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Celebrating Gold in the 2026 Best of Queensland Experiences Program At Whitsunday Shore Excursions, we are incredibly proud to celebrate our parent company, Airlie Adventure Tours, achieving Gold recognition in the 2026 Best of Queensland Experiences Program. This recognition is a huge achievement not only for Airlie Adventure Tours, but also for the wider Whitsundays tourism industry and everyone involved in delivering exceptional visitor experiences throughout our region. W

Kangaroos on the beach at sunrise, at Cape Hillsborough National park. When most cruise ship guests think about the Whitsundays, they usually imagine reef cruises, Whitehaven Beach, and tropical islands. But beyond the coastline lies another incredible side of tropical North Queensland — authentic Australian wildlife experiences that many visitors never realise are possible from Airlie Beach. From spotting wild platypus in rainforest streams to watching kangaroos gather natur

The view of Horseshoe bay from the lookout. Located just north of Airlie Beach, the relaxed coastal town of Bowen is quickly becoming one of the Whitsundays’ best hidden gems for cruise ship shore excursions. Known for its stunning beaches, scenic coastal lookouts, tropical landscapes, and relaxed Queensland charm, Bowen offers cruise ship guests a completely different experience from the busy reef and island tours often associated with the Whitsundays. For visitors wanting a

When most people think of Airlie Beach, they immediately picture Whitehaven Beach, reef cruises, and island sailing adventures. But for cruise ship guests visiting the Whitsundays, the mainland side of the region offers an incredible range of relaxed, scenic, and authentic experiences perfect for shore excursions and land-based touring. From waterfalls and wildlife encounters to scenic coastal drives and tropical countryside, Airlie Beach is one of Australia’s best cruise des