Are meals provided during the overnight trip?

Yes, gourmet meals and refreshments are included, prepared onboard by the crew.

Is snorkeling equipment available?

Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.

Can children join the trip?

Children are welcome with adult supervision; please inform us of their ages when booking.

What should I do if I get seasick?

Let the crew know in advance; anti-seasickness remedies are available onboard.

How many guests can the boat accommodate?

The vessel can host private groups of up to 12 guests for an intimate experience.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations made at least 48 hours in advance are fully refundable.

Private Samurai Overnight Charter Townsville | Boat Tour in Townsville |

Set along the northern coast of Queensland, Townsville is a vibrant port city known for its striking proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and the tropical wilderness of North Queensland. For travelers seeking a truly immersive maritime experience, Big Mama Sailing offers private overnight charters that combine luxury with adventure. Imagine setting sail aboard a classic schooner, the wind filling the sails as you drift into the open sea, far from land, under a blanket of stars. These trips are perfect for those craving an exclusive escape, blending the thrill of the open water with the comfort of personalized service. The voyage typically departs from Townsville Harbour, giving guests a front-row seat to the region’s complex seascape—characterized by crystalline waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life.

Big Mama Sailing’s vessels are designed for comfort and safety, providing an intimate experience that’s hard to match. While aboard, guests may encounter pods of dolphins, sea turtles, and, depending on the season, even humpback whales migrating along the coast. Natural highlights include viewing the dramatic coastline formations and spotting seabirds such as frigatebirds and boobies soaring overhead. These overnight trips often include guided snorkeling excursions, allowing visitors to venture beneath the surface and witness the spectacular coral reefs teeming with colorful fish.

What makes Big Mama Sailing stand out in Townsville is its dedication to personalized adventures combined with a deep respect for environmental conservation. The team emphasizes minimal impact on marine ecosystems, ensuring future generations can enjoy this aquatic playground. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a secluded escape, travelers leave these trips with stories that last a lifetime. Townsville’s waters offer unmatched diversity, making this a top destination for water lovers eager to experience the region’s marine splendor firsthand.

About Big Mama Sailing

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.