Brisbane’s location on the southeastern coast of Australia makes it an ideal spot for sailing. With its calm waters, abundant marine life, and scenic islands, Brisbane offers sailors and water lovers a true playground. Among the many options, we particularly like the Afternoon Moreton Bay Sailing Tour for its relaxed pace and family-friendly atmosphere, and the Sailing Curlew Escape on Moreton Bay for those seeking a private, customizable adventure. The latter, especially, is perfect if you want to set your own itinerary and enjoy the tranquility of a luxury yacht. For a shorter, more casual outing, the Brisbane: Half-Day Moreton Bay Sailing Cruise with Antipasto offers a great combination of comfort, entertainment, and marine wildlife spotting.
These experiences showcase the diversity of Brisbane’s sailing scene—whether you want to learn to sail, enjoy a private day on the water, or simply relax with antipasto and drinks while watching dolphins play.
1. Afternoon Moreton Bay Sailing Tour
Priced at just $85.35 per person, this half-day cruising experience offers a perfect introduction to sailing in Moreton Bay. It departs from Raby Bay in Cleveland and uses a large catamaran, making it suitable for families, couples, singles, and groups. What stands out is the chance for passengers to try sailing hands-on, taking the helm and learning from experienced crew members. The tour includes opportunities to swim in the bay, stand-up paddleboard, and relax — a well-rounded afternoon for those who love the water.
Rated 5.0/5 from 23 reviews, this tour has consistently impressed travelers with its relaxing atmosphere and engaging sailing experience. The crew’s friendly approach ensures that novices feel comfortable while giving seasoned sailors a chance to get involved. The waters of Moreton Bay are pristine, with frequent sightings of marine life, which adds to the fun.
Bottom line: If you’re after an accessible, affordable, and fun introduction to sailing that suits all ages, this tour hits the mark. It offers a balanced mix of activity and relaxation, making it an excellent choice for families and first-timers alike.
2. Sailing Curlew Escape on Moreton Bay
For around $1,719.34 per group, the Sailing Curlew Escape is a premium, fully customizable private yacht experience designed for up to ten people. This tour is perfect if you want to regain your sense of serenity while enjoying the full benefits of sailing aboard a luxury motor yacht that combines the speed and comfort of a motor vessel with the soul of a sailing yacht.
This experience is completely tailored—you can choose departure times, destinations, and activities like swimming, snorkeling, or island exploration. The boat is equipped with watersport gear, so you can paddleboard, snorkel, or simply unwind. During the day, the crew helps you navigate the bay’s calm waters, and you can even dine onboard with plenty of space to relax or socialize.
The reviews highlight the personalized service and the flexibility of the experience. One guest mentioned, “The trip with Greg on the Curlew was just fabulous—we snorkeled, swam, and sailed with the wind in our hair. It was the perfect way to enjoy Moreton Bay in comfort and style.”
Bottom line: If privacy, customization, and a touch of luxury matter most, this private charter offers an unbeatable experience. It’s best suited for groups celebrating a special occasion or those wanting an exclusive day on the water.
3. Brisbane: Half-Day Moreton Bay Sailing Cruise with Antipasto
This 4.5-hour luxury catamaran cruise combines the joy of sailing with a delicious antipasto platter, making it a great choice for a relaxed day out. You’ll sail around Moreton Bay, with opportunities to spot dolphins, turtles, dugongs, stingrays, and a variety of seabirds. The trip encourages bringing your own drinks to enjoy in the outdoor lounge, adding a personal touch to your experience.
Alongside the marine wildlife, you’ll have access to several water sports options, including paddleboards, a giant aqua mat, and beach games. The tour also features seasonal fruit platters, tea, coffee, and water, giving you a taste of local flavors as you relax on the deck.
Rated 4.6/5 from 11 reviews, travelers appreciate the comfortable boat, friendly crew, and the opportunity to combine sailing with wildlife viewing and leisure activities. It’s ideal for those who want a laid-back experience with plenty of options to swim, play, or simply soak up the scenery.
Bottom line: This cruise is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy a scenic sailing trip with good food, wildlife, and water sports in a relaxed, luxury setting.
How to Choose Your Brisbane Sailing Experience
When selecting a sailing tour, consider your budget, group size, and what kind of experience you’re after. For a casual, budget-friendly introduction, the Afternoon Moreton Bay Sailing Tour offers great value and a fun learning environment. If you prefer a private, tailored day with friends or family, the Sailing Curlew Escape provides luxury, exclusivity, and flexibility. Meanwhile, if you’re interested in a more leisurely cruise with delicious food and wildlife watching, the Half-Day Moreton Bay Sailing Cruise with Antipasto is a comfortable and scenic option.
Think about timing, too. The private yacht offers complete customization, so you can pick your date. The other tours run on regular schedules, so booking early is recommended during peak seasons.
Brisbane’s sailing options cover a wide range of interests—whether you want to learn the basics, enjoy a private getaway, or relax with a good meal while watching marine life. Two standout choices are the Afternoon Moreton Bay Sailing Tour for its affordability and fun, and the Sailing Curlew Escape for those seeking a private, luxury adventure. Both cater well to different types of travelers, from families to romantic couples.
Whatever your choice, booking early and considering your preferred experience will ensure you get the most out of your day on Brisbane’s beautiful waters. Now, grab your sunglasses and hat—your sailing adventure in Brisbane awaits.