Sailing
1–2 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 90% of travellers
90% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
AU$85
per adult
Sailaway
Sailaway
5
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Full view
About
SAILAWAY VII OUTER REEF Mackay & Undine Coral Cays small group snorkelling, time on spectacular Cay. Sailaway, since 1985 Low Isles "Full Day" All ages and "Afternoon Sunset" and "Sunset Sailing" (Adults Only) luxury yacht arrived Sailaway VI 'Lagoon 560' & V luxury 'Lagoon 500' Catamarans, sailed from France offer luxury reef and island day trips departing marina at 8.00am, 8.30am, 1.00pm and 5.00pm, Relax on the white sandy beaches, snorkel over the magnificent coral gardens in the blue lagoon and swim with turtles in their natural habitat. Glass bottom boat, superb food and pure sailing! Absolutely the most relaxing and sustainable experience on Great Barrier Reef, 4 departures daily to suit you perfectly. SAILAWAY #1 SUNSET SAILING "MUST DO' $70 New Hot/Cold Canapés menu, complementary drink and fully licensed bar. Highly recommended for Adults, amazing value and ambiance. Go Sailaway!
Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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Full-day Tours
6+ hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 96% of travellers
96% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
AU$315
per adult
Sailing
6+ hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 95% of travellers
95% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
AU$315
per adult
Sailing
5–6 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 94% of travellers
94% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
AU$315
per adult
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
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5.0
2,836 reviews
Excellent
2,423
Very good
264
Average
90
Poor
34
Terrible
26
mary
canberra6 contributions
July 2021
We were so impressed after our discussion with the helpful and welcoming owner of this business, Katrina, that we booked a day trip to Mackay and Undine coral Kays and also a sunset cruise. Both surpassed our expectations. If you want a smaller group reef experience with competent, friendly and fun crew this option is fabulous. The snorkelling at two spots where an hour was allowed at each was some of the best we have ever done. It included swimming with 3 turtles. The equipment given was high quality and we didn't have any of the fogging or leaking issues we've had on other trips. One of the great staff, off his own bat, suggested how I could better fit the mask around my long hair to have a better snorkelling experience. The buffet lunch was high quality and plentiful. We loved the day. The sunset cruise was also magic. The finger food was again high quality and drinks, after the first free one, were reasonably priced. Again the staff were fabulous.
Written 1 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sean A
Gold Coast, Australia12 contributions
Apr 2021 • Couples
My wife and I did the full day trip to the Lowe Isles and had an amazing day. The catamaran itself is impressive and we felt like special guests for the day. All the guys on board were awesome and made the day enjoyable, giving us all a few laughs along the way. The conditions weren't ideal with very strong winds and rough sea but they handled them well and made the trip as comfortable as possible. We'd highly recommend taking their offer of sea sickness tablets if you're worried. We arrived to the island where it was unfortunately high tide, making visibility for snorkelling difficult but we were assured by the guys that we'd have more luck later in the day. We thankfully did when they offered to take us out later on and we saw some great stuff pointed out by the guys. In between this we did the walking tour on the island which is short but quite interesting hearing about the history of the island and how it runs these days. No issues with any of the equipment for snorkelling. The morning tea and lunch was okay and nothing too exciting but it's not the highlight of the trip so that was okay with us because we got to enjoy a beautiful day at sea with these guys lapping up the beauty of the reef and the Low Isles.
Written 2 April 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Trudie2211
Murphys Creek, Australia31 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
Fantastic day on the Mackay and Undine reefs. Overlooked Cape Tribulation, which was certainly a sight to see. The weather was prestige, with water visibility at it’s best. The sea life was amazing, and the coral was spectacular. The giant clams spitting out their water on low tide was truely an awesome sight to witness.
The following evening was spent on one of sailaways sunset cruises. An absolute must do when up in Port Douglas. Watching the sunset over the daintree whilst sipping sparkling wine & eating canopies on a beautifully kept cat was definitely a breathtakingly experience for both of us.
