Townsville

Culture & history

With this return ferry transfer, you can make the most of a trip to Magnetic Island, located just 8km off the coast of Townsville. It is a charming holiday destination that truly has a magnetic attraction for visitors. From nature encounters, on-water adventures to relaxation, Magnetic Island has something for everyone. Nature enthusiast should visit the island’s koala sanctuary, explore the 25km of hiking trails and discover the snorkel trails at Nelly Bay and Geoffrey Bay. Head to Nelly or Horseshoe Bay for a water adventure with amazing jet-ski, sea kayaking or a snorkeling or fishing charter. The best way to experience North Queensland is on the water. If you’re after relaxation, Magnetic Island is the perfect destination. Just a 20-minute ferry ride from Townsville, it feels a world away once you step onto this island. Dine at one of the many island restaurants overlooking the tropical waters of North Queensland. Relax at a day spa and enjoy beachfront accommodation.

Begin your journey from the Townsville Breakwater Marina, or from Nelly Bay, Magnetic Island. Please advise at booking your departure from Townsville or Magnetic Island! Sail to the Central Section of the Great Barrier Reef on a custom-built day vessel. First, visit the Museum of Underwater Art (MoUA) located offshore on the John Brewer Reef. Surrounded by the beautiful and colorful coral reefs, explore this underwater site which is the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Learn more about conservation, restoration, and education about the issues affecting the reefs, with a strong emphasis placed on indigenous culture and history. See The Coral Greenhouse, the first submerged building design by artist Jason deCaires Taylor and the most recent addition, the Ocean Sentinel submerged in only 2 to 7m of water for a perfect snorkel trail. After exploring the MoUA, explore other sections of the reef with dives ranging from a depth of 1 to 20 meters suitable for snorkelers, beginner, and experienced divers. See schools of baitfish as well as an abundance of colorful reef fish including Parrotfish, Maori wrasse, Clownfish, Angelfish. Keep a lookout for turtles, stingrays, White Tip Reef Sharks, and Black Tip Reef Sharks which can often be spotted. Discover how the Great Barrier Reef is managed and what work is being done to protect it. With a friendly crew, learn more about how you protect the reef and its creatures for future generations to come. After the dives, be returned by boat to Nelly Bay, or Townsville Breakwater Marina.

Embark on an unforgettable journey as your adventure commences at Nelly Bay terminal, where your friendly guide eagerly awaits your arrival. Alternatively you can request a pickup from your island accommodation. Sorry, we can't collect you from hotels in Townsville. Begin your exploration with a visit to Rocky Bay lookout, offering stunning panoramic views of the island's beauty. Hear how the island was formed and its place in modern Australia. Next, delve into the rich history and geography of Magnetic Island as you explore Cockle Bay and Picnic Bay where the tour stops for a light morning tea. Take a leisurely stroll along the heritage Picnic Bay Jetty and immerse yourself in the island's past at the local museum. Continue your scenic adventure with a return to Nelly Bay before ascending Arcadia Hill. Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of Cleveland Bay and the Coral Sea as the bus ascends, with occasional whale sightings adding to the magic. Discover the unique rock formations of Geoffrey Bay and learn about reef research while spotting our unique Allied Rock Wallabies in their natural habitat. Arrive at Horseshoe Bay and indulge in leisure time, soaking in the serene atmosphere and enjoying delicious cuisine. Take a refreshing swim in the bay, though swimming is at your own risk. Opt for an optional adventure with a Butterfly Forest Walk, available from June to September, offering a delightful bushwalk through the island's lush forests. Visit the Aquasearch Aquarium, where a $3 cash entry fee grants you access to learn more about our local marine life, including Dr. Rick Braley's groundbreaking work with Giant Clams. Conclude your tour with a return to the Ferry or choose to extend your stay and explore more of the wonders that Magnetic Island has to offer. The choice is yours as you bid farewell to this captivating island paradise. Please note: This tour does not visit the Koala Park on Magnetic Island

