In this guide, I have outlined the 7 Best Magnetic Island Tours to ensure that you will have an unreal experience exploring this incredible destination.
Magnetic Island is a serene nirvana situated right within our planet’s greatest natural wonder of the world, the Great Barrier Reef Often considered Townsville’s best-kept secret, this off-the-beaten-track location has everything that a tropical paradise has to offer!
The island’s picturesque views, diverse marine life, lively ecosystems, rugged hiking trails, world-class snorkeling, palm-fringed beaches, and countless days of sunshine make it the ideal destination for any traveler.
7 BEST MAGNETIC ISLAND TOURS
AQUASCENE MAGNETIC ISLAND DISCOVERY TOUR
Overview:
This Magnetic Island tour is a snorkel lover’s dream! Explore the crystal blues waters, closely interact with the wildlife, and learn all about the history of the island.
Run all year round, this family-owned business takes you on an adventure through bays only the locals know about and allows you to connect with the environment and all its beauty.
This particular tour is so good that it’s been rated the #1 cruise tour on the entire island and has won multiple awards since 2016.
Get this experience for only $120 AUD.
Included:
The Discovery Tour provides all the required equipment and also includes snacks and drinks to keep your energy up!
Departure & Return:
Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal Stop 1 – Nelly Bay (same return point).
- 8:15 am
- 5 hours approx.
What To Expect:
Snorkel around the island’s best coral reefs, learn about marine life, and cruise around with the locals.
Additional Info:
The best season for snorkeling around Magnetic Island is in the Australian Winter (June – August) when the average temperature is 25 degrees in north Queensland.
Alongside this, it means that stinger season is over which usually occurs between November – March.
MAGNETIC ISLAND TOUR BOOKING → AQUASCENE DISCOVERY TOUR
MAGGIE COMPREHENSIVE
Overview:
If you’re thinking of day-tripping to the island then this tour is for you!
Jam-packed with everything there is to see on the island it allows those with limited time to experience everything that this little piece of paradise has to offer.
Tour around the island to see the landscape, witness the tranquil waters, and observe the native Australian animals.
See all of this for only $65.00 AUD.
Included:
The Maggie Comprehensive tour provides vehicle transportation to get around the island and a local guide. There is also an option for hotel pick-up to be organized.
Departure & Return:
Magnetic Island ferry Terminal Stop 1 – Nelly bay (same return point).
- 10:00 am
- 5 hours approx.
What To Expect:
You’ll have the chance to be taken around the island to see the irreplaceable flora and fauna, go to the famous Geoffrey Bay to hang out with the wild Wallabies, learn about the island’s history and climb up to see breathtaking views from Horseshoe Bay.
Additional Info:
The history and craft museum included in this tour is closed on Tuesdays and between Australia Day (January 26th) and Easter.
MAGNETIC ISLAND TOUR BOOKING → MAGGIE COMPREHENSIVE
MAGGIE TURBO TOUR
Overview:
There’s no better way of seeing the island than riding in style in your own Jeep!
This tour is a great way for you to sightsee the island’s sandy beaches and incredible views, all while feeling the wind in your hair! The 4 x 4 Jeep is an easy and ideal way to cruise around.
Enjoy this adventure for only $49 AUD.
Included:
This tour does not include the hiring of your Jeep, but it also includes a guide that can show you all the best local spots that are not to be missed!
Departure & Return:
Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal (same return point).
- 9:00 am
- 1 hour and 45 minutes approx.
What To Expect:
Drive down the palm-fringed roads, stop off at secluded locations and discover Magnetic Island on the road.
Additional Info:
This tour has a maximum of 6 travelers and is close to public transport.
MAGNETIC ISLAND TOUR BOOKING → MAGGIE TURBO TOUR
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The Nomatic 20L Travel Pack is perfect for everyday use and for those shorter 1-3 day adventures.
With 20+ innovative features and a minimalist design, this functional day pack gives you confidence for life on the move!
3 HOUR SUNSET DELIGHT TOUR
Overview:
Jump in the Jeep and ride your way to the best sunset spot on the island! For those who love to chase sunsets, this is the tour for you!
This 3-hour sunset tour will transport you to West Point to watch a stunning Australian sunset.
Take some drinks, charge your speaker, turn up the music, and watch the sun go down under the horizon.
Have this memory for only $69 AUD.
Included:
On this tour, a local guide will accompany you. Chairs, a cooler, and ice will also be provided to keep your drinks cold.
Departure & Return:
Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal Stop 1 – Nelly Bay (same for return point).
- 4:30 pm – 7:30 pm.
What To Expect:
Cruise on over to watch a beautiful sunset while having a glass of wine and listening to chill beats. Then, you’re welcome to keep the party going as you make your way back to the terminal.
Additional Info:
This particular tour only runs from Wednesday – Saturday.
BOOK NOW → 3 HOUR SUNSET DELIGHT TOUR
MAGNETIC ISLAND TWILIGHT SAILING CRUISE
Overview:
The Magnetic Island Twilight Sailing Cruise offers a more luxurious experience around the iconic Cleveland Bay.
