The only operator from Port Douglas with daily access to the pristine Mackay Coral Cay.
Venture further offshore to explore the unspoilt Outer Great Barrier Reef, spending your day snorkelling across two secluded and vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life. Between exploring the reef, spend time unwinding aboard our premium sailing catamaran, and taking in panoramic views paired with delicious onboard dining.
Highlights
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Spend 4.5 hours at an unspoilt location on the Outer Great Barrier Reef
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Discover two secluded reef sites, which includes a guided snorkel tour with a marine biologist
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Explore and relax on a secluded the coral cay
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Enjoy glass bottom boat viewing and a reef interpretation talk
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Sail on board the premium sailing catamaran Sailaway VII
Inclusions
8.00am – 5.00pm
Suitable for all ages
Courtesy Coach transfers to Marina
Includes morning tea, buffet lunch and afternoon tea
Sailaway VII
Custom built 25m sailing catamaran
glass bottom boat tours
Guided snorkel tours
Reef interpretation talk
Itinerary
How your day out on the Outer Great Barrier Reef unfolds:
7.30am
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Check in to Sailaway office at the marina
7.45am
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Board Sailaway VII – Berth D6
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Tea & Coffee with Muffins and pastries on arrival
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Welcome & Safety briefing
8.00am
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Depart Port Douglas. Set sail.
Sailing to Mackay Cay Outer Barrier Reef
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Reef Interpretation Talk by Marine Biologist and Master Reef Guide
10.15am
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Arrive at protected mooring at Mackay Coral Cay – 1st Reef site
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Snorkel safety briefing, distribution of snorkel equipment
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Nature Activities commence:
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Snorkel over the coral gardens
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Guided Snorkel Tour by Marine Biologist
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Transfer to the coral cay for exploring
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Relax and swim
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Glass Bottom Boat tour
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12.45pm
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Serve Tropical Buffet Lunch on board
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Move to 2nd reef site
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After lunch, Nature Activities resume
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Continue free time snorkelling
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2.15pm
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Afternoon Tea & Coffee, cakes and fresh fruit platter
2.30pm
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Depart Mackay Cay. Set sail to Port Douglas
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Relax on board
5.00pm
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Arrive Port Douglas
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Coach transfer to Port Douglas accommodation
Private Vehicle Transfers available on request from Palm Cove
Pricing
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
|
Adult 13+ years | $340.00 |
|
Child 4-12 years | $238.00 |
|
Family 2 Adults & 2 Children | $1,040.00 |
|
Infant 0-3 years | Free of charge |
Valid 01 April 2025 to 31 March 2026. Environmental Management Charge is included in the ticket price.
FAQs
What should I bring on the Outer Reef Full Day Tour?
We recommend bringing the following for your day exploring the Great Barrier Reef:
- Swimwear
- Beach towel
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Sun shirt
- Sea sickness tablets, if required
- A light jumper as it can get breezy while sailing
- A credit card for any additional onboard purchases
Are complimentary transfers available?
Yes, complimentary bus transfers are available within the Port Douglas area.
What swimming ability is required for snorkelling?
Our Outer Reef tour is best suited to guests with intermediate swimming ability. Guided snorkelling and flotation devices are available, but some swimming ability and confidence in the water are essential. If you’re a beginner or less confident swimmer, our Low Isles tours may be a more suitable option.
Explore Sailaway Tours
8.00am – 5.00pm
Outer Reef Tour
From $370.00 AUD
8.30am – 4.00pm
Low Isles Full Day Tour
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1.00pm – 6.30pm
Low Isles Afternoon & Sunset Tour
From $365.00 AUD
5.00pm – 6.30pm
Sunset Sailing Tour
From $105.00 AUD
9.00am – 6.30pm
Rainforest to Reef Tour
From $495.00 AUD
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Rainforest to Sunset Sail
From $240.00 AUD