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15 Day Marion Reef Sports Fishing Expedition 3rd to 18th November 2023

3 November 2023

Friday 3rd November to Saturday 18th November 2023

This charter expedition will be to Marion Reef which is a group of coral reefs located in the Australian Coral Sea Marine Park.  This coral atoll is approximately 330nm from the port of Bundaberg off the Queensland coast.

Reality Fishing Charters are very excited to offer this one in a lifetime opportunity exclusively to our sports fishermen who are looking for a challenging and rewarding experience to a rarely explored remote destination.

This expedition will be operated like previous Big Cat self-guided Coral Sea fishing charters however there will be additional travel days and ten full days on site to explore this amazing place.  This is a catch and release trip only and will be from our 4.3m tenders with two guests per tender.  No fishing gear or tackle will be provided however you can fish your way and your style.     

The Fine Print

  • Each trip must reach our minimum numbers before it can be confirmed and before it can depart.
  • Cancellation Policy applies.
  • We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance as we cannot refund in any circumstances which might apply to you or due other conditions which might arise. You need to understand if you do not have travel insurance in place then you must accept any financial risk which arises.
  • You will require a current boat licence if you choose to drive the tenders and you will be responsible for their safe operation at all times.
  • No fishing gear is provided.
  • This is a self-guided trip.
  • GBRMPA Reef tax of $30 per person, will be added to each persons bar tab for payment at the end of of the trip. Applicable as of the 1st July 2023
  • You will receive a full refund if your trip does not reach its minimum number of participants.

Highlights

  • Great variety of fishing sites including: shallow & deep water reefs with trolling or drift fishing available from your own tender; (Fish your own way)
  • 7 x 4.3m high speed tenders with Garmin GPS/Sounders to explore the different reefs;
  • Professional and friendly crew to look after your safety;
  • Access to the latest electronics on the back deck for your convenience;
  • Large stable 25 metre mother ship;
  • 15 nights accommodation in air-conditioned berths;
  • Great fishing decks and facilities on large mother ship;
  • Chef prepared meals + fresh fruit and snacks;
  • Fully licensed bar for your convenience;
  • Full use of all onboard facilities;

Bundaberg Departure Day: (Friday afternoon 3rd November 2023)

Today will be about two things, getting “Big Cat Reality” ready for sea and welcoming all the guests to Bundaberg.    Guests are welcome to unload their gear and park their cars at the marina from 1:00pm.

A meet and greet dinner is planned for 6:00pm at the Burnett Heads Lighthouse Hotel and a courtesy bus is booked to depart the marina at 5:30pm. This will be a self-funded event and will be a great way to meet fellow guests and vessel crew before the expedition.

After dinner the courtesy bus will drop everyone back to the Marina to board ‘Big Cat Reality’ and complete the pre-departure briefings.  After everyone has settled in, The guests can get some sleep, as ‘Big Cat’ will be departing at 1:00am for Marion reef.

Day 1 (Travel Day):

This morning you will wake to a hot breakfast and the opportunity to set up fishing gear as we steam north through the Bunker Group and towards the outer side of the Swains Reef.  Today will also be a great chance to prepare, rig up your gear and compare tackle and tactics with the other guests! By early evening we will be entering the protected waters of the Swains Reef to enjoy and also allow you to get a good night’s sleep as we continue north.

Day 2: (Travel day)

By daybreak we will be at the top of the Swains Reef group and ready to start our daytime crossing out to Marion Reef.  This will be a great opportunity for some blue water fishing and hook up a big pelagic fish…heavy trolling gear is an essential!  The afternoon will be the final chance to select your fishing tender and discuss your game plan as we will arrive at Marion Reef by the following morning.

 

Marion Reef Arrival Day 3: (First Day on site)

By first light we will arrive and anchor in the protection of the southern part of Marion reef at Long Reef.

Day 3 is the first of the ten days onsite to fish and explore this amazing Reef system.  The tenders will be launched and ready for you to depart after a hot breakfast and reef area briefing.

