Low Island Snorkelling Private Charter Aboard Authentic Chinese Junk Boat

Getting out on the water around Port Douglas is a must-do for anyone visiting this part of Queensland, but this particular tour manages to elevate the experience to something truly special. The Low Island Snorkelling Private Charter aboard an authentic Chinese junk boat offers an intimate, customized day of reef exploration, wildlife spotting, and island discovery—all with the added charm of sailing aboard a beautifully restored vessel.

What sets this tour apart? First, it’s completely private, meaning you and your chosen group get the boat all to yourselves, which makes for a more relaxed and personalized experience. Second, the itinerary can be tailored to your interests, whether that’s snorkeling, island walks, or simply lounging in the sun. Third, the boat itself—the Shaolin junk—is not only a conversation piece but also offers a nostalgic, luxurious way to experience the coral seas.

That said, a private tour with this level of customization comes at a premium price ($1,695 for up to 13 people). It’s probably not the best option if you’re traveling solo or on a tight budget, but for groups wanting a bespoke day with excellent guides, it’s well worth considering. This experience suits those looking for a laid-back day on the water, with a touch of history and plenty of opportunities for wildlife encounters.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: Perfect for groups seeking a tailored, intimate experience
• Includes all essentials: Snorkeling gear, lunch, snacks, and drinks are provided
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable staff like Rob and Dani add valuable insights and care
• Relaxed, small-group vibe: With only up to 13 guests, it’s a far cry from crowded tours
• Flexibility: Choose between snorkeling, island walks, or relaxing on the boat
• Stunning scenery: Views of the Coral Sea and Low Island are a major highlight

The Experience: What You Can Expect from Start to Finish

Departure and Early Morning Vibes

The adventure begins at the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina at 8:00 am, a convenient spot in Port Douglas near public transport options. As soon as you step on board the Shaolin junk, you’ll notice its charm—an elegant, traditional Chinese sailboat that’s been lovingly restored. Reviewers consistently mention the boat’s “incredible history,” adding a layer of authenticity to the day.

Guests typically start with morning tea—a simple but thoughtful touch that sets a relaxed tone. As the boat glides out along the waterfront, small groups tend to settle into the laid-back vibe, with some guests commenting on how pleasant it is to be on such a spacious, beautifully crafted vessel, especially compared to larger, overcrowded boats.

Navigating to Low Island

The journey to Low Island takes about 75 minutes, during which you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Port Douglas, the mangroves, and glimpses of the reef in the distance. Many reviews highlight the small-group atmosphere—with only 7 or 13 guests, the crew can give personalized attention and share detailed stories about the boat’s fascinating history.

Passengers often praise the crew—particularly Rob, Dani, and Floyd— for their attentiveness, knowledge, and friendly approach. One reviewer mentioned “Dani made sure my young niece was well looked after,” illustrating how inclusive and considerate the staff are, especially for families.

Arriving at Low Island: Snorkeling and Island Exploration

Once at Low Island, the focus shifts to the water and wildlife. The tour includes a personalized snorkelling experience, with guides leading small groups to the best spots. Reviewers rave about the variety of marine life—from turtles and reef sharks to vibrant coral and schools of fish—that they encountered during these guided tours. One guest even mentioned swimming with sharks safely, highlighting the reef’s non-aggressive nature.

The island walk adds another layer to the experience. Visitors get a chance to visit the historical lighthouse and observe local wildlife—like seabirds and crabs—in their natural environment. As one reviewer put it, “The island tour was interesting and gave a real sense of place,” making it more than just a snorkel stop.

Lunch and Afternoon Options

After exploring, guests return to the boat for a delicious lunch—an aspect many reviews highlight as a high point. The menu features fresh, well-prepared food and tapas-style snacks that cater to various tastes. Light refreshments and snacks are available throughout the day, ensuring everyone stays energized.

In the afternoon, you can choose to do another deep-water snorkel, relax on the boat, or explore the island further—depending on your group’s mood. The flexibility here is a big draw, and many find it’s the perfect way to tailor the day.

Return Journey and Sunset Vibes

As the day winds down, the boat heads back to Port Douglas, with afternoon tea and drinks served onboard. Many reviewers mention how the laid-back atmosphere continues during the return trip, with some even snoozing or enjoying the scenic views in silence. The experience ends back at the marina, leaving guests refreshed and with lasting memories.

Why This Tour Represents Good Value

The cost of $1,695 for up to 13 guests might seem high at first glance, but when you consider the all-inclusive nature—private boat, personalized guides, snorkeling gear, lunch, and snacks—it becomes clearer that this is a premium experience. Reviewers consistently mention how the small group size and dedicated staff make for a more meaningful and memorable day compared to large group tours.

The tour’s flexibility to customize activities means you’re not stuck with a cookie-cutter schedule. Instead, you get to choose how much time you want to spend snorkeling, exploring the island, or relaxing. This level of control is rare in reef tours, making it ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples seeking an exclusive escape.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re seeking a relaxing, intimate day on the water with lots of opportunities for wildlife encounters, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate history and culture, given the boat’s heritage, or families wanting a guided, safe, and engaging adventure in the reef.

It’s perfect if you value personalized service and want to avoid cramped, crowded tours. Plus, the opportunity for custom activities means you can tailor the day to be as adventurous or as laid-back as you like.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting point: Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, 44 Wharf St, Port Douglas
• Start time: 8:00 am, so plan to arrive a little early to settle in
• Duration: Around 7.5 hours—long enough to relax and explore without feeling rushed
• Price: $1,695.02 per group (up to 13 people) — excellent for a private, all-inclusive experience
• What’s included: Snorkeling gear, lunch, snacks, and drinks
• Best for: Families, small groups, couples, anyone looking for a tailored day out
• Weather considerations: The experience is weather-dependent; poor weather results in rescheduling or full refunds

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially with guides like Dani who look after young snorkelers. Small group size and personalized attention make it suitable for kids and their safety.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and perhaps a waterproof camera. Since snorkeling gear is included, you only need to bring your enthusiasm.

How many people are on the boat?
The boat accommodates up to 13 guests, making for a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, far less crowded than larger reef tours.

Can I customize the day’s activities?
Absolutely. You can choose to snorkel, take a guided island walk, or simply relax on the boat—it’s designed to fit your preferences.

What is the lunch like?
A delicious, well-made meal is provided, with fresh ingredients and a variety of options. Reviewers describe it as “delicious” and highlight the tapas-style snacks.

What is the return process like?
The boat returns to Port Douglas around late afternoon, with afternoon tea and drinks served onboard. The relaxed vibe makes for a perfect wind-down.

What happens if the weather turns bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

For those wanting a private, flexible, and authentic reef experience, this tour delivers on all fronts. The combination of a historic Chinese junk boat, attentive guides, and customizable activities makes for a memorable day that balances adventure and relaxation. The small group setting means you get the attention and care that large tours often lack, and the included amenities make it a hassle-free outing.

While the price might be a consideration, the overall value comes from the personalized experience and the quality of the guides and vessel. If you’re after a laid-back, intimate day exploring the reefs and islands around Port Douglas—without sacrificing comfort or authenticity—this private boat charter is a top pick.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a tranquil day in paradise, this tour offers a genuine way to connect with nature, history, and your travel companions.