Q . How long does it take to get to the island?
A. It takes approximately 20 minutes to reach the Nelly Bay Terminal on Magnetic Island.
Q . Is it necessary to pre-book ferry tickets to Magnetic Island?
A. No, it is not necessary to pre-book ferry tickets. Passengers are required to be at the terminal 15 minutes prior to departure to allow sufficient time to purchase tickets from our friendly staff at our front counter. Boarding commences 5 minutes prior to departure.
Q . How many return services operate daily to Magnetic Island?
A. There is up to 16 return services to Magnetic Island each day (See our Ferry Timetable).
Q . What transport facilities are available on Magnetic Island?
A. The island has a bus service which meets each ferry. Mokes, topless cars, sedans, 4WDs and scooters are also available for hire. Sunsea Travel can help you arrange all your transport needs before you arrive on Magnetic Island.
Q . How long does it take to get to the reef?
A. Approximately 2 hours. You will depart from the Breakwater Terminal at 8.30am or Magnetic Island at 9.00am.
Q . Is car parking available at the Breakwater Terminal?
A. There is car parking available at the Breakwater Terminal at a rate of $5 per day. The car park has adequate lighting but is not fenced. Vehicles are left at their own risk. Secure lock up parking is available at Metro Quays Car Park in Ogden St. Sunbus conduct services from the city mall directly to our terminal which meet every day time ferry.
Q . What is the maximum carrying capacity for the reef operation?
A. The 'Reef Cat' carries a maximum of 150 people.
Q . How long is spent at the reef?
A. Approximately 4 hours. You will arrive at the reef just before 11am and depart the reef at around 3pm.
Q . What is included in the buffet lunch?
A. The tropical buffet lunch includes prawns, roasted chicken pieces, honey ham or silverside, chat potato salad, spiral pasta, trio of garden greens, breads and condiments.
Q . Are there stingers at the reef?
A. Stingers, including box jelly fish and irukandji can be found in all areas of the Great Barrier Reef with the most prominent season being September to March. This is not to suggest that they occur commonly on the reef, but caution should always be taken. The best known defence against potentially harmful stings in the use of lycra suits or similar clothing. Sunsea Cruises has lycra suits available for hire in adult and children sizes.
Q . Are discounts available for group bookings?
A. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more people traveling to the reef when booked directly with Sunsea Cruises. We also have great prices for schools and university groups. Please contact our groups and charters coordinator for more details charters@sunferries.com.au
Q . Do I need to supply my own SCUBA gear for diving?
A. All SCUBA equipment is included in the diving price schedule.
Q . How do I get to the terminal from the airport?
A. An airport shuttle is available from the airport. For bokings phone 07 4775 5544. There are also taxi's available at the front of the airport. It takes 10-15 minutes to reach the Breakwater Terminal.