Fishing session times,

The morning sessions are normally from 6:30am to 11:30am with lunch from 12:00 to 1:00pm. The afternoon sessions are normally from 1:00pm to 4:30pm.

 Meals and refreshments

A trip schedule of breakfasts, lunches and evening meals will be prepared by a qualified Chef including freshly caught fish from the area.

Afternoon refreshments will also be prepared by the Chef before the main meal which will be served at 6:30pm,  followed by dessert.

 

Day 4 to day 11:  The next week is yours to explore and move around the reef system as you choose. Combining with other tenders will also increase the areas you wish to explore from the mother vessel. The mothership, Big Cat Reality will also move around in support of the tenders maximizing your opportunities to get on the fish. Weather permitting Big Cat can try deeper anchorages for some night fishing sessions as well.

Target fish species at Marion Reef

Dogtooth and Yellow Fin Tuna, Wahoo, Giant Trevally, Sailfish and Blue spot Trout just to name a few!    Each night we will endeavour to select a safe anchorage to give you a good night’s sleep.

Day 12: Marion Reef Departure (Tenth & Last Day onsite)

After an epic 10 days of fishing this remote reef system, we sit down to our last dinner at Marion Reef and review the photos from the week. The crew recover all tenders and after dinner and a few laughs we stow the ship and start to head South back to Bundaberg.

Day 13: (Travel Day)

Today gives you the chance for a big sleep-in as we steam home. This will also be another great opportunity for some blue water fishing sessions as you enjoy a few quiet drinks and swap stories from the trip.

 

Day 14: (Travel day)

This will be our last day at sea as we steam back through the Bunker Group arriving back in Bundaberg around 7pm that night. Guests are encouraged to use this opportunity to pack equipment and prepare for your departure on arrival.

Guests are welcome to depart the ship or stay onboard and disembark in the morning depending on your travel circumstances.

Day 15: Bundaberg arrival (Saturday Morning 18th November).

Guest who choose to depart on this day will have a hot breakfast and afterwards the crew will assist you with your gear before we farewell all guests around 8am.

Sounds too good to be true? It’s not!  You are receiving this great deal because:

  • We plan trips well in advance so you can book ahead and save
  • The trip will only run if it reaches minimum numbers
  • This allows us to operate more efficiently and pass the savings on to you
  • If the trip doesn’t reach minimum numbers, you receive a full refund

So by ensuring we have a full boat for the scheduled date, we can offer you this great “Rocket Deal”

 

  • The fishing trip is number dependant and will not travel if the minimum numbers are not achieved and maximum numbers also apply
  • A deposit is required to secure a booking and no tentative bookings will be accepted.
  • Full payment is required prior to departure. Any outstanding balances are due for payment at least 90 days before the charter leaves.
  • Guests need to provide their own fishing gear including tackle.  (Only a small amount of tackle available for purchase onboard)
  • Weather conditions restrictions for tender use: In rough conditions, tenders will be restricted to protected areas only and/or restricted to mother ship.
  • Consequences of cancellation or restrictions: If we cancel a charter due to weather conditions or any other circumstances your booking can be rescheduled, or you can obtain a full refund if the pre booked charter did not operate. However, if a charter has to return during its operation any refunds will be on a pro rata basis.
  • The Purchase of travel insurance is highly recommended or accept financial risk – you understand unforeseen health, work, medical or airline problems may cause you to cancel this trip. Compensation for trip cancellation or lost/damaged bags and/or equipment due to any reason must be claimed against your travel insurance. Weather problems may cause the itinerary to be changed or cancelled. No compensation is offered to change flights or holiday plans, alter any travel costs, meals, accommodation or any other costs you may have incurred. No refund is offered for time lost due to the medical evacuation of a passenger or reduction of fishing time due to bad weather.
  • Medical statement – You state that you are in good health for extended trips. You understand if you have any medical conditions you must advise the Master of the vessel and produce a medical certificate before departure completed by a medical specialist.
  • Release & Indemnity Deed –  This must be completed and signed by all guests before departure or before participating in any activities.  All tender drivers are responsible for any damage to the tenders due to careless and irresponsible action on their part including propeller, gearbox and motor damage.
  • The fishing trip can be cancelled at the sole discretion of the operator taking into account the sea and weather conditions of the day. Where this occurs we will ensure we reschedule the trip to a time suitable to you or will refund your payment.
  • The operator reserves the right to substitute the anticipated vessel with another or change the trip’s itinerary without notice, or do both these things
  • Guests need to arrive at least 90 minutes prior to departure time.
  • Cancellation Policy
    1. A 25% deposit is non-refundable.
    2. If you cannot fulfil your commitment of attending the trip the following steps can be taken:
    3. Notify our office and activate your travel insurance
    4. If the above is unsuccessful, try to find a replacement for your spot on the trip.
    5. Our office will also try to assist you in finding a replacement
    6. Special circumstances may be considered at management’s discretion. A transfer may be offered subject to availability and you will incur an administration fee.

