reef tours magnetic island

Maggie Comprehensive

Explore magnetic island’s wonders on our premier tour.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Magnetic Island, nestled within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Our flagship Magnetic Island day tour, beginning and concluding at the Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal, promises an extraordinary adventure, unveiling the island’s iconic landmarks and hidden treasures.

As you traverse this paradise, immerse yourself in Magnetic Island’s breathtaking landscapes, a captivating backdrop that will leave you spellbound. Our knowledgeable guide will weave tales of the island’s intriguing history, geography, vibrant flora, and fauna, offering an immersive educational experience.

Wildlife enthusiasts will relish the opportunity to spot some of the island’s 800 koalas, playful wallabies, 180 bird species, and a remarkable 141 fish species. During the winter months, catching a glimpse of majestic whales in Cleveland Bay can be an awe-inspiring spectacle, although it’s subject to nature’s whims.

Indulge in a well-deserved break at the beloved Horseshoe Bay, savoring the island’s culinary delights and refreshing waters. While animal sightings can’t be guaranteed, we assure you that you’ll depart from this tour enriched with knowledge and a deep appreciation for Magnetic Island’s unparalleled natural beauty.

Book your journey of discovery with us today and unlock the secrets of Magnetic Island waiting for your exploration.

Tour Details

• $85 AUD for Adults
• $75 AUD for Seniors
• $42.50 AUD for Children (5-14)
• Children under 5 free
• 10% Surcharge applies Sundays & Queensland Public holidays
• Australian Companion Card Holder accepted
• Group Discounts Available

Tour Schedule:

• Depart 9:15 AM
• Return by 2:30 PM

Meeting Point:

• Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal, Magnetic Island. (Please note: We do not offer pickups from the mainland.)
• Pickups from accommodations on the island available upon request.

Activity level:

Low. Limited walking on and off the bus. Except during butterfly season when the tour takes a 250m bush walk on mostly flat terrain.

Wheelchair Accessibility: We can offer a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. Please get in touch with us directly to confirm its availability

What Ferry to catch:

Two ferry companies service the island, departing from different parts of Townsville. Catch the right ferry!

• 8:45am Sealink Ferry: Breakwater Terminal, Sir Leslie Thiess Drive.
• 7:00 am Magnetic Island Ferries service, Ross St., South Townsville.

What’s Included:

• Transport in an air conditioned  minibus
• Light morning tea of fruit and baked goods
• Free bottled water available on the bus
• One awesome Tour Guide!

What’s Not Included:

• Entry to Aquasearch Aquarium – $3 per person (Cash only).

Group Size :

• No Minimum numbers – if you want to go we will run a tour
• Maximum of 16 on our regular tour. Larger groups by request

What to bring:

• A sense of adventure
• $3 cash for entry to Aquasearch Aquarium

Click here for Booking Terms and Conditions

Tour Itinerary

(subject to change depending on weather and season)

Experience Magnetic Island’s natural beauty and heritage in this comprehensive tour. Enjoy scenic stops, wildlife encounters, and leisurely moments throughout the day.

1. Island Arrival and Scenic Start:

• Your adventure begins at Nelly Bay terminal, where your friendly guide awaits.
• First stop: Rocky Bay lookout for stunning island views.

2. Cockle Bay and Island History:

• Explore Cockle Bay and Picnic Bay, rich in island geography and history.
• Stroll along the heritage Picnic Bay Jetty and visit the local museum.

3. Arcadia Hill Views:

• Return to Nelly Bay for a short break.
• As the bus ascends Arcadia hill prepare for breathtaking views of Cleveland Bay and the Coral Sea. (and the occassional whale)

4. Geoffrey Bay Exploration:

• Discover Geoffrey Bay’s unique rock formations.
• Learn about reef research and spot Allied Rock Wallabies.

5. Horseshoe Bay and Leisure Time:

• Head to Horseshoe Bay, taking in more scenic vistas.
• Enjoy free time for delicious food and swimming at the bay. (Swimming is at own risk)

6. Optional Butterfly Forest Walk

• (Available June-Sept) Explore the Butterfly Forest with a short bushwalk.

7. Aquasearch Aquarium Visit:

• $3 Cash entry fee
• After lunch, continue through Arcadia to the Aquasearch Aquarium.
• Learn some more about our local marine life, including Dr. Rick Braley’s work with Giant Clams.

