The sailing options from Port Douglas put you right on the Great Barrier Reef without fuss. Best choices include the Wavedancer’s Low Isles excursions, combining snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours in a single trip. We love the luxury catamaran tours – they’re well worth the extra cost for smaller crowds and better service. The sunset sails on traditional Chinese junks particularly stand out, offering a more authentic experience away from the big tour boats. After testing numerous operators, these top sailing tours rose above the rest.
Let’s look at our favorite reef adventures:
Key Points
- The Wavedancer Low Isles Cruise offers a 4-hour snorkeling and nature walk experience with a marine biologist on the Great Barrier Reef.
- The Port Douglas Afternoon Cruise provides a 5.5-hour luxury catamaran trip to Low Isles with snorkeling, glass-bottom viewing, and personalized service.
- The Full-Day Low Isles Adventure from Palm Cove includes a full-day cruise with snorkeling, guided walks, and a tropical buffet lunch.
- The Outer Reef Cruise from Port Douglas offers a full-day sailing adventure to Mackay Cay with snorkeling, a marine biologist, and a tropical buffet lunch.
- Sunset sailing experiences in Port Douglas include a 1.5-hour cruise on a traditional Chinese junk boat or a luxury catamaran, with live commentary and complimentary drinks.
Wavedancer Low Isles Great Barrier Reef Sailing Cruise
Set sail from the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina in Port Douglas aboard the Wavedancer, a luxurious 98-foot sailing catamaran.
This 4-hour cruise takes you to explore the 55-acre Low Isles on the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel off the beach or join a guided tour to see coral gardens and marine life, including giant clams, tropical fish, and green sea turtles.
Enjoy a glass-bottom boat experience and a guided nature walk on the island. Savor a delicious buffet lunch and relax in air-conditioned cabins or on the sun decks.
Throughout the journey, a marine biologist provides insightful onboard presentations. With high ratings, excellent customer reviews, and flexible booking, this cruise is a must-do for families and beginners in Port Douglas.
Read our full review: Wavedancer Low Isles Great Barrier Reef Sailing Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Port Douglas: Low Isles Afternoon Cruise on Luxury Catamaran
Travelers embark on a luxurious catamaran for an unforgettable adventure to the Great Barrier Reef‘s Low Isles. This 5.5-hour cruise offers a range of activities, including snorkeling, glass-bottom boat viewing, and a guided walk.
With complimentary drinks, a light lunch, and afternoon tea, guests can relax and soak in the stunning views of the Coral Sea and Daintree mountains. The small group size ensures excellent service and attention.
While not suitable for those with health concerns, the cruise is highly recommended, with a 4.9/5 rating from 84 reviews. Guests should bring necessary items like sunscreen and swimwear to make the most of this memorable sailing experience.
Read our full review: Port Douglas: Low Isles Afternoon Cruise on Luxury Catamaran Review
Book now: Check availability
Wavedancer Low Isles Great Barrier Reef Sailing Cruise From Palm Cove
This full-day adventure invites guests to explore the stunning Low Isles of the Great Barrier Reef from Palm Cove aboard the luxurious catamaran, Wavedancer.
Travelers will cruise 15 km to the Low Isles, accompanied by marine biologist guides. The itinerary includes snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, and guided nature walks.
A tropical buffet lunch, morning and afternoon tea, and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine are provided. Praised for its friendly staff, educational experience, and excellent food, the tour is recommended by 94% of travelers.
While some negative feedback regarding cancellations due to mechanical issues exists, the overall rating is 4.5/5 based on 18 reviews and a Badge of Excellence.
Read our full review: Wavedancer Low Isles Great Barrier Reef Sailing Cruise From Palm Cove Review
Book now: Check availability
From Port Douglas: Outer Reef Cruise by Luxury Catamaran
Departing from the charming coastal town of Port Douglas, this full-day sailing and snorkeling adventure takes guests to the Outer Great Barrier Reef‘s stunning Mackay Cay aboard a custom-built luxury catamaran.
During the 9-hour tour, visitors will snorkel with a marine biologist, witness diverse marine life, and enjoy a tropical buffet lunch and refreshments.
The eco-friendly experience also includes a glass-bottom boat tour and opportunities for additional snorkeling.
Priced from $201.35 per person with free cancellation, this excursion delivers an unforgettable day on the water, surrounded by the remarkable beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.
Read our full review: From Port Douglas: Outer Reef Cruise by Luxury Catamaran Review
Book now: Check availability
Wavedancer Low Isles Great Barrier Reef Sailing Cruise From Cairns
Embarking on a leisurely full-day cruise, passengers aboard the Wavedancer catamaran set sail from Cairns to the picturesque Low Isles, a stunning coral cay located within the Great Barrier Reef.
During the 15km journey, travelers can experience snorkeling with the guidance of marine biologists, explore the island’s flora and fauna on guided walks, and view the vibrant coral up close from the glass-bottom boat.
The tour accommodates up to 200 guests and includes a buffet lunch, morning and afternoon tea, and complimentary sparkling wine.
