Plan your visit
Plan your Visit
Prepare for your day on the reef. You need to choose a departure point, check the season, and pack appropriately for an off-grid island.
Lady Musgrave Island and Great Barrier Reef
Lady Musgrave Island, Capricornia Cays National Park, Queensland 4677
GPS -23.90833, 152.39417
Open directionsGetting there
High-speed catamarans are the primary way to reach the island.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: Guided high-speed catamarans departing from 1770 Marina (1770reef) or Bundaberg Port Marina (Lady Musgrave Experience) | 1.5 hours from 1770; 2.25 hours from Bundaberg | $295 to $320 AUD adult return | Tours include snorkeling gear, a glass-bottom boat tour, guided island walk, and buffet lunch. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The island is accessible year-round. Visit between May and October for the clearest water visibility and whale watching. Choose November to March for warmer water and turtle nesting activity.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
Take sea sickness medication prior to boarding the boat.
The crossing takes 90 to 135 minutes across open ocean.
How the day runs
Most trips follow a similar schedule, leaving early morning and returning late afternoon.
The standard day trip offering the shortest boat transfer to the reef.
- Check-in at 1770
Arrive at the 1770 Marina to collect your boarding pass.
- Depart for the reef
Board the boat for the 90-minute journey to the lagoon.
- Snorkeling and island walk
Snorkel in the lagoon or take the guided Pisonia forest walk.
- Buffet lunch
Eat lunch on the boat.
- Return journey
Depart the lagoon for the trip back to 1770.
Packing for the island
You must bring reef-safe sunscreen, as chemical sunscreens can harm the coral. Pack swimwear, a quick-dry towel, a hat, and UV-protective sunglasses. Bring a light windbreaker jacket for the afternoon boat trip back.
There is no fresh water on the island, so bring a reusable water bottle. Wear comfortable, enclosed walking shoes or reef shoes. The island paths consist of uneven coral rubble.
Easiest way to do it
Day Tour to Lady Musgrave Island
8 h to 9 h 4.7 (125)
- Lunch
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- Morning and afternoon tea.
From$175per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Is it better to depart from Bundaberg or 1770 for Lady Musgrave Island?
It depends on your priorities. The boat ride from 1770 is shorter, taking 90 minutes. The Bundaberg departure takes 2 hours and 15 minutes but includes access to a permanent pontoon with hot showers.
Can you stay overnight on Lady Musgrave Island?
Yes. You can camp on the island with a QPWS permit. Camping is limited to 40 people per night and you must bring all supplies, including fresh water. Alternatively, you can book a glamping bed on the HQ Pontoon via the Bundaberg tour.
What is the best time of year to visit Lady Musgrave Island?
May to October offers the clearest visibility and whale watching. November to March features warmer water and turtle nesting. Hatchlings typically emerge between January and March.