8. Return or Stay:

• Conclude your tour with a return to the Ferry.
• Alternatively, choose to stay and explore more of Magnetic Island.

Great Barrier Reef

Experience one of the seven wonders of the world – The Great Barrier Reef!

Join us for a day never to be forgotten, and swim, snorkel and dive in the beautiful warm turquoise waters of the Great Barrier Reef. You will experience one of the most diverse eco systems in the world, surrounded by an array of colourful hard and soft corals and an amazing variety of marine life.

We will head out for a full day trip, in the comfort of our newly refurbished vessel Nautiful, where all your needs will be catered to by our professional, friendly, passionate team.

Your trip includes:

• Day trip to the Reef
• Snorkel and dive briefings
• FREE use of snorkel gear; masks, snorkels, fins and wetsuits or stinger suits
• Flotation devices available – noodles
• Complimentary professional guide for certified divers
• Delicious packed lunch provided by SOS Stuffed on Seafood

What to bring:

• Light windproof jacket
• Certification card/app for certified divers
• Drink Bottle / reusable cup (water, hot drinks and soup available)

Advice for Diving and Snorkeling Snorkeling and Scuba Diving can be strenuous activities. If you are concerned about your fitness, swimming ability or have a medical conditions please inform our friendly crew.

*Some medical conditions may prevent you from diving or will require a Doctor’s certificate (organised prior to your trip). You’ll be required to complete a medical statement and sign a Legal Waiver Release & Indemnity Deed prior to boarding the vessel. 

Click here to view our medical questionnaire.

You will not be able to fly or ascend over 300m for 24 hours after your final dive.

Check-in : 6:30am - All customers to meet at Magnetic Island Marina on the Peppers Resort deck

Check-in Closes: 6:45am Departs: 7:00am prompt Returns: approx. 4:30pm* If you are coming from Townsville you will need to take the 6:30am Sealink passenger ferry to Magnetic Island. The meeting point is located less than 1 minute walk from the ferry terminal.

Snorkeler: $245

Certified Diver (Tanks & Weights): $285

Certified Diver (Full Gear Hire): $325

Excludes EMC Reef Tax & Levy - $15.00pp

*Please note our trips are currently subject to a $20 fuel levy that will be applied at time of booking

43 Sooning Street, Nelly Bay, Magnetic Island QLD 4819 | [email protected] | 07 4778 5506

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ACTIVITIES & TOURS Things to do on Magnetic Island

WATER TOURS & ACTIVITIES

Go to land tours & activities >.

ADRENALIN SNORKEL & DIVE

Departs: Magnetic Marina NELLY BAY PRICE RANGE: $$-$$$

Explore the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) or the SS Yongala on our day trips. Experienced diving and snorkelling provider with a full service dive centre. Day trips and liveaboards. Visiting the Great Barrier Reef plus a wide range of PADI courses. ECO-certified working with conservation groups, and GBRMPA to educate the community and monitor the reef.

GET AROUND BOAT TOURS

Departs: Horseshoe Bay foreshore HORSESHOE BAY


PRICE RANGE: $$

Great prices! See all of the Island's stunning coastline on a full day tour. Discover stunning beaches you can't access by walking or by car, snorkel over amazing reefs, swim in secret coves, try your luck at fishing, and see a spectacular sunset.

0448 434 292

360 ISLAND CRUISES

Departs: Magnetic Marina NELLY BAY PRICE RANGE: $$

Hop on this comfortable and super fun vessel to circumnavigate Maggie. Every day ... Every bay!
 Go from a quiet cruise speed around the reefs, to the far west of the Island •    9m vessel (RIB)
    •    12 seats
    •    2 hours

0499 996 653

MAGNETIC ISLAND SEA KAYAKS

7-10 Pacific Drive HORSESHOE BAY 
PRICE RANGE: $$

We take only photos and leave only footprints. View nature in the wild on the island’s most informative advanced eco-tour from the quiet of your sea kayak. • 2 hour Morning Tour   8.30am to 10.30am • 2 hour Sunset Tour   4pm to 6pm Visit our website and book online.

