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Liquid Desire at anchor on turquoise water

Private sailing charters in Port Douglas

Explore the Great Barrier Reef under sail

Welcome aboard Liquid Desire, our custom-built 55-foot sailing catamaran, based in Port Douglas, North Queensland.

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ECO Certified ecotourism, Ecotourism AustraliaECO Certified by Ecotourism AustraliaSee how we care for the reef

Welcome aboard Liquid Desire, our custom-built 55-foot sailing catamaran, based in Port Douglas, North Queensland. We’re a locally owned, Eco Certified business with over 35 years’ experience cruising up and down the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a day out with friends or a research trip, every charter is tailored to your group, with luxury, adventure and a personal touch.

Everyone has their own reef. Find yours.

Everyone has their own reef. For some it’s drifting over healthy coral with a mask and snorkel. For others it’s paddleboarding, wetting a line, or watching the sun go down from the deck with good food and good company.

Our focus is getting you up close to the natural world. We tailor every charter to the people on board and encourage you to follow what brings you joy. Along the way we hope you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of the reef and why it’s worth protecting for future generations.

More about us
Aerial view of Liquid Desire at the reef
Snorkelling beside the reef

This philosophy not only promotes personalized exploration but also supports environmental awareness and appreciation for the ocean and its wonders. Encouraging individuals to engage with the marine environment can lead to a greater understanding of its importance and the need to preserve it for future generations to come.

Overall, the Liquid Desire charters’ approach is a fantastic way to empower individuals to create their own memorable experiences, foster personal growth, and develop a deeper connection with the natural world.

Snorkellers beside Liquid Desire in clear reef water
Liquid Desire anchored beside a sand cay

How long will you stay?

Custom charters. We offer custom charters, from family trips to research trips and everything in between. Tell us what you have in mind, and we’ll tailor it to your group.

Day charter

$5,100

We take small private groups of up to 11 guests for day trips. Your skipper and crew, snorkelling gear, and meals from our private chef, made to suit your tastes.

per day

Stay aboard

$10,200

Overnight charters. Overnight trips are our speciality, and there’s no better way to experience the reef than aboard your own private catamaran. We take small private groups of 4 to 6 for overnight trips. Meals include breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner (depending on your charter), with a luxury lunch or dinner.

for 2 days

Sunset sail

$1,600

During the sail, enjoy your preferred BYO beverages, whether it’s a glass of wine, champagne or a beer. Indulge in a selection of snacks or light appetizers provided on board.

for the sail

Prices in AUD. Please confirm the rate and arrangements for your dates when you enquire.

All packages

Hand-built, quiet under sail

Step aboard our hand-built catamaran, designed and built by the owner and skipper for comfort and relaxation. A huge saloon gives you plenty of ventilation and panoramic views, so you can unwind as we sail through warm tropical waters, exploring secluded islands, pristine sand cays and thriving marine ecosystems.

Quiet, steady and kind to the reef. Liquid Desire sails a lot, so you’re not listening to a noisy engine, and the stability of the sails steadies the vessel in heavier seas. When the motors do run, they’re quiet and use minimal fuel.

Locally owned, personally run. We’re a husband-and-wife team, and the vessel is owner-operated. It’s a personal touch you won’t find on a big-boat tour, and it’s the perfect way to share the experience with your closest friends and family.

Included on every charter

  • Your skipper and crew
  • Snorkelling gear
  • Meals from our private chef, made to suit your tastes
  • Stinger suits, wet suits, soft drinks, fishing gear, paddle boards, towels

Tell us about any allergies, dietary needs or medical conditions when you book.

Fresh, seasonal and cooked on board

Fresh, healthy food, cooked onboard. Our luxury meals – lunch (day trip) or – breakfast, lunch, and dinner (overnight trip), come with all the trimmings and are cooked fresh on the day, tailored to your food preferences. It’s never cold cuts or a pre-supplied pack. Between meals, enjoy drift snorkelling along the reef’s edge, with an abundance of fish and healthy coral.

Your skipper and crew, snorkelling gear, and meals from our private chef, made to suit your tastes. Tell us about any allergies, dietary needs or medical conditions when you book.

Food on board
Lunch laid out in the saloon
A platter prepared on board
A plate of food held above turquoise water
Prawns and avocado served on board
Preparing food in the galley
Cheese and fruit ready to share

Meet Anthony and the crew

Anthony is an experienced and passionate individual who has dedicated a significant portion of his life to activities centred around water. With a background in water skiing and a love for exploration, he transitioned into a sailing and cruising lifestyle. Throughout his journey, Anthony has primarily worked in the outdoor recreation industry, gaining valuable experiences in and around the ocean.

Before you come

Booked with us? Fill in your passenger register

Allow about 2 minutes.

