Explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef with ABC Reef Safaris, your premier choice for personalised Port Douglas reef tours. As a micro family company, we take pride in offering the smallest group sizes available for daily reef excursions departing from Port Douglas. For your convenience and to assist in your trip planning, we’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions (and their Answers) below. These FAQs aim to provide you with valuable insights into our offerings. Should you have any inquiries beyond what’s covered here, don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can reach us at phone number (07) 4099 6243 or via email at sales@abcreefsafaris.com.au
Yes. We provide high-quality snorkelling equipment including fins, masks and snorkels. Our range is suitable for those aged 7 years old and above. Prescription masks are available at no extra cost, but please advise requirements in advance and at time of booking. All equipment is maintained to professional standards, ensuring comfort and safety, so you can focus on exploring the Great Barrier Reef.
ABC Reef Safaris can suit guests who are not strong swimmers, as long as they are comfortable in open water. You do not need to be a champion swimmer, and we carry simple flotation support such as noodles and basic life jackets.
However, this is not the ideal tour for non-swimmers or anyone who is not confident in open water. In that case, a larger vessel visiting an island or pontoon may be more comfortable and better suited to your safety and peace of mind.
Age, fitness and medical conditions are important, especially heart conditions or anything that may increase the risks of snorkelling. A private guide may be possible for more one-on-one support, but this must be booked in advance through our website.
Yes, we usually only take children from 7 years old as 7 years of age tends to be the age that good quality equipment that we have on board fits. With older ages a lot depends on your body weight and certain medical conditions, particularly heart disease, increase the risks of snorkelling. It is important to consider age and fitness levels when participating in snorkelling activities. If there are any doubts, please contact ABC Reef Safaris directly.
Snorkeling with a beard and moustache can sometimes pose challenges in getting a proper mask seal. The presence of facial hair can interfere with the mask’s ability to create an airtight seal, which may result in water leakage. However, there are a few tips you can try to improve the seal:
Remember, individual experiences may vary depending on the thickness and length of your facial hair, as well as the specific mask you use. It’s a good idea to try different techniques and masks to find the best fit for your particular situation.
When it comes to selecting the perfect snorkelling mask, the most important factor to consider is finding one that fits your unique facial features just right. While many people tend to focus solely on face width, we understand that some customers face challenges due to having a more prominent facial feature, such as a larger nose. Fortunately, our shop offers a range of masks specifically designed to accommodate individuals with larger noses.
For those with a larger nose, it’s crucial to choose a mask with a spacious nose pocket. This ensures a comfortable fit that won’t cause any discomfort on the nose bridge while maintaining a proper seal around your cheeks. We highly recommend calling us to arrange a mask fitting at our shop to find a mask more suitable for your needs than the standard masks found on most reef boats.
Small groups! ABC provide a guide to guest ratio of 1:6, with Marine Biologist and/or Naturalist guides with you in and out of the water. Outer Reef sites chosen daily for coral quality and conditions.
Yes. An introductory dive allows eligible guests to try scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef without completing a scuba certification course. Your ABC Reef Safaris Dive Instructor provides all required safety, equipment and communication briefings before you enter the water, and remain with you throughout your dive.
The minimum age is 12 years. Divers under 18 require parental or guardian consent.
Introductory dives with ABC Reef Safaris descend to a maximum depth of 10 metres. You do not have to reach 10 metres. Your instructor will guide the descent according to your comfort level and the conditions on the day.
Your introductory dive is approximately 20 – 40 minutes underwater depending on your air consumption. Everyone’s physiology is different, fitness, stress levels, all sorts of things can effect your air consumption.
We do have different size scuba cylinders available.
Hopefully you will relax and settle into scuba diving and explore the totally amazing Great Barrier Reef coral gardens and marine life with your instructor, while keeping the experience comfortable and carefully paced.
ABC Reef Safaris limits introductory diving to a maximum of 4 divers per 1 Dive Instructor. This small-group approach provides more individual attention, close supervision and a relaxed introduction to scuba diving.
Yes. Introductory diving is conducted under the direct supervision of a qualified Dive Instructor. Your instructor stays with the group throughout the dive, helping with buoyancy, communication and navigating around the reef.
It is very normal for first-time divers to feel a mixture of excitement and nerves. ABC Reef Safaris keeps introductory dive groups to a maximum of 4 guests per 1 instructor, allowing your instructor to provide plenty of individual attention and support. The experience is deliberately paced around the group rather than rushed.
Yes. Participants need to be able to swim confidently and be comfortable in the water. Although you will be using scuba equipment and accompanied by a Dive Instructor, basic swimming ability is an important requirement for participating safely. All introductory scuba diving on ABC Reef Safaris takes place in the open waters of the Coral Sea.
