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Queensland Sailing trips & boat tours

Our most recommended Queensland Sailing trips & boat tours

Airlie Beach: Whitehaven Full-Day Eco-Cruise with Lunch

1. Airlie Beach: Whitehaven Full-Day Eco-Cruise with Lunch

After pickup from your accommodation, head to the marina in Airlie Beach by bus. Board the custom-built catamaran and enjoy fresh, homemade, gluten-free brownies as a morning snack. The first stop is at one of the area's many beautiful reefs to go snorkeling. Be blown away by the vivid colors, bountiful fish, and coral formations of the Great Barrier Reef's outer fringes. This spot offers a quieter way to experience the UNESCO-protected reef. Then, head to the second snorkeling spot on the northern tip of Hook Island. With your guide, discover the area's underwater valleys, caves, and a variety of marine life. Continue to Whitehaven Beach for a buffet lunch of zucchini frittatas and quiche lorraine served with cold sliced meats, cheeses, salad, and fresh bread. After lunch, join a guided bush walk and history talk to Hill Inlet Lookout, located at the northern end of the beach. Admire the world-famous spot where white sands and turquoise waters blend in a unique swirling effect. Enjoy some free time to relax on the beach and soak up the scenery. An afternoon snack of fresh fruit will be provided before the scenic journey back to Airlie Beach by boat. Be dropped back at your accommodation at approximately 5:00 PM.

Port Douglas: Silversonic Great Barrier Reef Dive & Snorkel

2. Port Douglas: Silversonic Great Barrier Reef Dive & Snorkel

Climb aboard the Silversonic or Poseidon catamaran for a full-day cruise to Australia’s renowned Agincourt Reef on the edge of the Continental Shelf. Dive into the turquoise waters for a refreshing swim or enjoy snorkeling at 3 different sites to see the coral formations and the diverse marine life.  The ultramodern 95-foot (29-meter) Silversonic catamaran is custom-designed for small groups of adventure-minded people. You will spend over 5 hours at the reef, visiting 3 different Agincourt ribbon reef sites, each chosen for its visual and ecological diversity. First-time divers can enjoy up to 2 dives and take the plunge in complete confidence with an experienced dive instructor. Certified divers will enjoy up to 3 dives, all guided to maximize your experience. Silversonic features everything you’ll need to experience an underwater world of colorful marine life in safety and comfort, including a state-of-the-art ride control system ensuring a super smooth journey. Enjoy hydraulic dive and snorkel platforms for easy water access, spacious deck areas, hot freshwater showers, change rooms, and even a licensed bar to share tales of your adventure. As an added bonus during the whale season, Silversonic has one of the few permits available from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority that allows guests to swim with dwarf Minke whales if encountered – a truly unforgettable experience from July through September.

Port Douglas: Quicksilver Outer Barrier Reef Full-Day Cruise

3. Port Douglas: Quicksilver Outer Barrier Reef Full-Day Cruise

Climb aboard a Quicksilver catamaran for a full-day cruise to Australia’s renowned Agincourt Reef, a jewel-like ribbon reef on the edge of the Continental Shelf. Showcasing unsurpassed coral formations, colorful marine life and exceptional underwater visibility, you can snorkel or view the sights from the comfort of a semi-submersible. The Quicksilver's stylish wave-piercing catamaran transports you in air-conditioned comfort. From the spacious activity platform, moored in a protected lagoon, enjoy the widest range of activities for swimmers and non-swimmers alike. A friendly and attentive crew, including professional marine biologists, are on hand to ensure you gain the most from your day. Snorkel among the coral gardens, or stay dry and explore the reef from the comfort of a semi-submersible. Enjoy an informative reef commentary and see the reef from an underwater observatory. Add on exciting optional activities for a complete adventure. Get an introductory dive of the reef, or enjoy certified diving, helmet diving and marine biologist-guided snorkel tours. You can even take a scenic helicopter flight and fly over the reef to see it from another perspective.

From Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Premium Catamaran

4. From Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Premium Catamaran

Hop aboard a catamaran for a day trip to remember to the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel, dive, or swim in the water, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch, and take in the marine wildlife. Meet your crew at the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, pay the reef levy, and hop aboard the luxury catamaran. The crew will select reef locations depending on the day's conditions from Flynn and Milne reef or further north at Norman and Hastings reefs. All offer diverse reef structures teeming with exotic marine life. Feel the wind in your hair as you set sail for the outer Great Barrier Reef. Relax with morning tea on the way, get to know the crew and learn all about the marine eco-system from a marine expert. Review snorkeling techniques with the crew during the journey. Arrive at the first outer reef location, where you can snorkel, dive or swim in the water. You may also choose to sunbathe, or chill on the boat on the upper sun deck or the netted deck trampoline at the bow of the boat. You can avail complimentary guided tours from the staff. A dedicated dive tender is available for experienced certified divers who want to explore deeper waters. All certified divers receive a complimentary dive guide. First-time divers will receive clear and concise scuba instruction in the water from qualified PADI professionals. Savor a fresh tropical buffet lunch prepared onboard. Treat yourself to a selection of hot and cold dishes including buffet meats, salads, and tropical fruit. Travel to the second outer reef location for the day for your choice of activity. Look out for corals, exotic marine life such as parrotfish, reef turtles and 'nemo' fish. End the day as the captain hoists the sails, and cruise back to Cairns. Enjoy a cold drink from the bar (own expense) and relax on the boom netting. Alternatively, watch presentations about the marine life from the passionate eco-certified staff.

From Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tour with Lunch

5. From Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling Tour with Lunch

Explore the stunning biodiversity of the outer Great Barrier Reef on this snorkelling tour from Cairns. 3 sun decks, 2 air-conditioned indoor saloons, a spacious dive deck, and a sunken platform for easy water access. Have drinks and a packed lunch. Depart Cairns in the morning for the outer reef on this 8-hour tour. Join a once in a lifetime adventure aboard a luxury day trip to the great barrier reef. Enjoy a light morning tea and a delicious pre-packed picnic lunch. Complimentary tea, coffee, and chilled water are served throughout the day (snacks, soft and alcoholic beverages are also available for purchase). Discover the Great Barrier Reef in the easiest way possible: with a snorkel - it is as simple as breathing. If you have never snorkelled before, don't worry, a briefing is held on board, explaining how to put and use the snorkelling gear. The private reef locations are approximately 70 kilometres (about 43 miles) offshore, these unique sites offer superb coral formations and an abundance of coral and marine life including inquisitive Nemo's, Turtles, Stingrays and Wally the friendly Maori Wrasse. Visit 2 different reef locations daily, these are chosen en-route considering weather and sea conditions to ensure the best in-water experience. Visit either Norman, Saxon or Hastings Reef.

From Bundaberg: Barrier Reef & Lady Musgrave Island Day Tour

6. From Bundaberg: Barrier Reef & Lady Musgrave Island Day Tour

Visit Lady Musgrave Island in the Southern Great Barrier Reef on this boat trip from Burnett Heads. Enjoy drinks, lunch, access to warm showers, a glass-bottom boat tour, and more. Snorkel in the unique coral lagoon surrounding the island and enjoy a guided island walk. Taking off from Bundaberg Port Marina, enjoy morning tea as you head to Lady Musgrave HQ, a new advanced eco-certified pontoon with snorkel and dive platforms, an underwater observatory, and a licensed bar. As you explore the coral reef lagoon, get plenty of opportunities to encounter manta rays, reef sharks, stingrays, turtles, and hundreds of tropical fish swimming in these coral gardens. Hop in the water to swim or take advantage of the included snorkeling equipment. As an added perk, non-certified introductory dives and certified dives are available if you wish to dive deeper into the coral reef (costs not included). Non-swimmers will love the three-level pontoon, glass-bottom boat tour, and guided island walk to experience the coral reef and marine life all without getting wet. After working up an appetite, a buffet lunch is available on board at your leisure, and you can freshen up with a warm shower after your snorkel and dive. On the boat ride back to the marina, enjoy another cup of afternoon tea.

