Matador Whitsundays
Overview
Available languages
2 days
Mobile ticket
Set sail aboard Matador, a legendary racing yacht, and explore the breathtaking Whitsundays. Glide through turquoise waters, past lush islands and stunning white sandy beaches. Feel the ocean breeze as you relax on the spacious deck or help the crew hoist the sails for a hands-on adventure.
Snorkel world-class sites on the Great Barrier Reef’s fringing reefs, swimming among vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish, and sea turtles. Visit Hill Inlet Lookout for a picture-perfect view of Whitehaven Beach’s iconic swirling sands.
Savor freshly prepared meals featuring local produce, crisp salads, fresh fruit, and a hearty pasta dinner. As the sun sets, sip a cool drink while the sky glows in hues of orange and pink, then stargaze under the pristine Whitsundays night sky.
Note: Return time may vary due to weather and tides.
Additional Info
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Whitehaven Beach
Non-guided experience, ability to explore the beach (Whitehaven Beach) & Hill Inlet lookout
What‘s Included
Local guide
Afternoon tea
National Park fees
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Lunch
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Dinner
Breakfast
Local taxes
Coffee and/or Tea
Overnight accommodation
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Tour escort/host
Fuel surcharge
All activities
Environmental Management Charge (Reef Tax)
Snacks and alcohol are BYO
Options
Matador Whitsundays
Reviews
506 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Decent Whitsundays trip (2 days, 1 night)
rosaliep600,Mar 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00Even though the weather was not good and there was a big storm the day before, we enjoyed our trip. 21 people could fit on the sailing boat (which seems too much), but we were only with 13 which was perfect. With 21 you probably would have to share a twin bed with someone you don't know, but we were blessed to all have out own beds. The beds were fairly comfortable, but it was terrible hot during the night, and because of the rain we couldn't sleep on deck. The food was fine, there was more than enough for everyone and kept us satisfied. There were even some snacks (cookies and carrots with hummus). The 2 times snorkeling was very nice, beautiful location! But it was a bit short for my liking. The Whitehaven visit was nice and we were happy to have some time on the island and go for a swim there. I would have expected more information about the island from the crew member tho. There were signs we could read, but he said we could read it for ourselves. He said he'd done the tour for 3 years now, so i would have expected more. In line with this, the crew didn't seem very enthusiastic during the whole trip. The dynamic between the three felt a bit off and they didn't try to give us more information about the islands and surroundings we were seeing. It's not like they ruined the vibe, but they definitely didn't contribute to it. But apart from the weather, crazy hot night and the crew, the trip and snorkeling were amazing, so I would recommend it.
Unprofessional
amycQ5631WO,Feb 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
2.00Extremely disappointed with skipper Dave’s conduct during the trip. His behaviour was rude, unprofessional not only towards guest but other staff members. He was also openly racist and misogynistic. Regardless of personal views, this is not how paying customers should be treated. I’ve also noticed that the company has replied to similar Tripadvisor reviews stating that this skipper no longer works for them. That is clearly not the case as he was operating our trip after said replies were made. This raises concerns about how repeated feedback of this nature is being handled. The trip itself is lovely however let down due to this behaviour. I would strongly encourage the company to review this individual’s conduct and provide appropriate training around professionalism, respect, and customer service. I would not recommend this experience based off this.
Best tour in oz
527esbenh,Feb 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.0010/10 views and crew. Super fun activities and overall worth every penny!
incredible
570edwardd,Feb 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Most amazing thing I’ve done in Aus! Crew of Aaron, Chloe and Dayle was incredibly accommodating and always did whatever was necessary for us to have an amazing time! Would very very highly recommend
Highly recommended experience
bekahjenx,Feb 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Matador Whitsundays was a great experience. We did the 2 day and 1 night Whitsundays trip. The crew on board made the experience one to remember. Dale, Aaron and Chloe we great. They ensured all passengers on board had the best day. We stopped in three separate snorkelling spots. Chloe then toured us to the lookout spots on Whitehaven and took us to a private beach. It was her first shift and she done a cracking job and ensured there was plenty of delicious food for everyone. Would highly recommend this excursion
Great stay on the Matador!
Emily T,Jan 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great overnight stay on the Matador. The crew were very friendly and the other guests were fun to share the experience with. It's not luxury accommodations--but very comfortable and the food is adequate. Loved seeing Whitehaven beach and all the rays and sharks! I wish we had actually sailed--but nature didn't provide enough wind.
Super days
Coastal35353978099,Dec 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had two fantastic days on Matador! The snorkeling spots were absolutely incredible, and the crew was so friendly and attentive. They took great care of us and showed us some of the most stunning coral reefs I’ve ever seen, along with beaches that looked like pure paradise – straight out of a Bounty commercial. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience!
Unforgettable trip
Annabel P,Dec 7, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Big thanks to the crew Fabian, Ash and Valentina. They all made the trip so so good. This is a ‘no frills’ sailing experience, like camping on water. If you want a more comfortable experience then this might not be the trip for you. However we loved it, amazing snorkelling spots and the best beaches ever
Matador is fine but maybe look at other organizations!
Dau v,Dec 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00It was fun overall. We had a nice dinner and Valentina was very nice and the other two (Rick & Tony) were a bit less. we were very sorry that we went to the withSunday with high tide because it was really much less beautiful. Because of this you couldn't see the sandbanks very well and the tour consisted quite a lot of snorkeling and lying still while we had hoped that we might stay a bit longer on islands / hikes or on the Withsundays. We would definitely recommend to do 1 night instead of 2!
Fabulous time
genevieveg638,Nov 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What an amazing experience on the Matador. Absolutely loved it. The snorkelling swimming and just being on a great sailing boat is just fabulous. Tony , Xavier and Sam make up a fantastic crew. Tony is a experienced skipper with a wealth of knowledge and a good sense of humour. Xavier and Sam make you feel very welcome and safe on board. Very well recommended.
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Operated by Trydant Pty LTD