What to bring

  • Swimwear.
  • A dry change of clothes
  • Hat and polarised sunglasses
  • Reef-safe sunscreen (mineral, zinc-based)
  • A light jacket sometimes from June to August, when mornings on the water are cool
  • Any medication you need, including seasickness tablets if you're prone to it
  • Camera or phone in a waterproof case

Where we meet

Liquid Desire departure and return point is the public pontoon in Ashford Avenue. Not the marina. Use the map and link on the website. Or type in Ashford Avenue to Google. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure.

Boarding is facilitated through a pontoon with a ramp directly accessible from the car park. Can guests with limited mobility come aboard? Most of the time. Please call us before booking so we can talk through access to the yacht and the water.

Departure map: Public Pontoon on Ashford Avenue, Port Douglas
View full departure map

Time well spent

Google

5.0out of 5

26 reviews

TripAdvisor

5.0out of 5

55 reviews

From our guest testimonials

“Sailing, swimming and drift snorkelling from your beautiful catamaran on the outer Great Barrier Reef was simply the best family time my son and I have ever spent together.”

Max & Finlay McGuire

“Our time on Liquid Desire was one of our best holidays ever!”

Chris Gerrans

“A great day, with great people and great food.”

Josephine and Dominic Cavallo
Scan to leave a Google review for Liquid DesireEnjoyed your day?Scan to leave a review Liquid DesireGoogle reviews

Sailing with Liquid Desire

Dolphins dance with Liquid Desire. Watch on YouTube
Sailing trip, December 2023 to January 2024. Watch on YouTube
Port Douglas to Lizard Island, October 2023. Watch on YouTube

A few things before you sail

Is the charter private?

Yes. Liquid Desire is a private sailing charter, so the yacht, the crew and the day are yours. We take small private groups of up to 11 guests for day trips and 4 to 6 for overnight trips.

What's included?

Your skipper and crew, snorkelling gear, and meals from our private chef, made to suit your tastes. We provide stinger suits, wet suits, soft drinks, fishing gear, paddle boards, towels. Tell us about any allergies, dietary needs or medical conditions when you book.

Where do we leave from?

Liquid Desire departure and return point is the public pontoon in Ashford Avenue. Not the marina. Use the map and link on the website. Or type in Ashford Avenue to Google. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure.

I've never snorkelled. Is that okay?

Yes, this is generally no problem. The crew gives a full briefing, fits your gear and manages the process until you're comfortable. Flotation aids are available for anyone who wants extra support. The drift snorkelling requires you to have a reasonable level of fitness as you will be away from the main vessel and need to be able to get in and out of the inflatable dinghy in open water.

What if the weather is bad?

Your safety comes first. If the captain cancels on safety grounds, the Charterer may choose a postponement or full refund. Insurance covering this scenario is strongly recommended.

Plan your charter

Custom charters. We offer custom charters, from family trips to research trips and everything in between. Tell us what you have in mind, and we’ll tailor it to your group.

+61 438 877 783anthony@liquiddesire.com
Anthony Turner

Anthony Turner

SKIPPER SNORKEL GUIDE

Anthony is an experienced and passionate individual who has dedicated a significant portion of his life to activities centred around water. With a background in water skiing and a love for exploration, he transitioned into a sailing and cruising lifestyle. Throughout his journey, Anthony has primarily worked in the outdoor recreation industry, gaining valuable experiences in and around the ocean.

Anthony’s educational background includes a degree in Physical Education (Phy’s Ed), which has provided him with a solid foundation in understanding outdoor ed and fitness. In addition to his academic qualifications, he has obtained commercial skipper and engineering certifications, further enhancing his skill set and knowledge base.

As a result of his diverse qualifications and experiences, Anthony has embarked on numerous adventures, facing challenges and finding joy along the way. His expertise and proficiency in various areas enable him to assist others in enjoying the beautiful reefs and islands in the vicinity. This fulfilling role allows him to share his love for the ocean with others and facilitate memorable experiences for those he guides and interacts with.

Junlan Chen

Junlan Chen

CHEF FIRST MATE SKIPPER

Junlan is a versatile individual with a strong sense of independence and a deep passion for adventure and travel. Originally from China, she grew up with a sense of wonder and a desire to explore the world. Junlan pursued an education in linguistics and became an interpreter in the health system, utilizing her language skills to bridge communication gaps in the medical field.

However, the allure of adventure beckoned Junlan, and she embarked on a remarkable journey by riding a bicycle across China. Starting in Beijing, she covered a staggering distance of 10,000 kilometres, crossing the Himalayas and traversing arid western regions until reaching India. This incredible experience further ignited her passion for travel and opened her eyes to the wonders of the world.

Following her cycling adventure, Junlan seized an opportunity to set up a hostel in Thailand, immersing herself in a new culture and spending nine fulfilling years there. It was during this time that she discovered her passion for cooking, inspired by the vibrant and flavourful Thai cuisine. Junlan’s culinary skills blossomed, and she developed a deep love for the art of cooking.

