Townsville’s 6 Best Cruises And Boat Tours (With Prices & Reviews)

Townsville is a fantastic base for exploring Queensland’s coast by boat. Its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, Magnetic Island, and the stunning Coral Sea makes it an ideal launching point for memorable marine adventures. Whether you’re interested in diving, whale watching, or relaxing sunset sails, Townsville offers a wide variety of cruises and boat tours that cater to different tastes and budgets. We especially like the opportunity to snorkel or scuba dive at the Great Barrier Reef, and the sunset sail offers a peaceful way to wind down after a day of sightseeing. If marine wildlife is your thing, the Whale Watching and Wildlife Cruise is a must-do experience.

For those who prefer a shorter, more relaxed outing, the Townsville Sunset Sail offers a scenic hour and a half with drinks included. Meanwhile, the Yacht Club Lunch Package combines a quick cruise with a delicious meal, perfect for a midday break. For the full experience, the Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Townsville or Magnetic Island offers a full-day adventure with options to snorkel or dive, along with the chance to learn about the reef’s incredible ecosystems. Each of these tours provides a different way to experience the region’s maritime beauty.

1. Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Townsville or Magnetic Island

At number 1, this full-day experience is perfect for anyone wanting to see the Great Barrier Reef up close. The tour departs from either Townsville or Magnetic Island, giving you flexibility to choose your start point based on your itinerary. The tour offers snorkeling, introductory dives, or certified diving, making it accessible whether you’re a novice or an experienced diver. The reef itself is famous for its colorful coral and marine life, including sea turtles, reef sharks, stingrays, and tropical fish. The boat provides all necessary gear, and you’ll be guided by experienced crew who are eager to share their knowledge.

What makes this trip stand out is its variety of options—snorkelers can drift above the coral gardens, while certified divers can explore deeper waters. The crew provides morning and afternoon tea, cordials, and a hearty lunch, ensuring you stay energized for the day’s activities. Reviews consistently praise the professionalism of the staff and the quality of the reef experience, with one reviewer calling it “mind-blowing” and another mentioning the “incredible ocean sentinel art.” The 10-hour length means a full day on the water, which might be long for some but rewarding for those eager to explore one of the world’s most famous natural wonders.

Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive reef experience with flexible activity options and expert guidance, this cruise is hard to beat. It’s a full-day commitment but offers excellent value for the chance to snorkel or dive at the Great Barrier Reef.

2. Townsville Sunset Sail Cruise Boat Tour Charter Hire Sailing Hire

At number 2, this sunset cruise is a delightful way to end your day in Townsville. It lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes and departs from the Townsville Yacht Club and Marina. The focus here is on relaxation and scenery—drifting along the Coral Sea coast with a drink in hand while watching the sky turn shades of pink, orange, and yellow as the sun dips below the horizon. The tour is limited to a small group, which keeps the atmosphere intimate and personalized.

What sets this tour apart is the chance to see Magnetic Island and the Strand Beach from the water, along with the dramatic skyline backdrop of Castle Hill. Included are bottled water and limited alcoholic drinks, making it a leisurely, no-fuss outing. The reviews highlight how enjoyable and scenic the experience is, with one reviewer calling it “the perfect way to unwind.” It’s ideal for couples or anyone wanting a peaceful moment after a busy day.

Bottom Line: For a relaxed, scenic evening that captures the natural beauty of Townsville’s coast, this small-group sunset sail offers a memorable, low-key experience.

3. Townsville Boat Cruise & Yacht Club Lunch Package Sailing Charter

The third spot goes to the Townsville Boat Cruise & Yacht Club Lunch Package, a quick 2-hour cruise combined with a delicious meal. The tour departs from the Yacht Club, with options for a morning or lunchtime sail. You’ll enjoy views of Magnetic Island and Castle Hill, plus a relaxed cruise led by an experienced skipper and deckhand. The trip includes lunch and a drink at the Yacht Club, or at the nearby Gelatissimo Cafe if the Yacht Club is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a short escape with good food and scenery. The reviews mention the friendly, knowledgeable crew and the “yummy fish and chips,” making it a great choice for a casual, social outing. The boat provides two drinks—one with your meal, and one onboard—adding to the laid-back vibe. This experience is especially suitable for those who want a taste of local life without spending a full day on the water.

