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Low Isles Sailing Cruise – A Peaceful Day on the Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas

- Great Barrier Reef

From AUD $238

The best deal

All Year

Wildlife/Nature

Port Douglas

1-99

All Year

Wildlife/Nature

Port Douglas

1-99

What you need to Know?

Start Location:

Sailaway Boathouse, 8 Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, Port Douglas

Departure Time:

8:30 am (check-in 8:00 am)

Return Time:

4 pm

Duration:

7,5 hours

Free date changes:

Subject to availability

Included

  • Morning & Afternoon Treats – Fresh muffins, tropical fruits, coffee and tea served onboard.
  • Tropical Buffet Lunch – Feast on a delicious lunch featuring ocean-fresh prawns and local flavours.
  • Snorkelling Gear & Support
  • Glass-Bottom Boat Ride
  • Low Isles Heritage Walk
  • Five Hours on Low Isles
  • Guided Snorkel Tour
  • Small Group Atmosphere – Maximum of 33 guests onboard
  • Port Douglas Transfers – Return hotel transfers included within the local area.
  • Eco Shamba Contribution – $20 from your booking supports local reforestation and reef protection.
  • Tax (GST)

Description

Sail to the Soft Edge of the Reef – A Must-Do Day from Port Douglas

Step onto the deck, feel the sea breeze against your face, and watch the sails rise as the mainland slips away. This one-day sailing tour to Low Isles is a peaceful retreat from the everyday — just over an hour from Port Douglas, but a world apart. Surrounded by crystal-clear water, coral gardens, and a ring of white sand, the island welcomes visitors into the calm, shallow waters of the Great Barrier Reef without crowds or chaos.

Swim with Turtles, Snorkel Coral Gardens, and Slow Down

As the catamaran anchors in the protected blue lagoon, it’s time to slide into a different rhythm. Snorkel over soft and hard corals, guided by a marine biologist who shares reef secrets only locals know. Green turtles glide beside you while schools of fish flicker past in flashes of colour. The water is warm, clear, and inviting — perfect for first-time snorkellers and confident swimmers alike.

Later, take a trip aboard the glass-bottom boat, where coral reefs come alive beneath your feet. Then, step ashore and join a guided heritage walk. Wander past the historic lighthouse, hear about early scientific expeditions, and imagine life here in the 1800s — all while breathing in the salty breeze and eucalyptus air.

A Premium Reef Cruise for Nature-Loving Travellers

This isn’t a big-boat tour. With just 33 guests onboard, this tour feels relaxed, personal, and unhurried. The Lagoon 560 sailing catamaran is spacious and stable, offering shaded outdoor lounges, an upstairs flybridge with sweeping views, and quiet, wind-powered cruising. It’s a rare chance to experience the reef in comfort and stillness.

Enjoy morning and afternoon tea, a tropical buffet lunch, and friendly service throughout the day. Whether stretched out on the bow, chatting with the skipper, or floating in the water with turtles, every moment invites presence, not performance.

Why This Cruise Belongs on Any Cairns or Port Douglas Itinerary

If you’re planning what to do in Cairns or Port Douglas, this reef cruise is a perfect match for travellers who want more than just a photo stop. It’s for those who want to listen to the waves, taste salt in the air, and actually feel the reef. No engines roaring. No microphone commentary every 10 minutes. Just water, wind, wildlife — and the luxury of space to take it all in.

Why do we love "Low Isles Sailing Cruise – A Peaceful Day on the Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas"

VANZ TRAVEL team

Chris says: On this Low Isles cruise from Port Douglas, time softened with each wave. Snorkelling felt like drifting through a living painting — coral gardens below, turtles beside me, only the sound of breath and water. The reef wasn’t just a sight; it was a sensation that stayed in my chest long after the mask came off. Lunch tasted brighter, the breeze felt warmer, and everything moved slower in the best possible way. If any Great Barrier Reef tour can quiet the noise of daily life, it’s this one.

Reviews

Pending

Know Before You Go

What should I bring?

Essentials for Your Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Port Douglas:

Swimsuit & towel
Sunscreen
Hat & sunglasses
Smartphone
Reusable water bottle
Waterproof bag or beach bag
Waterproof camera (optional) – For underwater moments with turtles and coral gardens.
Light jacket (June–August) – Evenings at sea can feel cooler after a day in the sun.
Payment card or cash – For purchasing drinks on board like juices or local wines.

A few simple items make all the difference for a smooth, relaxing Port Douglas reef tour.

What is NOT included?

• Environment Management Charge – $8.00 per person, payable at check-in.
This fee helps protect the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and supports local conservation.
• Alcoholic beverages – Available to purchase onboard during your Port Douglas reef cruise.
• Soft drinks and juices – Can also be purchased during the day while sailing or relaxing.

What else should I know before I go?

Important Details for your Great Barrier Reef Tour from Port Douglas:

• Itinerary flexibility – This itinerary is a guideline and may change depending on tide, wind, and weather. Safety and the best possible reef experience always come first.

Check-in at 8:00 am – Arrive at the Sailaway Marina Office in Port Douglas. Boarding begins at 8:15 am.

Courtesy coach transfers – Pickups are available within Port Douglas, but must be pre-booked at least 24 hours in advance. Please confirm your pickup time and location directly with Tour Operator by calling 07 4099 4200. Make sure to arrive at your pickup point 5 minutes early. Drivers cannot wait beyond the scheduled time.

Swimming ability required for snorkelling – This tour includes open water snorkelling. Participants must be confident swimmers, able to move independently in the water. Guests who are not confident may be advised not to snorkel, based on the professional judgment of our guides — your safety always comes first.

Mobility note – This tour involves boarding small vessels, using ladders to access the water, and walking on the island. For safety reasons, guests should have reasonable mobility. The vessel is not wheelchair accessible. This is an active Great Barrier Reef experience best suited to travellers who enjoy physical adventure.

 If you have any concerns or questions, feel free to reach out. We’re happy to help you choose the right reef experience from Port Douglas for your needs and comfort.

What is the cancellation policy?

  • If Tour Operator cancels your tour due to weather or other reasons, you will receive a full refund.
  • If you need to change your tour date, we offer flexibility at no charge. Simply let us know at least 48 hours before your scheduled date, subject to availability.
  • However, if you change your mind or need to cancel for any other reason, a cancellation fee will apply according to VANZ Travel’s terms and conditions available on our website.
  • Cancellations made less than 48 hours of the tour date are non-refundable.
  • Please note that the card fee is non-refundable.

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Suppliers Terms and Conditions

We get information about experiences from independent providers. We try to make sure our offers are correct, but sometimes things might change a little. When you book, the provider will give you comprehensive details regarding each experience upon confirmation of your booking. If there are any changes later on, they’ll let you know. Participation in each experience is contingent upon your acceptance of the terms and conditions outlined by the experience provider at the time of booking confirmation.

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