22. Wavedancer
The Great Barrier Reef is a tapestry of diverse ecosystems, and the Wavedancer Low Isles experience offers a serene, eco-sensitive window into this underwater paradise. Departing daily from Port Douglas, Wavedancer provides a sophisticated sailing adventure that emphasizes relaxation, discovery, and the preservation of one of the world’s most delicate environments. While many reef tours focus on high-speed transit to the outer edge, Wavedancer invites guests to slow down and embrace the timeless romance of a luxury sailing catamaran journeying to a secluded tropical island.
This experience is designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life: the snap of a sail in the tropical breeze, the taste of a chef-prepared meal on a sun-drenched deck, and the quiet wonder of snorkeling in a protected lagoon. As part of the Quicksilver Group, Wavedancer is a pioneer in sustainable tourism. We are proud to be an Advanced Ecotourism Certified operator, meaning our guests don't just visit the reef—they contribute to its protection. With a high crew-to-guest ratio and a commitment to personalized service, we ensure that every visitor, from the youngest child to the seasoned traveler, finds a deep connection with the natural beauty of the Low Isles. It is the ultimate day for couples seeking romance, families seeking safety and accessibility, and nature lovers seeking a tranquil sanctuary.
Your destination is Low Isles, a breathtaking four-acre coral cay surrounded by 55 acres of coral reef. Located just 15 kilometers northeast of Port Douglas, these islands are a jewel of the Inner Reef. Low Isles consists of two distinct islands: Woody Island, an uninhabited mangrove sanctuary that serves as a vital bird rookery, and Low Island, a postcard-perfect coral cay adorned with coconut palms and the historic Low Isles Lighthouse.
The lagoon surrounding Low Isles is a calm, protected sanctuary. Unlike the deeper waters of the Outer Reef, the lagoon is shallow and gentle, making it the premier location in North Queensland for viewing green sea turtles in their natural habitat. The reef here is a “fringing reef,” meaning it grows directly around the islands, providing immediate access to coral gardens teeming with colorful honeycomb corals, soft sea fans, and schools of vibrant tropical fish. The island itself is steeped in history; the lighthouse has stood as a sentinel since 1878, and the island served as the base for the first comprehensive scientific study of a coral reef in the world in 1928. Today, it remains a strictly managed protected area, ensuring that its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters remain as pristine today as they were a century ago.
Wavedancer operates on a refined schedule that ensures a full day of island bliss without the rush.
- Check-in: 9:15 AM at the Quicksilver/Wavedancer counter at Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina.
- Boarding: 9:30 AM.
- Departure: The vessel departs Port Douglas promptly at 10:00 AM.
- Arrival at Low Isles: Approximately 11:15 AM.
- Time at Island: Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours of island and lagoon time.
- Departure from Low Isles: 2:45 PM.
- Return to Port Douglas: We arrive back at the marina at approximately 4:30 PM.
Complimentary coach transfers are available from accommodation within Port Douglas. Transfers from Cairns and the Northern Beaches can be arranged for an additional fee.
Wavedancer is a magnificent 30-metre (99-foot) luxury sailing catamaran. Designed specifically for reef cruising, she combines the stability of a large catamaran with the grace of a sailing yacht.
- Spacious Decks: The vessel features expansive foredecks with nets where you can lie back and watch the water rush beneath you, as well as shaded mid-decks for those who prefer the breeze without the direct sun.
- Indoor Comfort: The main cabin is fully air-conditioned and features comfortable booth seating, large windows for panoramic views, and a fully licensed bar.
- Eco-Friendly Design: Wavedancer is designed to be low-impact. When conditions allow, we use the power of the wind to reach our destination, reducing our carbon footprint and providing a peaceful, engine-free experience.
- Accessibility: The vessel is equipped with wide stairs and a comfortable boarding ramp, making it easy for guests of all ages to move between the decks and the shuttle boat.
What is the Wavedancer Low Isles tour?
