VISITING THE
Whitsundays
I N  THE  GREAT  BARR IER  REEF
W O R L D  H E R I T A G E  A R E A
A GUIDE FOR RECREATIONAL VISITORS
Contents
About the Whitsundays ...................................................................... 3
Recreational activities ....................................................................... 6
Boating ............................................................................................... 6
Zoning  ........................................................................................... 7
Whitsundays Plan of Management .................................................... 9
Larger vessels ............................................................................... 12
Anchoring and mooring .................................................................. 13
Fishing and spearfishing ..................................................................... 18
Motorised water sports ....................................................................... 22
Aircraft and helicopters ...................................................................... 22
Diving and snorkelling ........................................................................ 24
Whale watching ................................................................................. 25
Visiting Whitsunday islands ................................................................. 26
Camping ....................................................................................... 26
Walking and bike riding .................................................................. 26
Protecting wildlife in the Whitsundays ............................................ 28
Seabirds and significant bird sites ....................................................... 28
Dugong and turtles ............................................................................ 29
Keeping an Eye on the Reef ............................................................. 30
Important phone numbers ............................................................... 31
Contact us ........................................................................................ 32
© Commonwealth of Australia, 2021
ISBN: 9780645043747
2021 revised edition published by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority
This document is licensed by the Commonwealth of Australia for use under a Creative Commons By Attribution 4.0 
International licence with the exception of the Coat of Arms of the Commonwealth of Australia, the logo of the Great 
Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, any other material protected by a trademark, content supplied by third parties 
and any photographs. For licence conditions see: http: //creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0 
This publication should be cited as:  
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority 2021, Visiting the Whitsundays in the Great Barrier Reef: 
a guide for recreational visitors, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, Townsville.
FRONT COVER IMAGE : © Commonwealth of Australia (GBRMPA), photographer: Mark Fitzpatrick
© Commonwealth of Australia (GBRMPA), 
photographer: Roger Beeden
2 VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors.
About the Whitsundays
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority acknowledges the continuing sea country management and custodianship 
of the Great Barrier Reef by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Traditional Owners whose rich cultures, heritage values, 
enduring connections and shared efforts protect the Great Barrier Reef for future generations. 
WELCOME TO THE WHITSUNDAYS
The Whitsundays is one of the most highly visited regions in the Great Barrier Reef; recognised for its spectacular island 
scenery, secluded sandy beaches, remarkable blue waters and vast array of wildlife. The reefs and islands support a variety of 
wildlife including protected species such as humpback whales, turtles, dolphins, seabirds and dugong. 
The Whitsunday group is the largest island group on the Australian coastline, and includes more than 80 islands. The islands 
and their surrounding waters are part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.
Six island group national parks (Whitsunday Islands, Gloucester Islands, Molle Islands, Lindeman Islands, Repulse Islands and 
Holbourne Island) make up what is more widely called the Whitsunday Islands and are popular destinations for visitors.
ACTIVITIES AND USING THIS GUIDE
There is no shortage of things to do in the region with activities like boating, fishing, snorkelling, diving, day tripping, camping 
and a variety of walking tracks within easy reach. 
We hope you are inspired by the region.  However, to help protect this iconic place and its fascinating creatures there are 
important things to know. 
Read this guide to understand where you can go and what activities you can do in particular areas.
PROTECTING THE WHITSUNDAYS
The Whitsundays is jointly managed by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service 
(the managing agencies). 
Rules including zoning and a plan of management are in place to protect the Whitsundays and these are explained in this 
guide. If you are unsure of what is allowed, please contact the managing agencies using the contact details on the back of this 
booklet. 
In the interest of protecting the Great Barrier Reef, especially in the face of mounting pressures, penalties apply if you threaten 
the health of this iconic region.
Do the right thing — every person makes a difference and together we can maintain the iconic values of the area.
Thank you for visiting the Whitsunday region and for following these guidelines while you enjoy your time here. 
VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors. 3
ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE WHITSUNDAYS 
The reefs and islands of the Whitsundays support a variety of wildlife. 
The area is an important calving ground for humpback whales. There are also several species of dolphin including the 
protected Australian snubfin dolphin and the Australian humpback dolphin. 
When exploring the Whitsundays, you are likely to come across a marine turtle and may even be lucky enough to see a 
dugong. Both these animals feed on the seagrass meadows within the area.
The fringing reefs and outer reefs of the Whitsundays are not only visually attractive, but also ecologically significant. There are 
extensive and diverse reef structures and corals. The unique island habitats within the Whitsundays region continue to support 
an abundance of life, with both spectacular scenery and biodiversity a large drawcard for visitors.
Many migratory seabirds and shorebirds visit the area to roost, nest and feed. A Preservation Zone (pink zone) area exists 
around Eshelby Islands to protect important seabird habitat as well as fringing coral reefs. There is no access to this area, 
except in limited circumstances (for example, a life threatening emergency), as outlined in the Zoning Plan. Zoning is explained 
in more detail on page 7 of this guide.
CULTURE AND HERITAGE IN THE WHITSUNDAYS
The Whitsundays is an area of cultural and historic significance. 
The Traditional Owners of the Whitsundays region continue to maintain strong connections to the area. There are many places 
of cultural significance throughout the region and examples of traditional use of islands and surrounding waters including a 
quarry of international significance on South Molle Island, a nationally-significant rock art site at Nara Inlet on Hook Island and 
remains of middens and stone fish traps throughout the region. 
