Magnetic Island: Sailing Cruise with Beach Lunch & Wildlife

Summary

Sail magnetic island swim in hidden bays taste local prawns watch for turtles

You’ll sail along Magnetic Island’s wild coastline with a small group and friendly crew, anchoring in quiet bays to swim or just float with a drink in hand. Enjoy fresh local prawns and antipasto for lunch, paired with organic wine or beer as you watch for turtles and sea-eagles overhead. The relaxed pace lets you soak up every detail — it really does linger after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound — ropes creaking against the mast as we left Nelly Bay, and that salty breeze that makes your skin feel both sticky and alive. Our guide, Andy, handed me a cold drink before I’d even found my sea legs. He asked if we had a favorite bay in mind (I didn’t — I barely knew the names), so he explained how they pick the best spot depending on the wind. There’s something oddly comforting about trusting someone who knows these waters inside out.

We ended up anchoring at Radical Bay. You can only get there by boat or if you’re up for a sweaty hike, which I wasn’t. The granite boulders look like they’ve been stacked by giants — sun-bleached and rough under your hands when you clamber over them. Some people swam straight off the yacht; I just sat on the inflatable mat with my feet dangling in water so clear you could see little batfish darting around. At one point, someone shouted “turtle!” and everyone scrambled to spot it. Missed it, of course.

Lunch was this big platter of local prawns and antipasto, plus baguette that tasted better than it had any right to after a swim. Australian organic wine — I tried not to spill any while balancing on the beanbag (not entirely successful). Andy told us stories about past guests and pointed out a sea-eagle circling overhead. It felt less like a tour and more like being invited onto someone’s boat for the afternoon.

The sail back was quieter — maybe everyone was sun-drowsy or just full from lunch. Someone took a turn at steering (not me; I was happy watching the coastline drift by). There’s still sand in my bag from Radical Bay, which makes me smile every time I find it stuck to something random.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail and relax at Magnetic Island

• Sail along Magnetic Island coastline
• Anchor at Radical Bay or alternative bay
• Swim, explore beach, or relax on inflatable
• Enjoy gourmet lunch with local drinks
• Return sail to Nelly Bay
• Relax or steer the yacht

Top questions

How long is the Magnetic Island sailing cruise?

The cruise lasts approximately four hours from departure to return.

Is lunch included on this Magnetic Island sailing tour?

Yes, lunch includes local prawns, antipasto platter, baguette, and drinks.

Can children join the Magnetic Island lunchtime sailing cruise?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

What wildlife might we see during this Magnetic Island cruise?

You may spot humpback whales (in season), turtles, batfish, sea-eagles, and kites.

Are drinks included on board?

Unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks are served with lunch and on the return sail.

Where does the Magnetic Island sailing cruise depart from?

The tour departs from Nelly Bay on Magnetic Island.

Do I need previous sailing experience?

No experience is needed; you can even try steering with guidance from the crew if you want.

Is pickup included for this Magnetic Island tour?

No hotel pickup is included; public transport options are available nearby Nelly Bay marina.

What’s included

Your day includes four hours sailing around Magnetic Island with a knowledgeable local crew, unlimited beer, wine or soft drinks during lunch and return sail, a generous platter of locally sourced prawns and antipasto served with baguette (dietary needs accommodated if advised), plus time anchored in a secluded bay for swimming or relaxing before heading back to Nelly Bay marina.