Are you sick of organizing group bookings and trips only to not get your numbers or people let you down? Reality Fishing Charters can tailor a fishing trip for you at competitive rates. Let us set up a “Rocket Deal” for your group and offer you the following advantages:

  • Transparent booking process
  • Live updates on passenger numbers with real commitments
  • Offer your group exclusive deals with your own lock out periods
  • Passenger numbers are confirmed before you book flights and accommodation
  • Your trip can be networked with other groups to top up your numbers
  • Be part of a successful trip that everyone can look forward to and enjoy

(7 Day Swains Line Fishing Trip)

Guests for the week liveaboard trips board at Bundaberg Port Marina 1130am for  a 12 noon boarding on the departure day.  You will arrive back to the marina by around 5am on the 7th day and depart the vessel after breakfast by around 8am.

(9 Day Coral Sea Sports Fishing Trip)

Guests for the 9 day liveaboard trips board at Bundaberg Port Marina
(Kenn Reef Trips) between 12:00 pm and 12:30 pm on the departure day. Guests board the vessel at 1:00 pm.  You will arrive back to the marina by around 5am on the 9th day and depart the vessel after breakfast by around 8am.

(Wreck and Cato Reef Trip) between 3:00 pm and 3:30 pm on the departure day. Guests board the vessel at 4pm.  You will arrive back to the marina by around 5am on the 7th day and depart the vessel after breakfast by around 8am.

Address:

15-17 Marina Dr

Burnett Heads (20min drive out of Bundaberg Qld)

QLD 4670, Australia

Bundaberg Port Marina  (click here for a map)

“Big Cat Reality” is a 25m liveaboard vessel that caters for 18 to 21 guests.  She is all steel (164 tonne) and is well set up for extended fishing adventures with 7 fishing tenders  and a rescue boat onboard.  Big Cat is well appointed with all the latest electronic navigational equipment including interactive navigational screens on the back deck for your use.  (Click here for full details)

Our seven fishing tenders are “4.3m Smart Waves” which are specifically set up to help you get the most out of your fishing experience.  Each 4.3m tender is set up with the following:

  • 60 Hp fourstroke outboard with electric start and trim n tilt
  • Garmin 7′ Colour sounder / GPS Plotter with AIS
  • 40mm front Sports Fishing Bar
  • 40mm back jigging Bars
  • 25 watt Garmin VHF radio (6nm range)
  • Full safety equipment including an Epirb
  • AIS Tracking and display
  • Anchor and line
  • 9x Rod holders
  • 6x trolling holders
  • Driver’s padded seat
  • Bait Esky , cutting board and gaff
  • Fish Bag with ice
  • Built in Esky for cold drinks
  • front storage area under seats
  • Automatic bilge pump

Note:

  • All drivers need a current recreational boat licence and participate in an onboard induction programme.
  • All drivers are required to participate in the adopt-a-prop program.

“Big Cat Reality” is set up with large, comfortable bunk style accommodation which is fully air-conditioned and spacious to minimize sea sickness.  Everyone gets a separate bunk with privacy curtains, power points and luggage storage area. They are located in the middle of the ship and down low which is the best place to be – No pokey bow berths! All bed linen and a bath towel are provided for the on-board fresh water showers.  We’re sure you will have a pleasurable and comfortable stay on-board.

