Best Superyacht Anchorages Off Port Douglas – Low Isles
By YOTSPACE
Our guests love to know the intimate information about the destinations they will be visiting on their yacht charters, so in this blog post we are focusing on the best superyacht anchorages off Port Douglas and the Low Isles. There are several superyacht anchorages just off Port Douglas, so its hard to choose the best so lets firstly look at the closest one being the beautiful Low Isles. Located just 15.2km off the coast of Port Douglas in Queensland, Australia, the Low Isles are a group of two coral cays that are part of the Great Barrier Reef. The islands have a rich history, and they are home to a lighthouse that has been in operation for over 140 years. The Aboriginal people know these islands as Wungkun. It is an important Indigenous cultural site for the KuKu Yalanji and Yiragandi people as the sea country for both groups.
Today, the Low Isles are an important site for researchers studying the ecology and health of the Great Barrier Reef. Tourists come to the island daily from Port Douglas and superyachts anchor in the lagoon and ferry their charter yacht guests to shore to visit the lighthouse and take in the heritage trail walks.

History of Low Isles
- The Low Isles were named by Captain Cook in 1770 because they are low-lying and difficult to see from a distance.
- The islands were used as a base for beche-de-mer (sea cucumber) fishermen in the 19th century.
- In 1878, a lighthouse was built on Low Isle to guide ships through the reef. The lighthouse is still operational today.
Environmental Importance
- The Low Isles are an important habitat for a variety of marine species, including green sea turtles, giant clams, and a wide variety of fish.
- The coral reefs surrounding the Low Isles are a vital part of the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem.
- The Low Isles have been designated as a Marine National Park Zone, which means that they are protected from fishing and other activities that could harm the fragile ecosystem.
The Low Isles Lighthouse
- The Low Isles lighthouse was built in 1878 and has been in operation ever since.
- The lighthouse is staffed by a resident caretaker who maintains the property and keeps the light operational.
- Visitors to the Low Isles can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a stunning view of the surrounding reef and islands.
Significance to Researchers
- The Low Isles are an important site for researchers studying the effects of climate change on the Great Barrier Reef.
- Scientists use the Low Isles as a monitoring site for water temperature, salinity, and other environmental factors.
- Researchers also study the coral reefs surrounding the Low Isles to better understand how the Great Barrier Reef is being affected by human activities.

Visiting the Low Isles
Superyacht day charters guests love spending the day relaxing on deck, in the water and exploring the island.
- Visitors to the Low Isles can take a tourist boat from Port Douglas to explore the islands and the surrounding coral reefs.
- Snorkelling and diving are popular activities on the Low Isles, and visitors can expect to see a wide variety of marine life in the coral gardens surrounding the islands.
- Visitors can also take a guided tour of the Low Isles lighthouse and learn about its history and operation.
- There are no shops or resorts on these islands, Low Isles visitations are strictly for day guests only.
- Superyachts may anchor in the lagoon on overnight charters.
In conclusion, the Low Isles are a fascinating and important part of the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem and out clients and team class it as one of the best superyacht anchorages off Port Douglas. Visitors to the islands can learn about their rich history, explore the coral reefs surrounding the islands, and gain a better understanding of the importance of protecting this fragile ecosystem for future generations.
Speak to the crew at YOTSPACE about booking a luxury yacht charter to rate the Low Isles for yourseslf.
Read more news about luxury yacht charters and the best superyacht anchorages on the Great Barrier Reef with YOTSPACE.
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