Search Results forwhitsunday
Accor’s The Sebel brand arrives in the Whitsundays
Accor has opened its first The Sebel branded property in the Whitsundays in heart of tropical north Queensland with the opening of The Sebel Whitsundays Airlie Beach today. The Sebel Whitsundays Airlie Beach features 54 newly refurbished apartment-style guestrooms, including a selection of One Bedroom Apartments, Two Bedroom Apartments, Three Bedroom Penthouses and Four Bedroom Presidential Suites, along with a 15m resort-style swimming pool and heated outdoor spa, fitness centre, and outdoor dining area with barbeque facilities. Accor Pacific Chief Executive Officer, Simon McGrath, said: “We are excited to bring The Sebel brand to the Whitsundays - one of Australia’s most popular holiday hotspots. The Sebel has a long-standing reputation for delivering exceptional accommodation and an outstanding service experience. It brings quality and credibility to the serviced apartments sector, which is rapidly growing in popularity. We’re seeing strong visitor numbers at our Whitsundays properties and we’re forecasting greater growth with Queensland border restrictions now easing.” The Sebel Whitsundays Airlie Beach has joined the Accor portfolio following the signing of a franchise agreement with the Australian-owned ‘at Hotel Group’. At Hotel Group Managing Director, Jeff Aquilina, said: “We’re confident this regional tourism asset will operate with great success under Accor. Accor’s brands have well-established reach and global strength and this translates to strong brand awareness and market penetration. Partnering The Sebel brand with this property is a natural association. We believe The Sebel brand perfectly captures the essence of this premium apartment-style resort.” The tropical resort town and aquatic playground of Airlie Beach, the mainland hub of the Whitsundays, is the perfect base for holidaymakers looking to explore the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands. The Sebel Whitsundays Airlie Beach is ideally located just a few minutes walk from downtown Airlie Beach and opposite the Port of Airlie marina, where daily cruises and island connections depart. The Sebel Whitsundays Airlie Beach joins a network of more than 30 The Sebel properties across Australia and New Zealand. In the Whitsundays, Accor also operates Mantra Boathouse Apartments Airlie Beach and Mantra Club Croc Airlie Beach.
Hamilton Island Race Week set to mark its 40th year
Australia’s Hamilton Island Race Week celebrates 40 years this August, marking four decades of world-class sailing, exceptional food and wine, and sun-soaked revelry. Presented for the first time by American Express, the 2025 regatta is scheduled for 16th to 23rd August, a lineup of unmissable world-class experiences and events on water and on shore. Hamilton Island chief executive Nick Dowling said: “Race Week's 40th anniversary is a landmark moment. What began as a simple sailing competition has become a spectacle of sail racing, culinary excellence, and island fun. It's not just about sailing the most picturesque course in the world, it's about celebrating everything that makes Hamilton Island so special: world-class experiences, a vibrant food and wine scene, and the incredible atmosphere and camaraderie that events like Race Week bring to the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef.” Indeed, what began as a niche offshore sailing regatta in 1984 has evolved into a week-long festival of sport, style and island culture, attracting crews, chefs, celebrities, and spectators from around the country and abroad. More than just a sporting event While the regatta remains the focal point, with some of the world's best crews competing in spectacular Whitsundays conditions, this is by no means a week just for sailors. Guests can wander the buzzing marina village, relax with a picnic on Catseye Beach, or indulge in an array of ticketed events including beachfront garden parties, superyacht cruises, wine masterclasses, world-class musical performances, and long island lunches curated by some of Australia's most celebrated chefs all set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsundays. For this year’s event, guests can take part in the following activities: La Dolce Vita Lunch by the Sea with Will Cowper presented by American Express (17 August): OTTO Brisbane's Executive Chef brings his signature flair to an indulgent modern Italian lunch on the shores of Pebble Beach, qualia. Beachfront Garden Party at Catseye Beach (17 August): A sun-kissed afternoon of gourmet grazing, live music and chic seaside vibes, beginning