Missing boat returns after night at Low Isles to avoid bad weather

A boat reported missing off the coast of Port Douglas, in far north Queensland, has returned to shore this morning.

Police, including a rescue helicopter, started searching for the 4.6-metre boat last night which left from the Rocky Point boat ramp in Wonga yesterday at 8:00am.

Queensland Police said the boat returned to the boat ramp about 6:00am (AEST)today after spending the night at Low Isles to avoid inclement weather.

The three men on board, aged 24, 43 and 52, are safe.