Full Day Low Isles Sailing & Snorkelling Cruise from Port Douglas

Port Douglas , Australia

Full Day Low Isles Sailing & Snorkelling Cruise from Port Douglas

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(562 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Set sail from Port Douglas for a day of snorkeling and relaxing on the Great Barrier Reef’s Low Isles. The sheltered white sands are surrounded by tropical waters filled with fish, turtles and coral for pristine off-beach snorkeling, just moments away from Low Isles . This smaller cruise is limited to 33 passengers, ensuring good company and helpful assistance from the crew. A buffet lunch is included, along with morning and afternoon tea, guided snorkeling, a glass-bottom boat trip and a guided island heritage walk.

Available options

Option 1

What's included

Guided snorkel tour with marine biologist

Buffet lunch

Glass-bottom boat tour on our E-Tender, the 'EV Discovery'

Use of Snorkelling equipment

Guided Low Isles heritage walk

Environmental Management Charge

Great Barrier Reef sailing cruise

Morning and afternoon tea

Detailed itinerary

Sail from Port Douglas aboard a luxury catamaran to visit Low Isles in the quieter morning hours, before the majority of visitors arrive. After cruising from the mainland, arrive at Low Isles, where you can spend four and a half hours at Low Isles, a coral cay island where you can relax under palm trees on the white sands and snorkel off-beach in the sheltered lagoon’s undersea coral gardens.

Take a walk to Low Isles’ historic lighthouse, dating from 1878, or learn about the Great Barrier Reef’s magical underwater world of iridescent fish and fluorescent coral on a guided snorkel tour led by a marine biologist. There’s more fun eco-education aboard a glass-bottom boat tour, with stunning coral views and expert commentary.

After a seafood buffet lunch on board the catamaran, soak up the sun on the deck or return to the water for a final snorkel before returning to Port Douglas by 4pm.

Only a select group of operators are permitted to visit the coral cay Low Isles, the only Great Barrier Reef island a short sail from Port Douglas. This cruise combines luxury and eco credentials, for a premium reef experience.

What's not included

Soft and alcoholic drinks (available for purchase on board)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

165 reviews

5★

147

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

397 reviews

5★

356

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options are available, please advise at time of booking if required

Please bring towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses and hat. We also recommend a jumper in the cooler months.

Underwater Camera's available for hire $75 for the day. Security deposit of $600 required.

To participate in the activity of snorkelling, you must be confident in the water with the capacity to swim unassisted. If you are a poor swimmer, you may not be suitable to snorkel in the open water. Not all passengers will be suitable to snorkel, and our experienced crew have the discretion to advise against snorkelling if deemed “not suitable for the activity”. This is for the safety of the passenger. Please be advised snorkelling can be a strenuous physical activity, even in calm water and that older people are at an increased risk of death and/or injury due to a higher incidence of medical conditions made worse by physical exertion, such as heart disease and stroke. All passengers intending to snorkel will be asked to complete our Medical Declaration for Snorkelling form. Our experienced crew will discuss any issues relating to medical conditions and swimming ability. Sailaway reserves the right to decline any passenger from participating in snorkelling if we are concerned about your health condition and/or swimming ability. This is for your own safety, please listen to the advice of our experienced snorkel guides to ensure the safety of our guests.

Our Sailaway vessels are luxury sailing catamarans and we offer a pure sailing experience. This means the vessels travel in open seas and will move around whilst under sail. The decks of the vessels are multi levels and can be slippery when wet. Passengers must have good mobility to safely move around the vessels, step onto the glass bottom boats (if applicable) and get in and out of the water via the ladders on the back of the vessels. Unfortunately, we do not offer wheelchair access due to the layout of the decks and saloon areas. Our tours are adventure experiences for active travellers. Please choose your tour carefully to ensure it is suitable for your experience, age and physical health.

Meeting point

Please check in at 8.00am inside the Sailaway office.

Important notes

Please check in at 8.00am at the Sailaway office.

Please refer to the Sailaway website (sailawayportdouglas.com) for important information regarding suitability to snorkel.

About Port Douglas

Port Douglas is a tropical paradise located in Queensland, Australia. Known for its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, it offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. The town is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, luxurious resorts, and stunning beaches.

Top Attractions

Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is home to a diverse range of marine life and offers numerous opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and other water activities.

Nature Half day to full day AUD 150-300 for a day trip

Daintree Rainforest

The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest tropical rainforest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal species and offers numerous hiking trails and eco-tours.

Nature Half day to full day Free to AUD 150 for guided tours

Four Mile Beach

Four Mile Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand located just a short walk from the town center. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

Port Douglas Markets

The Port Douglas Markets are held every Sunday and offer a variety of local arts, crafts, and produce. It is a great place to find unique souvenirs and support local artisans.

Shopping 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary

Mossman Gorge

Mossman Gorge is a beautiful natural attraction located within the Daintree Rainforest. It offers stunning waterfalls, swimming holes, and hiking trails.

Nature Half day to full day Free to AUD 20 for guided tours

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fresh Seafood

Port Douglas is renowned for its fresh seafood, including prawns, barramundi, and mud crabs. Many restaurants offer seafood platters and fresh fish dishes.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options are also available.

Tropical Fruits

The region is known for its tropical fruits, such as mangoes, pineapples, and bananas. Fresh fruit salads and smoothies are popular choices.

Snack/Dessert Vegetarian and vegan-friendly.

Fusion Cuisine

Many restaurants in Port Douglas offer unique fusion cuisine, blending local ingredients with international flavors. Dishes often feature fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and exotic spices.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available.

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Diving Hiking Kayaking Whitewater rafting Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga

Best Time to Visit

June to October

The best time to visit Port Douglas is during the dry season, from June to October. The weather is pleasant, with lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural attractions.

20-28°C 68-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

GMT+10

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Port Douglas is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when using taxis and tours, and always agree on a price in advance
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
• Research and book tours with reputable operators

Getting there

By air

Cairns Airport • 65 km

By bus

Cairns

Getting around

Public transport

The Sunbus service is reliable and covers most areas of Port Douglas. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around the town and to nearby attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Port Douglas Village Four Mile Beach Area Sugar Wharf

Day trips

Cairns

65 km • 1 hour by car or bus

Cairns is a vibrant city located about an hour's drive from Port Douglas. It offers a range of attractions, including museums, galleries, and shopping opportunities.

Mossman Gorge

30 km • 30 minutes by car

Mossman Gorge is a beautiful natural attraction located within the Daintree Rainforest. It offers stunning waterfalls, swimming holes, and hiking trails.

Hartley's Crocodile Adventures

30 km • 30 minutes by car

Hartley's Crocodile Adventures is a wildlife park located about 30 minutes' drive from Port Douglas. It offers a range of attractions, including crocodile shows, wildlife exhibits, and guided tours.

Festivals

Port Douglas Carnivale • June Cairns Festival • August

Pro tips

Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
Rent a car for flexibility and easy access to nearby attractions
Try local dishes and support local businesses
Be mindful of wildlife and follow guidelines for hiking, swimming, and other activities
Use reusable water bottles and bags to reduce waste