Bottom Line: If you want a quick, scenic cruise paired with a relaxed meal, this is a smart choice—especially for lunch or a short morning escape.

4. Whale Watching and Wildlife Cruise Townsville and Magnetic Island

This wildlife-focused cruise comes in at number 4 and ranks a perfect 5.0 out of 5. During the season, you’ll be on the lookout for humpback whales, which migrate along the coast. The 4-hour trip is led by a knowledgeable crew who help you spot whales breaching, tail slapping, and frolicking in their natural environment. Beyond whales, you’ll see sea turtles and seabirds, making this a full-on marine encounter.

Departing from Townsville, the tour passes Cape Cleveland Lighthouse and Magnetic Island, giving you spectacular views of the coastline. The crew shares stories about the area’s maritime history and the local wildlife, enriching the experience. Reviewers emphasize how friendly and humorous the crew is, with one calling it “absolutely amazing” and another saying the staff made the trip “most enjoyable.” The tour is a good choice for nature lovers, families, and those eager to see whales up close.

Bottom Line: For an intimate wildlife experience with a high chance of whale sightings and engaging storytelling, this tour hits the mark.

5. Great Barrier Reef and MOUA Cruise from Townsville or Magnetic Island

Number 5 features this full-day trip combining a visit to the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) with a trip to the Great Barrier Reef. The tour departs from Townsville or Magnetic Island, offering snorkeling equipment, non-alcoholic beverages, and the chance to explore both natural and artistic marvels. The MOUA is a unique attraction, featuring underwater art installations on John Brewer Reef, which you can view during your reef stop.

The tour is especially appealing for those interested in marine art and underwater innovation, as it blends cultural interest with natural beauty. The reviews mention the well-organized logistics, generous snacks and lunches, and the safety-conscious crew. One reviewer adds, “Great dive site, friendly crew, and lots of marine life,” making this a good pick for families and curious travelers. The tour runs for about 9 hours, so be prepared for a full day.

Bottom Line: If you want a mix of marine art, reef exploration, and a well-organized trip, this is an excellent choice.

6. Townsville Private Hire Morning Sailing Cruise Boat Tour Charter

Finally, number 6 offers a private small-group sailing experience. With a maximum of six guests, this morning cruise provides a personalized way to see Magnetic Island, Townsville, and Cleveland Bay. The boat departs sharply at 10am from the town marina, and you’ll enjoy scenic views that are impossible from land.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a customized experience and enjoy the quiet beauty of the coast. The skipper shares insights into the area, and the small group guarantees a quiet, intimate outing. The reviews mention the relaxing atmosphere and beautiful scenery, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a peaceful morning on the water.

Bottom Line: If you prefer a private, flexible sailing experience with less crowd and personalized attention, this tour is worth considering.

How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Townsville

When selecting a cruise or boat tour, think about your priorities. Do you want a full-day reef adventure? The Great Barrier Reef Cruise offers comprehensive exploration with diving options. For a relaxing evening, the Sunset Sail provides scenic views and a peaceful vibe. If marine wildlife is your focus, the Whale Watching is hard to beat, especially in season.

Budget also plays a role: the sunset sail is affordable at around $71 per person, while full-day reef trips are more expensive but include equipment and meals. Consider your fitness level—some trips involve snorkeling or diving, while others are purely scenic. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours during peak whale migration or holiday seasons.

Final Thoughts

Townsville offers a versatile range of cruises and boat tours that suit different interests and budgets. Whether you’re after full-day adventures to the Great Barrier Reef, a romantic sunset sail, or an intimate private charter, there’s something for all. The reef trips stand out for their impressive marine life and coral, perfect for underwater enthusiasts. For a more relaxed experience, the sunset sail provides stunning scenery without the crowds. And wildlife lovers will find the whale watching particularly rewarding.

No matter your choice, the key is to book early and pick a tour that matches your interests and pace. With so many options, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories on the water in Townsville.