There are also several sites of maritime significance. At least 20 shipwrecks are believed to be within the area, all more than 
75 years old. They are protected by national maritime heritage legislation (which means you can look but don’t touch). 
The Valetta is the only shipwreck that has a known location (the intertidal area at Happy Bay, Long Island), and a nationally-
significant Royal Australian Air Force WWII aircraft wreck lies offshore from Bowen (see page 7). 
If you find the remains of undiscovered vessels or relics, please notify the Queensland Department of Environment and Science 
or the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.  
TOURISM IN THE WHITSUNDAYS
While this guide is for recreational visitors including locals, tourism is extremely popular in the 
Whitsundays and all users are valued and need to be respectful of each other. If you are operating a 
tourism business in the Great Barrier Reef you will require a marine parks permit and, if accessing island 
national parks, you will require a commercial activity permit. 
To find out more about permits and other useful tourism information, visit www.gbrmpa.gov.au 
and www.des.qld.gov.au.
4 VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors.
RESPONSIBLE REEF PRACTICES
All users of the Whitsundays region are responsible for the environment around them and their actions in it. We invite everyone 
to enjoy the region in an environmentally and reef-friendly way and uphold the area’s ecological, cultural and heritage 
significance. 
  Look for this symbol throughout the guide for responsible reef and island practices that  
  help look after the environment. For the complete range of responsible reef and island  
  practices please visit www.gbrmpa.gov.au.
THE GREAT BARRIER REEF IS UNDER PRESSURE FROM INCREASING THREATS. 
Do your bit to help protect the Reef:
 comply with the marine parks zoning rules
 anchor on sand and avoid coral
 use public moorings
 collect any rubbish you see
 avoid taking plant-eating fish when fishing and spearfishing
 report illegal fishing to 1800 380 048 (24-hours)
 provide information on Reef health via the Eye on the Reef app.
SAFETY WARNINGS
Please adhere to these safety warnings, when in the Whitsundays region.
Beware of estuarine crocodiles. They inhabit mainland estuaries but may be present in island 
waters and on beaches. 
Dangerous jellyfish (stingers) (for example, box jellyfish and irukandji jellyfish) may be present 
all year round, particularly between November and May. These jellyfish can deliver a fatal sting 
so wear suitable protective clothing, such as a stinger suit. Other marine creatures, such as 
cone shells, blue-ringed octopus and stonefish, are also potentially deadly. For stinger safety 
advice, beach safety and water safety visit www.marinestingers.com.au.
© Commonwealth of Australia (GBRMPA), 
photographer: Jumbo Aerial Photography 
VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors. 5
Recreational activities
The Whitsundays is very popular for recreational activities, including boating, fishing, snorkelling, diving, camping, motorised 
water sports, island hopping, walking and recreational flights. 
Information relating to each of these popular activities is outlined in this section and explains how to enjoy them while limiting 
impact on the environment.
Don’t forget, information on responsible reef and island practices for the complete range of activities can be found at  
www.gbrmpa.gov.au.
BOATING
When heading out on the water, you need to know where you can go and what you can do. It is also very important to be on 
the lookout for marine animals at particular times of the year and to travel slowly in areas where they are known to inhabit. For 
example be on watch for whales during May to September and dugong and turtles when travelling through seagrass habitat.
Be sure to consider tides when planning activities in the Whitsundays:
• Refer to your local tide guide as there is a large tidal variation in the area. For example, tides at the Gloucester group  
 in the north of the Whitsundays are approximately 30 minutes to an hour ahead of Airlie Beach and Shute Harbour.
• Be particularly careful navigating when the tide is low.
• Do not damage coral.
RESPONSIBLE REEF PRACTICES WHEN BOATING:
• Slow down to minimise wake when approaching reef edges,  
 shorelines and beaches 
• Access islands at high tide to minimise the potential damage  
 to coral reef flats
• Do not throw rubbish or food scraps overboard
• Keep a well-maintained engine
• Pack safety gear and ensure it’s in good working order.
KNOW WHERE YOU CAN GO AND WHAT YOU CAN DO.
Grab a free zoning map from your local bait and tackle store 
or go to www.gbrmpa.gov.au.
Zoning Map 10 - Whitsunday and the Whitsunday Group 
Island Edition map apply to the Whitsundays region. See 
page 8 for more information.
6 VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors.
ZONING
Zoning ensures marine parks are protected. Each zone has different rules for activities that are allowed, activities that are 
prohibited, and activities that require a permit. These are summarised in the zoning activities guide (see below) and included on 
zoning maps. Detailed zoning information can be found in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Zoning Plan 2003.
The southern part of Dent Island is a Commonwealth Islands Zone. There is a Commonwealth Heritage listed lightstation in this 
area, which is managed by a private lessee so access to this site is limited.
Zoning activities guide
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION
Q.  CAN I ENTER PRESERVATION ZONE (PINK ZONE) AREAS?
A.  No. A person cannot enter a Preservation Zone (pink zone) area, except in limited circumstances as outlined in the  
 Zoning Plan (for example, in a life threatening emergency). Significant fines apply if you threaten the health of this  
 valuable region. 
Preservation Zone (pink zone) areas provide a high level of protection for special and unique places, habitats, plants 
and animals. In the Whitsundays, a Preservation Zone (pink zone) area exists around Eshelby Islands (see Map 10) to 
protect important seabird breeding and roosting habitats as well as fringing coral reefs.
