Stingers

Stinger Season in the Whitsunday’s runs from October through to May. During this period, jellyfish are in the waters around the mainland, islands and have occasionally been found out on the Reef. There are two main types of "stingers" in the area and they are the Box Jellyfish and the Irukandji Jellyfish. Stingers are more numerous after local rain especially near river and creek outlets; they are usually absent when the seas are rough.

Marine stingers are not usually found over coral, in deep water or around extensive sea grass or weed beds. The initial sting from most Irukandji species is quite mild, feeling like sea lice or a mosquito bite. There is often no mark, or perhaps small red "goose pimple" marks. Often, Irukandji stings will sweat profusely in the immediate sting region only. Please note: If you do happen to get stung by one of these "stingers", do not by any means rub the sting area. Apply vinegar immediately and seek help urgently. Do not re-enter the water.

Your chances of being stung by a box jelly fish are extremely remote. You are more likely to be involved in a car accident than be stung by a box jelly. Box jellyfish stings cause immediate severe pain, often likened to an iron or hot oil burns. The tentacles are often left on the skin, and will cause additional stinging if not neutralized by vinegar.

The best precaution to take is to hire a “Stinger Suit” from Abel Point Mariner that when worn in the water forms a biological barrier. A “stinger suit” is made of a very light weight lycra material that is extremely comfortable and has the added benefit of supplying sun protection. Anchors Away have been able to secure special discounts for their clientele in that when your hire a “stinger suit” you receive goggles, flippers and a snorkel at no extra charge for the duration of the hire.

For any enquiries, please feel free to contact us or telephone 1300 556 990 (International callers: 61 2 4658 0521).