“Big Cat Reality” offers professionally presented meals prepared on-board by our qualified chefs for you to enjoy throughout your  trip.  Meals include: hot breakfasts, hot & cold lunches and of course the famous Big Cat Seafood Night. You will also enjoy healthy fruit platters and other exhilarating taste bud sensations for afternoon teas. If you have any dietary requirements, please advise us at the time of booking. This will allow our chefs to cater for your needs.

“Big Cat Reality” is a fully licenced vessel. We have a electronic POS system that caters for individual consumption and can provide a print out of the drinks consumed at the end of your trip.  (“Only pay for what you drink”)

2023 Drink Prices:

  • Soft Drinks & Bottled Water:  $3.00 *Free Chilled water available
  • XXXX Beer:  $5.00
  • Other Standard Beers:  $6.00
  • Premium Beers:  $7.00
  • UDL Cans:  $8.00
  • Red/White Wine:  $25.00 per bottle
  • Bottles of Spirits:  Cost + 30%

Soft Drinks: Coke, Coke Zero, Solo, Lemonade, water.

XXXX Beers: XXXX Gold, XXXX Bitter.

Other Standers Beers: Great Northern Super Crisp, Great Northern Original.

Premium Beers: Corona.

UDL Cans: Bundaberg Rum & Cola, Jim Beam & Cola, Canadian Club & Dry, Jack Daniels & Cola, Bundaberg alcoholic ginger beer.

Wine bottles: Red – Shiraz.  White – Sav Blanc.

Bottles of Spirits:  You can order your favourite bottle

“Special Orders” You can order alternate beverages for your trip however please be aware any remaining drinks will be charged to your bar tab at the end of the trip.  Special orders are to be noted on your booking form in the “Drinks Special Order” box.

(Please note: As we are fully licenced, No Alcohol is to be brought onboard)

On “Big Cat Reality” you will have the friendly and professional services of five “Big Cat” Crew, who are dedicated to your safety and the smooth running of the vessel’s operation during your enjoyable and rewarding fishing trip.  The crew consist of the Captain, three deck crew and  our Chef.  All crew are well trained and looking forward to seeing you on your trip of a lifetime.

Guests are required to bring along all their own fishing gear including tackle.  We do offer a small range of tackle onboard however we always encourage you to speak with your local tackle store and grab the best advise and gear.

Check out all the latest Wilson tackle and tips: Wilson Fishing

Bundy local tackle store: Bundaberg Tackle World 

Reality Fishing Charters operates within the regulations of the Department of Primary Industry Qld.  These regulations govern fish sizes, species, bag limits and reef closures that apply to our guests, Please make yourself familiar with these regulations.  (Click here to see the Qld Fishing Regulations). We recommend to download the following app. QLD Fishing 2.0 onto your phone/device.

You are not required to hold any fishing licences to fish on our trips.

Our crew will clean and fillet your catch then it will be cryovac sealed before being frozen to ensure freshness.

In the spirit of fairness and good team-ship: At the end of the trip the whole catch is evenly divided between all active fishers. Everyone should get a nice pack of fish to take home.

  • A positive attitude that’s excited about a professional and rewarding fishing trip of a Lifetime.
  • A beach towel for optional swimming purposes. (preferrably named)
  • All required medications. (including seasickness remedies if required)
  • Toiletries and personal belongings,(Body soap and shampoo is provided).
  • Rods, Reels and all the tackle you may need.
  • Old fishing clothes, preferably long sleeved.
  • Fish handling gear: pliers, lip gripers and knife
  • Big hat, sun glasses and sunscreen.
  • Proof of Boating Licence.
  • Foot wear for boat & beach fishing.
  • Cash or Credit Card to pay your bar tab.
  • Camera to capture the moment with USB Stick.