Yes. All introductory divers must complete a medical questionnaire before diving. Certain medical conditions, pregnancy, recent surgery and other health considerations may prevent participation or require further medical advice. If you have any concerns about your suitability to dive, please contact ABC Reef Safaris before booking.
Yes. Introductory diving is an upgrade to your snorkelling day, rather than a replacement for it. You will still have opportunities to snorkel and explore the reef from the surface as part of your ABC Reef Safaris experience.
Port Douglas provides access to spectacular sections of the Outer Great Barrier Reef, including the Agincourt Ribbon Reefs. With ABC Reef Safaris, first-time divers experience these reefs in small groups with a qualified instructor, making it an exceptional place to experience scuba diving for the first time.
Participating in an ‘introductory dive’ does not necessitate any prior diving experience. However, there are age and medical requirements. Individuals must be 12 years or older. Certain medical conditions, such as asthma, epilepsy, heart conditions, some respiratory conditions, and the use of specific medications, may preclude participation in an introductory dive.
Yes. Certified divers are required to complete the PADI Diver Medical Questionnaire if they have not dived while taking their current medication, or if they have not dived in over 12 months. Some medical conditions may require clearance from a doctor before diving. Please complete the questionnaire before your tour so any issues can be checked before the day of travel.
We enjoy remarkable freedom to explore a vast array of dive sites. This affords us the flexibility to select sites based on the prevailing conditions each day. Moreover, we can adjust our choice of sites to accommodate the experience levels of the divers on board. The day’s dive itinerary is customised to the specific conditions, ensuring the best possible diving experiences. Our repertoire includes wall dives, pinnacles, swim-throughs, and when conditions permit, exhilarating drift dives.
Minimum certification is Junior Open Water (age 10+) or Open Water. You’ll complete a PADI Diver Medical Questionnaire; some conditions may require doctor’s clearance.
The maximum dive depth you can reach depends on your certification level, though most dives for certified divers typically range between 12-18 meters. The Great Barrier Reef is not considered a deep dive destination; rather its appeal lies in the diverse coral formations at shallow depths, allowing for excellent sunlight penetration and creating an incredible experience for scuba diving. There’s generally little need to go deeper, except for specific sites.
Regarding certification documentation, please ensure you bring your certification card. In case you don’t have it, reach out to your issuing agency (PADI, SSI, or Other). Certified divers should also carry their logbooks, enabling our Dive Instructors and Dive Masters to assess your level of experience before diving.
Our industry-leading guide-to-diver ratio is 1:5. This ensures relaxed briefings, careful site choices and in-water support that lets you focus on great diving, not crowds.
Everything is included the ABC Reef Safaris scuba diving tour price, except for the purchase of additional beverages. This 2-tank dive day includes all of your scuba diving equipment, dive site and safety briefings, lycra suits (summer) or 5 mm wetsuits (winter), and two dives guided by our Dive Professionals. We also provide morning and afternoon tea and lunch. Coffee and cold water are complimentary; alcohol and soft drinks are optional extras.
Yes you can and we recommend booking early, as during peak periods we are often booked 2 to 3 weeks in advance. These bookings can be made online through our website, or you can contact our dive shop in Port Douglas on (07) 4099 6243 or sales@abcreefsafaris.com.au
We are taking bookings for clients who opt to privately charter our vessel/s. In this instance you not only experience the renowned ABC Reef Safaris way, you will also have the exclusive opportunity to undergo personalised snorkelling, scuba diving and/or PADI training in a private setting. This approach aligns with our dedication to delivering exceptional, tailor-made experiences, ensuring that each dive is not just a lesson, but a personalised journey with the guidance of our expert instructors.
Yes. Snorkelling partners of scuba divers are welcome aboard this Port Douglas dive trip and will enjoy the same premium vessel experience including Marine Biologist reef talks and presentations. Small numbers and carefully chosen sites mean clear water, vibrant coral and relaxed surface intervals for non-divers to enjoy.
Please bring your scuba diving certification card, logbook, swimwear, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a water bottle, sea-sickness medication (if prone) and your camera. We accept card payments only onboard for drinks and retail items. In cooler months, an extra base layer under the wetsuit helps if you feel the cold.
Before reaching the reef, your Dive Instructor will provide a full briefing aboard the boat covering your scuba equipment, underwater communication, breathing techniques, equalising your ears and important safety procedures. You will have the opportunity to ask questions before entering the water. ABC Reef Safaris is always committed to safety and guest comfort.
Yes. During summer (November to April), full-length lycra suits are provided for stinger and sun protection. In winter, we supply 5 mm wetsuits to help keep you warm. Children aged 7–12 receive full-length wetsuits.
