Sail off Townsville to Magnetic Island for a private half-day of snorkeling, paddleboarding, and secluded beach access only reachable by boat.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4.5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness needed for swimming and paddleboarding activities during the trip
Wildlife
History
Magnetic Island served as a World War II naval base, remnants of which remain visible today.
Conservation
The tour emphasizes reef-safe sunscreen and responsible snorkeling to protect the delicate marine environment.
Big Mama Sailing
Sail off Townsville to Magnetic Island for a private half-day of snorkeling, paddleboarding, and secluded beach access only reachable by boat.
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 reef-safe sunscreen
Protect the delicate marine ecosystem by using environmentally friendly sunscreen during snorkeling stops.
Stay hydrated onboard
Bring your own water and refreshments to stay energized throughout the 4.5-hour sail.
Wear swimwear and quick-dry clothes
Comfortable attire suited for swimming and sun exposure enhances your experience on deck and in the water.
Secure your belongings
Use waterproof bags to protect phones and cameras from splashes while sailing and snorkeling.
Snorkel gear
Provided onboard to explore vibrant coral reefs safely and comfortably.
summer
Paddleboard
Available during the trip for low-impact water activity and scenic paddling.
summer
Hat and sunglasses
Protect your eyes and face from strong Queensland sun during the sail.
summer
Waterproof bag
Keep electronics and valuables safe from water exposure on board and in the water.