Car parking at Bundaberg Port Marina:
There is ample free car parking at the Marina with lockup parking available for an additional $10 per day fee. (please advise when Booking)

“Bundy Shuttle Service” can transfer 1,2 or a group of 16 from the Bundaberg Airport to the Bundaberg Port Marina at very reasonable rates.  Give John a call on 0421413446 or email: shuttlebuses@hotmail.com

 

Check out our local hotel “Light House Hotel”

Located only 10 mins from the marina Gavin and his team will look after you and your mates with cold beer, great meals and good clean accommodation.  Courtesy Bus available if required.

Contact: (07) 41594202

Email: office@lighthousehotel.net.au

 

Can I contact “Big Cat Reality” while she is out at sea.  Our operation takes guests to beautiful and remote locations that are well outside normal mobile phone service.  However Big Cat is fitted with a Satellite phone system that give us up to date weather information and full phone coverage at all times.  The cost of calls can be high, however for emergency use can be used.

“Big Cat Reality” Sat Phone Number: +870773949029

 

Check out our “Rocket Deals” page for the latest trips and adventures.

I hope the above is what you were looking for and hope to see you on board soon.  If you have any further inquiries (please send us an e-mail info@bigcatreality.com ) or just give us a call on 07 3204 9340.

Bundaberg Departure Day: (Friday afternoon 3rd November 2023)

Today will be about two things, getting “Big Cat Reality” ready for sea and welcoming all the guests to Bundaberg.    Guests are welcome to unload their gear and park their cars at the marina from 1:00pm.

A meet and greet dinner is planned for 6:00pm at the Burnett Heads Lighthouse Hotel and a courtesy bus is booked to depart the marina at 5:30pm. This will be a self-funded event and will be a great way to meet fellow guests and vessel crew before the expedition.

After dinner the courtesy bus will drop everyone back to the Marina to board ‘Big Cat Reality’ and complete the pre-departure briefings.  After everyone has settled in, The guests can get some sleep, as ‘Big Cat’ will be departing at 1:00am for Marion reef.

Day 1 (Travel Day):

This morning you will wake to a hot breakfast and the opportunity to set up fishing gear as we steam north through the Bunker Group and towards the outer side of the Swains Reef.  Today will also be a great chance to prepare, rig up your gear and compare tackle and tactics with the other guests! By early evening we will be entering the protected waters of the Swains Reef to enjoy and also allow you to get a good night’s sleep as we continue north.

Day 2: (Travel day)

By daybreak we will be at the top of the Swains Reef group and ready to start our daytime crossing out to Marion Reef.  This will be a great opportunity for some blue water fishing and hook up a big pelagic fish…heavy trolling gear is an essential!  The afternoon will be the final chance to select your fishing tender and discuss your game plan as we will arrive at Marion Reef by the following morning.

 

Marion Reef Arrival Day 3: (First Day on site)

By first light we will arrive and anchor in the protection of the southern part of Marion reef at Long Reef.

Day 3 is the first of the ten days onsite to fish and explore this amazing Reef system.  The tenders will be launched and ready for you to depart after a hot breakfast and reef area briefing.

Fishing session times,

The morning sessions are normally from 6:30am to 11:30am with lunch from 12:00 to 1:00pm. The afternoon sessions are normally from 1:00pm to 4:30pm.

 Meals and refreshments

A trip schedule of breakfasts, lunches and evening meals will be prepared by a qualified Chef including freshly caught fish from the area.

Afternoon refreshments will also be prepared by the Chef before the main meal which will be served at 6:30pm,  followed by dessert.

 

Day 4 to day 11:  The next week is yours to explore and move around the reef system as you choose. Combining with other tenders will also increase the areas you wish to explore from the mother vessel. The mothership, Big Cat Reality will also move around in support of the tenders maximizing your opportunities to get on the fish. Weather permitting Big Cat can try deeper anchorages for some night fishing sessions as well.

Target fish species at Marion Reef

Dogtooth and Yellow Fin Tuna, Wahoo, Giant Trevally, Sailfish and Blue spot Trout just to name a few!    Each night we will endeavour to select a safe anchorage to give you a good night’s sleep.

