✅ Step-by-Step: Whitehaven Beach Ferry Service (Full-Day Transfer) ⸻ 1. Booking Confirmation • Guests book a full-day return ferry transfer from Shute Harbour to the southern end of Whitehaven Beach. • Confirmation includes: departure time (8:00am), location (Shute Harbour Marine Terminal), and what to bring (towel, water, sunscreen, etc.). ⸻ 2. Arrival at Shute Harbour • Passengers arrive at Lot 296 Whitsunday Drive, Shute Harbour by 7:30am. • Four local buses depart from central Airlie Beach before 8:00am (only $0.50). • Guests meet crew and are directed to the correct wharf (vessel rotates among the 3 main piers). ⸻ 3. Boarding & Safety Check • Passengers board our comfortable vintage timber ferry. • A short safety briefing is given onboard. • Optional stinger suit or snorkel gear hire is available. • Facilities include toilets, shaded seating, and a small bar/snack service. ⸻ 4. Scenic Cruise to Whitehaven • The ferry departs at 8:00am sharp. • Enjoy a 2.5-hour scenic cruise through the Whitsunday Islands. • Crew provide optional commentary or allow guests to relax and take in the view. ⸻ 5. Arrival & Drop-Off • First drop-offs begin at approximately 10:30am at the southern end of Whitehaven Beach. • The vessel remains anchored nearby while a tender transfers passengers to shore below the high tide mark (intertidal zone). • Guests are free to swim, walk, or relax at their own pace — this is a self-guided, unguided visit. ⸻ 6. Free Time on Whitehaven • Guests enjoy unguided free time on Whitehaven Beach, with the freedom to return to the anchored ferry for shade, drinks, or rest at any time. • No tours, no guides, and no park entry activities are included — guests explore independently. ⸻ 7. Pickups Begin • Return pickups start at 2:00pm and are completed by 2:30pm. • Guests are brought back to the ferry in small groups via tender. ⸻ 8. Return Journey to Shute Harbour • The ferry departs Whitehaven around 2:30pm, arriving back at Shute Harbour by approximately 5:00pm. • Passengers disembark with memories of one of the world’s most beautiful beaches — all on their own terms.