Our suits are available in a standard range of sizes designed to fit most guests, but we cannot guarantee a suitable fit for every body shape or size. If you require specialist sizing or are particularly sensitive to the cold, consider bringing your own correctly fitted wetsuit or purchasing a neoprene thermal top to wear underneath. Please check the manufacturer’s sizing chart carefully before purchasing.
Yes. Introductory scuba diving is available for first timers on ABC Reef Safaris. Please note the minimum age to participate is 12 years old. No prior experience needed. Certified instructors provide full safety and equipment briefings, then guide you underwater for about 20 – 40 minutes to a maximum depth of 10 metres. Health restrictions apply, please see the notes above and check before booking if you have any queries or concerns.
Yes. Everyone can travel together on the same ABC Reef Safaris reef tour. You share the boat, reef locations and time onboard, then join the appropriate guided activity when it is time to enter the water.
Our website BOOK NOW prices include the applicable online booking and payment costs.
Want to save up to 5.5%?
Simply use the ENQUIRE button instead of BOOK NOW and our team can send you a secure payment link using our alternative payment system.
This can avoid the online booking costs and means more of your money goes towards your Great Barrier Reef experience, rather than booking fees.
Same ABC Reef Safaris experience. Simply a smarter way to book.
At ABC Reef Safaris, small groups are our philosophy. They allow us to create unique reef experiences defined by space, attention and connection. We have two versatile reef boats, providing simply amazing days on the reef.
Cruise ship guests are very welcome. As a small, flexible operator, we can often tailor departure times and daily schedules around cruise ship arrivals and departures, particularly when arranged in advance.
Bring a towel, water bottle, reef-safe sunscreen, camera and something dry to wear for the return trip. Sea sickness medication is recommended if you’re prone to motion sickness. Swimwear should be worn under your wetsuit or lycra suit. A sense of adventure is always welcome too.
Private charters depart from the marina assigned to your vessel:
Free parking is available close to both vessels. Your booking confirmation includes directions to the correct departure point. Private transfers from Port Douglas, Palm Cove and Cairns can also be arranged at additional cost.
Yes. If you would prefer a completely personalised first scuba experience, a private Dive Instructor can be booked for an additional $590. This provides dedicated 1-on-1 instruction and support throughout your introductory diving experience.
It is advisable to wait at least 24 hours after diving before flying or going to altitude. Current regulations specify that for a single, no decompression dive, one should avoid going to altitude for at least 12 hours. If multiple dives are undertaken, it is recommended to wait for at least 18 hours before flying or going to altitude.
Yes, all ABC Reef Safari dives are guided by Marine Biologists with an industry leading guide to diver ratio of 1:5. Depending on passengers on the day, you will be paired up with another guest as a dive buddy and/or with our Dive Instructors / Dive Masters.
Yes. The equipment required for your booked activity is included, so you do not need to bring your own scuba equipment. Your instructor will explain how everything works during the briefing before your dive.
Introductory diving is for people without scuba certification and is conducted under direct supervision of a Dive Instructor, to a maximum depth of 10 metres. Certified diving is for qualified scuba divers and allows them to explore the reef with a Divemaster according to their certification, experience and conditions.
This really is more of an issue for beach dwellers than offshore reef visitors. However, in the summer months, we do provide lycra suits for protection. We have prepared a simple fact sheet on Marine Stingers. The stinger season in our region is approximately November to April, and there is a potential presence of jellyfish, particularly the Box Jellyfish and Irukandji. However, we have safety measures in place to ensure your wellbeing. All reef tour guests are provided with stinger suits for protection, and our experienced guides are well-trained in dealing with such situations. The advantage of boating with us during this season is that our boats are equipped to take you to the outer reef areas where the likelihood of encountering jellyfish is significantly lower compared to nearshore areas. We prioritise safety, and our team is well-prepared to provide you with a safe and enjoyable experience.
We have a fully stocked ABC/Oceansports store at 34 Macrossan St. Port Douglas. Where you can purchase when you are here in person online or you can order in advance of your tour.
Each day we visit two carefully selected outer reef sites. Exact locations vary depending on weather and conditions, our Captain will choose the best sites to provide a premium reef experience. Small groups and a 1:6 guide to guest ratio ensure safety, personal attention and memorable encounters with vibrant marine life.
Day tours: Cancellations within 48 hours or no-shows incur 100% charge. For cancellations made outside 48 hours a $25 per person administration fee applies.
Private charters: Cancellations within 5 days incur 100% charge. Please review our full Terms & Conditions for complete details before booking.
ABC Reef Safaris generally visits two carefully selected Outer Great Barrier Reef locations during the day. The exact sites are chosen according to weather, sea conditions and reef quality.