0431 071 327

PLEASURE DIVERS

10 Marine Parade ARCADIA


Boasting the only purpose built dive training pool on Magnetic Island, easy access dive sites and world class instructors, it's a great place to learn to dive, improve your skills or become a dive professional. The number one stop for all your snorkel hire and tour needs.

THE BEACH CLUB

Departs: Various locations ALL BAYS


PRICE RANGE: $$ - $$$

The ultimate combination of exclusive beach relaxation and top-quality local produce, offering chauffeured boat transfers for couples to access a secluded beach on Magnetic Island for a gourmet picnic.

0424 296 406

AQUASCENE MAGNETIC ISLAND

Departs Magnetic Marina NELLY BAY PRICE RANGE: $$ - $$$

• Discovery Tour • Circumnavigation Explorer Tour • Sunset and Shipwreck Tour Eco certified and Tourism Award winner. Small personalised tours full of stunning scenery, stories and special places. Our awesome boat was designed to take you to places you never thought possible, which means we get you closer to all the special places we love. Visit us at the Aquascene Shop, right next to Fruit N Scoops and SOS at the IGA roundabout in Nelly Bay.

0460 312 585

ISLAND TIME CRUISES
 - DAY CRUISE

Day cruise: hop on board for a 4 hour tour and discover magnetic island by sea. small groups. snorkel the fringing reefs, walk on stunning secluded beaches and fishing - we'll fillet and bag your catch, and we also always carry soy, wasabi and of course chop sticks onboard for the sashimi lovers. private charter also..

JET SKI HIRE MAGNETIC ISLAND

Departs: Right of the boat ramp HORSESHOE BAY

Located right next to the boat ramp in Horseshoe Bay, we're home to the largest hire area on the East Coast of Australia, and we'll teach you everything you need to know about driving one of our Seadoo GTI130 skis. 30 minute or 60 minute hires are available, with or without a Go Pro Hero 10. Book early to reserve your jetski!

MAGNETIC JET

Departs: Left of the boat ramp HORSESHOE BAY 
PRICE RANGE: $$

Take a ride on our luxury watercraft with your local guide who has over 20 years of experience. Full instruction - no license required. Includes regular wildlife encounters (whales between July to September). Wetsuits, tinted eyewear and life jackets provided. Free images. Families welcome. Our unique tours depart daily at 9am. • 3 hour Circumnavigation Tour • 2 hour Top End Tour Visit our website and book online.

0488 941556

43 Sooning St NELLY BAY

The only dive shop on Magnetic Island offering the full diving experience! We offer scuba diving and snorkeling tours to:

Great barrier reef, museum of underwater art (moua), learn to dive, continue your education or go pro we have ssi and padi instructors and are an official ssi instructor training centre.

BIG MAMA SAILING

Big mama sailing offers eco tourism certified sailing tours with friendly, experienced and passionate crew, exploring the best of magnetic island and the great barrier reef marine park. pick up/drop off from either townsville or magnetic island..

0437 206 360

ISLAND TIME CRUISES - SUNSET CRUISE

Sunset cruise: take a scenic sunset cruise through stunning horseshoe bay, along orchard rock and the secluded beaches of balding and radical bays. an entertaining and informative commentary about the island and its secrets is also included with a glass of bubbles. byo. private charter also..

MAGNETIC ISLAND FISHING CHARTERS

Fishing charters, sightseeing and whale watching* tours. half or full day around magnetic island and beyond. groups of up to 5 people welcome. *seasonal..

0490 816 419

PILGRIM SAILING

Departs: Magnetic Harbour NELLY BAY


PRICE RANGE: $$-$$$

One of Magnetic Island's premium experience providers offering all inclusive sailing cruises and rrivate charters on a luxury 58-foot yacht. 
Forget about the real world for a while. Soak in the views of the stunning Magnetic Island coastline while you experience the magic of sailing and enjoy the best locally sourced food and wine. wine.

SEALINK PACKAGE TOURS

Breakwater Terminal, Sir Theiss Drive TOWNSVILLE
 & NELLY BAY TERMINAL

Whether you want to relax on a secluded beach, cruise the tropical waters of North Queensland or try one of the many adventure activities on offer on Magnetic Island, we can plan the perfect holiday itinerary for you. We are Magnetic Island specialists and can recommend tours, accommodation, transport and day tour packages for every budget. Choose from our existing range of packages or contact us and let one of our experienced staff customise a holiday for you.