Experience the enchanting allure of Magnetic Island like never before on this exclusive “Magnetic Island – Behind the Scenes” tour. As you embark on this extraordinary journey, you’ll uncover the island’s well-kept secrets and treasures. Soak in the breathtaking scenery and capture memorable moments. The tour promises an insight into life on this island paradise led by a long term local. Whether you’re an avid nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking relaxation amidst natural beauty, this tour offers an unforgettable experience. The tour includes a relaxing hour at Horseshoe Bay for lunch, giving you plenty of time to savor the island’s delights at your own pace. 10 am: Start at Nelly Bay Terminal or from an Island accommodation pickup. Sorry we can't pick you up from Townsville. Call in at the Nelly Bay Habitat Reserve, nature's little oasis right here in our backyard. Set up in 1996, this gem is all about preserving our native wildlife and plants, especially the Native Pigeon and Stone Curlew. Take in the incredible views and grab an instaworthy shot of Cleveland Bay and Hawkins point from the Rocky Bay lookout. Head over to explore the Picnic Bay Jetty, a picturesque landmark nestled in the heart of Picnic Bay. Offering stunning views of the Coral Sea and Magnetic Island's coastline. Stretching gracefully into the azure waters, the jetty beckons visitors to stroll along its wooden planks, soak up the sunshine. Turtles and sometimes Dugongs are often spotted in the water at the end of the Jetty. Visit heritage-listed Picnic Bay Schoolhouse, a Craft Centre, selling quality local craft and historical publications. The Museum itself is housed in the historic Butler Hut, named after the original pioneering family of the island. Closed January- Easter. The tour then heads to Geoffrey Bay, a designated Marine National Park Zone. The region's unique rock wallabies are often seen here flitting through the rocks. Or simply take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Visit Alma Bay with its crystal-clear waters, it's the perfect destination for beach lovers and families alike. Surrounded by lush vegetation and rocky outcrops, Alma Bay provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Stop for lunch at Horseshoe Bay. Its a perfect space for the tour to stop for its lunch break (BYO). With its crescent-shaped coastline and turquoise waters, it's perfect for swimming. With its laid-back atmosphere and stunning views, Horseshoe Bay promises an unforgettable coastal escape, complete with culinary delights to satisfy every palate. After lunch head back to meet an afternoon ferry via the Forts Walk. Take a short walk to the first look out on the Forts Trail. Learn of our WW2, history and gaze down into Arthur Bay. Groups can choose to leave the tour here to do the Forts Walk. The best spot to find wild Koalas on the island. This is unsupervised and guests will need to make their own way back.

Set sail from Townsville Yacht club on a sunset cruise and watch the last rays of the day descend over Townsville. Sit back and relax on this exclusive small group sunset sail escape. With the views of the Great Barrier Reef, enjoy beautiful sights of Strand beach, Cleveland Bay, and also the famous Magnetic Island. Watch the amber sun descend over Magnetic Island or Townsville with some complimentary drinks onboard.

Experience the wonder of Magnetic Island's coastline aboard a luxury 58-foot sailing boat. Enjoy the soothing sounds of the sea as you sail to one of the island's beautiful bays for a few hours of relaxation or exploration. After dropping anchor, take time to wander the beach, swim, or unwind on our inflatable mat before indulging in a delicous grazing platter featuring local produce. Served with lunch is a selection of Australian organic wines, premium local beers, or non-alcoholic options from our onboard bar. Keep an eye out for wildlife throughout the cruise, it's not unusual to see turtles, dolphins, kites and eagles, plenty of colourful fish and whales during whale season (July - September). After a couple of hours at anchor, when you're relaxed, "fed and watered" we'll set sail back to Nelly Bay, on the sail back, why not try your hand at steering the vessel!