MARITIME CULTURAL HERITAGE PROTECTION SPECIAL MANAGEMENT AREA
A nationally-significant Royal Australian Air Force WWII Catalina aircraft wreck is located off-shore from Bowen. Located 24 
kilometres from Bowen, a one-kilometre-square Special Management Area protects the main Catalina wreck and outlying 
artefacts. See Zoning Map 10. Boaters can transit through this special management area, but generally cannot stop without a 
permit unless in an emergency. Fishing and anchoring are also prohibited. 
VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors. 7
GREAT BARRIER REEF MARINE PARK ZONING - WHITSUNDAYS
Zoning in the Whitsundays (includes zoning from Zoning Map 10) 
8 VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors.
WHITSUNDAYS PLAN OF MANAGEMENT
The Whitsundays Plan of Management 1998 (the Plan) complements zoning by addressing issues specific to the area 
in greater detail. The Plan provides additional protection for key values such as wildlife and corals, allows for a range of 
experiences (from remote to high use) and separates conflicting use through a variety of management strategies. These 
include maximum vessel lengths and group sizes in certain areas (also known as settings), motorised water sports areas, 
significant bird sites and no-anchoring areas.  
VESSEL LENGTH AND GROUP SIZE
The length of your vessel and group size determine which setting area you can access.  
See the table below for which settings you can access. 
SETTINGS IN THE WHITSUNDAYS
SETTINGS OVERALL VESSEL LENGTH MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE (INCLUDING CREW)
1. Intensive Less than 70 metres No limit
2. High use 35 metres or less* No limit
3. Moderate use 35 metres or less 40 people
4. Low use 35 metres or less 15 people
5. Protected 20 metres or less 15 people
*At Hardy Reef, vessels less than 70 metres may enter the setting 2 (high use) area if operating to a mooring or pontoon.
Please note: Setting areas are within approximately 1500 metres of the reef edge. Specific coordinates for each setting are 
in the Plan (available at www.gbrmpa.gov.au). Setting limits do not apply to vessels in transit by the most direct route between 
two places, or vessels anchored at designated anchorages or superyacht anchorages.
See the map on pages 10-11 for setting areas within the Whitsundays and page 14 and the Superyacht Guide to the 
Whitsundays for information on designated and superyacht anchorages.
© Commonwealth of Australia (GBRMPA), 
photographer: Jumbo Aerial Photography 
VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors. 9
WHITSUNDAYS PLAN OF MANAGEMENT DETAILED OVERVIEW
10 VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors.
VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors. 11
LARGER VESSELS VISITING THE GREAT BARRIER REEF
VESSELS 50 METRES AND OVER IN LENGTH:
• Are required to participate in a service that provides vessels with shipping traffic information, navigational assistance  
 and maritime safety information. This service is called the Great Barrier Reef and Torres Strait Vessel Traffic Service  
 (REEFVTS). For more information, contact Maritime Safety Queensland at www.msq.qld.gov.au. 
VESSELS GREATER THAN 70 METRES IN LENGTH:
• A licensed pilot is needed onboard in designated compulsory pilotage areas (like the Whitsundays) for safer navigation  
 through the Great Barrier Reef waters. Penalties apply for both the master and the owner of the vessel if this does not  
 occur.
• For more information including exemptions, see www.gbrmpa.gov.au.
For information on anchoring and mooring for larger vessels see page 14. 
SUPERYACHTS IN THE WHITSUNDAYS
If you are visiting on a superyacht see the Superyacht Guide to the Whitsundays at www.gbrmpa.gov.au. 
BE PEST-FREE!
To help prevent the spread of marine pests, please plan ahead and undertake appropriate ballast water management and 
biofouling treatment of your vessel if required before entering the marine parks and the Whitsundays. All ballast water 
management must be documented, and reported where required, as per the requirements of the Biosecurity Act 2015. 
To find out more about ballast water management for international vessels and for vessels travelling within Australian waters, 
refer to the Australian Ballast Water Management Requirements and visit the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources 
website www.agriculture.gov.au.
Ballast water must not be discharged or exchanged in  
the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
For more information on managing biofouling see the National Biofouling Management Guidelines at the Department of 
Agriculture and Water Resources website www.agriculture.gov.au    
To learn more or view the Be Pest-Free brochure, visit Queensland National Parks and Wildlife Service at www.des.qld.gov.au.
INTERNATIONAL VESSELS ENTERING AUSTRALIA
Everyone travelling to Australia by boat is required to give notice before arriving. For more information, visit Australian Border 
Force within the Australian Department of Home Affairs. 
A control permit from Australian Border Force will also be required as proof you are not operating your vessel commercially. 
This will be requested from you as part of the login process for the Online Bookings database, where you make bookings for 
designated anchorages and superyacht anchorages in the Whitsundays. 
For further information on visiting the Whitsundays in a superyacht see the Superyacht Guide to the Whitsundays at  
www.gbrmpa.gov.au. 
12 VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors.
ANCHORING AND MOORING 
ANCHORING
The Whitsundays is a beautiful region, with a range of activities making it the perfect place to pull up your boat and enjoy the 
area. However, like all places in the Great Barrier Reef, the coral reefs are susceptible to anchor damage and therefore it is 
important to use moorings where possible and anchor according to your vessel and group size.
NO-ANCHORING AREAS
The Whitsundays contains fringing reefs that are particularly vulnerable to anchor damage. To protect these areas, reef 
protection markers have been installed to mark the no-anchoring areas (see the map on page 17). The markers are white 
pyramid-shaped buoys with a blue label (see picture).  
The no-anchoring areas at Bait Reef and Manta Ray Bay are unmarked. The boundary of these two no-anchoring areas are 
indicated on the maps below.