Jazz, Hannah and the rest of the sail away crew do an amazing job of skippering the boat, and providing their passengers with an awesome time whilst on board.
The following evening was spent on one of sailaways sunset cruises. An absolute must do when up in Port Douglas. Watching the sunset over the daintree whilst sipping sparkling wine & eating canopies on a beautifully kept cat was definitely a breathtakingly experience for both of us.
Jazz, Hannah and the rest of the sail away crew do an amazing job of skippering the boat, and providing their passengers with an awesome time whilst on board.
Written 29 December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paula H
Cairns, Australia42 contributions
Sept 2020
Staff were exceptionally friendly and informative. I got sea sick and they were so amazing . The lady helped me get to the back of the boat kept checking on me . The only thing I thought was a bit disappointing was we got one free drink and a small helping of canapés. When I booked it looked really romantic but having these in a cardboard little box didn’t really feel classy. The drinks were expensive as well for $8.00 a drink considering we paid $70 for a romantic evening watching the sun set which it was way to rough and there was no sun . But other than this it was an ok evening . Only went for and hour and a half.
Written 18 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for choosing Sailaway, every evening and sunset is different, we can rely on 100% pure sailing on a beautiful luxury Lagoon 560 sailing catamaran. An authentic 90 minute sail is an ideal time to unwind and appreciate the the scenery and ambience, even on a less than perfect day. Our drinks are standard local pub prices onboard a luxury yacht, rather than a glass of wine we offer choices of Australian wines and as a piccolo bottle serving per person included in the tickets which is a generous portion, as a licensed bar more options available and non alcoholic drinks and quality bottles of fruit juices only $3. The serving of canapés are nice and not cheese and crackers. Currently canapés having to be served differently as part of necessary COVID safe practices (no platters or self serve) and adjust or 'classy' customer services. We hope you can join us again as many repeat guests do and enjoy and nicer weather evening,
Written 3 October 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mikenz77
Adelaide, Australia52 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
We booked for a romantic sunset cruise for my wife and I.
We were welcomed and ushered into a packed ship by the crew.
On boarding, my wife found a small spot while I went to the bar to collect our drink and canapé platter. All went fairly well.
I started on the canapés and found the rice balls interesting. Minted peas.
My wife had a nibble and found it to contain pine nuts to which she is allergic.
We hopped off the boat and they set sail. We headed to the hospital via a pharmacy for treatment as my wife at this stage couldn’t breathe.
Upon contacting them to try and rebook, they had no idea it had happened nor had any sympathy. We were looking to go again but they couldn’t accommodate so we asked for a refund. This was refused.
My wife was met with a barrage of “it’s your fault, your responsibility”. To be fair, there were no warnings about nuts, I had tried it and didn’t notice them. The skipper commented “best you get off”.
We’re not moaners but the way this was dealt with was absolutely terrible. I know times are tough but this occasion they got it very wrong.
We were welcomed and ushered into a packed ship by the crew.
On boarding, my wife found a small spot while I went to the bar to collect our drink and canapé platter. All went fairly well.
I started on the canapés and found the rice balls interesting. Minted peas.
My wife had a nibble and found it to contain pine nuts to which she is allergic.
We hopped off the boat and they set sail. We headed to the hospital via a pharmacy for treatment as my wife at this stage couldn’t breathe.
Upon contacting them to try and rebook, they had no idea it had happened nor had any sympathy. We were looking to go again but they couldn’t accommodate so we asked for a refund. This was refused.
My wife was met with a barrage of “it’s your fault, your responsibility”. To be fair, there were no warnings about nuts, I had tried it and didn’t notice them. The skipper commented “best you get off”.
We’re not moaners but the way this was dealt with was absolutely terrible. I know times are tough but this occasion they got it very wrong.
Written 13 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Once again, we sincerely apologise for your apparent food allergy incident, after a great start of a beautiful evening. We do care greatly and we are a very safe and experienced local family business.
