Port Douglas: Low Isles Snorkeling & Sunset Sail Catamaran

Sail to low isles snorkel coral gardens relax with sunset canapes

You’ll step aboard a luxury catamaran in Port Douglas and sail to Low Isles for guided snorkeling with a marine biologist, explore coral gardens or relax on white sand beaches, enjoy afternoon tea and canapés as you watch sunset over the Coral Sea — all with expert crew and everything included for an easygoing day.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Afternoon cruise and reef activities

• Check in at Sailaway Boathouse
• Board deluxe catamaran
• Enjoy tea, coffee, and light lunch
• Cruise to Low Isles
• Snorkel in sheltered lagoon
• Join guided snorkeling tour
• Take glass-bottom boat tour
• Walk island heritage trail
• Return cruise with sunset views
• Enjoy canapes and refreshments

The Experience

The first thing that hit me was the color — that kind of turquoise you only see in postcards, except now it was right in front of us as we sailed out from Port Douglas. The catamaran felt almost too nice for my sandy feet, but nobody seemed to mind. Our guide, Jess, handed out iced tea and pointed out a sea turtle poking its head up near the bow. I tried not to spill my drink as I scrambled for my camera (failed, but worth it). There was this hush on board — just the wind and a few laughs from the back where someone tried on their snorkel mask upside down.

I’d never been to the Low Isles before — didn’t even know they existed until last week. The island’s smaller than I expected; white sand so soft it squeaks under your toes. We got a quick rundown about coral cays and then Jess led us into the water. I’m not the world’s bravest snorkeler but she swam slow, pointing out parrotfish and these little blue damselfish darting around coral fans. The water had that salty-sweet smell you get in the tropics, mixed with sunscreen and something floral drifting from shore. When I surfaced, someone on the glass-bottom boat waved — honestly looked fun too.

Later we wandered along the island’s edge for a heritage walk (I didn’t catch every fact — got distracted by a crab doing laps near my foot). Afternoon tea tasted better than it should after swimming: banana bread, fruit, hot coffee even though it was warm out. On the way back to Port Douglas, everyone went quiet watching the sky go pink over the Coral Sea. Canapés came around (I dropped one but nobody noticed), and there was this feeling like we’d all shared something small but real together. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic or whatever.

Top questions

Is lunch included on this Low Isles snorkeling tour?

Yes, a light lunch is served on arrival along with tea and coffee.

Are drinks provided during the sunset sail from Port Douglas?

Complimentary beverages including soft drinks and alcoholic options are included.

Can beginners join the snorkeling at Low Isles?

If you’re confident swimming unassisted you can join; guides help assess ability.

What is the minimum age for this catamaran tour?

The cruise is adults-only for ages 13 years and over.

Is snorkeling equipment provided or do I need to bring my own?

All snorkeling gear is provided as part of your tour.

How many people are on each sailing trip?

The group size is limited to 33 adult passengers for comfort.

Is there hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup; check-in is at Sailaway Boathouse in Port Douglas.

Are vegetarian or vegan food options available?

Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available if requested when booking.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes sailing from Port Douglas aboard a luxury catamaran with all snorkeling equipment provided, guided snorkeling with a marine biologist at Low Isles’ coral gardens, use of a glass-bottom boat for underwater viewing with expert commentary, an island heritage walk, plus light lunch on arrival, afternoon tea, complimentary beverages (including alcohol), canapés during sunset return — all led by experienced local crew before returning in early evening.