When visiting a reef or bay that has a no-anchoring area:
• never anchor on the reef flat inshore of the buoys
• you can anchor directly on the beach provided there are  
 no tidal restrictions
• never attach your vessel or aircraft to a reef protection   
 marker — they will not hold your vessel as they are not  
 moorings. 
For coordinates of no-anchoring areas visit www.gbrmpa.gov.au. 
Keep an eye out for these reef protection markers
BAIT REEF AND MANTA RAY BAY NO-ANCHORING AREAS IN THE WHITSUNDAYS: 
VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors. 13
RESPONSIBLE REEF PRACTICES WHEN ANCHORING:
• Anchor in sand or mud away from corals and  
 other fragile marine environments
• Carry enough chain and line for the depth you  
 want to anchor in and use only as much chain  
 as you need to hold the vessel safely
• Know where the no-anchoring areas are located  
 - see page 13
• Use moorings instead of anchoring when available  
 - see page 16.
ANCHORING ACCORDING TO VESSEL LENGTH
VESSELS 20 METRES OR LESS CAN ANCHOR:
• in setting 1 (intensive), 2 (high use), 3 (moderate use), 4 (low use) and 5 (protected) areas provided your group size  
 matches that setting area (see Settings in the Whitsundays on page 9)
• outside a setting area.
Majority of recreational vessels within the Whitsundays will be 20 metres or less and as small vessels they have the most 
access to anchoring. However it is important to remember that anchoring a small vessel can still damage coral reefs.
VESSELS 35 METRES OR LESS CAN ANCHOR:
• in setting 1 (intensive), 2 (high use), 3 (moderate use) and 4 (low use) areas provided your group size matches that  
 setting area (see settings in the Whitsundays on page 9) 
• outside a setting area.
VESSELS MORE THAN 35 METRES TO LESS THAN 70 METRES CAN ANCHOR: 
• in setting 1 (intensive) areas
• in superyacht anchorages with a booking (provided the vessel is a superyacht and carrying no more than 12 people  
 other than master and crew)
• in designated anchorages with a booking. Note: two superyachts less than 70 metres can anchor in a designated  
 anchorage
• outside a setting area, and use a tender to access the adjacent setting area, provided the group size and tender length 
 matches that setting.
VESSELS 70 METRES AND GREATER CAN ANCHOR:
• in designated anchorages within a setting area with a booking
• outside a setting area, and use a tender to access the adjacent setting area provided the group size and tender length  
 matches that setting. 
14 VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors.
DESIGNATED ANCHORAGES AND SUPERYACHT ANCHORAGES 
• When using a designated anchorage or superyacht anchorage, anchor equipment (anchor and chain) must remain  
 inside the specified anchorage area at all times. 
• You are able to transit through a setting area when travelling to and from a designated or superyacht anchorage. 
For anchorage bookings and the most up-to-date locations of anchorages, refer to www.gbrmpa.gov.au. 
SUPERYACHTS
Superyachts are defined as a high-value, luxury 
vessel in use for sport or pleasure.
For more information refer to the Superyacht Guide to 
the Whitsundays at www.gbrmpa.gov.au.
© Commonwealth of Australia (GBRMPA), 
photographer: Mark Simmons
VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors. 15
PUBLIC MOORINGS
A vast network of public moorings is available for you to use in the 
Whitsundays (see the map on page 17). 
Public moorings are blue cone-shaped buoys with a colour-coded 
band (see picture) that shows the ‘class’ (vessel length and wind 
speed) of the mooring. There are five classes of mooring (see the 
map on page 17). It’s important that you follow the instructions on 
the mooring and use a class of mooring that is suitable for your 
vessel and the weather conditions. 
• Public moorings are available on a first-come-first-served  
 basis. 
• Only one vessel at a time can be on a public mooring.
Public mooring buoy – mooring class D
• Time limits are displayed on the buoys — usually two hours,  
 four hours or up to 24 hours. 
• All moorings are available for overnight stays from 3 pm to 9 am the next morning.
• Attach the front of your vessel to moorings. 
Public moorings are busy. Vacate a public mooring as soon as 
the time limit is up. Never stay longer than the time limit.
RESPONSIBLE REEF PRACTICES WHEN MOORING:
• Use moorings instead of anchors, wherever possible
• Take care to avoid running over the pick-up line when  
 approaching the mooring 
• Do not attach your vessel to a damaged mooring.
Please report any misused or damaged public moorings by calling  
13 QGOV (13 74 68).
PRIVATE MOORINGS
There are a small number of private moorings in the Whitsundays. Private moorings are a different colour to public moorings 
(not blue). These require the owner’s permission prior to use. To access details of private moorings visit the Moorings Register 
at www.gbrmpa.gov.au. 
16 VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors.
Being Reef Smart means 
enjoying the beauty and 
wonder of the Great 
Barrier Reef Marine Park 
responsibly and safely.
DO NOT DO NOT
FEED THE FISH THROW SCRAPS
OVERBOARD
Feeding the sh changes behaviour.
Feeding little sh attracts bigger sh. Please do not throw waste or scraps 
Although feeding sh can be fun, to overboard. Instead Be Reef Smart 
Be Reef Smart, Do Not Feed the Fish. and use your waste bins on-board 
your boat, then dispose of the waste 
responsibly when on shore.
DO NOT DO NOT
FEED THE FISH THROW SCRAPS
OVERBOARD
Feeding the sh changes behaviour.