1300 MAGGIE

LAND TOURS & ACTIVITIES

Guided tours.

MAGNETIC ISLAND TOURS

Departs: Ferry Terminal

Our local guides will take you on a journey to discover Magnetic Island's stories by air conditioned bus. Experience first-hand why so many have been drawn to her charms. This tour departs in the morning, and includes one hour free time at Horseshoe Bay for lunch, and return you to the ferry terminal.

0435 580 292

MI RIDE - MAGNETIC ISLAND DISCOVERY TOURS (4WD)

Various pick up locations

NELLY BAY & PICNIC BAY PRICE RAN GE: $$

Take a ride on the wild side! If you haven't visited the west coast you haven't experienced all of Magnetic Island! It's so different to the rest of Maggie that these are not-to-be-missed tours. So sit back and relax in 'Bessie' our comfortable 4WD, air conditioned, bus with Tim your fun tour guide. • West Point Sunset Safari 2.5 hour with a complimentary drink and shared seasonal platter. • West Coast Eco Adventure 3 hour morning tour with tea/coffee/juice and sweet treats! Extra tours starting 2024! Visit our website for more information and to book.

‭0413 517 651‬

SELINA WILDLIFE TOURS

40 Horseshoe Bay Road

HORSESHOE BAY PRICE RANGE: $$

Learn and get up close and personal with our unique native Australian wildlife. Daily tours conducted with onsite rangers offer local stories and a personal experience. Two tours depart daily at 10:30am and 12:30pm. We also do a breakfast with the koalas! Eco Accredited.

0475 219 295

JAN MALKIN GALLERY

7 Winifred Street

PRICE RANGE: $ - $$ OPEN: 9.00am to 1.00pm

Exhibitions and small workshops available. Contact Jan or visit her Facebook page to see the latest details.

0417 782 228

PETER LAWSON FINE ART STUDIO & GALLERY

16 Marine Parade

OPEN: Times vary, please call us.

Peter Lawson is principally a painter of Australian outback scenes, island landscapes and historical subjects in oil and watercolour. He has exhibited around the world, and has illustrated several books, including a book of poems by his great uncle, Henry Lawson.

0418 727 534

MAGNETIC ISLAND COUNTRY (GOLF) CLUB

Cnr Yule & Hirst Streets

PICNIC BAY PRICE RANGE: $$

The Golf Club is set in a back drop of rugged hills strewn with boulders and lush vegetation, and backs onto National Park. Open 7 days a week.

Hire clubs, electric cart and pull buggies. Function facilities and a full bar is available. Check with the Clubhouse for weekly events.

Breakwater Terminal, Sir Theiss Drive

TOWNSVILLE PRICE RANGE: $-$$

MAGNETIC MUSEUM & CRAFT SHOP

11-15 Granite Street

PICNIC BAY PRICE RANGE: $0

OPEN: Easter to January 26th 10am-2pm

CLOSED: Tuesdays & Wednesdays

The heritage-listed Picnic Bay Schoolhouse, on the grounds, is used as a Craft Centre, selling quality local craft and historical publications. The Museum itself is housed in the historic Butler Hut, named after the original pioneering family of the island.

Afrekete Cuban Festival Magnetic Island Edition Friday 7th - Sunday 9th June 2024

Afrekete the annual Afro-Cuban dance, music and culture festival is coming to Magnetic Island in June and they'd love you to be a part of it.

From the official Friday Opening Ceremony and Welcome Party, through to the Sunday Closing Ceremony. Includes all dance and drumming workshops on Saturday and Sunday, PLUS a social dance night on Friday, and 'Havana Under the Sea' with Cuban band and DJs on Saturday night. This will be an amazing taste of the real Cuba!

At: Amaroo On Mandalay

Tickets: BOOK NOW!

THE TOP 40 THINGS TO DO ON MAGNETIC ISLAND

From hiking trails , the best snorkelling and sunset spots, to entertainment and free activities, discover the Top 40 Things To Do on Magnetic Island!

Whether you're wanting low tides for snorkeling or finding shipwrecks, or the best tide times to throw a line off the jetty, your boat or the foreshore, view the 2024 tide times.