Continuing her journey, Junlan travelled to Australia and embarked on a solo exploration, covering around 40,000 kilometres by driving throughout the country. This adventurous spirit led her to Port Douglas, where she crossed paths with Anthony. Their connection was strong, and they are now engaged to be married.

Living on the yacht full-time, Junlan combines her skills as a chef and masseuse, creating a rewarding and fulfilling pathway for herself. Her culinary expertise adds flavour and creativity to their shared experiences, while her skills as a masseuse bring relaxation and comfort to those they encounter.

Junlan’s diverse background, love for travel, and culinary passion make her a valuable asset as a chef, first mate, and snorkel guide. Her ability to adapt to different environments and connect with people from various cultures adds richness to their adventures on the yacht. Together with Anthony, they create a harmonious partnership that allows them to embrace their shared love for the ocean and provide unforgettable experiences for others.

Alex Tourtian

Alex Tourtian

CHEF SKIPPER

Alex is a highly skilled chef, skipper, and snorkel guide with a rich culinary background. Having begun his chef’s apprenticeship in France, Alex has gained valuable experience working in numerous 5-star restaurants in Paris and London. His passion for culinary artistry shines through in his ability to create delicious Mediterranean meals that tantalize the taste buds of those on board. Beyond his culinary duties, Alex is actively involved in the daily operations and management of the yacht.

Alex’s talent in the kitchen is complemented by his exceptional interpersonal skills. He has a natural affinity for connecting with people and has a particular knack for engaging with children. He often entertains young guests with magic tricks and games, creating a fun and enjoyable atmosphere on board. His laid-back and easy-going nature makes him a pleasure to be around, and his presence brings positive energy to the yacht.

While Alex is currently spending time running the yacht club restaurant, his experience and skills are still available to the team. With six years of dedicated service to Liquid Desire, he has become an integral part of the crew. His expertise in boat handling and knowledge of the yacht’s operations make him a valuable asset even when he’s not directly serving as the chef on board.

Alex’s combination of culinary mastery, skippering skills, and friendly demeanour make him an invaluable member of the team. Whether he’s delighting guests with his culinary creations, guiding snorkelling excursions, or ensuring the smooth functioning of the yacht, Alex contributes to creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone on board.

Fry

Fry

CHEF DECK HAND

Fry is a talented individual who brings his culinary expertise and a sense of adventure to the team. He kickstarted his career as an apprentice chef in London, honing his skills in renowned restaurants both in England and Australia. With a passion for cooking, Fry’s ability to create delectable and innovative dishes using locally sourced ingredients adds a touch of flair and creativity to their meals on board.

In addition to his culinary talents, Fry possesses a dive instructor background and has spent many years working on various vessels along the east coast. This experience makes him comfortable and at home on the ocean, allowing him to fulfil the roles of both a deckhand and a snorkel guide. His knowledge of the underwater world enhances the snorkelling experiences for guests, providing valuable insights into marine life and ensuring their safety.

Beyond his culinary and maritime skills, Fry is a multi-talented individual. He is an accomplished musician, adding a melodic touch to their journeys, and he is also a thrill-seeker, engaging in skydiving motorbike riding and base jumping. This adventurous spirit infuses the team with positive energy, while his wit and humour create an enjoyable and lively atmosphere on board.

Fry’s ability to wear multiple hats, his culinary prowess, and his vibrant personality make him an invaluable asset to the team. He brings a sense of excitement and creativity to their endeavours, ensuring that guests not only enjoy delicious meals but also have a memorable and entertaining experience throughout their time on the yacht.

Ari

Ari

SKIPPER DECK HAND

Ari is a skilled sailor with a deep connection to the local sailing community. Having grown up on the family sailing catamaran, he has developed a strong affinity for the sea. Alongside his experience as a skipper and engineer, Ari brings a grounded personality to his role on board.

His extensive travels have taken him across the Pacific, Asia, and the Indian Ocean, accumulating a wealth of knowledge and ocean miles along the way. This hands-on experience has fostered a practical and resourceful approach to life, enabling him to handle various tasks such as repairs, rebuilding, maintenance, and skippering with ease and confidence.

Ari’s interactions with people, especially children, reflect his patient, calm, and measured demeanour. He possesses a natural ability to connect with others, making him a great asset on board. His competence as a sailor is unquestionable, and his easygoing nature creates a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.

With his comprehensive skill set, personable character, and love for sailing, Ari is an invaluable member of the team. His presence adds depth and reliability to their adventures, ensuring that those on board have a memorable and safe experience exploring the seas.

Splash The Dog

Splash The Dog

FIRST MATE

Splash is a Portuguese Water Dog. She is super friendly and a great fun.

Loves kids and people and is no shedding.

Splash is a regular on the boat and is very easy going and entertaining.