Feeding little sh attracts bigger sh. Please do not throw waste or scraps 
Although feeding sh can be fun, to overboard. Instead Be Reef Smart 
Be Reef Smart, Do Not Feed the Fish. and use your waste bins on-board 
your boat, then dispose of the waste 
responsibly when on shore.
DO NOT
ANCHOR ON CORAL
Be Reef Smart and use the available 
moorings instead of anchoring.
www.gbrmpa.gov.au/access-and-use/responsible-reef-practices
LOCATION OF PUBLIC MOORINGS AND NO-ANCHORING 
AREAS IN THE WHITSUNDAYS
VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors. 17
FISHING AND SPEARFISHING
FISHING
Fishing is one of the most popular recreational activities in Queensland. Understanding marine parks zoning and the 
Queensland Fisheries rules is important before heading out on the water. 
See the zoning activities guide on page 7 and the zoning map on page 8 for more information on where you can fish.  
For information on bag and size limits, seasonal closures and more, see the  Fisheries Queensland website  
www.daf.qld.gov.au.
For information regarding protected and no-take marine species, visit the recreational fishing responsible reef practices guide 
at www.gbrmpa.gov.au.  
Areas where recreational fishing can occur include:
• General Use Zone (light blue zone): line fishing, trolling, limited spearfishing, bait netting, and crabbing (trapping). 
• Habitat Protection Zone (dark blue zone): line fishing, trolling, limited spearfishing, bait netting, and crabbing  
 (trapping).
• Conservation Park Zone (yellow zone): limited line fishing, trolling, bait netting and crabbing (trapping). 
See the spearfishing section and map on pages 20 and 21 for more information and to learn where you can spearfish in the 
Whitsundays.
LIMITED LINE FISHING means one hand-held rod or one hand-held 
line per person, with no more than one hook attached to that line.
TROLLING means line fishing that occurs behind a vessel that 
is underway. A vessel is considered underway only if it is being 
propelled through the water in a forward direction (whether by 
engine, sail or human power) and the vessel is not adrift.
RESPONSIBLE REEF AND ISLAND PRACTICES WHEN FISHING:
• Take only what you need
• If you’re unsure of the fish identity or size, release the fish immediately
• Return all undersized and unwanted fish quickly to minimise injury to the fish
• Avoid taking plant-eating fish like parrotfish. These fish remove algae and provide  
 space for new corals to grow.
Please report any suspected illegal activity to the free 24-hour hotline on 1800 380 048 or via an online incident form at  
www.gbrmpa.gov.au/report-an-incident.
18 VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q.  CAN I TRAVEL THROUGH MARINE NATIONAL PARK ZONE (GREEN ZONE) AREAS?
A.  Yes. Travelling through Marine National Park Zone (green zone) areas is allowed, however, all fishing gear — such as  
 rods and lines with attached hooks — must be out of the water and stowed in the boat or in rod holders. It is an  
 offence to fish in green zone areas and penalties apply. 
Q.  CAN I LINE FISH IN CONSERVATION PARK ZONE (YELLOW ZONE) AREAS?
A.  Yes. You can line fish in Conservation Park Zone (yellow zone) areas, however only one hand-held rod or one handline  
 and only one hook attached to that line is allowed per person. This is known as limited line fishing. A hook means  
 a single hook, single-shanked double or treble hook, a lure (with no more than three hooks), an artificial fly, a squid jig, 
 a ganged hook set (with no more than six hooks and intended to catch one fish only), or a bait jig (with a hook size  
 less than 12 and no more than six hooks). The diagram below demonstrates what constitutes one hook.
A single hook, single-shanked double or A squid jig An artificial fly
treble hook 
A ganged set of hooks, of no more than six A bait jig of no more than six hooks sized A lure 
hooks (each of which is in contact with at least one between Number 1and Number 12 (an artifical bait with no more than three hooks)
of the other hooks in the set)
VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors. 19
SPEARFISHING
Spearfishing is allowed in certain areas of the Whitsundays, but there are special rules in place to protect the iconic area. See 
page 21 for a simplified map that combines the rules for marine parks zoning, the Whitsundays Public Appreciation Special 
Management Area and Queensland Fisheries rules to show where you can spearfish in the Whitsundays. 
Note: spearfishing is only allowed with a snorkel and spear or speargun.   
For more information regarding protected and no-take species, visit the responsible reef practices recreational fishing guide at 
www.gbrmpa.gov.au. 
GOING
PICK UP YOUR FREE SPEARFISHING FLYER SPEARFISHING
available from your local bait and tackle shop  IN THE WHITSUNDAYS?
(includes the map on page 21)
Where is spearshing allowed in the Whitsunday Planning Area?
To make sure you know where you are allowed to spearsh, please refer to the map on the back of this page. 
For ease of understanding, this map combines the rules for Marine Parks zoning, the Public Appreciation 
Special Management Area and Queensland Fisheries.
For more detailed information, see the Whitsundays Zoning Map 10, or visit www.gbrmpa.gov.au.
LIMITED SPEARFISHING means fishing with a spear or 
Responsible Reef practices Rules for 
• Spear only what you need spearshing 
speargun, NOT a powerhead, firearm, a light or underwater • Do not pursue a sh if you are unsure of its identity or size When you spearsh on the Great Barrier Reef,• Do not anchor on coral you can use a snorkel when using a spear or spear gun.