Things to do

Discover Magnetic Island

Snorkelling.

Magnetic Island lies within the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

The effective management of this Marine Park has meant that the waters surrounding the island are abundant with fringing coral reefs, coral gardens, fish and other marine species.

Check out the tour operators below who deliver sensational snorkelling adventures.

Adrenalin Snorkel & Dive

Pleasure Divers

Reef Eco Tours

Big Mama Sailing

Aquascene Charters

Magnetic Island Time Cruises

Independent snorkelling.

Maggie is great to set off on a snorkelling expedition on your own or with mates. The gentle sloping beaches allow shore access to all snorkelling areas. The eastern portion of the Island has several great locations to check out. With pleasant water temps year-round, world class snorkelling awaits you at the following locations:

Florence Bay

Geoffrey Bay

There are also two self-guided snorkel trails that can be used anytime.

Geoffrey Bay Snorkel Trail

The trail starts about 390m from the foreshore opposite the Arcadia Village Hotel (pub) and is parallel to the old barge ramp. The Moltke Wreck is about 10m deep so challenging for your average snorkeller to reach.

However, the wreck provides a safe haven for many fish species which can be seen closer to the surface. A WWII aeroplane propeller and engine block also sunk in this area and can be seen.

Nelly Bay Snorkel Trail

The trail starts about 100m off the beach near Base Backpackers and turns to follow the inshore reef. A diverse array of fish and corals can be viewed as well as Giant Clams.  

Follow the yellow inner buoys which mark the trails. Please note, the outer yellow buoys are baited shark lines and must not approached. Please take care and don’t stand on the coral. 

A laminated swim card can be purchased for $5 which guides you along the trail. The money goes towards maintaining the trails.

Swim Cards can be bought at the following locations:

Sealink Nelly Bay Terminal.

Magnetic Island Ferries (Barge) Ross St, South Townsville.

Base Backpackers, 1 Nelly Bay Rd, Nelly Bay.

Arcadia Newsagency, 7 Marine Pde, Arcadia.

Magnetic Island Museum, Granite St, Picnic Bay.

Pro Dive, 43 Sooning St., Nelly Bay.

Horseshoe Bay Convenience Store, 7 Pacific Drv, Horseshoe Bay.

Aquasearch Aquarium, 6-10 Elena St, Nelly Bay.

FNF Adventure & Hire Centre, 36 Mandalay Ave, Nelly Bay.

Post Office, 98 Sooning St, Nelly Bay.

Pleasure Divers, 10 Marine Pde, Arcadia.

Snorkel gear hire

Bungalow Bay Koala Park

$15 for a half day. 

$20 for a full day.

Includes stinger suit from October to April.

40 Horseshoe Bay Rd, Horseshoe Bay.

Full day: 8.30am-4.30pm.

Mask, Snorkel, Fins and Suit $25.

Mask, Snorkel, Fins $15.

Mask, Snorkel $10.

Half day: 8.30am-12.30pm or 12.30pm-4.30pm.

Mask, Snorkel, Fins and Suit $15.

Mask, Snorkel, Fins $10.

10 Marine Parade, Arcadia.

FNF Outdoor Adventure and Hire Centre

Hire a mask, snorkel, fins, stinger suits, noodles, flotation devices, boogie boards and the amazing  Reef Board

$12 per day.

36 Mandalay Ave, Nelly Bay.

Check out the interactive map below for snorkelling locations, gear hire and Swim Card purchase locations.

Click on the icons for further information. 

Map of snorkelling

& diving locations.

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Great Barrier Reef Tours from Townsville

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​​Located on the North Eastern Coast of Queensland, Townsville is almost perfectly adjacent to the centre of the Great Barrier Reef.

Its location makes it an idea to join a Great Barrier Reef Tour from Townsville. It is also the perfect spot to depart if you want to visit the Yongala Wreck, one of Australia’s most famous shipwrecks’ and dive sites.

Nautilus Aviation Helicopter Scenic Flights from Townsville

Take flight and experience the rich hinterland of Townsville

Group Size: 12 ppl max

Adults from $ 189

1 Day Magnetic Island Self Drive Explorer Package from Townsville

Drive at your own pace and discover the stunning wildlife, beaches and landscapes of Magnetic Island by car. It’s that easy!

