One of the most frequently asked questions of bareboat charters companies in the Whitsundays is "Do I have to be concerned about jelly fish stings". The simple answer is Yes. There are 2 species of jellyfish that you should be aware of, (Chironex fleckeri) the Box Jellyfish and (Carukia barnesi) commonly known as the Irukandgi. Both have deaths attributed to them even though it is extremely rare.

Time of Year

Studies have shown that October through to March have record the most sting peaking in January. This author could not find any studies that related the stings to the number of tourist which I believe would be an interesting fact.

Symptoms

The intriguing part about the Irukandji sting is that it usually goes unnoticed until about half an hour later when the symptom start to manifest themselves. These include increased heart rate, vomiting, sweating, chest pains and a feeling anticipated fear. The symptoms ebb to return up to half an hour later and the cycle continues progressively getting worse.

Treatment

Washing with vinegar is usually the best first aid if only to prevent more stings. Some would also suggest a compression bandage. As a bareboat charterer I would suggest that your first call should be to your charter company to obtain some initial advice and instructions especially since they will have the best idea of your position. The next step is usually a helicopter trip to Mackay Hospital for inter venous fluids, pain meds and observation

Protection

Best precautions are to wear what is commonly referred to as a "Stinger Suite" any reputable Bareboat Charter company will either provide them or refer you to where you can hire them. They are not a fashion statement especially for the more portly of us but they have a two fold purpose in that they are excellent for stopping sunburn which by the way is way more common a reason for spoiling a bareboat holiday than jellyfish stings

Conclusion

I believe the probability of being stung by an Irukandji while bareboat chartering in the Whitsundays is quite remote but the precaution of wearing a stinger suite is not a high price to pay for piece of mind. When my family is snorkelling we all wear them. They are not a great fashion statement especially for the ladies but a pair of boardies over the top does wonders for the look. See you on the water.