ABOUT US
A Cute Back Story
In 1983, Catherine Lawless and John Linton discovered the wonders of the Whitsundays, kick-starting an annual pilgrimage of bareboating holidays with some of the region’s original trailblazing operators. A few years later, they stretched their wings and set sail along the east coast of Australia.
LOVE, Love…
On the 29th of September, 1988, some 120 nautical miles south of Cape York (Australia’s northernmost tip), they came upon a small coastal village called Portland Roads (originally named Portland Road). This extraordinary experience, the heaven-on-earth location, the family-style welcome, and the vibe of that little village took their breath away. It was a full moon, and they were in love. The locals invited them to a full moon party, and it was clear that time stood still in Portland Roads. The 60s and 70s still seemed alive, as evidenced by this piece of paradise: Had they found their Shangri-La?
The thought of buying their own boat grew, as did their passion to return to Portland Roads. Yet one thing was stopping them: Year after year, they were witnessing a decline in the health of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Pollution, waste, rubbish, refuse, grey water, black water, overfishing, fishing in nurseries, coral degradation, anchor damage, noise and light pollution were all affecting the Whitsundays. Sustainability was not on anyone’s radar, nor was there a connection with the First Nations people of the region. Where did 60,000 years of Ngaro, Gia and Juru custodianship go?
The idea of starting their own charter company was born. The concept of ADVENTURE Simply Done Better, and TOMORROW’S REEF TODAY became their paradigm. Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays has since become the GOLD standard in bareboating, winning GOLD at the 2025 Tourism Awards for BEST BAREBOAT OPERATOR.
Their Mission: Custodians of the Reef
They promote ‘ADVENTURE Simply Done Better’ in their endless pursuit of TOMORROW’S REEF TODAY. This means more than just a holiday; it’s about a deep connection with the environment and the ancient cultural heritage of the Ngaro people. They are proud to be:
- Climate Positive (Carbon Positive): They don’t just aim for carbon neutral; they offset up to five times their annual carbon footprint.
- Certified Leaders: They hold Advanced Eco-certification, Climate Action Business certification and Recognition of Culture accreditation from Ecotourism Australia.
- Dedicated Experts: Their team includes a Marine Biologist and a Great Barrier Reef Master Reef Guide, and the only charter company on the planet to have Master V Captains as your Vessel Manager/Briefer to ensure every voyage leaves their guests an opportunity to become their newest Reef Custodian. You’re in great hands.
Your Adventure, Your Way
Whether you are a seasoned sailor or have never stepped foot on a boat, they empower you to take the helm. Their Skipper-Yourself (Bareboat) Charters require no boat license. The team at Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays will provide:
- Thorough Maritime Briefings: Their expert instructors ensure you feel confident in boat handling, navigation, and safety before you depart from Coral Sea Marina.
- A Premium Fleet: Choose from six expertly maintained Lagoon Sailing Catamarans, ranging from the classic comfort of SV Due West to the ultimate luxury of SV Whitsunday Freedom.
- Total Freedom: Spend six, thirteen or twenty days snorkelling vibrant reefs, relaxing on Whitehaven Beach, or watching the sunset with family and friends—all on your own schedule.
Isn’t it time you set sail with Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays for an unforgettable journey through paradise, where John and Cath are inspired to “make friends, not money” and give back to this beautiful planet and backyard. Come and set sail with this inspirational little business with a big heart.
Adventure, Simply Done Better
Now married with 3 adult children, they continue to inspire a legion of guests, with over 30,000 people choosing to set sail with them. Welcome to Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays, a place where they invite you to experience the magic of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, the 74 Islands of the wonderful Whitsundays, and the grandeur of Ancient Ngaro Sea Country.
As a local, Australian, family-owned business, they pride themselves on being passionate sailors who bring the dream of a private bareboat yacht charter within reach of everyone.
L to R – Beau Martin, John Linton and Jesse Martin OAM – Portland Roads Sailing the WhitsundaysConnections That Matter
Over time, their leadership has drawn them into an inspiring circle of networks, from the extraordinary Jesse Martin OAM to their partnership with WOW – Whales of the Whitsundays. Master Reef Guides, Carbon Neutral Australia, SICYC, Ecotourism Australia, the Yooibaya Cultural Experience team, and Tourism Whitsundays.