• Avoid taking plant-eating sh like parrotsh, which remove  
 algae and provide space for new corals to grow You cannot use: a powerhead or other rearm, a light, 
scuba or other underwater breathing apparatus.
breathing apparatus, other than a snorkel. Note: Fishers using spear guns cannot have aloaded spear gun out of the water.
For further information contact:
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority
(07) 4750 0700
Be crocwise in and
around crocodile habitat. www.gbrmpa.gov.au 
Current as at September 2017
RESPONSIBLE REEF PRACTICES WHEN SPEARFISHING:
• Take only what you need
• If you’re unsure of the fish identity or size, do not spear the fish
• Avoid taking plant-eating fish like parrotfish. These fish remove algae and provide  
 space for new corals to grow.
WHITSUNDAYS PUBLIC APPRECIATION SPECIAL MANAGEMENT AREA
The Whitsundays Public Appreciation Special Management Area aims to ensure there are opportunities for appreciation of the 
area by the public and to separate potentially conflicting activities in high use areas.
This area is shown on the zoning map (page 8) as a pink dashed line around much of the Whitsundays area. All spearfishing, 
commercial harvest fishing (dive-based and beachworm), and aquaculture is prohibited in the Conservation Park Zone (yellow 
zone) areas within the Whitsundays Public Appreciation Special Management Area.   
The spearfishing map on the next page shows where you can spearfish in the Whitsundays. 
© Commonwealth of Australia (GBRMPA), 
photographer: Chris Jones
20 VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors.
SPEARFISHING IN THE WHITSUNDAY PLANNING AREA
VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors. 21
MOTORISED WATER SPORTS
Motorised water sports such as jet skiing or parasailing are increasingly popular activities in the Whitsundays. To view areas 
where you can do these activities see the map on page 23. These areas include three designated motorised water sports 
areas, 10 setting 1 (intensive) areas, and outside setting areas. 
If using a jet ski (except as part of a tourist program), you are allowed to transit between places.
Note: There are different rules if using a jet ski as part of a tourism operation. For more information see the Whitsundays Plan 
of Management or www.gbrmpa.gov.au.
Transiting includes driving in a direct route between two 
places and not being adrift. Transiting does not include: 
circling, weaving, diverting, surfing down or jumping over or 
across waves, swell or wash.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION
Q. CAN I UNDERTAKE MOTORISED WATER SPORTS ANYWHERE IN THE WHITSUNDAYS?
A. No, there are specific areas in which motorised water sports can be conducted. Refer to the map opposite
for more details.
RESPONSIBLE REEF PRACTICES WHEN CONDUCTING MOTORISED 
WATER SPORTS:
• Go slow near islands, especially where seabirds are nesting
or roosting
• Be on the lookout for marine animals such as dolphins, turtles
and dugong — reduce your speed and be especially alert in
areas where these animals are known to inhabit
(see Protecting Wildlife on page 28)
• Check that engines do not leak fuel or oil.
AIRCRAFT AND HELICOPTERS
Visiting the Whitsundays by air is a unique experience however, it is important to remember that aircraft restrictions apply. See 
page 28 for aircraft restrictions at significant seabird sites. 
For information on aircraft landing in national parks visit www.des.qld.gov.au. For regular aircraft landing areas (on water), view 
the map on pages 10-11. 
Note: There are different rules if using an aircraft or helicopter as part of a tourism operation. For more information see the 
Whitsundays Plan of Management at www.gbrmpa.gov.au. 
22 VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors.
VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors. 23
WHITSUNDAYS PLAN OF MANAGEMENT MOTORISED WATER SPORTS AREAS
DIVING AND SNORKELLING
Diving and snorkelling provide a great way to come face-to-face with captivating marine life and experience the spectacular 
underwater views that the Great Barrier Reef has to offer.
Although divers and snorkellers have minimal impact, it is still important to use responsible reef practices to preserve the 
environment and ensure your safety. 
RESPONSIBLE REEF PRACTICES WHEN DIVING AND SNORKELLING:
• Do not stand on coral
• Do not chase or harass animals
• Move slowly to avoid kicking up sand.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION
Q.  CAN I COLLECT SOUVENIRS?
A.  Possibly. You may want to keep a memento of your visit to the Whitsundays, but you may be inadvertently taking a  
 creature’s home or, even worse, taking a living animal. Limited collecting is allowed in the General Use Zone (light  
 blue zone), Habitat Protection Zone (dark blue zone) and Conservation Park Zone (yellow zone) areas. Limited  
 collecting means collecting by hand or hand-held implement and no more than five of any one species at a time.  
 No coral (alive or dead) can be taken without a permit. Protected species must not be taken — these include  
 seahorses, pipefish, giant clams, helmet shells and giant triton shells.
For more information regarding protected species, visit the recreational fishing responsible reef practices guide at  
www.gbrmpa.gov.au. 
© Commonwealth of Australia (GBRMPA), 
photographer: Chris Jones
24 VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors.
WHALE WATCHING 
While in the Whitsundays, you may be lucky enough to see a whale. The Whitsundays are an important calving ground for 
humpback whales. This is why a whale protection zone has been created in the Whitsundays area.
To ensure their wellbeing, and your safety, it is vital that you follow the rules and responsible reef practices when in the vicinity 
of these magnificent marine mammals. 
RESPONSIBLE REEF PRACTICES WHEN WHALE WATCHING:
• Do not chase, herd, harass or block the path of  
 whales
• Reduce your vessel speed to minimise the risk of  
 collision with whales
• If you are in the water and a whale approaches you,  
 move slowly, and keep a distance of at least 30  
 metres.