Group Size: 5 ppl max

Adults from $ 108

1 Day Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive Great Barrier Reef Tour from Townsville

Discover the captivating beauty of the Great Barrier Reef by snorkeling and diving in its sparkling waters, and enjoy a tropical lunch.

Group Size: 21 ppl max

Adults from $ 249

1 Day Adrenalin Dive Yongala Wreck Scuba Tour from Townsville

Plunge into history by exploring the S.S Yongala Wreck at the Great Barrier Reef, discover a variety of marine life and dine on a… more

Adults from $ 289

2 Day/2 Night Great Barrier Reef Tour from Townsville

Dive, snorkel and sleep on the outer Great Barrier Reef.

Adults from $ 695

3 Day/3 Night Great Barrier Reef and Yongala Wreck Tour from Townsville

Dive, snorkel and sleep on the outer Great Barrier Reef. Explore the amazing Yongala shipwreck.

Adults from $ 810

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Magnetic Island

The island is located eight kilometres off the coast of Townsville accessible by a short 25 minute ferry ride. The island gets its name from Captain James Cook who sailed pass the island commenting that it was affecting his compass- hence Magnetic Island.

Unlike many other islands within the Great Barrier Reef, Magnetic Island has a wide variety of accommodation options and services available to visitors to suit any budget. In fact, Magnetic Island is the only island to have it’s own postcode and 2500 residents call this tropical island home.

It is not hard to see why this island is popular with locals and tourists because of the 23 bays and beaches that the locals are more than happy to share with visitors. Nature lovers will enjoy the 24 km of walking tracks with amazing views of the island. You may also have the opportunity to get up and close with Koalas, wallabies, possums and many bird species in their natural habitat but please look and don’t touch. There is also something to offer for the history buffs with WWII artefacts, command posts and gun emplacements still intact on the island on the Forts Walk.

The four main bays within the island are: Nelly Bay, Picnic Bay, Geoffrey Bay and Horseshoe Bay.

Nelly Bay is your first port of call as all ferries and cruises depart from this point. You will be met with local buses to help you navigate the island or taxi, car and bike hire options if you did not bring the car over. Nelly Bay is good for swimming, sailing, and snorkelling and there are many hotels, resorts and services nearby.

Horseshoe Bay

This area is popular for water sports with kayaking, stand up paddling boarding, jet skis and more. For a unique way to explore the beach and the bush you might also consider the horseback rides that are on offer. There is also a safe swimming enclosure, children’s playground and BBQ facilities available for a beach picnic on a tropical island. There are many restaurants and café’s nearby to sit back relax and enjoy a glass of wine or beer overlooking the bay.

Picnic Bay is another area on the island that offers a relaxing swim or snorkel with abundant marine life visiting the area. It is not uncommon to see turtles in this area. Again, there are café and restaurant options available or you can catch your own with a spot of fishing the jetty. You will also find a 9-hole golf course in the middle of this tropical island.

Geoffrey bay is part of a snorkel trail stretching the length of the beach and is popular with divers also. Fishing is strictly off limits here but is a great spot for a relaxing swim or snorkel. The beaches are often frequented by rock wallabies at dusk looking for a feed and make for amazing photo opportunity. Getting Here

To reach Magnetic Island you must fly into Townsville and then travel by ferry to the island. Qantas, Virgin Australia and Jetstar fly into Townsville daily. There are a few different ferry companies that offer passenger or vehicle ferry services to Magnetic Island and are reasonably priced.

Queensland Rail Travel have daily services into Townsville Railway station. For more information on pricing and schedules you can visit their website. Greyhound Buses travel through Townsville daily for those travellers who are travelling up and down the east coast. If you are driving Townsville is approximately 350km from Cairns or 1300 km from Brisbane.

Getting around the island

Bus services on the island as well as a taxi service to help you find your way around the island. The roads on the island are sealed so you can bring your own vehicle over to the island to conveniently travel around as you please. If you do have a hire car it is recommend that you check whether you may take the vehicle over to the island due to insurance restrictions.