with a glass of Piper Heidsieck champagne on arrival and views over the turquoise waters of Catseye Bay. Champagne Spectator Cruises aboard Superyacht Impulsive (17, 19 and 22 August): Front-row seats to the on-water action aboard a 130-foot luxury yacht, complete with Champagne and canapés. An Italian Evening with Gin-Spired Cocktails presented by Tanqueray (19 August): A spirited celebration of Italian coastal cuisine—served with a generous splash of Tanqueray gin with a marina backdrop. The Ultimate Lay Day Beach Party at Whitehaven Beach aboard Impulsive (20 August): A playful day of snorkelling, gourmet food, floating slides, and barefoot fun aboard Superyacht Impulsive at the world's best beach. Lunch on the Greens at Hamilton Island Golf Club (21 August): A three-course long lunch, featuring seasonal local produce, fine wine, live tunes and incredible Dent Passage views. A Wine Masterclass with Larry Cherubino at Bommie (21 August): An exclusive wine tasting with one of Australia's most celebrated winemakers, and a special drop to take home. A Starlit Beachside Dinner with Alanna Sapwell-Stone and Larry Cherubino (21 August): A four-course coastal feast on Catseye Beach, paired with WHIPBIRD wines and storytelling by the winemaker himself. The Sundays Long Lunch with Josh Niland presented by MECCA Cosmetica (22 August): A relaxed island-style long lunch at The Sundays' signature restaurant, Catseye Pool Club - where one of Australia's most influential chefs takes centre stage. For those seeking the ultimate Race Week, qualia and new boutique hotel, The Sundays, offer exclusive curated experiences from private chef-led beach lunches and candlelit degustations, to intimate performances, such as a special appearance by internationally acclaimed soprano Amy Manford. Backed by exceptional partners American Express’ vice-president of brand, marketing, and member experience Nasla Edwards said of the sponsorship: "We're thrilled to be the presenting partner for the 40th anniversary of Hamilton Island Race Week. American Express is dedicated to offering our Card Members exclusive access to premier events and we look forward to bringing our signature touch to this iconic regatta and week-long festivities.” The 2025 also welcomes new partners for race week which include Panerai and Balter, alongside the return of AV Partners, Mecca Cosmetica, Piper-Heidsieck, Tanqueray, Casamigos, Revo, Robert Oatley Wines, Sail Racing, Tourism and Events Queensland, and longstanding partner Nautilus Marine Insurance. Whether you're racing, relaxing, or raising a glass, Hamilton Island Race Week 2025 is your invitation to trade winter for warm seas, Champagne moments, and sun-soaked indulgence.
Agents can now access Skytrans content via Sabre
Content from Australian airline Skytrans is available via travel tech firm Sabre’s digital marketplace. Thanks to this development, agents can now access Skytrans fares and offers through a highly efficient system that allows them to seamlessly shop and book flights and routes with the airline. This is expected to significantly expand Skytrans’ reach and business growth, allowing the airline to distribute fares and ancillary content to Sabre-connected travel agencies and corporate travel buyers in Australia. Furthermore, this collaboration also strengthens Sabre’s position in the Australian marketplace, offering Sabre-connected travel sellers access to more diverse domestic airline options to create personalized offers for travellers. A necessary development Skytrans provides flights between Cairns, Cape York and the Whitsunday Coast. In line with its growth strategy and commitment to meeting traveller demand, the Queensland carrier will soon commence flying from Sydney to Lord Howe Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As part of Avia Solutions Group, the airline has also added new Airbus A319 aircraft to its fleet. Airline revenue and network manager Paul Williams remarked: “Choosing to join Sabre’s global travel marketplace is an important milestone for Skytrans, with the addition of Sydney to Lord Howe flights and growing interest in our other destinations.” For his part, Sabre Travel Solutions vice-president for agency sales and airline distribution in the Asia Pacific Brett Thorstad expressed delight over welcoming Skytrans into the Sabre global marketplace, adding that it will help grow their core business. Thorstad said: “This agreement underscores our commitment to enable airlines of all sizes to offer more choice and flexibility to travellers, whether they want to explore major cities or more remote destinations.”
