Magnetic Island: Snorkel, Paddle & Bay Cruise with Reef Guides

Summary

Magnetic Island’s wild bays reefs & stories with local hosts

You’ll join local guides circling Magnetic Island by boat, snorkeling fringing reefs, paddling hidden bays, and sharing morning tea under the pines. Expect laughter over wetsuits, quiet moments above coral gardens, and stories that make you feel part of island life—even if just for a few hours.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the water to be so clear around Magnetic Island — it was almost glassy when we set off with Aquascene. Adam handed me a mask and joked about “finding Nemo’s cousins” out there. The boat was just big enough for our little group, so it felt more like being invited along by friends than joining a tour. There was this salty tang in the air and the sun already warming my arms, but not too much — just right for a day trip circumnavigating Magnetic Island from Nelly Bay.

Our guide Steph knew every curve of the coast. She pointed out where hoop pines clung to granite boulders (never seen trees like that before) and told us how the reef changes after storms. We stopped at a quiet bay — I think it was Arthur Bay? — and I fumbled into my wetsuit while everyone laughed about how awkward those things are. Underwater, the coral looked closer than it was; I kept reaching out too soon. Fish darted everywhere, flashes of blue and yellow. At one point I just floated there, breathing through my snorkel, listening to my own heartbeat and nothing else.

Morning tea was cakes and fruit spread out on deck — nothing fancy but honestly perfect after swimming. Someone spilled coffee on their towel and nobody cared; Steph just shrugged and said “that’s island life.” Later we tried stand-up paddle boarding (I fell in twice), but Adam cheered me on anyway. There were stories about shipwrecks and old island characters, which made everything feel less like a brochure and more like being let in on secrets.

I still think about that moment drifting in silence above the reef, sun dappling through water, feeling small but kind of lucky to be there at all. If you’re looking for a Magnetic Island cruise that’s relaxed but full of little surprises — well, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Magnetic Island circumnavigation tour

• Begin 5-hour circumnavigation tour
• Snorkel fringing reefs
• Explore secluded bays and beaches
• Learn about Great Barrier Reef
• Hear stories from Master Reef Guides

Top questions

How long is the Aquascene Magnetic Island tour?

The circumnavigation tour lasts approximately 5 hours.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this Magnetic Island cruise?

Yes, all snorkel gear plus UV suits or wetsuits are provided free of charge.

Are food or drinks included during the tour?

A morning tea with cakes, biscuits, seasonal fruit, coffee and tea is included.

Is this Magnetic Island tour suitable for kids or people with mobility needs?

Yes—children can join in prams or strollers; wheelchair access and support for mobility challenges are available.

Does the tour include stand-up paddle boarding?

Yes—stand-up paddle boards are provided free for guests to use during stops.

Where does the Magnetic Island cruise depart from?

The tour departs from Nelly Bay on Magnetic Island.

Are Master Reef Guides present on board?

Yes—Master Reef Guides lead the trip and share insights about the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Is there a restroom onboard?

Yes—the boat has a restroom available for guests’ use.

What’s included

Your day includes snorkel lessons with all equipment provided (plus UV suits or wetsuits), stand-up paddle boards to try at each bay stop, delicious morning tea with cakes, biscuits and fresh fruit alongside coffee or tea onboard. You’ll hear stories from Master Reef Guides as you circle Magnetic Island by boat—with restroom access throughout—and enjoy small group comfort before returning to Nelly Bay in the afternoon.