Port Douglas: Low Isles Afternoon Cruise on Luxury Catamaran

If you’re planning a trip to Queensland and want to explore the iconic Great Barrier Reef in style, the Low Isles Afternoon Cruise on a luxury catamaran is a fantastic choice. For around $224 per person, this roughly 5.5-hour adventure takes you on a leisurely sail to one of the reef’s most beautiful spots, with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, relax, and appreciate Australia’s vibrant marine life.

We love that this tour combines comfortable sailing with engaging activities like a guided reef walk, glass-bottom boat viewing, and snorkel tours led by marine naturalists. It’s also a perfect way to witness a spectacular sunset over the Coral Sea, adding a magical end to your day.

One thing to consider is that the tour is suitable for those over 13 and with decent swimming ability. Not all guests will be able to snorkel, especially if health or fitness levels aren’t up to it. Still, the options to stay dry and enjoy other parts of the experience make it versatile, especially for families or travelers who prefer a more relaxed day on the water.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate luxury, excellent service, and authentic reef encounters without sacrificing comfort. If you enjoy a well-organized trip with a focus on quality food and insightful guides, you’ll likely consider this a highlight of your Port Douglas visit.

• Luxury Sailing Experience: The cruise is on a luxurious catamaran designed for comfort and style.
• Engaging Reef Activities: Includes a guided snorkel tour, glass-bottom boat viewing, and a heritage walk.
• Gourmet Food & Drinks: Features afternoon tea, fresh scones, canapés, and complimentary drinks.
• Sunset Spectacle: The return sail offers breathtaking sunset views over the Daintree mountains.
• Small Group Atmosphere: The tour emphasizes personalized service with small groups and attentive staff.
• Environmentally Conscious: Includes a government environmental management charge to protect the reef.

Setting Sail: Starting the Journey from Port Douglas

Your day begins with a convenient hotel pickup, a thoughtful touch for those staying in Port Douglas. The tour departs in the afternoon, giving you a relaxed start and plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings. Once aboard the luxury catamaran, you’ll be greeted with freshly brewed Tropical North Queensland tea or Jaques coffee—a nice touch that sets a comfortable tone.

The 15-kilometre sail to Low Isles is smooth and gentle, thanks to the stable catamaran design, which minimizes seasickness and offers panoramic views of the coastline and Daintree Mountains. We appreciated the small number of guests, which ensures more space and attentive service. As one reviewer noted, the crew was “brilliant and attentive,” making everyone feel well cared for.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Approaching Low Isles: The Reef and the Island

Arriving at Low Isles, you’ll notice the crystal-clear blue lagoon, perfect for a relaxing swim or snorkel. The sheltered reef environment is ideal for those new to snorkeling or keen to explore without worrying about rough waters. The crew provides complimentary snorkeling gear, optical masks, and seasonal lycra snorkeling suits or wetsuits—important for comfort in the water.

One of the main highlights is the guided reef walk led by a marine naturalist. This offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about the reef’s colored inhabitants and coral formations without getting wet, which many guests find fascinating. Plus, the glass-bottom boat provides a dry, close-up look at the reef’s vibrant life, a perfect alternative if snorkeling isn’t your thing or if you’re traveling with non-swimmers.

Snorkeling and Guided Tours: Engaging with Marine Life

For those who choose to snorkel, the crew offers in-water assistance and clear instructions, ensuring even beginners can enjoy the experience. Several reviews mention the guides’ knowledgeable and helpful nature, which enhances the experience. One guest remarked, “The staff was wonderful with coaching and demonstrated great knowledge of the reef,” making novices feel more confident.

The heritage walk explores Low Isles’ history and ecological significance—an added layer of understanding that appeals to those interested in more than just swimming.

Food, Beverages, and Relaxation

Once you’ve had your fill of underwater exploration, it’s time to unwind. The tour offers afternoon tea with homemade scones and fruit platter, a delightful treat that helps recharge after some water activity. Later, the crew serves canapés and a selection of drinks, including wine, beer, and soft drinks—a true highlight for many, especially as the sun begins to set.

Multiple reviews emphasize the high quality of the food and drinks, with guests appreciating the generous servings and top-notch service. As one traveler said, “The food, drinks, and service were 5-star,” making the experience feel truly special.

Sunset Sail Back to Port Douglas

As the sun dips below the horizon, the return sail becomes even more memorable. You’ll get sweeping views of the Daintree Mountains and the glowing sky—a perfect photo opportunity. The calm waters and gentle breeze make the journey back a peaceful, scenic experience.

The 6:30 PM arrival back at the marina wraps up a day that mixes relaxation, adventure, and stunning scenery. It’s an ideal way to wind down after a day in Port Douglas, leaving you with lasting memories of the reef and the coast.

This tour balances luxury, education, and fun in a way that suits a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re a solo traveler eager to learn about reef ecosystems, a couple seeking a romantic sunset sail, or a family confident in water activities, it delivers value with personalized service and memorable experiences.

The focus on small group sizes and professional guides ensures a more intimate encounter with the reef, something many reviews highlight as a major plus. The quality of the food and drinks also elevate the experience beyond just a boat trip—it’s a genuine indulgence.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Travelers looking for a luxury experience with top-notch service
• Those interested in marine life and reef ecology
• People who prefer comfortable sailing over rough waters
• Visitors wanting a beautiful sunset view over the Coral Sea
• Anyone who appreciates good food and drinks in a scenic setting
• Families or groups with teenagers (13+) and above with swimming ability

Who Might Not Love It?

• Non-swimmers or those uncomfortable in the water
• Guests with mobility issues or health conditions that limit water activities
• Travelers expecting a more active or dive-heavy reef experience
• People seeking a longer or more adventurous reef exploration

The Low Isles Afternoon Cruise on a luxury catamaran offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to experience part of the Great Barrier Reef. The combination of stellar guides, gorgeous scenery, and delicious food makes it a standout for those who value quality and authenticity. Its focus on a small group creates a more personal feel, which many reviews praise.

This tour is especially good if you want a relaxing, scenic sailing with plenty of educational opportunities and excellent hospitality. It’s not the cheapest option, but the quality of the experience—highlighted by knowledgeable staff, gourmet snacks, and spectacular sunset views—provides substantial value.

For travelers who want a blend of luxury, learning, and leisure, this cruise should definitely be on your shortlist. It’s a chance to enjoy the reef without the bustle of large tour groups, making it a memorable highlight of your Port Douglas adventure.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Port Douglas, making your day stress-free.

Can I snorkel if I’ve never done it before?
Absolutely. The crew provides snorkeling gear and in-water assistance, and guides are available to help you feel comfortable in the water.

How long do we spend at Low Isles?
You’ll have about 3 hours on the island to snorkel, relax, or explore via glass-bottom boat and heritage walk.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and a T-shirt for sun protection and comfort.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for passengers 13 years and older. Not all guests may be able to snorkel, depending on health or fitness.

What is the experience like on the return sail?
You’ll enjoy beautiful sunset views over the Coral Sea and Daintree Mountains, creating a peaceful, scenic end to the day.

Whether you’re after a luxurious day on the reef or a relaxed sunset sail with great food and expert guides, this tour from Port Douglas offers a memorable way to see the Great Barrier Reef in comfort and style.

You can check availability for your dates here: