The 5 Best Sailing Experiences In Cairns and the Tropical North

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The 5 Best Sailing Experiences in Cairns and the Tropical North

Cairns and the Tropical North are perfect for sailing because of their proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, world-class islands, and scenic waterways. Whether you’re after a full-day reef adventure, a relaxing evening cruise, or a luxurious sailing trip, this region offers something for every kind of traveler. We particularly like the Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Sailing Trip from Cairns for its small-group intimacy and top-notch reef access, and the Passions of Paradise for its comprehensive reef exploration with snorkeling and scuba diving.

If you prefer a more laid-back experience, the Cairns Catamaran Harbour and Dinner Cruise offers a scenic sunset view along with excellent local cuisine. For those who want to combine a day on the reef with island time, the Wavedancer Low Isles Great Barrier Reef Sailing Cruise from Cairns offers guided snorkeling, marine biology insights, and stunning coral views. Finally, for multi-day adventurers, the 2-Day Great Barrier Reef Combo combines Green Island sailing with outer reef snorkeling—ideal for those who want to maximize their time in this marine wonderland.

1. Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Sailing Trip from Cairns

This full-day reef trip offers a fantastic way to see the outer Great Barrier Reef in comfort and style. It includes snorkel equipment and guided snorkeling, so you can easily explore coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, turtles, and clams. The tour sails to Upolu Reef and a tranquil lagoon, away from the crowded inner reef sites, giving you a more authentic experience.

What makes this trip stand out is its small-group atmosphere—the boat is designed to maximize personal interaction, with a maximum of 20 passengers. The crew is knowledgeable and friendly, often praised for making the day memorable. The buffet lunch, snacks, and morning tea keep you energized, and exposure suits are provided for kids under 14, making it a family-friendly option. The boat ride itself is smooth and peaceful, perfect for those who prefer relaxed sailing.

Based on reviews, many travelers mention how helpful and enthusiastic the crew is, with comments like, “The crew was awesome. They were very helpful and created a great day for us on the reef.” This trip is perfect for those wanting a personalized reef experience without the crowds and for anyone who values good food, friendly service, and marine encounters.

Bottom Line: A top choice for small groups, reef lovers, and families seeking a comprehensive, well-organized day on the outer reef.

2. Cairns Catamaran Harbour and Dinner Cruise

The Cairns Catamaran Harbour and Dinner Cruise offers a relaxed evening experience along the Cairns waterfront and Trinity Inlet. For around $99.70, you get a three-hour cruise that combines scenic views with a delicious dinner featuring local produce. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a laid-back yet elegant way to see Cairns from the water.

During sunset, the city’s skyline and surrounding mountains glow beautifully, providing excellent photo opportunities. The cruise’s highlight is the luxurious atmosphere—you can sip a complimentary drink as you drift along, enjoying the gentle sea breeze. The buffet dinner is well-reviewed, with many noting the quality and variety of food. Despite some weather hiccups (noted in reviews where rain limited outdoor time), the staff’s friendly service helps make the best of it.

The route takes you along the Cairns waterfront and Trinity Inlet, giving you a fresh view of the city’s harbor. The boat is comfortable, and the crew sets a lively, fun mood. If you’re after a memorable sunset with good food and drinks, this cruise is a great pick.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a romantic evening or a relaxing night out with scenic views and excellent cuisine.

3. Wavedancer Low Isles Great Barrier Reef Sailing Cruise from Cairns

At number 3, the Wavedancer Low Isles Cruise takes you on a full-day adventure to one of the most picturesque spots on the reef, Low Isles. This cruise departs from Port Douglas, making it ideal for travelers based north of Cairns. It includes guided snorkeling led by a marine biologist, a glass-bottom boat tour, and a guided beach walk—offering a variety of ways to see the reef’s vibrant marine life.