The Skipper treated you personally on board once you informed us you weren't feeling well, and gave you the medication you asked for. I was later informed you had decided to leave the vessel as you became unsure it was a good idea to stay onboard.
We have full information of all passengers however with your change of mind and late departure is was not possible to reconfirm your details as skipper thought you were going to our office, as you said to rebook. Our Office Manager stayed back an extra half an hour and remained open in case you came in for assistance. You didn’t come back into the office and we assumed you therefore did not need our help.
We take possible allergies and catering requirements seriously. The canapé menu is clearly displayed on a sign in the saloon area and we have a full ingredients list which is available should a guest request further information. The menu does not have any items containing nuts. As a person with a severe nut allergy you would be aware that some flour may have traces of nuts and avoiding certain foods is safe and preventible practice. Should a guest with severe allergies advise us at time of booking notes are made on the ships manifest for reference. Unfortunately we were not advised of your allergy and neither of you asked about ingredients.
Being an owner operated business for 17 years, we fully understand the value of guests satisfaction and safety. Our reservations staff are very professional, polite and courteous and genuinely care about our guests experience, our staff member did her best to offer you condolences and alternative arrangements at no charge.
Written 14 August 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
GBCA3
Mitcham, Australia58 contributions
Mar 2021 • Couples
Our half day sail to Low Isles was fantastic.
Blake, Ben and James were highly professional, friendly and informative. On arrival at Low Isles we spent an hour or so snorkelling amongst the beautiful coral and fish whilst being educated by our guide. A highlight were the giant clams. We then went for a walk around the historic island with our guide which was equally informative and interesting! To conclude our wonderful afternoon we enjoyed drinks and canapés during the sail back to Port Douglas as the sun began to set.
Blake, Ben and James were highly professional, friendly and informative. On arrival at Low Isles we spent an hour or so snorkelling amongst the beautiful coral and fish whilst being educated by our guide. A highlight were the giant clams. We then went for a walk around the historic island with our guide which was equally informative and interesting! To conclude our wonderful afternoon we enjoyed drinks and canapés during the sail back to Port Douglas as the sun began to set.
Written 11 March 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Luna1951
Adelaide, Australia48 contributions
Sept 2021
We went on the Sunset Sail as I'm not keen on being on water so one and a half hours seemed long enough. Shoes removed before we got on and kept on the marina so they didn't get wet. There was finger food provided and a alcohol if you wanted it, with able to buy more. The sail was brilliant, I really loved it even though the clouds hid the sunset. It was great and would do it again. Highly recommend it.
Written 23 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ssgd_au
Port Macquarie, Australia4 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
Awesome day out on the reef. Louisa, Maddi and Jazz were terrific. The snorkeling was just beautiful. The outer reef trip was worth it. Small group onboard which was the best, we didn’t want to go with the larger boats/groups so I highly recommend Sailaway as this is what you’ll get. Louisa was a wealth of knowledge about the ongoing restoration of the reef and knew every kind of creature and coral, very interesting. Had the best day and would highly recommend these guys for a full day on the reef. Thanks again, had so much fun!! Sharyn and Steve
Written 25 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Caitlin G
14 contributions
Oct 2020 • Family
We went as a family of four with Sailaway for a full day sail and snorkel cruise to the Outer Reef, Mackay Sandy Cay.
The trip from start to finish was just perfect. The staff onboard were friendly and helpful and having a marine biologist onboard to share things about marine life was brilliant. The snorkelling felt safe, secure and fish, rays, giant clams etc were a sight to see. Crystal clear waters meant for incredible snorkelling. And seeing the Sandy cay and taking the glass bottom
Boat to it felt magical.
The smaller numbers with Sailaway meant we had loads of space onboard and felt like a private experience. I’ve snorkelled in some
Amazing places in the world and here in my own State I’ve found the best of them all.
Sailaway as a company work with conservationists to help protect our waters and also the coast line, which I appreciate.
