AustraliaMay 26, 2024, by Isa de Laat

This is why you want to go to Magnetic Island on the East Coast of Australia

Far Travels
Australia, May 26, 2024, by Isa de Laat

This is why you want to go to Magnetic Island on the East Coast of Australia

We knew we would fall in love with Noosa, Sydney, Melbourne and of course Byron Bay. What we didn't know, however, is that we hooked would touch Magnetic Island. Just off the coast of Townsville, Queensland, yet with a feeling of being far away from the mainland. Magnetic Island is known as a place where you can enjoy nature during the day and party at night. About 800 koalas call the island home, along with rockhoppers and more than 180 bird species. Divers come there because of a passenger ship that sank in 1911 in only 30 meters of water.

We came there for the peace and quiet, the nice people and indeed, that oh so beautiful nature. And how did we best experience that oh-so-beautiful nature? With the boat trip from Aquascene Magnetic Island.

Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island

Getting back to those koalas, Magnetic Island has the highest concentration of wild koalas in Australia. The chance of encountering one in their natural habitat here is high. For example, at the Forts Walk or in the trees of the oh-so-nice hostel (and campsite) Selina. But there is so much more to see on Magnetic Island and the clever minds behind Aquascene Magnetic Island know this all too well. They say they organize Mangetic Island's most educational and immersive adventure experience. And to be honest, we quite agree with that. Steph & Adam know Magnetic Island like no other and share their love for this island with you through various boat tours. On board, Master Reef Guides take you through the most beautiful bays. And believe us, there are. It's extra nice that you can only visit several bays by boat. There is a good chance that you will have them all to yourself during such a tour.

Aqua scene

Aqua scene

Let's talk about those tours, because there are three of them. The first, and most booked, is the Magnetic Island Discovery Eco Tour. We dare not say exactly what such a tour would look like. The sea does what it wants and it therefore depends on the weather conditions where you go snorkeling and which bay you go to. Visiting many of Magnetic Island's beautiful secluded bays and beaches is a reality, as is snorkeling on reefs, excellent boating information and morning tea and treats on the beach. Between June and September you have the chance to spot whales and in between sailing there are water activities for all ages.

Another highlight of Aquascene is the Circumnavigation Tour. If you want to be sure you don't miss an inch of the island, you would do well to book this tour. You also go snorkeling and get... morning tea, but the focus of this tour is on seeing every bay of the island. Sit back and relax as you explore the secluded “5 Bays” on the north side of the island (weather permitting).

Looking for something more romantic? The Sunset and Shipwreck Tour sails several times a month. On this tour you will visit the scenic coastline between Nelly Bay and Cockle Bay, learning the stories and history of some of the shipwrecks along the way.

 

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