The cruise features a luxury 30-meter sailing catamaran accommodating up to 200 passengers, providing both comfort and space to relax. The calm lagoon waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling from the beach, especially with instructors on hand to assist beginners. The tour is praised for its informative marine biology talks and the opportunity to spot green turtles, rays, and even sharks.

A highlight for many is the guided beach walk, giving a different perspective on the reef environment. The buffet lunch is tropical and plentiful, making sure you stay fueled for the day. Guests often comment on the excellent safety standards and the friendly staff, making it a reliable choice for a full-day reef experience.

Bottom Line: Ideal for families and snorkelers who want guided, educational access to the reef in a comfortable, luxury setting.

4. 2-Day Great Barrier Reef Combo: Green Island Sailing and Outer Reef Snorkel Cruise

This two-day reef adventure is perfect for travelers who want to get the most out of their time in Cairns. It combines sailing to Green Island aboard a classic schooner with a second day exploring the outer reef. The tour includes buffet lunch, snacks, hot drinks, and a glass of wine, making for a relaxed, all-inclusive experience.

A major advantage is the independent accommodation in Cairns, giving you flexibility and comfort while maximizing reef time. The trip offers guided snorkeling, including drift snorkeling at Upolu Cay, and a glass-bottom boat tour with a marine biologist—great for those interested in marine ecology and underwater sights. The tour is lauded for its helpful crew and the variety of reef sites visited, ensuring plenty of marine encounters.

This tour ranks high on value thanks to its two-day format, giving you a deeper appreciation of the reef than a single-day trip. The reviews mention how helpful and friendly the crew is, and how the included lunch is a highlight. It’s suited for travelers comfortable with a bit of independence but wanting guided and organized reef experiences.

Bottom Line: Excellent for reef enthusiasts who want a flexible, multi-day exploration with plenty of snorkeling and wildlife viewing.

5. Passions of Paradise Great Barrier Reef Cruise by Catamaran

Finally, the Passions of Paradise provides a full-day, all-in-one reef experience. With the ability to visit two different reef locations, it offers a great balance between variety and depth. The tour includes snorkeling and scuba diving, catering to all levels, including those new to diving.

The boat is a luxurious catamaran, and the crew’s professionalism is frequently mentioned in reviews—many note how they help beginners feel comfortable and safe. The snorkeling gear is plentiful, and the underwater ecology features tropical fish, vibrant coral, and marine life that make for unforgettable encounters. The buffet lunch, with plenty of options, adds to the value.

What sets this tour apart is its comprehensive itinerary—covering multiple sites and offering both snorkeling and scuba diving—making it ideal for serious reef lovers or those wanting a full-day immersive experience. The reviews highlight the friendly staff and the ease of exploring the reef with their help. It’s suitable for travelers with some diving experience or those eager to try scuba diving.

Bottom Line: The best choice for travelers seeking a robust, all-included reef day with options for snorkeling and diving, delivered in a comfortable setting.

How to Choose Your Perfect Sailing Experience

When selecting a tour, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend on the water, and your interest level in marine life and relaxing settings. For a luxury sunset dinner with a romantic vibe, the Cairns Catamaran Harbour and Dinner Cruise is ideal. If you’re eager to explore the outer reef with guided snorkeling and marine biology insights, the Wavedancer Low Isles Cruise or the Passions of Paradise are excellent options.

For those wanting a more independent experience, the 2-Day Reef Combo offers flexibility and extended reef access. Budget-conscious travelers will find value in the single-day trips, especially considering the included food, equipment, and guided activities.

Booking early is advisable, particularly during peak season (June to September), and always confirm weather conditions—some tours are weather-dependent.

To sum it up, Cairns and the Tropical North provide a diverse range of sailing options, from full-day reef adventures to intimate sunset cruises. For a truly memorable experience, pick the one that aligns best with your interests—whether that’s exploring vibrant coral, enjoying scenic sailing, or relaxing over a tasty meal. Remember, these tours tend to fill up quickly, so booking in advance guarantees your spot on a fantastic aquatic journey.