Townsville is one of Australia’s top spots for boat tours and cruises thanks to its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, stunning coastline, and lively waterfront. Unlike many destinations that rely on generic boat rides, Townsville offers a variety of experiences that let you explore marine life, enjoy scenic views, or unwind with a drink at sunset. Among these, the Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Townsville or Magnetic Island stands out for its immersive underwater adventures, while a sunset sail provides a relaxing evening with spectacular sky colors. For those wanting a quick taste of local life, the Townsville Yacht Club Lunch Package offers a laid-back sailing experience combined with delicious food. And a visit to the Museum of Underwater Art makes the Great Barrier Reef and MOUA Cruise a unique combination of art and nature.
If you’re planning a trip to this part of Queensland, knowing your options can help you pick the right cruise for your style, schedule, and budget. Whether you crave the thrill of snorkeling, the calm of a sunset sail, or a quick boat ride with lunch, Townsville has a lot to offer.
Quick Overview
Our list includes four top boat experiences in Townsville, each offering something different:
– Great Barrier Reef cruises with snorkeling or diving (see details here).
– Sunset sailing with small group intimacy (more info here).
– Yacht Club lunch cruises with scenic water views and good food (check it out here).
– Reef and art tour combining scuba/snorkeling with a visit to the Museum of Underwater Art (details here).
Now, let’s dive into each one to see why they’re worth considering.
1. Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Townsville or Magnetic Island
This tour is the ultimate bucket list experience—snorkeling or scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site that needs no introduction. Departing from either Townsville or Magnetic Island, the tour uses a custom-built boat with a professional crew that focuses on the central reef area, home to sea turtles, stingrays, reef sharks, and brightly colored fish. The trip lasts about 10 hours, which includes boat travel, reef time, and meals. The package offers three options: snorkeling, introductory dives, or certified dives (with two dives included).
The reef is a wonder of marine biodiversity. You’ll see sea turtles gliding past, rays dancing along the seabed, and reef sharks patrolling the coral gardens. The crew provides all necessary equipment, and you’ll enjoy lunch, soft drinks, and morning and afternoon tea—a real feast after your underwater exploration. Reviewers praise the professionalism of the crew and the stunning health of the reef, calling it a “mind-blowing” experience. A couple of comments mention the boat ride is fast and rough, so bring your sea legs if you’re prone to seasickness.
Bottom line: this tour is perfect if you want an in-depth reef experience with options for beginners or advanced snorkelers and divers. The $260.35 price reflects the all-day adventure, making it a worthwhile splurge for marine life lovers.
2. Townsville Sunset Sail Cruise Boat Tour Charter Hire Sailing Hire
For a relaxing end to your day, this sunset sail offers an intimate and scenic 1.5-hour experience. Setting sail from Townsville, you’ll cruise around the coast, with spectacular views of Magnetic Island and the Castle Hill backdrop. The small group size, limited to six people, ensures a personal and peaceful atmosphere—perfect for couples or small groups looking for a calm, romantic outing.
The highlight is watching the sky turn hues of pinks and oranges as the sun dips below the horizon. You can sit back with a glass of bubbly and simply enjoy the natural beauty of the Coral Sea. The captain, James, and his team are praised for their friendly service and local knowledge, making the experience both enjoyable and informative. Many reviewers mention how this cruise is a wonderful way to unwind, with comments like “entertaining and scenic,” and “relaxing sail that exceeded expectations.”
Bottom line: this is the tour for those after a quick, serene escape with impressive views and a cozy atmosphere. At just $67.23 per person, it’s an affordable way to add a touch of elegance to your evening.
3. Townsville Boat Cruise & Yacht Club Lunch Package Sailing Charter
If you’re craving a midday escape with good food, this 2-hour sailing cruise with lunch tops the list. Departing from Townsville, you’ll enjoy a scenic water tour that covers sights like Magnetic Island and Cleveland Bay. The tour includes lunch and two drinks, either at the Townsville Yacht Club or, on Mondays and Tuesdays, at the nearby Metropole Hotel (since the Yacht Club is closed on those days).
The experience is tailored to a smaller group, with friendly skippers and deckhands who make sure everyone feels comfortable and relaxed. Many reviews praise the delicious fish and chips and friendly atmosphere, with one saying it was “a very intimate and friendly trip.” The views of passing yachts and the gentle breeze make this a perfect half-day activity. It’s especially good for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a relaxed meal rather than intense adventure.
Bottom line: great for those on a tighter schedule or looking for a laid-back cruise with a tasty meal included—an excellent value at $128.30 per person.
4. Great Barrier Reef and MOUA Cruise from Townsville or Magnetic Island
This tour combines scuba diving or snorkeling with a visit to the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA)—a distinctive blend of marine exploration and cultural experience. Departing from Townsville or Magnetic Island, you’ll journey to the John Brewer Reef on a comfortable boat, with the trip lasting around 10 hours. The reef here is known for dolphins, turtles, and abundant fish, plus the added highlight of exploring underwater art installations that are as impressive as the marine life.
What makes this tour special is the indigenous cultural insights offered by guides, coupled with the artistic underwater sculptures designed to promote reef conservation. The program includes snorkeling equipment, non-alcoholic beverages, and comprehensive briefings. The reviews note the fantastic dive sites and friendly crew, with some saying it’s “a great experience at a wonderful place to see lots of fishes.” The long ride out might be a consideration, but many find it worth the effort.
Bottom line: this is a fantastic choice for travelers interested in both marine ecology and art, with the added benefit of wheelchair accessibility. It offers great value at around $260.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best boat tour in Townsville depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you want a full-day adventure with the chance to see an incredible coral ecosystem, the Great Barrier Reef Cruise (see details) is ideal. For a quick, scenic, and intimate experience, the Sunset Sail (more info) offers relaxation and beautiful views. If you’re looking for a mid-day meal with a relaxed water tour, the Yacht Club Lunch (check it out) is perfect. And for those who want a mix of art and marine life, the Reef and MOUA tour (details here) provides a unique experience.
Consider factors like budget, time availability, and whether you prefer adventure, relaxation, or cultural insights. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular reef trips, and always check if you need to bring any special gear or snacks.
Final Thoughts
Townsville offers a broad range of boat experiences that suit different travel styles and interests. For marine adventurers, the Great Barrier Reef Cruise is a definite highlight, providing a full immersion in one of the world’s most famous ecosystems. For those seeking a peaceful evening, the Sunset Sail offers a tranquil escape with stunning views. Meanwhile, the Yacht Club Lunch provides a casual, scenic break with good food, and the Reef and MOUA tour combines art, culture, and underwater exploration.
No matter what you choose, booking ahead will ensure you secure your spot. These cruises give you a way to see Townsville from a different perspective—on the water, immersed in nature, and sometimes with a splash of culture. Happy sailing!