Day 12: Marion Reef Departure (Tenth & Last Day onsite)

After an epic 10 days of fishing this remote reef system, we sit down to our last dinner at Marion Reef and review the photos from the week. The crew recover all tenders and after dinner and a few laughs we stow the ship and start to head South back to Bundaberg.

Day 13: (Travel Day)

Today gives you the chance for a big sleep-in as we steam home. This will also be another great opportunity for some blue water fishing sessions as you enjoy a few quiet drinks and swap stories from the trip.

 

Day 14: (Travel day)

This will be our last day at sea as we steam back through the Bunker Group arriving back in Bundaberg around 7pm that night. Guests are encouraged to use this opportunity to pack equipment and prepare for your departure on arrival.

Guests are welcome to depart the ship or stay onboard and disembark in the morning depending on your travel circumstances.

Day 15: Bundaberg arrival (Saturday Morning 18th November).

Guest who choose to depart on this day will have a hot breakfast and afterwards the crew will assist you with your gear before we farewell all guests around 8am.

Sounds too good to be true? It’s not!  You are receiving this great deal because:

  • We plan trips well in advance so you can book ahead and save
  • The trip will only run if it reaches minimum numbers
  • This allows us to operate more efficiently and pass the savings on to you
  • If the trip doesn’t reach minimum numbers, you receive a full refund

So by ensuring we have a full boat for the scheduled date, we can offer you this great “Rocket Deal”

 

  • The fishing trip is number dependant and will not travel if the minimum numbers are not achieved and maximum numbers also apply
  • A deposit is required to secure a booking and no tentative bookings will be accepted.
  • Full payment is required prior to departure. Any outstanding balances are due for payment at least 90 days before the charter leaves.
  • Guests need to provide their own fishing gear including tackle.  (Only a small amount of tackle available for purchase onboard)
  • Weather conditions restrictions for tender use: In rough conditions, tenders will be restricted to protected areas only and/or restricted to mother ship.
  • Consequences of cancellation or restrictions: If we cancel a charter due to weather conditions or any other circumstances your booking can be rescheduled, or you can obtain a full refund if the pre booked charter did not operate. However, if a charter has to return during its operation any refunds will be on a pro rata basis.
  • The Purchase of travel insurance is highly recommended or accept financial risk – you understand unforeseen health, work, medical or airline problems may cause you to cancel this trip. Compensation for trip cancellation or lost/damaged bags and/or equipment due to any reason must be claimed against your travel insurance. Weather problems may cause the itinerary to be changed or cancelled. No compensation is offered to change flights or holiday plans, alter any travel costs, meals, accommodation or any other costs you may have incurred. No refund is offered for time lost due to the medical evacuation of a passenger or reduction of fishing time due to bad weather.
  • Medical statement – You state that you are in good health for extended trips. You understand if you have any medical conditions you must advise the Master of the vessel and produce a medical certificate before departure completed by a medical specialist.
  • Release & Indemnity Deed –  This must be completed and signed by all guests before departure or before participating in any activities.  All tender drivers are responsible for any damage to the tenders due to careless and irresponsible action on their part including propeller, gearbox and motor damage.
  • The fishing trip can be cancelled at the sole discretion of the operator taking into account the sea and weather conditions of the day. Where this occurs we will ensure we reschedule the trip to a time suitable to you or will refund your payment.
  • The operator reserves the right to substitute the anticipated vessel with another or change the trip’s itinerary without notice, or do both these things
  • Guests need to arrive at least 90 minutes prior to departure time.
  • Cancellation Policy
    1. A 25% deposit is non-refundable.
    2. If you cannot fulfil your commitment of attending the trip the following steps can be taken:
    3. Notify our office and activate your travel insurance
    4. If the above is unsuccessful, try to find a replacement for your spot on the trip.
    5. Our office will also try to assist you in finding a replacement
    6. Special circumstances may be considered at management’s discretion. A transfer may be offered subject to availability and you will incur an administration fee.

Are you sick of organizing group bookings and trips only to not get your numbers or people let you down? Reality Fishing Charters can tailor a fishing trip for you at competitive rates. Let us set up a “Rocket Deal” for your group and offer you the following advantages:

  • Transparent booking process
  • Live updates on passenger numbers with real commitments
  • Offer your group exclusive deals with your own lock out periods
  • Passenger numbers are confirmed before you book flights and accommodation
  • Your trip can be networked with other groups to top up your numbers
  • Be part of a successful trip that everyone can look forward to and enjoy

(7 Day Swains Line Fishing Trip)

Guests for the week liveaboard trips board at Bundaberg Port Marina 1130am for  a 12 noon boarding on the departure day.  You will arrive back to the marina by around 5am on the 7th day and depart the vessel after breakfast by around 8am.

(9 Day Coral Sea Sports Fishing Trip)

Guests for the 9 day liveaboard trips board at Bundaberg Port Marina
(Kenn Reef Trips) between 12:00 pm and 12:30 pm on the departure day. Guests board the vessel at 1:00 pm.  You will arrive back to the marina by around 5am on the 9th day and depart the vessel after breakfast by around 8am.

(Wreck and Cato Reef Trip) between 3:00 pm and 3:30 pm on the departure day. Guests board the vessel at 4pm.  You will arrive back to the marina by around 5am on the 7th day and depart the vessel after breakfast by around 8am.

Address:

15-17 Marina Dr

Burnett Heads (20min drive out of Bundaberg Qld)

QLD 4670, Australia

Bundaberg Port Marina  (click here for a map)

“Big Cat Reality” is a 25m liveaboard vessel that caters for 18 to 21 guests.  She is all steel (164 tonne) and is well set up for extended fishing adventures with 7 fishing tenders  and a rescue boat onboard.  Big Cat is well appointed with all the latest electronic navigational equipment including interactive navigational screens on the back deck for your use.  (Click here for full details)

Our seven fishing tenders are “4.3m Smart Waves” which are specifically set up to help you get the most out of your fishing experience.  Each 4.3m tender is set up with the following:

  • 60 Hp fourstroke outboard with electric start and trim n tilt
  • Garmin 7′ Colour sounder / GPS Plotter with AIS
  • 40mm front Sports Fishing Bar
  • 40mm back jigging Bars
  • 25 watt Garmin VHF radio (6nm range)
  • Full safety equipment including an Epirb
  • AIS Tracking and display
  • Anchor and line
  • 9x Rod holders
  • 6x trolling holders
  • Driver’s padded seat
  • Bait Esky , cutting board and gaff
  • Fish Bag with ice
  • Built in Esky for cold drinks
  • front storage area under seats
  • Automatic bilge pump

Note:

  • All drivers need a current recreational boat licence and participate in an onboard induction programme.
  • All drivers are required to participate in the adopt-a-prop program.

“Big Cat Reality” is set up with large, comfortable bunk style accommodation which is fully air-conditioned and spacious to minimize sea sickness.  Everyone gets a separate bunk with privacy curtains, power points and luggage storage area. They are located in the middle of the ship and down low which is the best place to be – No pokey bow berths! All bed linen and a bath towel are provided for the on-board fresh water showers.  We’re sure you will have a pleasurable and comfortable stay on-board.

“Big Cat Reality” offers professionally presented meals prepared on-board by our qualified chefs for you to enjoy throughout your  trip.  Meals include: hot breakfasts, hot & cold lunches and of course the famous Big Cat Seafood Night. You will also enjoy healthy fruit platters and other exhilarating taste bud sensations for afternoon teas. If you have any dietary requirements, please advise us at the time of booking. This will allow our chefs to cater for your needs.

“Big Cat Reality” is a fully licenced vessel. We have a electronic POS system that caters for individual consumption and can provide a print out of the drinks consumed at the end of your trip.  (“Only pay for what you drink”)

2023 Drink Prices:

  • Soft Drinks & Bottled Water:  $3.00 *Free Chilled water available
  • XXXX Beer:  $5.00
  • Other Standard Beers:  $6.00
  • Premium Beers:  $7.00
  • UDL Cans:  $8.00
  • Red/White Wine:  $25.00 per bottle
  • Bottles of Spirits:  Cost + 30%

Soft Drinks: Coke, Coke Zero, Solo, Lemonade, water.

