Island Hopper Whole Boat Private Tour

Whole Boat Private Group – Island Hopper (max 18 guests)

Gather your crew, decide your adventure, and make the entire boat your own. This exclusive tour from K’gari Salty Safaris gives you the freedom of a private charter – perfect for large families, corporate outings, team‑building days, special celebrations, or groups of friends who want to do things their way. With a maximum of 18 guests on board, you’re not just another number: you’re the only group, the only focus, and you set the tone.

Why this is totally different - It is EXCLUSIVE to Salty Safaris. 

• You’ll enjoy the full vessel to yourselves – no other groups, no mixing.

• Up‑close encounters thanks to the low‑side RIB and our small‑group focus.

• Swap travel time for leisure: we skip long transfers and maximise fun, exploring hidden beaches, calm bays, snorkelling spots and secluded looks of the Great Sandy Strait and surrounding islands.

• Personalised service: the crew will tailor the day to your group’s pace, interests, fitness levels, and vibe. Whether you’re after a high‑adrenaline boat ride, leisurely paddles, beach games or coastal walks – we’ve got you.

• Eco‑friendly, responsible adventure: we operate with respect for the marine environment and marine life, and aim to leave only footprints behind.

The experience

From the moment you arrive at the marina in Hervey Bay, you’ll feel the excitement building. Check‑in is smooth, your skipper and crew introduce themselves, run a safety briefing, and get you comfortable aboard the 10 m RIB. Once we’re gliding out, the fun begins.

We’ll cruise through the shimmering waters of the Great Sandy Strait and surrounding beaches, scanning for seabirds, dolphins, turtles (and if the season is right, even southern humpback whales). Along the way we’ll stop at remote islands and beaches you’d never reach with big boats – places where white sand meets quiet turquoise water and the only footprints besides yours may belong to a sea‑bird or wallaby.

Options may include:

• Beach time: stroll on sandbars, relax with your group, play beach cricket or frisbee, soak up the sun.

• Snorkelling & paddle‑boarding: gear provided, step off the boat into clear water, explore  soft coral, marine life, or paddle gently in calm bays.
• Rapid ride segments: for those who want a thrill, the RIB handles with ease and we’ll offer full‑on fun between the stops.
• Scenic photo‑moments: endless backdrops – the shimmering Strait, islands, forested shores, and the wide open sea.

• Custom moments: we’ll take your input – want a quiet moment with a picnic? Want some beach games? Want to chase a sunset? Just ask.

Perfect for all kinds of groups

• Families & big kids at heart: With the whole boat for your group you’re free to set your pace. Kids can snorkel, play on beach, run, walks; parents can relax while the crew ensures safety and fun.

• Corporate/team‑building: Break out of the boardroom and into nature. The private format encourages bonding, laughter, shared memories, and fresh conversation‑starter environments.

• Backpacker/friends groups: You control the playlist, the pace and the stops. It’s your crew, your day, your rules.

• Special occasions: Birthdays, anniversaries, milestone events — a private charter makes it memorable.

Details & inclusions

• Maximum of 18 guests (private charter format)
• Departing from Great Sandy Straits Marina in Hervey Bay; exact check‑in time advised at booking.
• Experienced skipper and attentive crew.

• Use of snorkelling gear, stand‑up paddle boards (SUPs), flotation gear and beach games.

• National Park/Marine Park access as required.

• Light refreshments and bottled water (or you might choose to bring own catering if you like – we can assist).

• Option to personalise stops, games or experiences (subject to weather/sea conditions).

• Eco‑aware operations: we follow best‑practice marine wildlife and environmental guidelines as an Eco-tourism & Sustainable tourism certified business.

What you’ll need to bring

• Swimwear, towel, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and sandals.

• Light jacket or wind‑breaker (sea spray and breeze can be stronger than you expect).

• A camera or phone with waterproof or protective case.

• Cash or card for optional extras (e.g., alcohol)

• A sense of adventure and ready for fun!

Safety & small print

• The tour is scheduled for 4.5 to 5 hours in total.

• Stops and itinerary are weather and tide dependent – our skipper will always pick the safest & best spots for that day. NB* Not all stops are guaranteed especially on high tides.

• Minimum age / fitness: children must be supervised. If you have guests with mobility issues, please let us know in advance so we can accommodate.

• Please arrive at least 15 minutes before departure time. The boat cannot wait for late arrivals.

• Cancellation policy: https://salty-safaris.com.au/about-us/terms-conditions/

• Maximum 18 guests ensures exclusivity and personalised focus—so once your group size is confirmed, we hold the charter just for you.

Why you’ll remember this tour

Because you won’t be watching from the shore, you’ll be in the moment. You’ll feel the wind, the spray, the freedom of the sea. You’ll paddle in pristine bays, swim among marine life, stand on a beach no one else is using that day, laugh with the people you brought, and leave with those “remember‑when” moments. This isn’t a generic tour where you sit and watch – this is a private adventure, tailored, uninterrupted, with you in the driver’s seat of fun.

From the start of check‑in to waving goodbye at the marina, we take care of the logistics so your group’s energy can stay on connection, exploration and joy. Whether you’re aiming to capture epic photos, share an unforgettable team day, or just soak up nature with close company, this charter delivers.

Book your group now

Spaces are strictly limited (private charter format, max 18). Once your date is locked, the vessel is yours. Reach out for availability, optional add‑ons (catering, photography, extended time) or to discuss how we can tailor the day to your group’s needs. Your adventure awaits – come see more, do more, and have more fun with the Salty Safaris Island Hopper.