Adventure Brief
Set sail at dusk around Magnetic Island aboard the Samurai for a hands-on sunset experience near Townsville. Relax or take the helm for an unforgettable coastal cruise.
2–3 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Set sail at dusk around Magnetic Island aboard the Samurai for a hands-on sunset experience near Townsville. Relax or take the helm for an unforgettable coastal cruise.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to move safely on a boat deck.
Wildlife
History
Magnetic Island has Aboriginal heritage linked to the Wulgurukaba people, custodians of the land and sea in this region.
Conservation
Tour operators focus on minimizing disturbance to marine life and encourage responsible waste disposal.
Big Mama Sailing
Set sail at dusk around Magnetic Island aboard the Samurai for a hands-on sunset experience near Townsville. Relax or take the helm for an unforgettable coastal cruise.
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 a light jacket
Evenings on the water can turn cool quickly; layering helps keep you comfortable.
Pack your own refreshments
Snacks and drinks are allowed onboard to personalize your sailing experience.
Arrive early for boarding
Give yourself plenty of time to settle onboard and get briefed before departure.
Sun protection matters
Apply sunscreen and bring sunglasses to protect against UV rays during early evening hours.
Light windbreaker
Protects against evening breezes on open water.
Non-slip shoes
Ensure stable footing on a moving deck.
Sunglasses
Shield your eyes during daylight hours.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the sail.