From the Whitsundays to Moreton Bay
Key Takeaways
• Explore Queensland’s most iconic boating locations: the Whitsundays, Moreton Bay, and the Great Sandy Strait
• Learn ideal anchorage spots, seasonal tips, and top marina facilities
• Understand the unique insurance considerations for boating in tropical and coastal areas
• Protect your vessel with comprehensive policies designed for Queensland conditions
From coral reefs to coastal havens, Queensland offers some of Australia’s finest boating. Whether you’re heading north for a week of sailing or planning a weekend run to the bay, knowing where to go – and how to stay covered – makes all the difference.
Whitsundays: The Benchmark for Tropical Cruising
Few boating experiences compare to a week in the Whitsundays. With 74 islands fringed by coral and calm turquoise waters, it’s perfect for both new skippers and seasoned sailors. Cruising from Airlie Beach to Whitehaven Beach is a rite of passage, while mooring at Hamilton Island gives access to fuel, facilities, and food – all in one stop.
If you’re looking for an overnight anchorage, Nara Inlet on Hook Island offers shelter from all winds and is a local favourite for a reason.
Of course, tropical sailing means increased exposure to changing weather, coral bommies, and remote stretches. Having the right protection in place is essential. Coast Insurance provides tailored boat insurance in Queensland, with cover designed for multiday coastal trips, tropical waters, and extended island stays.
Best time to go: May to September – cooler, drier, and more stable conditions
Where to anchor: Nara Inlet – ideal for overnight stops and easy access to shore
Moreton Bay: Brisbane’s Coastal Escape
Less than an hour from the CBD, Moreton Bay offers island-hopping, protected anchorages, and some of the most accessible boating in the country. Starting from Manly Boat Harbour, you can reach the Tangalooma Wrecks or Peel Island in just a few hours.
Popular anchorages like Horseshoe Bay (Peel Island) provide calm waters and a social weekend scene – perfect for lunch on the water or a swim off the transom.
With heavy recreational traffic and a wide mix of users – from day boats to catamarans and jetskis – having a reliable marine insurance policy is vital. Coast Insurance supports local boaters with cover for engine damage, theft, accidental collision, and more.
Best time to go: March to May or September to November for light winds and warm water
Where to anchor: Horseshoe Bay – great shelter from the south and plenty of space
Great Sandy Strait: Quiet Waters, Wild Horizons
Between Hervey Bay and Fraser Island, the Great Sandy Strait is a boating destination like no other. Shallow banks, sheltered anchorages, and wildlife sightings make it a true gem for cruisers heading north.
Garry’s Anchorage is the best-known stop – offering peaceful nights, mangrove walks, and flat water for kayaking. Depths can shift, so local knowledge and navigation awareness are essential.
For boaters venturing off the beaten track, reliable support is key. Coast Insurance offers marine insurance designed to cover everything from equipment and personal gear to weather-related damage and emergency response.
Best time to go: July to October – calm seas, whale sightings, and mild temperatures
Where to anchor: Garry’s Anchorage – protected, scenic, and well-positioned for onward trips
Explore More, Worry Less
From reef passages to coastal bays, boating in Queensland is about freedom, beauty, and smart planning. With the right cover, you can focus on the journey – not the risks.
Coast Insurance offers flexible pleasure craft policies designed for Queensland conditions, covering storm exposure, tropical cruising, trailerable vessels, onboard gear, and more.
Before your next trip, check your cover and get a quote online. Whether you’re planning a coastal cruise or staying local, we’re here to help protect what moves you.
Start your next adventure covered. Get a quote today and make the most of every nautical mile.