Explore the captivating experience of Sailaway Port Douglas and discover the hidden gems of this stunning location. Read on to learn more about the Sailaway adventure, popular tours, and FAQs to make the most of your trip.
Sailaway Port Douglas: Outer Reef Day Trip to Mackay Coral Cay
Sailaway Port Douglas trip to Mackay Coral Cay:
Sail in Luxury. Â Cruise in comfort aboard a stunning sailing catamaran, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and spectacular views of the Coral Sea.
Explore Mackay Coral Cay. Â Step onto this pristine, sandy cay in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef, a secluded paradise surrounded by vibrant marine life.
Snorkel the Outer Reef. Swim in crystal-clear waters and snorkel over colourful coral gardens, spotting tropical fish, sea turtles, and maybe even a friendly reef shark.
Guided Marine Discovery.  Learn about the reef’s unique ecosystem on a guided snorkel tour with a knowledgeable marine biologist.
Relax and unwind. Lounge on the soft white sand, soak up the sunshine or take a leisurely swim in the warm, tropical waters.
Delicious Onboard Dining. Enjoy a fresh, locally sourced buffet lunch and morning and afternoon tea as you sail in style.
Eco-Friendly Adventure. Â Sailaway is proudly eco-certified, using wind power for a low-impact, sustainable way to explore the Great Barrier Reef.
Discover Sailaway Port Douglas
This Port Douglas sailing trip is a full-day sailing and snorkelling tour to beautiful Mackay Coral Cay. On Sailaway VII, a stunning 25-meter catamaran, you can enjoy a day on the Outer Great Barrier Reef.
This snorkelling and sailing excursion, which takes place right in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef’s northernmost region, is ideal for those who care about the environment. Departing from Port Douglas daily, this tour is perfect for those who can swim and who have a spirit of fun and adventure. Above all, in a small group, you will explore the stunning Mackay Coral Cay on the Great Barrier Reef!
Marvel at Spectacular Marine Life
Sailaway is the only Port Douglas operator with access to the spectacular Coral Cays of Mackay Reef. In other words, they exclusively use the reef sites, which are perfect for snorkelling. There are vast shallow coral gardens to explore at your own pace. Above all, you get up close and personal with beautiful corals, giant clams, turtles, and fish life. Moreover, it is ideal for taking underwater photos or watching marine life in its natural habitat.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for Sailaway Port Douglas
Do I need to be an experienced snorkeller to enjoy this tour?
Not at all! Sailaway Port Douglas is perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkellers. The waters around Mackay Coral Cay are calm and shallow, making it easy for first-timers to explore the reef. Plus, friendly crew members and marine biologists always offer tips, guidance, and even snorkel tours to help you feel confident in the water.
Will I see turtles and other marine life?
Absolutely! The reef around Mackay Coral Cay is teeming with marine life, and green sea turtles are regularly spotted gliding through the water. You might also see colourful tropical fish, giant clams, clownfish, reef sharks (the friendly kind!), and stunning coral gardens. Every trip is different, but there’s always something incredible to see!
What’s included in the tour?
Your Sailaway adventure includes a luxury sailing experience, guided snorkel tours with a marine biologist, high-quality snorkel gear (including prescription masks if needed), a delicious buffet lunch, and morning and afternoon tea. There’s also plenty of time to relax on Mackay Coral Cay, soak up the sunshine, and take in the breathtaking views of the reef.
Is this an eco-friendly tour?
Yes! Sailaway Port Douglas is an Advanced Eco-Certified operator, meaning they are committed to sustainable tourism and protecting the Great Barrier Reef. Using wind power for sailing reduces their environmental impact and offers a low-carbon way to explore this natural wonder. Choosing Sailaway means you’re supporting responsible tourism and reef conservation efforts.
What should I bring on the day?