SeaLink reveals new developments at 2025 Australian Tourism Exchange
SeaLink Marine & Tourism revealed a host of new experiences, tours, and investments at the recently concluded Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) 2025 in Brisbane. As one of Australia's leading marine transport and tourism providers, SeaLink continues to offer unparalleled access to some of the country's most stunning destinations. With a focus on both domestic and international markets, SeaLink showcased its commitment to creating unforgettable travel moments across Australia's coastlines, islands, rivers, and heritage-rich landscapes. Showing off the best of Australia SeaLink chief executive Donna Gauci remarked at the event: “Our mission is to connect people with Australia's most unique and beautiful places sustainably and meaningfully. From new product offerings and infrastructure upgrades to immersive cultural experiences, we're continuing to innovate and invest in ways that invite more travellers to discover the brilliance of our backyard.” SeaLink general manager of global sales and distribution Richard Doyle added: “ATE is an exciting opportunity to showcase the breadth and diversity of SeaLink's tourism offerings to the world. We're proud to collaborate with our global travel trade partners to boost visitation to Australia, create unforgettable memories, and share meaningful stories—both ancient and contemporary.” With a footprint spanning six states and territories, SeaLink Marine & Tourism continues to redefine how travellers connect with the places and cultures that make Australia extraordinary. New developments in 2025 $57 Million Investment in Two New Kangaroo Island Ferries – Two purpose-built, state-of-the-art ferries, Wanggami and Ruwi, will launch in 2025. These larger, more accessible vessels will significantly increase passenger and vehicle capacity, enhancing connectivity to Kangaroo Island. Daily Departures + Tours – SeaLink offers daily ferry services and a range of day and multi-day tours on Kangaroo Island, providing access to some of the world's best beaches, wildlife encounters, local produce, and eco-certified experiences across the island. Captain Cook Cruises Celebrates 55 Years – Captain Cook Cruises is marking its 55th anniversary with special sailings, events, and giveaways throughout 2025. Highlights include premium dinner cruises and sightseeing sailings offering front-row views of the city's most iconic sights. Vivid Sydney 2025 with The Jackson – Luxury vantage point cruises aboard The Jackson offer the ultimate way to experience Vivid Sydney, with front-row views of the harbour's iconic light installations. Guests enjoy premium dining, curated cocktails, and uninterrupted panoramic views from Sydney's most elegant on-water venue. New Sunset Premium Dinner Cruise – An elevated evening experience showcasing Sydney's culinary and scenic offerings, featuring a curated menu with locally sourced ingredients and expertly paired wines, all while guests enjoy stunning sunset views over the Harbour. New Indigenous Tours Kangaroo Island (Ngarrindjeri Country) – Led by Ngarrindjeri elder Mark Koolmatrie, this full-day cultural tour explores Dreamtime stories, sacred sites, bush tucker, and traditional medicines—offering a deeper understanding of the Island's ancient landscapes and First Nations heritage. North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) – Launching soon, this half-day tour led by Matt Burns, a proud Noonuccal and Nughi man of the Quandamooka People, features storytelling, bush tucker, didgeridoo and dance demonstrations, as well as traditional skills passed down through generations. Illumina on K'gari (Fraser Island) – Queensland's first permanent light and projection show has captivated more than 11,400 guests since its launch last year. Set at Kingfisher Bay Resort, this after-dark experience blends nature, storytelling, and technology. No two nights are the same, with the display responding to the island's natural surroundings and weather for a uniquely atmospheric show. Expanded Product in the Whitsundays Red Cat Adventures – Offers even more ways to explore the Whitsundays, including fast boat and catamaran day sails to Whitehaven Beach and the reef. Guests can also learn about local reef restoration and marine conservation efforts during their journey. Whitsunday Jetski Tours – Award-winning tours through the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, guided by experts. Guests can go at their own pace to experience an adrenaline filled ride or slow down to take in the breathtaking scenery. Perth – River Cruises expansion – Swan Valley Wine Cruise and Dinner experiences will now run twice weekly—Friday and Saturday—during peak periods. A new High Tea option is also available on Perth to Fremantle sailings, offering guests a relaxed and indulgent riverside experience. Tiwi by Design Tour Returns – The Northern Territory's premier Indigenous art and culture experience recommences in April 2025. This immersive tour offers guests the unique opportunity to explore the Tiwi Islands, engaging with local artists and learning about the Tiwi people's rich cultural heritage, traditional crafts, and contemporary art—with a hands-on art experience and souvenir to take home. North Queensland MOUA Snorkelling Day Tour – The Ocean Sentinels at John Brewer Reef's Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) experience is a must-see! Guests embark on a snorkelling day tour to the Reef to explore the stunning Ocean Sentinels underwater sculpture trail and learn about reef conservation efforts and the vibrant life in the Great Barrier Reef. Eco-Certification Milestones – SeaLink Marine & Tourism's Queensland businesses, including Red Cat Adventures, Whitsunday Jet Ski Tours, K'gari/Kingfisher Bay Resort, K'gari Day Tours, Magnetic Island, and South East Queensland, have earned Eco and Advanced Ecotourism Certifications, along with Best of Queensland accolades. Nationwide, we also champion sustainability through conservation efforts on Kangaroo Island, Rottnest Island beach clean-ups with Containers for Change, and Seabin programs in Sydney Harbour.
Tourism Whitsundays
Tourism Whitsundays, Carlo Drive, Cannonvale QLD, Australia
No Event found matching your search.
Return To Home