Set sail from Townsville to Magnetic Island for a half-day of snorkeling, paddleboarding, and relaxed cruising on Big Mama. Enjoy intimate water adventures with a personal touch.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4.5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required for standing on deck and participating in water activities.
Wildlife
History
Magnetic Island has been a traditional land for the Wulgurukaba people with a history dating back thousands of years.
Conservation
The tour operator follows strict eco-friendly practices to minimize impact on the coral reefs and local marine life.
Big Mama Sailing
Set sail from Townsville to Magnetic Island for a half-day of snorkeling, paddleboarding, and relaxed cruising on Big Mama. Enjoy intimate water adventures with a personal touch.
Big Mama Sailing operates from Townsville City, Queensland, offering a fleet of heritage and performance sailing vessels for private and shared charters. The operator runs scheduled and private trips around Magnetic Island and the Townsville coastline aboard vessels including Big Mama, the performance cruising catamaran Ragamuffin 111, and the classic sailing yacht Samurai. Guests can book half-day, full-day, sunset and overnight private charters tailored for families, groups and corporate outings.
Shared and private options include half-day sails, full-day adventures, sunset sails and overnight charters. Specific experiences list onboard amenities and activities: the Big Mama half-day sail includes morning tea and a light lunch plus snorkeling and paddle boarding; the Ragamuffin 111 half-day sail accommodates up to eight guests and emphasizes spacious comfort and snorkelling; the Samurai full- and half-day sails provide options to participate on deck or relax while staff manage the voyage. Full-day itineraries note snorkel gear and paddleboards are available on board for guest use.
Booking guidance and trip notes advise guests to bring swimwear, snacks and drinks on many private charters and to expect small-group sailing formats on select vessels. Big Mama Sailing focuses on day trips and extended sails between Townsville City and Magnetic Island, highlighting flexible charter types and multiple vessel choices for different group sizes and sailing preferences.
Crews support onboard activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding and helping guests to the helm, and many itineraries recommend bringing personal sun protection, towels, and any preferred snacks or beverages for a comfortable day on the water.
Home Port
Townsville City, QLD
Gateway to Magnetic Island trips
Fleet Boats
Big Mama / Samurai / Ragamuffin 111
Three charter vessels available
Trip Types
Half/Full/Sunset/Overnight/Private
Options for groups and private charters
Tours Offered
30
Variety of scheduled and private trips
Reserve a private charter, half‑day adventure or sunset sail with Big Mama Sailing — check availability and booking options for chosen dates.
Bring Sun Protection
Strong Queensland sun demands SPF50 sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat on deck.
Wear Swimwear and Quick-Dry Clothing
Prepare for water activities by dressing in swimwear and lightweight, fast-drying attire.
Hydrate Well Before Boarding
Stay hydrated throughout the trip by bringing your own water bottle and beverages.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the departure point to ensure a smooth start.
Swimwear
Essential for snorkeling and paddleboarding sessions in the warm waters.
summer
Sunscreen (SPF50+)
Protects from intense sun exposure during the open water sail.
summer
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is critical during outdoor activities on the water.
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Useful for cooler breezes on the water especially in early mornings or late afternoons.
spring