Wavedancer Low Isles Great Barrier Reef Sailing Cruise From Cairns

Nestled off the coast of Port Douglas, the Wavedancer Low Isles Great Barrier Reef Sailing Cruise from Cairns promises an unforgettable day of discovery. Guests can enjoy the vibrant 55-acre coral reef, snorkel in crystal-clear lagoon waters, and explore the island’s lush nature trails. With a sumptuous tropical buffet lunch and a glass-bottom boat tour, this luxurious catamaran adventure caters to all senses. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, the Wavedancer cruise offers a unique opportunity to connect with the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Port Douglas.

Key Points

• The Wavedancer is a full-day luxury catamaran cruise that departs from Port Douglas and explores the Low Isles on the Great Barrier Reef.
• Guests can participate in snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, and guided nature walks to discover the reef’s diverse marine life and history.
• The cruise includes a tropical buffet lunch, morning and afternoon tea, and round-trip transportation from Cairns or the Northern Beaches.
• The catamaran has a maximum capacity of 200 passengers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
• Highlights of the cruise include spotting green sea turtles, exploring 55 acres of coral reef, and learning about the island’s history and native species.

Overview of the Cruise

The full-day luxury catamaran cruise to Low Isles on the Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas offers a range of activities for guests, including snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, and guided nature walks, all without requiring any scuba certification.

The cruise is ideal for those seeking relaxation on the beach, with a buffet lunch and morning and afternoon tea included.

Round-trip transport from Cairns or the Northern Beaches is provided, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the stunning natural environment.

With a maximum capacity of 200 passengers, the cruise provides an intimate and exclusive experience on the iconic Great Barrier Reef.

Included Tour Activities

Guests on the Sailing Cruise from Cairns can enjoy a variety of included activities to fully experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. The cruise includes:

• Snorkeling in the clear, calm lagoon waters around Low Isles, where you’ll encounter a diverse array of marine life, including friendly green sea turtles.

• A guided snorkel tour led by a knowledgeable marine biologist, who’ll share insights about the reef’s ecosystem.

• A glass-bottom boat tour, offering a unique perspective of the vibrant coral formations below.

• A guided nature walk on the island, where you’ll learn about its fascinating history and native species.

• A delicious tropical buffet lunch served onboard, complemented by morning and afternoon tea.

Cruise Schedule and Logistics

To ensure a smooth and efficient experience, the cruise schedule and logistics are carefully planned. Pickup begins at 7:50 am, with the meeting point at Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina in Port Douglas by 9:00 am for a 10:00 am departure. The catamaran has a maximum capacity of 200 passengers, providing ample space for all guests to enjoy the tour. At the end of the day, the cruise returns to the same meeting point.

Schedule	Time
Pickup	7:50 am
Meeting Point	9:00 am
Departure	10:00 am
Return	End of tour

Highlights of the Experience

Exploring 55 acres of vibrant coral reef, just 9 miles off the coast of Port Douglas, is a highlight for many guests. Snorkeling in the calm, crystal-clear lagoon waters offers the chance to encounter a variety of marine life, including graceful green sea turtles.

Guests can also enjoy:

• Breathtaking views from the sun deck and comfortable air-conditioned lounge

• A guided nature walk to learn about Low Isles’ rich history and native species

• Scenic glass-bottom boat tours for a unique perspective of the underwater world

• A delicious tropical buffet lunch served onboard

• Complimentary morning and afternoon tea, as well as a glass of sparkling wine on the return journey

These diverse experiences provide a well-rounded and unforgettable Great Barrier Reef adventure.

Guest Feedback and Reviews

Across 26 reviews, the luxury catamaran cruise has earned an impressive overall rating of 4.5 stars, with guests praising several aspects of the experience.

Travelers highlighted the exceptional snorkeling opportunities, where they encountered a variety of marine life, including green sea turtles, in the clear, calm lagoon waters.

The onboard buffet lunch also received positive feedback, with guests enjoying the delicious tropical fare.

However, some noted that the crew could be more approachable at times.

Plus, a few reviewers expressed a desire for more flexibility in booking and recommended making reservations well in advance to secure their preferred spots.

Pickup and Drop-off Details

The tour provides convenient pickup and drop-off service, with guests able to board the luxury catamaran at the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina in Port Douglas.

The day begins with pickups starting at 7:50 am from selected Cairns accommodations, ensuring a timely 9:00 am arrival at the marina for the 10:00 am catamaran departure.

At the end of the tour, guests will be returned to the same meeting point.

Key logistics include:

• Pickup and drop-off from selected Cairns accommodations

• Confirm pickup location prior to the tour

• Meet at Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, Port Douglas by 9:00 am

• Maximum capacity of the catamaran is 200 passengers

• Return to the same meeting point at the end of the tour

Catamaran Capacity and Size

The luxury catamaran used for the Cairns sailing cruise has a maximum capacity of 200 passengers. This spacious vessel allows ample room for guests to move freely and enjoy the stunning views of the Great Barrier Reef. The catamaran’s three-level design features a sun deck, air-conditioned lounge, and comfortable seating areas, ensuring a pleasant and comfortable journey.

Catamaran Dimensions	Measurement
Length	24 meters (79 feet)
Beam	10 meters (33 feet)
Draft	1.8 meters (6 feet)

The catamaran’s size and capacity make it an ideal choice for exploring the Low Isles and the vibrant coral reef ecosystem just off the coast of Cairns.

Coral Reef Exploration

One of the highlights of the Cairns sailing cruise is the opportunity to explore the 55-acre coral reef located just 9 miles off the coast of Port Douglas. Guests can marvel at the vibrant marine life and diverse coral formations that inhabit this protected and ecologically significant area of the Great Barrier Reef.

The cruise offers a range of activities to immerse visitors in the wonders of the underwater world, including:

• Snorkeling in the calm, clear lagoon waters

• Guided snorkel tours led by a marine biologist

• Glass-bottom boat tours for above-water coral viewing

• Nature walks to learn about the island’s history and native species

• Opportunities to spot green sea turtles and other marine creatures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Cruise?

The dress code for the cruise is casual and comfortable. Guests are advised to wear light, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather and water activities. Swimwear, sun protection, and non-slip shoes are recommended for the snorkeling and beach portions of the tour.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Children?

There is no minimum age requirement for children on this tour. Families with children of all ages are welcome to participate in the reef cruise and snorkeling activities, though kids under 12 may require life jackets or additional supervision.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?

Passengers are generally not permitted to bring their own food and drinks onboard, as the tour includes a buffet lunch, morning and afternoon tea, and complimentary beverages. However, guests with special dietary requirements may inquire about bringing their own items.

How Accessible Is the Cruise for Individuals With Disabilities?

The cruise offers good accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Guests can move freely on the large, stable catamaran, and staff are accommodating. Wheelchair access and special assistance are available upon request to ensure a comfortable experience.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges Not Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price includes all necessary fees and charges, such as the GST and Environmental Management Charge. There are no additional costs for guests to pay during the cruise unless they choose to purchase extra items or activities.

Recap

The Wavedancer Low Isles Great Barrier Reef Sailing Cruise from Cairns offers an unforgettable day of exploration and adventure on the stunning 55-acre coral reef.

Guests can snorkel in clear lagoon waters, go on a guided nature walk, and take a glass-bottom boat tour, all while enjoying a delicious tropical buffet lunch.

With a maximum capacity of 200 passengers, this luxurious catamaran ensures a comfortable and intimate experience for all.