bed linen
Sailing experience
Snorkeling equipment
Shade awnings
Experienced crew

 

What to bring in a small soft bag? 

Weather appropriate clothing and footwear
Suncream, sunglasses and swimwear
Beach towel
Camera
BYO alcohol in cans or cask, no glass please

 

Cost: Single Share Berth $345.00 per person plus local fees and charges of $54.00 (*see below) - Total Cost $399.00 per person.


(Local Fees cover Wet Suit Hire, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park EMC, Whitsunday Islands National Park Walks, Fuel Charges, Local Courtesy Transfers to/from Airlie Beach to the Marina, Administration Fees and GST). 

 

My sailing buddy from Southern Cross Adventures, Raquel asked me to come sailing with her on British Defender, a high tech Whitbread Around World Racing Maxi. Hard to refuse an invitation from the GURU of sailing herself. I packed my backpack and headed down to Abel Point Marina for the 9.30am departure, to find Raquel had forgotten me and taken herself off to Mission Beach! Needless to say I went by myself (and 22 great adventurer's under the age of 30) for 2 days/2 nights of maxi action.

Skipper Jair Kuyper, sailed out through Hook Pass and tacked out to sea, at times having us hanging on with all the excitement.  Mel the deckie was up and down the mast giving directions to the passengers who were helping out on deck. 

Just before sunset Jair sailed us into Whitehaven Beach for the night. We all sat on top for the sunset, had a few drinks and swapped stories.

Notes:

    

Departure Days:

• Tuesday
• Thursday
• Saturday

Departure Time: 2pm
Return Days:

• Monday
• Thursday
• Saturday

Return Time: 11am
Trip Duration: 2 Days 2 Nights
Vessel Category: Maxi Yachts
EMC: