AIRLIE BEACH GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Sail, Sit, and Paddle: A Short Outrigger Escape from Airlie Beach
A compact 1.5-hour guided cruise in Australia’s only commercial sailing outrigger canoe that teaches you to paddle while gliding past Pioneer Bay and secluded Funnel Bay — this guide distills what to expect and how to prepare.
Sail, Sit, and Paddle: A Short Outrigger Escape from Airlie Beach.
From the shore at Airlie Beach you step into an open‑hulled outrigger canoe and into an experience that is part hands‑on lesson, part coastal sightseeing: a 1.5‑hour eco adventure that sails past waterfront homes and into sheltered coves such as Funnel Bay while guides teach paddling and point out wildlife and scenic highlights.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
The Open Feel of 'Ohana' — Sail, Water, and Wind
The tour’s signature is the open outrigger canoe itself: you feel the water along the hull, watch the wind fill the sail, and sit or lie on the large trampolines while the guide steers — a tactile, low‑profile way to be on the water.
Short Scenic Passage Through Pioneer Bay to Funnel Bay
In a compact 90‑minute loop you’ll glide past grand waterfront homes and into quieter coves such as the secluded Funnel Bay, with opportunities to spot local wildlife along the way.
Hands‑On Paddling and Guided Briefing
Before departure the crew runs a practical demonstration on how to paddle and conducts a tour briefing so guests of all abilities can take part in steering and paddling under guidance.
What the day feels like
What the 1.5‑Hour Eco Adventure Feels Like
This is a short, social outing: arrive at the meet point, complete a brief pre‑departure routine, learn the basics of outrigger paddling in a demonstration, then set off from the beach aboard the sailing outrigger. The guide manages the sail and course while guests paddle, relax on trampoline nets, and take in waterfront vistas before returning to shore after approximately an hour and a half.
THE BOAT
The Open Feel of 'Ohana' — Sail, Water, and Wind
The tour’s signature is the open outrigger canoe itself: you feel the water along the hull, watch the wind fill the sail, and sit or lie on the large trampolines while the guide steers — a tactile, low‑profile way to be on the water.
THE ROUTE
Short Scenic Passage Through Pioneer Bay to Funnel Bay
In a compact 90‑minute loop you’ll glide past grand waterfront homes and into quieter coves such as the secluded Funnel Bay, with opportunities to spot local wildlife along the way.
THE LESSON
Hands‑On Paddling and Guided Briefing
Before departure the crew runs a practical demonstration on how to paddle and conducts a tour briefing so guests of all abilities can take part in steering and paddling under guidance.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this short eco outing suits — and what’s not specified by the provider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Apply sunscreen before boarding and bring any essential personal items; the operator provides a secure area to store belongings while on the tour.
Arrive about 15 minutes early to sign the indemnity waiver and take part in the paddling demonstration and tour briefing.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Eco Adventure Tour?
The guided tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Broadwater Ave, Airlie Beach.
What will we do on the tour?
Guests are taught how to paddle with outrigger paddles, receive a tour briefing and demonstration, and then sail around the waters to scenic spots including Pioneer Bay and Funnel Bay.
Is prior paddling experience required?
No prior experience is required — the crew runs a practical demonstration on how to paddle before departure so guests can participate.
Are there opportunities to see wildlife or scenic views?
Yes — the tour passes grand waterfront homes and secluded coves where you may be lucky enough to spot wildlife while enjoying coastal views.
Do I need to sign anything before the tour?
Yes — guests sign an indemnity waiver as part of the check‑in process.
How much does the tour cost?
The headline price starts at A$120 for the 1.5‑hour tour.