XXXX Beers: XXXX Gold, XXXX Bitter.

Other Standers Beers: Great Northern Super Crisp, Great Northern Original.

Premium Beers: Corona.

UDL Cans: Bundaberg Rum & Cola, Jim Beam & Cola, Canadian Club & Dry, Jack Daniels & Cola, Bundaberg alcoholic ginger beer.

Wine bottles: Red – Shiraz.  White – Sav Blanc.

Bottles of Spirits:  You can order your favourite bottle

“Special Orders” You can order alternate beverages for your trip however please be aware any remaining drinks will be charged to your bar tab at the end of the trip.  Special orders are to be noted on your booking form in the “Drinks Special Order” box.

(Please note: As we are fully licenced, No Alcohol is to be brought onboard)

On “Big Cat Reality” you will have the friendly and professional services of five “Big Cat” Crew, who are dedicated to your safety and the smooth running of the vessel’s operation during your enjoyable and rewarding fishing trip.  The crew consist of the Captain, three deck crew and  our Chef.  All crew are well trained and looking forward to seeing you on your trip of a lifetime.

Guests are required to bring along all their own fishing gear including tackle.  We do offer a small range of tackle onboard however we always encourage you to speak with your local tackle store and grab the best advise and gear.

Check out all the latest Wilson tackle and tips: Wilson Fishing

Bundy local tackle store: Bundaberg Tackle World 

Reality Fishing Charters operates within the regulations of the Department of Primary Industry Qld.  These regulations govern fish sizes, species, bag limits and reef closures that apply to our guests, Please make yourself familiar with these regulations.  (Click here to see the Qld Fishing Regulations). We recommend to download the following app. QLD Fishing 2.0 onto your phone/device.

You are not required to hold any fishing licences to fish on our trips.

Our crew will clean and fillet your catch then it will be cryovac sealed before being frozen to ensure freshness.

In the spirit of fairness and good team-ship: At the end of the trip the whole catch is evenly divided between all active fishers. Everyone should get a nice pack of fish to take home.

  • A positive attitude that’s excited about a professional and rewarding fishing trip of a Lifetime.
  • A beach towel for optional swimming purposes. (preferrably named)
  • All required medications. (including seasickness remedies if required)
  • Toiletries and personal belongings,(Body soap and shampoo is provided).
  • Rods, Reels and all the tackle you may need.
  • Old fishing clothes, preferably long sleeved.
  • Fish handling gear: pliers, lip gripers and knife
  • Big hat, sun glasses and sunscreen.
  • Proof of Boating Licence.
  • Foot wear for boat & beach fishing.
  • Cash or Credit Card to pay your bar tab.
  • Camera to capture the moment with USB Stick.

Car parking at Bundaberg Port Marina:
There is ample free car parking at the Marina with lockup parking available for an additional $10 per day fee. (please advise when Booking)

“Bundy Shuttle Service” can transfer 1,2 or a group of 16 from the Bundaberg Airport to the Bundaberg Port Marina at very reasonable rates.  Give John a call on 0421413446 or email: shuttlebuses@hotmail.com

 

Check out our local hotel “Light House Hotel”

Located only 10 mins from the marina Gavin and his team will look after you and your mates with cold beer, great meals and good clean accommodation.  Courtesy Bus available if required.

Contact: (07) 41594202

Email: office@lighthousehotel.net.au

 

Can I contact “Big Cat Reality” while she is out at sea.  Our operation takes guests to beautiful and remote locations that are well outside normal mobile phone service.  However Big Cat is fitted with a Satellite phone system that give us up to date weather information and full phone coverage at all times.  The cost of calls can be high, however for emergency use can be used.

“Big Cat Reality” Sat Phone Number: +870773949029

 

Check out our “Rocket Deals” page for the latest trips and adventures.

I hope the above is what you were looking for and hope to see you on board soon.  If you have any further inquiries (please send us an e-mail info@bigcatreality.com ) or just give us a call on 07 3204 9340.