Magnetic Island’s ideal location island in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is perfect for the many snorkel and dive operators that can pick you up at Townsville or Magnetic Island ferry terminals. There are also island operators who will take you to the best sights on the island. For a fun way to explore the island take a Segway tour or unwind on one of the many walks or the day spa.

‘Maggie Island’ is a popular choice for visitors due to its wide variety of accommodation providers that suit any budget. If you want luxury you can stay at a private beach house, resort or hotel. If you want a memorable and unique and personalised experienced then a bed and breakfast is highly recommended. This island is also accessible for those on a limited budget with backpackers, motels and camping facilities available.

Magnetic Island is lucky to experience warm tropical temperatures all year round making it an ideal destination any time of the year. The average minimum temperature during the winter is 20 degrees whilst summer temperatures are usually around 30 degrees. Given the island’s tropical climate a wet and dry season is experienced. Wet season is November to March and the dry season from March to November. Please note that box jellyfish are most common in the summer months and it is recommended that you stick to beach swimming enclosures and consider stinger suits when venturing into the water.

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Townsville, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Guide to Townsville & Magnetic Island

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• Getting to Townsville and Magnetic Island
• When to visit

Townsville is one of the major gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, with the natural wonders of Magnetic Island a short boat ride away.

The coastal hub of Townsville is an ideal base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, the southernmost rainforests of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and the Queensland outback. Take the time to explore this vibrant city before joining a Great Barrier Reef tour or taking the 25-minute ferry ride to Magnetic Island, where secluded beaches and abundant wildlife await.

You can fly directly into Townsville Airport from Brisbane, Sydney, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and Melbourne airports. 

• Townsville Airport (TSV) is 5km (3mi) from the city
• To continue on to Magnetic Island, catch a ferry with  SeaLink Queensland or Magnetic Island Ferries (pre-booking is essential)

Getting around Townsville and Magnetic Island is made easy with both destinations providing public transport, car hire services, scooters, bicycles, taxi services and local tours ready to show you around.

Many Aussies flock to Townsville during winter and spring (June to November) to escape the cold, as the city and Magnetic Island have incredible sunny weather all year round. The best time to visit would be autumn (March to May) as there is less rain than the summer but the waterfalls are still teaming with water and wildlife from the rainfall. 

• High season: Winter (June to August)
• Low season: Summer (December to February)

Top things to do in Townsville and Magnetic Island

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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• Barrier Reef Australia
• Things To Do

Sunset Cruise Magnetic Island | 2 Hours

Tour Code: 855

Departing: Magnetic Island

Tour Highlights

• This is the only sunset cruise on Magnetic Island to include a shipwreck tour so don’t miss it.
• Enjoy learning all about the shipwreck of S.S. City of Adelaide and how she came to rest here on Magnetic Island and the Great Barrier Reef.
• Cruise the scenic coastline of Nelly Bay and Cockle Bay on Magnetic Island and learn about the history and listen to the stories about the shipwrecks as we cruise our way into the sunset.
• Enjoy live acoustic music, scenic bird life, a complimentary beverage, a grazing platter and BYO is also welcome.

Description & Tour Inclusions

Included in price.

• BYO beverages & nibblies tour.
• 2 hours sunset cruise including stories & history as well as bird life and S.S. City of Adelaide

Our Magnetic Island sunset cruise is 2 hours cruising the tranquil waters of Nelly and Cockle Bay to see the S.S. City of Adelaide come to life on the high tide. Watch as the sky turns into a myriad of colours and shades and the waters of the Great Barrier Reef glisten and change with the sky.

Our sunset cruises depart from Magnetic Island at 4.30 pm only on selected days each month

Step back in time and immerse yourself in our 2 hour scenic tour focusing on the coastal area between Nelly Bay and Cockle Bay on Magnetic Island. Relax while you take in the sights and listen to some beautiful acoustic music from a local musician.

Our destination is the "S.S. City of Adelaide" shipwreck where we will share her story with you as you sit back, relax and enjoy the sunset cruise. A truly magical and unique experience.

Your 2-hour sunset cruise tour includes:

• Visit the scenic coastline between Nelly Bay and Cockle Bay on Magnetic Island
• Stories & history of some shipwrecks along the way
• Live acoustic music from a local musician
• Scenic bird life at sunset
• Photo opportunities at our destination, the grand old lady of the sea, "S.S. City Of Adelaide"

Please note this sunset cruise tour is currently "BYO Drinks & Nibbles"

View more Magnetic Island sunset cruises and tours.