The trip from start to finish was just perfect. The staff onboard were friendly and helpful and having a marine biologist onboard to share things about marine life was brilliant. The snorkelling felt safe, secure and fish, rays, giant clams etc were a sight to see. Crystal clear waters meant for incredible snorkelling. And seeing the Sandy cay and taking the glass bottom
Boat to it felt magical.
The smaller numbers with Sailaway meant we had loads of space onboard and felt like a private experience. I’ve snorkelled in some
Amazing places in the world and here in my own State I’ve found the best of them all.
Sailaway as a company work with conservationists to help protect our waters and also the coast line, which I appreciate.
Written 21 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for choosing Sailaway and having a magical day, yes we have incredable sites and team and so easily accessible if you are in Queensland at the moment, we hope to see you back for more Sailaway experiences with the same philosophy, attention to detail and genuine passion for caring about our guests and the environment we are proud to showcase
Written 22 October 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rajj976
San Jose, California231 contributions
Nov 2022
Our hotel pickup was scheduled for 7:45am and at exactly 7:45am, the driver arrived to take us to the marina. Check in was quick and we boarded the catamaran and listened to safety instructions.
We did the full day Low Isles tour and they provided us with snorkeling equipment and stinger suits. Our crew was Captain Joel, Moby and Chloe who were so pleasant and fun and really made the day special for us. Chloe and Moby were excellent guides in the water. We also enjoyed the tour of the island and especially loved the glass bottom boat tour where we were able to see a reef shark.
We were happy we selected Sailaway as it seemed to be a more intimate experience than what we saw on the other boats that had a lot more people on them.
We did the full day Low Isles tour and they provided us with snorkeling equipment and stinger suits. Our crew was Captain Joel, Moby and Chloe who were so pleasant and fun and really made the day special for us. Chloe and Moby were excellent guides in the water. We also enjoyed the tour of the island and especially loved the glass bottom boat tour where we were able to see a reef shark.
We were happy we selected Sailaway as it seemed to be a more intimate experience than what we saw on the other boats that had a lot more people on them.
Written 26 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi we are a party of 8 adults and keen to do a full day low Isle snorkling tour we arrive today 9th and except for Friday are free to book can you advise us what day you think will be the best weather wise so we can get the best experience .
Thank you
Margaret Coltman
0402112101
Written 9 November 2020
We are 4 people interested in a 1/2 day glass bottom boat tour (because we do not swim )of the reef early February Can you advise
Written 5 November 2019
Thank you for you interest, we offer a wonderful late departure 1.00pm and with sunset sailing perfect combination for those for a shorter trip enjoy idyllic Low Isles, opportunity to try snorkelling with guide, glass bottom boat, heritage island walk, lighthouse and returning at 6.30pm. Fully inclusive of delicious food offering and drinks. Very relaxing, adult only tour, we hope this suits you. Cheers! Steve Owner
Written 5 November 2019
Hi We want a great half day glass bottom boat ride to see the reef Any recommendations
Written 5 November 2019
Go low isles 1/2 day out on Sailaway
Written 5 November 2019
How many people can be on the sunset cruise at one time?
Written 11 April 2018
HI
For first timers to the great barrier reef (family with older children who can snorkel) ... would you recommend the low isles or the outer reef for an all day experience?
So confused as to which would be better value and quality. And difference as to what we would see in each location?
Much thanks in advance!!!!
Written 13 March 2017
Hi Miacall, Sailing a wonderful way to experience to GBR only 1 hour to idyllic Low Isles, perfect for family fun. Turtles, soft corals, giant clams some reef sharks. Island heritage walk, lighthouse and shade. With small groups and personal attention our marine biologists provide really informative guided snorkelling and time to explore. Go Sailaway for a relaxing and memorable day, great quality and value with so much included and opportunity to experience the GBR properly. Once you get to Port Douglas investing in 2 days for reef fun worthwhile, Wavelength great option for snorkel on Outer Reef. Enjoy!
Written 13 March 2017
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