Enjoy a friendly welcome by a professional crew at the meeting point that will check you in, get your rental gear, and after the safety, you are ready to start the journey.  Relax in shaded or sunny spots on the vessel while traveling to the fascinating Yongala wreck. Spot dolphins, whales (seasonable, and sea snakes while enjoying your morning tea and listening to great stories from the skipper. Just before you reach the wreck it is time for dive briefings. You have the option to dive with your old or new dive buddies or follow a dive leader to discover the best spots on the wreck.  During the surface interval, listen to the Yongala history talk of the passionate crew before diving back in. Once back on board the crew will pack up and leave this amazing dive spot behind to head back to the shore while you can exchange your experiences with your new-found dive buddies and friends. Back at the shore the crew will wave goodbye while you make everlasting memories and images home with you.

Experience the Central Section of the Great Barrier Reef with a full-day tour aboard our custom-built vessels, the MV Adrenalin or MV Endorphin. Make use of the boat’s facilities, including fully shaded areas, a sun deck, stabilizers, toilet, shower, and enjoy easy access in and out of the water. The Central Section of the Great Barrier Reef is a little further off the Queensland Coast than other sections. As a result, it has some of the best underwater sights of the whole Great Barrier Reef. Once aboard the boat, you’ll head towards Lodestone, Keeper or John Brewer Reef (skipper will decide on the day). The areas boast a diversity of sites, coral cover, marine life, and protection from the current. Look out for coral bommies with white coral sand sea floors, or for large gutters that run between the coral and offer sanctuary to hundreds of reef fish. Gaze down through the crystal-clear water at the colorful coral walls. Enjoy morning tea, lunch, and beverages onboard the ship as you spend a full day on the water. Depths at the Central Section of the Great Barrier Reef range from 1 meter to 20 meters, making the area perfect for snorkellers, beginners, and experienced divers. Look out for colorful reef fish, clownfish, angelfish, and incredible sights such as turtles, stingrays and, reef sharks.

Other then an experience of a lifetime, you will see some of the most beautiful scenery the North Queensland has to offer. On our tours you’d expect to see our thriving marine life which include: Turtles, dolphins, dugongs and whales. Our Tours are catered to the customers needs and wants. If you wanna take the tour slower and really take it in we can take many stops and take a lot of photos of the journey. Enjoying the natural wildlife and stunning beaches situated around Magnetic Island. If you wanna go quick, let the guides know and we won’t hold back! All Tours depart and finish in the same location.

Embark on a captivating Bay Rock Tour with Poseidon Jet Ski Tours and experience the stunning natural beauty and historical significance of North Queensland's coastal treasures. This extraordinary journey offers not only an adventure of a lifetime but also a chance to witness some of the most picturesque scenery and diverse marine life found in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Departing from the Townsville Breakwater Marina, our tour begins along the Townsville Strand foreshore, offering breathtaking views of iconic landmarks such as Castle Hill and the esplanade. As we continue towards Kissing Point, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas of Magnetic Island and learn about its World War II history. Crossing Cleveland Bay, we'll explore areas like Virago Shoals and Middle Reef, known for their rich seagrass beds that sustain dugongs, commonly spotted in these waters. Keep an eye out for schools of bait fish attracting pelagic species like mackerel, as well as majestic manta rays and sea turtles gracefully navigating the reef. Along the coastline, remnants of WWII forts serve as poignant reminders of the region's historical significance. Our journey culminates at Bay Rock, a picturesque island featuring rocky outcrops, native grasses, and a thriving seabird population. Bay Rock's history is deeply rooted in its 1866 lighthouse, which guided vessels to the nearby quarantine anchorage on West Point, Magnetic Island. The lighthouse, now relocated to Palmer Street, stands as a testament to maritime heritage. After immersing yourself in the beauty and history of Bay Rock, we return across the bay to the Breakwater Marina. Our tours are tailored to your preferences, whether you prefer a leisurely pace with multiple stops for photography or a more exhilarating ride—our experienced guides will ensure your experience matches your comfort level. Join us on the Bay Rock Tour for an unforgettable exploration of North Queensland's coastal wonders, where adventure meets history amidst breathtaking landscapes and vibrant marine ecosystems.