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Magnetic Island Sunset Cruise

We practice what we preach and go as environmentally friendly as possible on our magnetic island tours.

• We minimise waste and recycling wherever possible on board
• Environmentally friendly products are used on board
• Avoid use of single use plastics wherever possible
• Education and information to our guests

Our Sunset Cruise Boat

• We use energy efficient devices wherever possible
• We have installed solar panels on the boat
• Solar power anchor winch and electrical system
• ​Our vessel has ultra low engine emissions
• Minimal engine use time resulting in lower impact to the environment​
• Ongoing observations of our sustainable operations and procedures

The Sunset Cruise Itinerary

If you are coming to magnetic island from townsville:.

• ​If catching the Sealink ferry from Townsville please be sure to catch a ferry no later than the 3.45 pm departure from Townsville.
• If catching the Magnetic Island Ferries Barge please be sure to catch a barge no later than the 2.40 pm departure from Townsville.

To find us on Magnetic Island:

• Meet us at 4.15 p.m. in front of Peppers Resort (Nelly Bay) on the boardwalk area, a short 1 minute walk to the left of the Nelly Bay ferry terminal.  You will see our sign located on the boardwalk area and our friendly crew will meet you there and escort you to our boat.

See all tours and attractions on Magnetic Island. 

Tour Details

Tour languages offered.

Departs From

• Magnetic Island

Departure Time

Departs 4:30pm - Returns 6:30pm

Departure Instructions

Meet us at 4.15 p.m. in front of Peppers Resort (Nelly Bay) on the boardwalk area, a short 1 minute walk to the left of the Nelly Bay ferry terminal. You will see our sign located on the boardwalk area and our friendly crew will meet you there and escort you to our boat.

Destinations

Months of operation.

January - December

Days of Operation

Selected dates ONLY each month based on the high tide and sunset

Fitness Level Required

What to bring.

• B.Y.O. alcoholic drinks and nibbles
• Wear comfortable clothing
• Jacket / Jumper (in the cooler months of May - Sept)

Disabled Travelers

Sunset Cruise

Wheelchair accessibility.

One step up onto the vessel Your wheelchair can be ready for you on board if you can climb the one step

Doorway Measurements For Wheelchair Access

All doors are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs

Number of Steps

one step up onto the vessel~|~There is wheelchair / mobility aid access to the Magnetic Island Marina and to Aquascene vessel.

Aquascene has a toilet located at the rear of the vessel with a raised toilet area and support rail. Aquascene is a very stable boat with a well shaded deck area and areas for quiet space Great views from the deck area to all the sights during the tou

Additional Information

Cancellation policy.

All cancellations must be in writing.

Please note that all cancellations will incur an administration fee.

Please see our  terms and conditions  for details prior to booking.

• No Show or less than 24 hours notice will be charged full fare
• Within 2 days of departure a 20% admin fee applies

Prices are AUD, per adult and include all levies fees and taxes.

Child: au $65.00 Family: au $328.00

Choose Your Option

15 yrs & over

Ages of Children

(discounts may apply), 1300 231 118, +61 427 074 745, you may also like.

Sunset Cruise Hamilton Island - BBQ Dinner

Jump onboard and unwind to enjoy a relaxing 2 hour sunset cruise and BBQ dinner from Hamilton Island.

Departing: Hamilton Island

Island Explorer | Semi Submarine Tour

Experience the Great Barrier Reef surrounding the Whitsunday Islands as you marvel at the colourful marine life both above and beneath the crystal-clear waters from the comfort of our semi-submersible vessel.

Snorkelling Mission Beach | Dunk Island & Secret Cassowary Islands

Join us on a one day snorkelling tour to discover the Great Barrier Reef's best kept secret islands on a day trip from Mission Beach and also visit Dunk Island.

Departing: Mission Beach

Pickup: Cairns, Mission Beach

Snorkelling Mission Beach | Beaver Reef & Dunk Island

Island exploration and snorkelling tour from Mission Beach. Visit two Great Barrier Reef locations in one day: Beaver Reef and Dunk Island.

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