There is something about seeing Townsville from the water that completely changes your perspective. With the city skyline behind you, Magnetic Island on the horizon and the blue of Cleveland Bay stretching between the two, the coastline is practically asking to be explored. And for those who prefer their sightseeing with a little more speed, a jet ski is one seriously fun way to do it.
Local operator Poseidon Adventure offers jet ski experiences along Townsville’s coastline, ranging from hour-long rides to adventures towards Magnetic Island and Cape Cleveland. There are also two-hour Magnetic Island tours and snorkelling jet ski experiences for those wanting to combine the thrill of the ride with time in the water.
Founded and operated by Townsville locals, Poseidon Adventure's tours venture through the waterways surrounding Townsville and Magnetic Island, including hidden coves and coastal areas within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
If high-speed adventure isn't quite your thing, there are plenty of gentler ways to experience Townsville from the sea. Boat tours can take visitors bay-hopping around Magnetic Island, with opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and simply sitting back to enjoy North Queensland from a different angle.
Of course, you can also make Magnetic Island your destination.
SeaLink Magnetic Island operates passenger ferries from Townsville, with the crossing to Nelly Bay taking around 20 minutes and multiple services operating throughout the day.
If you’d prefer to stay within the comforts of your own ride, you’re in luck! Magnetic Island Ferries operates Townsville's vehicle ferry service, with cars, motorbikes and other vehicles able to make the approximately 40-minute crossing alongside walk-on passengers.
Once on Maggie, more than 20 bays and beaches, walking trails, coastal lookouts and that famously relaxed island atmosphere await.
Whether you are carving across the water on a jet ski, cruising the coastline by boat or simply catching a ferry across to Maggie for the day, Townsville's waterfront is more than something to admire from The Strand.
Sometimes the best adventures begin where the land ends.