Be on the lookout for whales particularly from May to 
September when they are migrating.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION
Q.  WHERE IS THE WHITSUNDAY WHALE PROTECTION AREA AND WHAT RULES ARE ASSOCIATED WITH  
 THIS AREA? 
A.  The majority of the Whitsundays is a whale protection area and is shown as a grey dashed line on Zoning Map 10 -  
 Whitsundays. Within the Whitsunday whale protection area, the safe distance approach for vessels is 300 metres. This 
 is an important area for whales to breed and build up strength over the winter before they return to the Antarctic in  
 summer. Outside the Whitsunday whale protection area, the safe distance approach for vessels is 100 metres.  
For more rules regarding whale encounters please read the whale and dolphin watching regulations at www.gbrmpa.gov.au.
VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors. 25
VISITING WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS
The Whitsunday Islands can easily be accessed via boat or water taxi and provide great 
camping and day trip destinations. There are many camping and walking opportunities 
available on the Whitsunday national park islands.
Pick up a Whitsunday National Parks visitor guide from a QPWS office. For national park 
information online, search for Whitsunday national parks at www.qld.gov.au.
CAMPING
If camping, you will need to book your site and purchase your permit in advance. Bookings 
open 11 months in advance. School holiday periods are often fully booked soon after 
bookings open. To ensure a quality experience, visitor numbers are limited.
On all island and mainland national parks and beaches adjacent to national parks in the Whitsundays: domestic animals, 
fires and generators are prohibited.
Campsite bookings are available online at www.qld.gov.au/camping or by calling 13 QGOV (13 74 68).
WALKING AND BIKE RIDING 
There are numerous walking tracks, lookouts and day visit areas for you to visit and enjoy in the region. There is also the 
opportunity for mountain bike riding on South Molle Island.
RESPONSIBLE REEF PRACTICES WHEN VISITING ISLANDS:
• Always stay on marked tracks and carry sufficient water 
• Do not feed animals
• Take all rubbish off islands and dispose of thoughtfully.
Before visiting islands, check the current status of all campgrounds 
and walking tracks, their facilities and special requirements such as 
seasonal closures at www.qld.gov.au/park-alerts.
226 VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors.
BE PEST-FREE!
Our precious Great Barrier Reef world heritage islands are among the most pest free 
islands in the world. They need your help to stay this way. 
Everyone in Queensland has a general biosecurity obligation to minimise the risks posed 
by their activities. This includes the biosecurity risk of introducing and spreading weeds 
and pests to island national parks.
Be sure to:
• check your camping gear and equipment and check it carefully, as pests can  
 hide there
• clean soil from footwear and gear with bleach solution, as invisible killers such as viruses, bacteria and fungi are  
 carried in soil
• check pockets, cuffs, and hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g. Velcro) for seeds.
Before you visit: please check that your boat, clothing, footwear and gear are free of soil, seeds, parts of plants, eggs, 
insects, spiders, lizards, toads, rats and mice.
While you’re on the islands: remove soil, weeds, seeds and pests from your boat, gear and clothes before moving to a new 
site. Wrap seeds and plant material, and place them in your rubbish.
To learn more or view the Be Pest-Free brochure, visit Queensland National Parks and Wildlife Service at www.des.qld.gov.au.
PRIVATE RESORT ISLANDS
Privately owned resort islands offer resort facilities for paying guests. Access to island resorts and facilities may be limited to 
resort guests. For more information, visit the website for the island resort you wish to visit.
© Commonwealth of Australia (DFAT), 
photographer: Patrick Hamilton
VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors. 27
Protecting wildlife in the Whitsundays
The reefs and islands in the Whitsundays support a variety of wildlife including protected species such as humpback whales, 
dolphins, dugong, turtles and seabirds. 
SEABIRDS AND SIGNIFICANT BIRD SITES
A number of islands and rocky outcrops in the Whitsundays are important for seabirds, shorebirds and several migratory 
species that travel to the Whitsundays from international locations. As roosting and nesting birds are vulnerable to disturbance, 
several sites have been identified as significant bird sites and have special management arrangements. These arrangements 
include seasonal closures, vessel speed limits or aircraft altitude limits (see the significant bird site table). 
See the map on pages 10-11 for locations of significant bird sites. Coordinates for significant bird sites are in the Whitsundays 
Plan of Management (available at www.gbrmpa.gov.au).
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service may sometimes temporarily close beaches to protect wildlife. Look for signs and visit 
www.des.qld.gov.au for more information.
TO HELP PROTECT BIRDS PLEASE:
• Stay well clear of nesting and roosting shorebirds and seabirds. Disturbing nesting  
 parents may leave eggs and chicks vulnerable to predators such as seagulls  
• Watch your step when walking on beaches or islands to avoid crushing camouflaged  
 eggs and chicks (remain on walking tracks wherever possible)
• Never try to touch birds, chicks or eggs
• Do not feed birds.