With a 4.5-star rating, the Wavedancer cruise is a memorable way to discover the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
Read our full review: Wavedancer Low Isles Great Barrier Reef Sailing Cruise From Cairns Review
Book now: Check availability
Port Douglas: Reef & Low Isles Cruise on Luxury Catamaran
For those seeking a luxurious way to explore the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, the Port Douglas: Reef & Low Isles Cruise on Luxury Catamaran offers an exceptional full-day experience.
Priced from $217.33 per person, this 8-hour cruise aboard a luxury catamaran provides free cancellation and flexible booking options. Guests can enjoy 4.5 hours at the Low Isles, featuring guided snorkeling tours, glass-bottom boat trips, and heritage walks.
The experience includes a gourmet buffet lunch, morning and afternoon tea, and all necessary snorkeling gear. With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 76 reviews, this cruise promises a personalized and knowledgeable encounter with the reef’s protected coral gardens.
Read our full review: Port Douglas: Reef & Low Isles Cruise on Luxury Catamaran Review
Book now: Check availability
Shaolin Sunset Sailing Aboard Authentic Chinese Junk Boat
Against the backdrop of the stunning Coral Sea, travelers can set sail on an evening cruise aboard an authentic Chinese junk boat for the Shaolin Sunset Sailing experience in Port Douglas.
With 220 positive reviews and a 96% recommendation rate, this 1.5-hour cruise offers a romantic activity for couples to relax, enjoy a complimentary drink and canapés, and witness the sun dipping below the mountains.
The intimate experience accommodates up to 23 guests, providing live commentary from the captain and insights into the local area.
While infants are welcome, the cruise isn’t recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: Shaolin Sunset Sailing Aboard Authentic Chinese Junk Boat Review
Book now: Check availability
Port Douglas: Sunset Sailing Cruise on Luxury Catamaran
As the sun dips below the horizon, travelers can set sail on a leisurely 1.5-hour sunset cruise aboard a luxury catamaran in the heart of Port Douglas.
For $54.33 per person, guests can enjoy views of the Coral Sea and Daintree Rainforest while sipping complimentary beverages and snacking on canapes.
The cruise departs at 5:00 PM and returns to the marina by 6:30 PM. An Environmental Management Charge of AU$4 per person is payable at check-in.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 280 reviews, this cruise offers a relaxing atmosphere and first-class service, though it’s not suitable for children under 12 or those with mobility issues.
Read our full review: Port Douglas: Sunset Sailing Cruise on Luxury Catamaran Review
Book now: Check availability
Sunset Sailing Cruise From Port Douglas
Travelers seeking a tranquil and scenic way to cap off their day in Port Douglas can embark on a sunset sailing cruise aboard a luxury catamaran.
The 1.5-hour excursion departs at 5:00 PM from the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, offering breathtaking views of the Coral Sea, mountains, Low Isles, and coastline. Guests will enjoy a welcome drink and a selection of gourmet canapés as they sail.
With a maximum capacity of 45 travelers, the cruise provides an intimate experience. While the tour operates in all weather, a light jacket is recommended for cooler evenings.
Feedback from past passengers highlights the comfortable vessel, friendly staff, and the relaxing atmosphere, though some note issues with hidden charges and weather conditions.
Read our full review: Sunset Sailing Cruise From Port Douglas Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Low Isles Sailing & Snorkelling Cruise From Port Douglas
Embarking on a full-day sailing and snorkeling excursion from Port Douglas, travelers can explore the stunning Low Isles.
With a 96% recommendation rate from over 520 reviews, this cruise offers an intimate experience for a maximum of 33 passengers. Aboard a luxury catamaran, guests can enjoy a seafood buffet lunch, glass-bottom boat tours, and guided snorkeling led by a marine biologist.
While snorkeling participants must be confident swimmers, the experience caters to those with good mobility. Priced from $205.55 per person, this tour provides the opportunity to take in the vibrant marine life of the Great Barrier Reef.
Read our full review: Full Day Low Isles Sailing & Snorkelling Cruise From Port Douglas Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Yes, you can generally bring your own food and drinks on the boat. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator ahead of time to confirm their specific policies regarding outside food and beverages.
What Is the Cancellation Policy in Case of Bad Weather?
Most sailing tour operators have flexible cancellation policies that allow customers to reschedule or receive a full refund if the tour is cancelled due to inclement weather. It’s best to check the specific policy before booking.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements to Participate?
There are typically no age or fitness requirements for sailing experiences, but participants should ensure they’re comfortable on the water. It’s best to check with the tour operator about any specific policies or restrictions before booking.
Can I Store My Valuables Safely on the Boat?
You can typically store your valuables safely on the boat. Most sailboat operators provide secure storage spaces or lockers for passengers to keep their belongings protected during the sailing experience.
Do the Sailing Tours Provide Snorkeling Equipment?
Many sailing tours in the area do provide snorkeling equipment, allowing passengers to explore the underwater world during the excursion. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm if snorkeling gear is included in the package.
Recap
Port Douglas offers a variety of sailing experiences, from exploring the Low Isles on a luxury catamaran to cruising the Outer Reef. Visitors can enjoy a sunset sail on an authentic Chinese junk boat or a full-day snorkeling and sailing adventure. With so many options, there’s sure to be a sailing trip that suits any traveler’s interests and budget.