Twenty-four hours on the water can change how you know the coast. The Catered 24 Hour Getaway sails from Raby Bay Jetty in Cleveland, Queensland, to the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island—a concentrated slice of Moreton Bay packed with shallow reefs, clear sand flats and fifteen intentionally scuttled ship hulks that now host a thriving artificial reef. This private liveaboard for up to six guests blends comfort and play: morning swims off the stern, afternoon snorkeling among steel ribs and coral, and a sunset BBQ on the bow with the Glass House Mountains outlined on the horizon.
On arrival at Raby Bay Jetty you’ll board for roughly a 1 hour 45 minute crossing, settle into the vessel’s cabins and run through a safety briefing. The afternoon is yours to sample paddle boards, the giant floating sea mat, and the adrenaline of a towed sea biscuit; all activities are run at crew discretion and only in daylight. Snorkeling at the wrecks reveals encrusted metal, bommie-like coral growth and schooling fish—keep an eye out for green sea turtles and playful dolphins that frequent these shallows.
The trip’s rhythm is straightforward: relaxed cruising, water play, a catered lunch on deck, then a slow sunset with an onboard barbecue—steak, chicken, salads and ice cream are included on the catered option—followed by an overnight stay beneath open stars. Mornings begin with coffee and a simple breakfast before a final morning dip and return to Raby Bay.
What makes this offering special is scale and access. The wrecks are close enough for short swims and long looks, yet remote enough to feel removed from the mainland. A small-group liveaboard turns a daytrip into an immersive night at sea, with the vessel serving as both basecamp and clubhouse. For photographers and families alike, the combination of low-angle sunsets, exposed ship profiles and clear shallows is a rare coastal tableau near Brisbane.
Practical notes: this vessel is not wheelchair accessible and requires reasonable mobility. Life jackets are mandatory for certain activities, towels are not supplied so bring your own, and the captain may alter plans for safety. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a light wind layer for the evening, and a waterproof camera or dry bag. Whether you’re chasing a quiet sunset, a snorkeling session through a thriving artificial reef, or an easy overnight escape from the city, this Moreton Island liveaboard delivers concentrated maritime adventure with comfortable, catered touches.
Expect calm, protected waters in summer and more variable conditions in shoulder seasons; the crew times snorkeling for the best visibility. Consider pairing the liveaboard with a Tangalooma Resort stay or a sand-dune tour on Moreton Island to turn the wrecks into just one highlight of a longer island escape.