Hervey Bay 4-Hour Whale Watch Encounter

7. Hervey Bay 4-Hour Whale Watch Encounter

This half-day whale watch cruise departs twice daily from the Hervey Bay Marina on the luxury 20-meter catamaran Tasman Venture. Experience a tranquil cruise across the Great Sandy Strait and past rugged islands before sailing along the pristine western side of World Heritage-listed Fraser Island. The catamaran was specifically designed for whale watching, offering clear viewing decks, underwater viewing windows and a unique water-level viewing platform for the ultimate personal experience. Enjoy once-in-a-lifetime up-close and personal encounters with the majestic humpback whales and marvel at their sheer size and athleticism. Friendly, experienced staff will provide expert commentary throughout the tour and serve a morning or afternoon tea and delicious antipasti platter.

From Cairns: Full-Day Green Island Cruise

8. From Cairns: Full-Day Green Island Cruise

Climb aboard a modern catamaran to sail into Green Island National Park on a beach and snorkeling cruise from Cairns. Discover a hidden gem in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef and explore its coral reefs with snorkeling gear. Choose to enjoy a buffet lunch and go on a semi-submarine tour. Make your way to the harbor to meet your friendly crew for the day and climb onto your catamaran. Relax in the sun as you set sail towards the Great Barrier Reef. Experience picturesque views of the ocean as you arrive at Green Island National Park. Stroll around the island and explore its tranquil beaches. Find a stop to relax and go for a dip in the ocean. Get access to snorkeling gear and take a peek into the region's thriving marine life. You can also opt to go on a semi-submarine or a glass-bottom boat tour to discover the colorful coral reef and fish in comfort.

Spirit of Gold Coast 2.5-Hour Whale Watching Tour

9. Spirit of Gold Coast 2.5-Hour Whale Watching Tour

Come join this family-owned and operated business with over 20 years whale watching experience, committed to offering you the best customer service and memories to last a lifetime. With caring and knowledgeable crew who are focused on your comfort and safety as well as guaranteed whale sightings, you can travel with peace of mind. Within minutes of departure, Spirit of Gold Coast will have you up close and personal with these majestic creatures as they embark on their annual migration along the east coast of Australia. This amazing journey is a truly captivating experience, as right before your very eyes these 40-ton Humpback Whales breach, wave their pectoral fins and slap their tails. Join us for the journey of a lifetime - a memorable adventure to be shared with friends and family.

Cairns: Fitzroy Island Ferry with Snorkeling and Boat Tour

10. Cairns: Fitzroy Island Ferry with Snorkeling and Boat Tour

Enjoy a fun-filled day of activities on visit Fitzroy Island, a national park with lush tropical rainforests, granite outcrops, open woodlands, mangroves, and coral beaches. Set sail to Fitzroy Island with return boat transfers, snorkeling equipment, and a glass-bottom boat tour. Walk to the lighthouse, dine at the restaurant, or relax at the famous Nudey Beach, voted the best beach in Australia. Explore the island's rainforest walks and snorkel at the beach. You also have the option to bring a picnic lunch or purchase a casual lunch from the Fitzroy Island cafe. Extra activities include Foxy's Bar & Café, Pacific Island Store, dive, and activities center - all available on the island at an extra cost.

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What people are saying about Queensland

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 3,217 reviews

The whole exp was great !! We were picked from Gold Coast on tym & the operator was so nice to talk . She was very polite & made our journey comfortable till we reached the cruise. The staff & captain were really nice & and understanding. The food was amazing& place was really clean . The snorkelling exp was great as we never did in deep water with tide. We were to spot dolphins to our way back.We really had a fun tym!!

Excellent day of snorkelling and hiking. The glass bottom boat was a nice way to break up the day and we learned lots about the reef and marine life. Hiking to the summit is a challenge would only recommend if in decent physical Al shape. Great day

What a great day from start to finish, could not have asked for anything else, great communication, great staff on and off the cruise, food was more than you could imagine Definitely worth the money

An absolutely perfect day. The events were wonderful, food delicious and staff incredible. One of my top highlights of my Australia trip.

Freddie was amazing- we did the snorkel safari ran by her Freddie and she was so knowledgeable and fun! Thank you for making our day!