TOWNSVILLE CITY SAILING FIELD GUIDE
A private, full-day circumnavigation of Magnetic Island aboard Ragamuffin 111 — a sail, snorkel and beach-hopping day that rewards patience with possible whale encounters
A 7-hour private sail that circumnavigates Magnetic Island — this guide explains what to bring, the route highlights, onboard provisions and practical logistics for Big Mama Sailing’s Ragamuffin 111.
A private, full-day circumnavigation of Magnetic Island aboard Ragamuffin 111 — a sail, snorkel and beach-hopping day that rewards patience with possible whale encounters.
Circumnavigate Magnetic Island on board Ragamuffin 111 for a seven‑hour private cruise that mixes sailing, beach landings, snorkelling on fringing reef and visits to bays only accessible by boat; the operator supplies snorkel gear, wet/UV suits and paddleboards while passengers bring their own beverages and nibbles.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Circumnavigation and secluded bays
The boat circumnavigates Magnetic Island, giving access to bays and shorelines that are reachable only by water and allowing on‑shore beach time to put your feet in the sand.
Snorkelling on fringing reef and seasonal whale sightings
Snorkelling takes place on fringing reef (visibility and weather dependent); the region is also visited by humpback whales from mid July to early September, making whale sightings a seasonal bonus.
Hands‑on sailing or laid‑back lounging
Passengers can relax on beanbags or get involved with the sailing — there’s an opportunity to take the helm — while the vessel provides basic on‑board facilities including a toilet.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
Over seven hours you’ll move between sailing stretches, sheltered bays and snorkel stops: step ashore to sandy coves that are otherwise hard to reach, slip into the water to inspect fringing reef when conditions allow, then return to the yacht for more sailing or downtime — all on a private Ragamuffin 111 charter where snorkel gear, wet/UV suits and paddleboards are supplied and environmental tax is included.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring swimwear, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen and a towel. Guests are asked to bring their own beverages and nibbles in a small cooler bag or esky.
The operator supplies snorkel gear, UV/wet suits and paddleboards; there is no onboard bar so BYO drinks and snacks are required. Environmental Marine Tax is included.
This is a 7‑hour private charter; plan for a full‑day outing with multiple stops and time in the water.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The private Ragamuffin 111 full day sail is seven hours long.
Are children allowed?
The cruise is not suitable for children under six years old.
Are drinks and food provided onboard?
No — there is no bar or catering onboard; please bring your own beverages and nibbles in a small cooler bag or esky.
Is snorkelling gear provided?
Yes — snorkel gear, UV/wet suits and paddleboards are supplied by the operator; Environmental Marine Tax is included.
Is there a toilet on the boat?
Yes — there is a toilet onboard Ragamuffin 111.
When might I see whales?
Humpback whales migrate through the area from mid July until early September, making sightings possible during that period.
Is snorkelling always possible?
Snorkelling is on fringing reef and is visibility and weather dependent, so the operator may adjust plans based on conditions.
What is the maximum group size?
The private charter is limited to a maximum of 10 passengers.