Pack like you’re heading for a perfect day at the beach! Bring a hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, a camera (preferably waterproof), and a light cover-up for extra sun protection. Everything else—snorkel gear, stinger suits (if required), and food—is provided. If you’re prone to seasickness, you might also want to take motion sickness tablets before departure to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Why Sailaway Port Douglas is the Perfect Reef Experience
A day with Sailaway Port Douglas is more than just a reef tour—it’s a luxurious, eco-friendly adventure that lets you experience the Great Barrier Reef in the most relaxing and sustainable way possible. From the moment you step aboard the beautiful sailing catamaran to the breathtaking snorkelling at Mackay Coral Cay, every moment is designed to be unforgettable. Whether you’re exploring vibrant coral gardens, swimming alongside green sea turtles, or simply soaking up the serenity of the reef, this tour offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. With small group sizes, expert marine guides, and a commitment to sustainability, Sailaway delivers a premium reef experience that is second to none. If you’re looking for an intimate, nature-focused way to discover the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, this tour is for you. Book your Sailaway Port Douglas adventure today and set sail for a day in paradise!
10.15 am: Then, arrive at the 1st site for morning activities
12.45 pm: Lunch before we move to 2nd site and resume activities
2.15 pm: Next, afternoon Tea and Coffee
2.30 pm: Depart Mackay Cay and sail back to Port Douglas
5.00 pm: Finally, we arrive at Port Douglas
Pickups from Palm Cove are now available daily.
Palm Cove bus times: Departs Palm Cove at 7.00 am and return departs Port Douglas at 5.15 pm. Exact pickup times from various hotels will be advised when booking.
During afternoon tea and coffee, enjoy as well cakes and fresh fruit platter (Using local produce Daintree Tea and Jaques Coffee)
Superb tropical buffet during lunch (including prawns)
Glass bottom boat viewing and Reef interpretation talk
4.5 hours at the pristine Mackay Coral Cay
The experience of sailing on board the luxury sailing catamaran Sailaway VII
Eco Shamba Environmental Initiative $20 to local re-forestation
The Environmental Management Charge (Government Levy)
Add these luxury upgrades to your online booking and experience the best of Sailaway’s service.
Coach transfers from Port Douglas accommodation
Beach Sun Smart: Enjoy a perfect souvenir of your time in the tropical sun with a quality embroidered Sailaway beach towel (navy or white) and sun hat, reef friendly sunscreen and re-useable calico beach bag. Presented at time of check-in to use and keep.
Champagne Celebration: Treat yourself to a chilled bottle of French Champagne, Moët & Chandon (750mL).
The Environmental Management Charge (Government Levy) is $8.00 per person, and will be added to the total at time of booking.
Beach towel
Swimwear
Hat
Sun-shirt
Sunscreen
Camera
Sunglasses
A friendly smile and your consideration for this precious Marine National Park and World Heritage site
Booking voucher (if you booked via a tour desk or travel agent)
Credit Card
For onboard purchases of alcoholic beverages, soft drinks/juices
For underwater camera hire – ensure you select this as an add-on to your booking if you would like to use it
7:30 am Check-in at Sailaway Boathouse Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina 8, Shop 18/44 Wharf St, Port Douglas QLD 4877
This is an adventure tour suitable for travellers with good mobility. To participate in snorkelling you must be confident in the water with good swimming ability, as snorkelling can be a strenuous activity.
A minimum of 24 hours' notice is required to re-schedule or alter all or part of a reservation.
Any date and/or name change will incur a $20 administration fee.
We are required to notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to make sure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during our standard business hours (9 am-5 pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent via email to: [email protected]. Any emails received outside of these hours will be considered received the following day.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
20% cancellation fee 24 hours or more before departure
100% cancellation fee within 24 hours before departure and for "No Show"
There will be no refund of any part of your tour costs should you fail to arrive at a scheduled tour departure time. Tour departures may not be delayed due to passenger circumstances - including events beyond your control, medical problems, airline delays, weather, etc.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation, and medical cover.
Terms And Conditions
This website acts as a booking agent only for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavour to provide accurate information, we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning services.
Child Fare: Passengers aged between 4-12 years (inclusive).
Infants up to 3 years old travel free of charge.
Family Fare: Maximum of 2 adults and 2 children of the same family. Normal fare applies for additional children. Not applicable with any other discount.
We are not liable for changes to tours, pricing or itineraries, all of which are subject to change without notice.
Neither this site nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, loss of personal belongings, property damage, delay or personal injury.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance, including trip cancellation, evacuation, and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. In a medical emergency, any evacuation, vessel relocation, medical or other expenses are the financial responsibility of that passenger.
Please inform us of any special requirements prior to your date of travel; such as dietary requirements, allergies, mobility and disability issues. This can be done in the 'Booking Message' section of your online reservation or by contacting our friendly reservations team.
