Family-run company boosts Port Douglas tourism with new luxury catamaran
Port Douglas welcomes its first new reef tourism vessel since 2018 as a family business backs the region with a luxury catamaran investment.
Port Douglas has welcomed its first new reef tourism vessel since 2018 as a family business unveils a new luxury catamaran.
The ABC Reef Safaris boat, which can carry up to 24 guests, started operating this week, representing a defining moment for the region’s premium offering.
Custom‑built for small groups, Voyager has a 6:1 guest‑to‑crew ratio, delivering an intimate trip to the Great Barrier Reef.
An experienced team of marine biologists, naturalists and Master Reef Guides run interpretive experiences designed to deepen visitors’ understanding of the reef.
ABC Reef Safaris, owned and operated by the Wink family, has been a part of the Port Douglas tourism industry for the past 15 years.
Owner Jay Wink said the vessel was designed to suit the modern traveller.
“We wanted to create a vessel that not only delivers the highest standard of comfort and service but also deepens our guests’ connection to this extraordinary natural wonder,” he said.
“Voyager embodies everything we love about the Great Barrier Reef, its beauty, its fragility, and its ability to inspire.
“We’re incredibly proud to be contributing to the next chapter of reef tourism in Port Douglas.”
The new boat has air-conditioned interior with lounges, queen-sized daybeds on the sundeck and benches on the bow.
The boat, which is fitted with a sound system and yacht-style timber fit-out, has “barefoot-friendly decking” with an ocean access system suitable for all ages.
ABC Reef Safaris has received national and international acclaim, including being named Australia’s number one tourism experience by TripAdvisor, and ranked 19th in the world for Best Water-Based Activities.
Tourism Port Douglas Daintree executive officer Emma Tunnock said the launch of Voyager would inspire other operators in the region.
“To see a locally owned, family-run business take this bold step, designing and delivering a vessel of this calibre, is testament to the strength of our operators and the world-class product this region continues to produce,” she said.
“Marine tourism is a cornerstone of our destination, and continued investment in premium experiences is exactly what will drive Port Douglas and the Daintree’s next phase of growth.
“High-yield travellers are seeking meaningful, nature-rich experiences, Voyager speaks perfectly to that audience, and we are thrilled to welcome it to the region’s offering.”
The project was supported in part by the Queensland government’s Growing Future Tourism Fund.
Originally published as Family-run company boosts Port Douglas tourism with new luxury catamaran
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