RMC Whitsundays Experience 2025 – A Coastal Cruising Adventure

This year’s RMC Whitsundays & Circle Whitsundays Experience, which was 25th Sept – 6th October 2025, took on a slightly different format, offering our Riviera owners an extended cruising adventure in two stages. In the months before the Circle Whitsundays, our lead RMC Riviera travelled north from the Gold Coast to the Whitsundays, joined by seven other vessels for the first leg of the trip.

The fleet then returned the following month, joined by other Rivieras totalling eleven for the experience around the Whitsundays, before beginning the journey south once more. Along the way, the group visited a range of beautiful destinations together, eventually returning home to the Gold Coast to conclude the experience, while others chose to stay and enjoy the area further.

Click here to see all the photos of this experience

You can click the < and choose fullscreen to watch the video larger on mobile

Day 1 – Airlie Beach Gathering > Cape Gloucester, Montes Reef Resort

The adventure began with a stunning morning outside Airlie Beach, where our fleet of Rivieras assembled under perfect Whitsundays skies. We set off as a smaller group, but soon grew when we reached our destination, just a short trip away at Cape Gloucester. Lunch on the boats, followed by an afternoon meetup at Montes Reef Resort, where we enjoyed delicious platters and incredible service. It was a chance for everyone to meet for the first time or catch up with friends not seen for a while.
After that, we took a quick tender ride back to our boats, where a few in our fleet were showing off their integrated Aqua Rail lights—brilliantly lighting up the decks for added safety and a striking display that turns heads. If you’re interested, check out more photos and video here. Our RMC Electronics division would be happy to answer any questions you may have about installing your own in your existing vessel.

Day 2 – Cape Gloucester to Stonehaven

Our first full day on the water took us from Cape Gloucester to the beautiful Stonehaven Bay on Hook Island. For some, it was a welcome return; for others, a first glimpse of this Whitsundays gem. We also proudly welcomed four new Riviera vessels into the fleet before gathering ashore for sunset drinks and a beach catch-up.

Day 3 – Lunch at Hayman Island

From our anchorage at Stonehaven, we ferried guests across to Hayman Island’s Bam Bam Restaurant, where lunch on the lawn by the pool exceeded every expectation. Excellent service, incredible food, and a breathtaking setting made it a highlight of the trip. Later that afternoon, we returned in time to relax on board and enjoy the AFL Grand Final from the back of the boats.

Day 4 – Macona Inlet Raft-Up

The fleet cruised into Macona Inlet for a day dedicated to watersports and relaxation. Paddleboards, tenders, and laughter filled the bay as our traditional Riviera raft-up came together. The evening saw everyone gather for a shared dinner aboard Entropy, a magnificent Riviera 585 SUV, purpose-built for entertaining from bow to stern.

Day 5 – Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet

Few places capture the Whitsundays’ magic like Whitehaven Beach. Ten Rivieras lined the horizon for a day of soft white sand, clear water, and a classic RMC beach BBQ at Hill Inlet. The camaraderie between crews was the true highlight — new friendships formed effortlessly under the Whitsundays sun.

Day 6 – Refuelling at Shute Harbour & Burning Point

After a smooth run into Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, our fleet took advantage of the world-class facilities and high-flow diesel before cruising south toward Burning Point, Shaw Island. The evening BBQ ashore, framed by a Whitsundays sunset, was the perfect way to close the day.

Day 7 – Percy Island & Keppel Bay

A travel day brought us calm seas and ideal cruising conditions. A short stop at the iconic A-Frame on Middle Percy Island offered a glimpse into boating history — a long-standing tradition where mariners leave memorabilia as a memento of their visit. From there, the fleet continued south to Keppel Bay Marina, where dinner ashore rounded out a relaxed evening.

Day 8–9 – Great Keppel Island, The Narrows & Wathumba Creek

As we continued toward the coast, stops at Long Beach, The Narrows, and Black Swan Creek showcased the diversity of Queensland’s cruising grounds. Calm conditions and gentle runs made for easy miles and plenty of time to unwind. A quick refuel in Bundaberg set us up for a smooth crossing to Wathumba Creek, where glassy waters and golden light made for a peaceful overnight anchorage.

Day 10 – Fraser Island & Kingfisher Bay

With only a few days left before returning home, the fleet cruised along Fraser Island’s western shores to anchor off Kingfisher Bay. The day ended with our final beach BBQ — an RMC tradition that never loses its charm. Laughter, toasts, and reflections filled the evening air as we watched the sun dip below the horizon.

Day 11 – Farewell at Kingfisher Bay Resort

Our final night was spent at Kingfisher Bay Resort’s Sand Bar & Bistro, sharing pizzas, stories, and plenty of laughs. As luck would have it, it was also NRL Grand Final night — the atmosphere electric, full of cheers and friendly rivalry. It was the perfect way to close our Circle of Whitsundays Experience before departing at dawn for the final run back to the Gold Coast.

Until Next Time

From start to finish, this journey was about connection — with the water, with one another, and with the Riviera lifestyle we all share. We extend our sincere thanks to all who joined us this year and to those who supported the fleet along the way.

The Whitsundays delivered once again — pristine anchorages, calm seas, and the spirit of adventure that keeps us coming back.

Until the next RMC Experience — safe cruising, and see you on the water. ⚓️

You can click the < and choose fullscreen to watch the video larger on mobile

November 12, 2025

RMC Whitsundays Experience 2025 – A Coastal Cruising Adventure