• An unforgettable sail around the coral gardens and stunning shores of Magnetic Island, with the most personable and friendly service imaginable!
• You’ll be sailing in a timeless way on the balmy breezes during this half day or full day snorkel tour, so why not immerse yourself in the whole sailing experience by taking a turn at the helm?
• Magnetic Island is simply a jewel in the crown of Australia's Great Barrier Reef and a place not to be missed on your visit to Townsville.
• Choose from a half day morning tour at 9.00am to 1.30pm or a full day snorkel tour from 9.00am to 4.30pm. We of course prefer you join for a full day tour and see so much more of Magnetic Island. 

Our big beautiful yacht is based on Magnetic Island and takes guests on a scenic snorkelling tour around the bays and islands of the reef with only a small group of 12 guests onboard.

What to Expect

There are so many things that makes this Great Barrier Reef snorkelling and sailing tour an extra special option for a half day sail around Magnetic Island. Flexibility, friendliness, fun; just to name a few.

Set sail from the serene shores of Magnetic Island on a half-day snorkelling and sailing tour that promises an intimate and unforgettable Great Barrier Reef experience. With a small group size of only 12 guests, you will enjoy personalised attention and a cosy atmosphere aboard a luxurious yacht, exploring some of the most vibrant and secluded parts of the Great Barrier Reef. Departing at 9.00am and returning at 1.30pm

Features and Highlights

Luxurious and Intimate Sailing Experience

• Yacht Details: Enjoy your adventure on a large, beautifully maintained yacht, perfect for both relaxation and active participation.
• Small Group Advantage: With a limit of 12 passengers, experience a more intimate and engaging snorkelling tour, allowing for personalised interactions and ample space.

Exclusive Access to Pristine Locations

• Unique Permits: Thanks to special roaming permits, explore exclusive areas of the Great Barrier Reef that are not accessible to the general public.
• Diverse Marine Life: Snorkelling in clear waters teeming with rich marine life including coral gardens, sea turtles, and a myriad of fish species.

Active Participation and Learning

• Hands-On Sailing: Guests are encouraged to learn about sailing from the knowledgeable crew and even take a turn at the helm.
• Educational Insights: Gain valuable insights into the local marine ecosystem from your hosts, who are not only experts but also passionate about marine conservation.

Comfort and Convenience

• Morning Tea Included: Start your day with a delightful morning tea including tropical fruits and sweets, complemented by tea and coffee.
• BYO Beverages: Feel free to bring your own beverages in a small cooler bag or esky to enjoy throughout the trip.

Activities Galore

• Snorkelling and Paddleboarding: Dive into the underwater world with provided snorkelling gear or paddleboard around the tranquil bays.
• Boom Netting: Add a splash of fun with boom netting, a unique way to enjoy the water as the boat glides along.

Personal Touch

• Meet the Crew: Be welcomed aboard by the family team of Lisa, Stu, Fletcher, and their dog Coco, who bring a personal touch to every tour.
• Flexibility in Activities: Whether you prefer to relax on the deck or engage in the water activities, the half day snorkelling tour is designed to cater to all preferences.

Magnetic Island - Half Day Sail

• Scenic Sailing: Sail around the picturesque Magnetic Island, enjoying the cool breezes and stunning coastal views.
• Interactive Snorkelling: Guided by your expert hosts, explore the vibrant coral reefs and encounter exotic marine creatures up close.

Private Charter Boat Opportunities

• Whale Watching: During the cooler months, opt for a private charter to witness the majestic humpback whales and possibly the famous white whale, Migaloo.
• Tailored Experiences: Private charter boats offer the flexibility to customize your Great Barrier Reef tour itinerary, perfect for special occasions or a more exclusive adventure.

This half-day snorkelling tour from Magnetic Island is not just a trip but an immersive experience into the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, combining adventure, relaxation, and education in an eco-friendly approach. Join us and create memories that will last a lifetime in the heart of one of the world's most beautiful natural settings.

See all Magnetic Island tours and learn more about the Great Barrier Reef.

Personal Touch on Tropical Magnetic Island

The paradise shores of Magnetic Island are located a stone’s throw from Townsville, and offer the epitome of tropical adventure.

Your friendly boat crew, Lisa, Stu, Fletcher and their dog Coco, are knowledgeable locals who will enhance your Great Barrier Reef tour with a multitude of activity at breathtaking (and secret) sites.

They live aboard this luxurious cruising vessel, and will welcome you into their home with highlighted sailing, sumptuous meals, and the kind of service that makes you feel as though you’re not just another tourist!

Your spacious sailboat for the day will spirit you along the reef, above stunning coral gardens and a startling abundance of marine life.

Drawing upon the balmy breeze, your sail boat utilises wind, rather than an engine when possible, creating a low impact on the environment.

You might even want to try your hand hoisting the sails and take a turn at the helm!

Magnetic Island - Half Day Sail

You may very well find yourself spoiled for choice on this magic and personable Great Barrier Reef tour.

After your sail boat collects you from Magnetic Island, you’ll begin a voyage around the dazzling shores.

The pure, exhilaration of sailing the high seas is an unforgettable experience, with the opportunity to wind the winches and take the wheel!

Your friendly guides will also share some snorkelling tips and advice, before they suit you up with your snorkel and mask equipment.

They’ll be on hand to guide you through mesmerizing coral gardens and a magnificent array of marine life; so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for rays and sea turtles!

Private Charter Boat - Whale Watching

The reefs surrounding Magnetic Island off the Townsville coast hold magic in the dazzling waters, coral gardens and fantastical marine life.

Any day of the year, you’ll find a plentitude of rainbow reef fish, sea-turtles and manta-rays in the island shores.

Yet as the cooler climes visit the tropics (still balmy and warm in winter) nature delivers a phenomenon in these parts.

Migrating from Antarctica, this time of the year sees the appearance of dolphins and magnificent Humpback whales!

By booking a private charter boat for a whale-spotting tour you’re inviting a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see these magnificent mammals at play on the Great Barrier Reef.

Little compares to gazing across the sapphire ocean in expectation, only to see a mighty Humpback leap the surface in a crystalline wave!

And on this astonishing and rare voyage, it might even be your lucky day for a Migaloo sighting; Australia’s iconic resident white whale!

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Magnetic Island

Departure Instructions

Please make your own way to Horseshoe Bay, Magnetic Island (on the beach in front of Marlin Bar/public bus stop area)

Destinations

• Magnetic Island
• Great Barrier Reef

Months of Operation

April - January

Days of Operation

Daily

Does not operate Christmas Day
During February - March this tour is available for private charters only depending on weather

Duration

Half Day Tour

Fitness Level Required

Low, Medium

Restrictions

Guests must be able to swim if partaking in water activities

• Towel
• Swimwear
• Hat
• Comfortable footwear
• Camera
• Change of clothing
• BYO Alcohol welcome

Child price applies to children age 4 to 12