SIGNIFICANT BIRD SITES
SIGNIFICANT BIRD SITE RESTRICTIONS
   Vessel restriction within bird site Aircraft restriction (no access below  
    1500 feet within 1000 metres of site)
• Armit Island (southern beach only) 6 knots: 1 October-31 March 1 October-31 March 
• Armit Islets (No 1)
• Double Cone Island (western island only)
• Grassy Island (southern beach only)
• Shaw Island (beach east of Burning Point)
• South Repulse Island (western beach only) 
• Bird Island 6 knots: all year  All year
• East Rock No access: 1 October-31 March All year
• Edwin Rock 6 knots: 1 April to 30 September 
• Eshelby Islands No access: all year (Zoning Plan) All year
• Olden Rock (south of Olden Island) No access: 1 October-31 March 1 October-31 March
28 VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors.
DUGONG AND TURTLES
Dugong and marine turtles – including their habitats and lifecycles – are of significant cultural, spiritual and social 
importance, especially to Traditional Owners. Both dugong and turtles are threatened species that inhabit areas throughout 
the Whitsundays. Seagrass meadows at Repulse Bay, bays surrounding Whitsunday Island such as Tongue Bay, and mainland 
coastal bays such as Shoal Bay (near Dingo Beach) are important habitats for dugong and turtles as they provide a critical food 
source and important nursery habitat.
Turtles may nest on beaches between October to March and generally hatchling season is from January to April. Be aware of 
the seasonal closure for turtles at Steens Beach, north-west end of Hook Island (visit national park alerts  
www.qld.gov.au/park-alerts).
Take Care: dugong and marine turtles can suffer injury or death by vessel 
strike, incidental capture or ingestion of litter such as plastic bags.
TO HELP PROTECT TURTLES AND DUGONG:
WHEN TRAVELLING ON THE WATER:
• Never touch, grab, chase or feed animals in the wild, including  
 turtles and dugongs 
• Be on the lookout for surfacing turtles and dugongs in areas such  
 as seagrass beds, shallow reef flats and Dugong Protection Areas
• Keep a distance of at least 50 metres from a dugong, if a dugong  
 appears closer than 50 metres, move away from it very slowly — if  
 a turtle or dugong is close to your vessel, engage neutral and allow  
 the animal to move freely.
WHEN AT ANCHOR:
• Where possible anchor away from seagrass beds, and 500 metres  
 from known turtle nesting beaches during nesting/hatching season
• Limit the use of light both on vessels and on the land, other than for  
 safety reasons. Keep window blinds down from sunset to sunrise to  
 shield light being emitted from inside the vessel.
WHEN ON THE BEACH:
• Never shine lights directly onto nesting turtles or hatchlings — both nesting females  
 and hatchlings will be disturbed and agitated
• Don’t disturb or interfere with turtle nests or their eggs. Stay well clear (at least two  
 metres) of nests when females are laying eggs or when hatchlings are emerging.
© Commonwealth of Australia (GBRMPA), 
photographer: Chris Jones
VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors. 29
Keeping an Eye on the Reef 
With easy access to zoning maps and the ability to contribute your sightings out on the water, the Eye on the Reef app is a 
must for all marine park users — and it is free to download. 
The Eye of the Reef app is available at all times, even when out of mobile range!  It allows you to quickly pinpoint which zone 
you are in and know the rules for that area. Sightings and observations, such as turtles or whales, or incidents such as coral 
spawning, crown-of-thorns starfish and coral bleaching can also be reported through the app.
The app provides interesting facts on over 250 species so you can use it as an identification and education tool. 
The more people report their sightings, the more knowledge will be contributed to science, management and the protection of 
this natural wonder.
30 VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors.
Important phone numbers
INCIDENT AGENCY PHONE NUMBER
Marine Park and island Field Management Compliance 1800 380 048 (24hr) 
national park offences Coordination Unit (managing agencies) 
Sick, dead or stranded marine Department of Environment and Science 1300 130 372 
animals and fish kills 
Vessel collisions and groundings  Australian Maritime Safety Authority 1800 641 792 (24hr) or 
Oil/diesel/sewage pollution 
   Great Barrier Reef Marine Authority 1800 341 211
Illegal fishing Great Barrier Reef Marine Park  1800 380 048 (24hr) 
   Authority (Zoning Offences)
   Department of Agriculture and 1800 017 116 
   Fisheries (Bag and size limits)
Help protect the Reef
Anonymously report suspected illegal fishing activity
24-hour hotline: 1800 380 048
www.gbrmpa.gov.au/report-an-incident
I t ’ s  e v e r y o n e ’ s  r e s p o n s i b i l i t y  t o  h e l p  p r o t e c t  o u r  G r e a t  B a r r i e r  R e e f
This guide is intended to be used for general reference purposes only. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and Queensland 
Parks and Wildlife Service (the managing agencies) do not warrant the accuracy or completeness of information in this brochure. 
While care has been taken to reflect legislative requirements as accurately as possible, users should refer to the latest versions of the 
relevant legislation as their primary source of information.
VISITING THE WHITSUNDAYS. A guide for recreational visitors. 31
Contact us
GREAT BARRIER REEF MARINE PARK AUTHORITY: 
ADDRESS:
PO Box 1379 Phone:  (+61 7) 4750 0700 
TOWNSVILLE QLD 4810 Fax: (+61 7) 4772 6093
AUSTRALIA Freecall:  1800 990 177
   Email:  info@gbrmpa.gov.au
   Web: www.gbrmpa.gov.au
QUEENSLAND PARKS AND WILDLIFE SERVICE:
ADDRESS:
Cnr Mandalay and Shute Harbour Roads Phone:  13 74 68 
PO Box 5332 Email:  qpws@des.qld.gov.au
AIRLIE BEACH QLD 4802 Web:  www.des.qld.gov.au
AUSTRALIA 
By following these guidelines you are contributing to a healthier Great Barrier Reef for us all to enjoy in years to come.
We trust that you will enjoy your time in the beautiful Whitsundays region.
© Commonwealth of Australia (GBRMPA), 
photographer: Mark Fitzpatrick 2018-0288