The Wavedancer experience is a full-day Great Barrier Reef cruise from Port Douglas, combining sailing, snorkelling and island relaxation. You’ll travel to Low Isles, a tropical coral cay with a calm lagoon, sandy beaches and fringing reef ideal for beginners and families.
How long does the tour run?
The tour runs for a full day, typically boarding around 9:30am, departing at 10:00am and returning to Port Douglas at approximately 4:30pm.
How much time do you spend at Low Isles?
Guests usually spend around 4–5 hours at the island, with flexible access via shuttle boats between the vessel and the beach throughout the day.
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes return sailing transfers, snorkelling equipment and instruction, guided snorkel tours, a glass bottom boat coral viewing tour, a marine biologist presentation, guided island walk, and a tropical buffet lunch with morning and afternoon tea.
What activities are available?
You can snorkel from the beach, join guided snorkel safaris, take a glass bottom boat tour, enjoy a guided island walk with a marine biologist, or simply relax on the beach or onboard the catamaran.
Do I need experience to snorkel?
No experience is required. Full instruction is provided, and the calm, shallow lagoon makes this one of the easiest reef environments for beginners to enjoy.
Is this cruise suitable for non swimmers?
Yes, this is one of the most suitable reef tours for non-swimmers. The sheltered lagoon, shallow water, flotation devices and glass bottom boat tours allow guests to experience the reef without needing strong swimming ability.
How many people are on this tour?
The vessel can carry up to around 150–156 passengers, though numbers are often managed to maintain a comfortable and uncrowded experience.
What marine life can I expect to see?
You may see colourful coral, tropical fish, turtles and other reef species. Low Isles is known for its accessible fringing reef and frequent turtle sightings.
How long is the journey to the reef?
The cruise takes approximately one hour each way from Port Douglas to Low Isles.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and a change of clothes. Reef-safe sunscreen is recommended.
Is food provided?
Yes, the tour includes morning tea, a tropical buffet lunch and afternoon tea served onboard the vessel.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is very family-friendly, with calm water conditions, beach access and a range of easy activities suitable for children.
Is the tour physically demanding?
No, the tour is low-impact and flexible. You can choose to snorkel, join guided activities or simply relax on the beach or onboard.
Is the tour safe?
Yes, safety is a priority. Lifeguards are present, safety briefings are provided, and all activities are supervised by experienced crew.
Can I take a GoPro or underwater camera?
Yes, GoPros and underwater cameras are allowed and are a great way to capture marine life and your reef experience.
Can I take a drone on the tour?
No, drones are not permitted on this tour due to safety regulations and guest comfort considerations.
Is there shade on the island?
Yes, Low Isles offers natural shade from trees as well as beach umbrellas for comfort while relaxing onshore.
What is a typical itinerary?
After departure from Port Douglas, the vessel sails to Low Isles with a snorkelling demonstration and reef presentation en route. Once at the island, you can snorkel, take tours and relax before enjoying lunch onboard. The afternoon includes more free time and a guided walk before returning to Port Douglas.
Will I get seasick?
The journey is relatively short and the destination is sheltered, but conditions can vary. If you are prone to seasickness, it’s best to take precautions before departure.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours generally operate in most weather conditions but may be altered or cancelled if conditions are unsafe. Alternatives or refunds are typically offered if this occurs.
Why choose the Wavedancer Low Isles tour?
This tour stands out for its relaxed pace, island setting and calm lagoon, making it one of the best Great Barrier Reef experiences for families, beginners and anyone looking for a less crowded, more accessible reef
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Frequently Asked Questions
Bookings can be made directly from any of the tour or attractions individual pages - or simply give us a call on +61 07 40574312.
All payments are securely processed by the NAB (National Australia Bank) No credit card information is held by us. In fact we never even see your credit card details.
We are an online only agency operating out of offices in Trinity Beach, a suburb on Cairns' Northern Beaches (about a 25 minute drive from the city).
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