Our Experiences

Where do we go on the Sunset Cruise?
The route of the 90-minute sailing cruise in Cleveland Bay will depend on the wind (strength and direction) and the skipper will ensure that it is the most comfortable ride for the prevailing conditions. Please note we do not anchor on our sunset cruises.

What if I don't drink wine (sparkling, white or rose) or beer?
We also have soft drinks available onboard, however, if you want to bring pre-mixes, that's fine. Just let us know at the time of booking. We do not permit spirits or red wine on board.

Can I bring my children* on a Sunset Cruise?
We generally say that the Sip & Sail Sunset Cruise is adults-only. However, we do make an exception during school holidays when kids are welcome. During the school holidays, we will arrange special child-friendly drinks and snacks to be on board.

On our Private Sunset Cruises, kids of all ages are welcome - it's your event after all!
*see below for our child policy.

How long do we spend at anchor on the Lunchtime Sailing Cruise?
Generally, we spend around an hour and a half at anchor - just enough time to have some fun, relax and have lunch.

Which Bays do we visit on the Lunchtime Sailing Cruise?
​Our favourite bays to visit on a Lunchtime Sailing Cruise are Radical Bay, Florence Bay or Arthur Bay. Where we go depends on the wind/swell conditions on the day.

Please note that commercial operators are not permitted to visit Florence Bay and Balding Bay on weekends.

Can we go snorkelling?
We do not offer snorkelling tours, however when the weather permits (i.e. light winds), guests may be able to snorkel on our Lunchtime Cruises and Private Charters. Please note we do not provide snorkel gear, so please bring your own.

Is the boat suitable for children?
Yes, definitely. Pilgrim is large and stable with two deep cockpits, which are safe and most kids love being on board.

​We recommend our Lunchtime Sailing Cruises or Private Charters for kids.

Our Sunset Cruises are more tailored to relaxation and adults with alcoholic drinks served and generally will only take children during school holidays.

What is your child policy?
Child prices apply to children up to 14 years, inclusive. If you have an infant, please enquire at time of booking.

I have a baby, is there somewhere from him/her to sleep?
Yes, we have had heaps of babies sleeping on one of the beds on board. It's safe and close by to the skipper so we can keep an ear/eye out on your little one at all times.

Can I bring my own food ?
We strongly recommend against it. Our charters are all about relaxation and enjoying the day. Our crew will do everything for you while you're on board, prep your lunch, pour your drinks etc. If you BYO, that takes away from the experience as you'll be prepping before you leave home, lugging bags and eskies to the boat and then having to wash it up and put it away when you get home. If you still want to BYO please contact us to discuss.

Our Sip & Sail Sunset Cruises & Lunchtime Cruises are all-inclusive - no need to bring any food or drink. If you have special dietary requirements, please advise us in advance and will let you know what we can provide.​

Can I bring my own drinks?
Again we recommend making use of our complimentary bar with premium beverages. However if you don't drink wine or beer and  wish to bring your own pre-mix drinks, you are welcome to bring a few with you. When you board the vessel please hand them to the crew who will keep them chilled for you and serve along with the other drinks. NO SPIRITS, RED WINE OR LARGE ESKIES PLEASE!

​Can special dietary requirements be accommodated?
Yes, in the majority of cases, although notice is required. Please contact us to discuss your needs.

Do you have drinking water on board?
Yes. We have sparkling and still water available onboard, however, if you wish to bring a reusable water bottle, we can refill this for you with filtered water. 

Please note we are trying to reduce our impact on the environment and would appreciate it if you didn't bring single-use plastic bottles on board. 

Is there a toilet onboard?
Yes, down below, we have one toilet for your use.

Is there any shade on the boat?
There is an awning on board which we will put out when we are at anchor. However, we cannot use the awning when we are sailing; generally, there are some areas of shade created from the sails.

We don't pick up from Townsville, as takes over 1.5 hours to sail from Townsville to Magnetic Island once we have picked you up. We believe this "commute" takes up too much of your precious time onboard rather than spending it cruising the waters surrounding Magnetic Island.

We can arrange ferry tickets for you to get to Magnetic Island in 20 minutes with Sealink and we are located 2 minutes walk from the ferry terminal.

There is a car park a very short walk away at the Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal (near IGA). Please allow time to park as finding a spot can be tricky at times.