Journey Beyond expands Cruise Whitsundays fleet with new catamaran 

Journey Beyond will invest $15 million in a new sightseeing catamaran for its Cruise Whitsundays brand. 

Expected to launch in early 2027, the 36-metre vessel will accommodate up to 390 guests, including 10 wheelchair-accessible spaces, for Great Barrier Reef excursions. 

The multi-deck catamaran will include a large viewing platform on the upper deck, along with two food service areas and a bar.

Sture Myrmell, chief operating officer of Journey Beyond, said: "This is another step in our ongoing and significant investment in the Cruise Whitsundays fleet and facilities over the next few years. 

“This new $15-million vessel will enhance Journey Beyond’s commitment to taking our guests further and ensure we deliver memorable experiences to Cruise Whitsundays’ two pontoons in one of Australia’s iconic locations, the Great Barrier Reef.”

Tim Booth, chief executive of Tourism Whitsundays, added: “The Whitsundays is proudly known as the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, and this new vessel will reinforce our standing as the ultimate destination to experience it.” 

Cruise Whitsundays provides a range of Great Barrier Reef experiences, as well as island-hopping around Hamilton Island, Daydream Islands and Airlie Beach.

The new vessel will be designed by Incat Crowther and constructed by Austal Australasia.