This tour will give you a chance to sail away on an impressive yacht and as you drift, you’ll be inspired by a spectacular sunset.
Whether you’re a small group of friends or looking for a romantic date night activity, the Magnetic Island Twilight Sailing Cruise will ensure you have a special night. Sit back, relax, have a glass of wine, and enjoy!
Have the millionaire experience for only $110 AUD.
Included:
Unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, and a complimentary gourmet cheese board to nibble on. You’ll also have your Reef Tax included.
Departure & Return:
Magnetic Island Marina, 123 Sooning St, Nelly Bay.
- 4:30 pm
- 1 hour and 30 minutes approx.
What To Expect:
Enjoy a gorgeous sunset all aboard an outstanding yacht! Cruise through the clear blue waters while having a bite to eat and a pot of premium beer.
Additional Info:
Each booking will have a maximum of 10 people and is close to public transport.
MAGNETIC ISLAND TOUR BOOKING → TWILIGHT SAILING CRUISE
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MAGNETIC ISLAND SAILING BBQ LUNCH CRUISE
Overview:
A yacht, snorkeling, BBQ lunch, and wine?! What isn’t there to love about this next tour?
Set Sail and uncover the distinctive landscape, turquoise blue waters, and multicolored reefs, all while enjoying a classic Aussie BBQ.
This sailing cruise has been rated 5 out of 5 by most customers and includes everything you need to have a day out on the ocean.
Your hair will be salty, your feet will be sandy, and your belly will be full if you choose the Magnetic Island Sailing BBQ Lunch Cruise.
Get all of this for only $179 AUD.
Included:
This sailing cruise includes all beverages, lunch, and all taxes.
Departure & Return:
Magnetic Island Marina, 123 Sooning St, Nelly Bay (same return point).
- 11:15 am
- 4 hours approx.
What To Expect:
While on a yacht, enjoy the serenity of Magnetic Island’s scenic coastline. Stop off at one of the island’s famous bays, go for a snorkel, swim, or just lay out on the beach.
From there, indulge in an Aussie BBQ where the prawns are fresh, and the beer is frosty. Relax and make your way back to Nelly Bay.
Additional Info:
The coves that this tour stops at for snorkeling are Arthur Bay, Florence Bay, and Radical Bay. The cruise will anchor at whichever bay is most suitable based on weather conditions.
Also, the tour can have up to 10 people on board and is close to public transport.
BOOK NOW → SAILING BBQ LUNCH CRUISE
3.5-HOUR ECO TOUR
Overview:
With the windows down and the tropical breeze on your skin, journey through the Magnetic Island National Park in this must-do activity!
An exciting and unique adventure, the 3.5 Hour Eco Tour can have you seeing koalas and the famous rock Wallabies up close and personal.
You’ll be able to spot the Native birds chirping, eagles flying, and curlews roaming.
An opportunity to travel around the island’s popular spots, this tour will ensure you travel to the many bays, hear the rustling of the trees and learn all there is to know about Magnetic Island.
Experience all there is with this tour for $83 AUD.
Included:
This tour includes your local guide and snacks.
Departure & Return:
Magnetic Island Marina, 123 Sooning St, Nelly Bay (same as return point).
The duration of the Eco Tour is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
What To Expect:
Travel around the island in a Jeep to discover all the sights, the wildlife, the coves, and the whole National Park.
Additional Info:
There can be a maximum of travelers and it is close to public transport.
MAGNETIC ISLAND TOUR BOOKING → 3.5 HOUR ECO TOUR
WHERE TO STAY ON MAGNETIC ISLAND
There are dozens of accommodation options to choose from in Magnetic Island, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.
See the list of Magnetic Island accommodations below that I personally recommend:
LUXURY: PEPPERS BLUE ON BLUE
MID RANGE: DANDALOO GARDENS
BUDGET: NOMADS MAGNETIC ISLAND
For More Options, See My Complete Guide On Where To Stay On Magnetic Island
HOW TO GET TO MAGNETIC ISLAND
Magnetic Island is an isolated island located 8km offshore from the coastal town of Townsville in Queensland, Australia.
The best way to reach the island from Townsville is with the Magnetic Island Ferry which takes just 25 minutes on the passenger ferry or 45 minutes on the car ferry.
I have put together a complete guide that includes everything you need to know about the Magnetic Island Ferry to help you plan your trip ahead of time.
FULL BLOG POST → HOW TO GET TO MAGNETIC ISLAND
MAGNETIC ISLAND MAP
WHAT TO PACK FOR MAGNETIC ISLAND
When visiting Magnetic Island, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:
Must-Have Travel Essentials
Hidden Money Wallet
Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!
Reusable Water Bottle
The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!
Travel Backpack
The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!
Quick-Dry Travel Towel
The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!
Portable PowerBank
Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!
More Australia Travel Guides
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FINAL THOUGHTS – MAGNETIC ISLAND TOUR
I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions about tours in Magnetic Island, please leave a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.
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