The Great Barrier Reef is beautiful any time of year. However, the weather is very hard to predict, as it can be unseasonable at any time of year. Port Douglas is in the tropical part of Australia and has two main seasons: the ‘Wet Season’ November to April (water temperatures 28-32 degrees Celsius) and the ‘Dry Season’ May to October (water temperatures 22-25 degrees Celsius).
Visibility varies between 10 and 30m+ throughout the year. June, July and August is our whale season, which often adds the extra excitement of seeing whales on the way to the reef, or maybe even at our reef locations! October and November often provide us with the calmest seas. Many people look for sun when planning a reef trip, however, fish are not scared of clouds, or rain, but visibility is reduced with rough seas. We have access to a four-day weather forecast and will not run if we believe conditions to be too rough.
Selecting a definitive “best” location for snorkelling or scuba diving on the reef is challenging, as it can vary from day to day, with the seasons and the tides and depending on your chosen activity.
Our unique advantage of having two reef boats and the freedom to seek out the best sites on the day, including moorings on the world famous Agincourt Ribbon Reefs, means you will see the best available during your visit.
Additionally, our small group sizes enables us to explore an extensive array of low use reef sites. These are at locations where larger operators are not permitted. At each distinct reef we visit, the diversity among sites is remarkable. Additionally, the marine life visible on these sites fluctuates daily in response to the prevailing conditions. The ever-changing nature of the underwater world ensures that no two days offer identical experiences in terms of marine sightings.
The media has created a lot of confusion over the last few years. The most contentious subject would be Coral Bleaching for further information on this please click here. The Great Barrier Reef is alive and looking beautiful, which can been seen in the recent photos taken on our Facebook or and our Instagram. Whilst there are many threats to The Great Barrier Reef, which will be discussed in our on-board marine talk, we have a roaming permit. This allows us the flexibility to choose from a large number of locations on The Great Barrier Reef. Although some sites may have suffered in the last few years, many others are as pristine as they ever were. With our permit and small vessels, we can access some of the remote reefs, away from the crowds and the big operators to show you everything as you had imagined it! We have beautiful Corals, Nudibranchs, Clownfish, Turtles, Maori Wrasse, Sharks and all the marine life in between!
Opting to provide small group tours – with an industry leading staff-to-guest ratio of 1:4 – allows us to provide our guests with an exceptional and exclusive adventure. Our deliberate choice of this limited group size offers a range of distinct advantages:
We are committed to providing you with a remarkable and eco-conscious expedition that leaves you with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the natural world.
Being a micro tour operator running with such low numbers, we often book out well ahead. During the school and Christmas holidays periods, we can be fully booked for many days in a row. As such, we suggest you please book early to reserve your ABC Reef Safaris Port Douglas reef tour.
At ABC Reef Safaris our focus is on quality rather than quantity, ensuring you have a memorable and relaxed experience. We carefully select two locations each day to maximise your enjoyment. Safety and weather conditions are always top priorities when choosing these spots, ensuring your day is both exciting and safe.
ABC Reef Safaris has a whole different philosophy to that of mainstream reef operators. ABC days are about adventure and excitement; no two days are ever the same. In reality, we could go to a different location every single day of the year! Many customers come out with us 2 or 3 times in the same week.
Yes. All are welcome on ABC Reef Safaris. Even if you don’t want to get wet, you can still enjoy the day with your partner and/or family and friends, and learn some interesting information on the Great Barrier Reef from our Marine Biologists.
Yes, ABC Reef Safaris provides cold water, tea, coffee and hot chocolate. Additional beverages, including soft drinks, beer and wine can be purchased onboard and is an additional cost to the tour price.
Waterproof phone bags, these can be used down to 10metres or 33′ feet in depth. Reef safe sunscreen. Micro SD memory cards. Beer, wine, sparkling water, juice and soft drinks. Please bring a credit card as no cash is accepted on board.
Seasickness can affect anyone, even on calmer days, so medication can be useful insurance for your reef trip. Preventing seasickness is much easier than dealing with it once it starts.
If you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking sea sickness medication before the trip, avoid heavy meals before boarding and stay hydrated. Travacalm chewable tablets are commonly available from Australian pharmacies, but please check with a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure what is suitable for you.
We have for sale waterproof phone cases both in our shop and on board our boat. Waterproof phone bags these can be used down to 10metres or 33′ feet in depth. These are very reasonably priced and a great way to catch some awesome moments of your ABC day both in the water and around our vessel.
Yes. Absolutely and highly recommended it. The Great Barrier Reef is a photographers’ paradise.
Yes. The owner of ABC is an underwater photographer and has compiled a very special collection. We email you a dropbox link after the trip.
A sense of adventure, a water bottle, towel, reef safe sunscreen / sunblock, sea sickness medication (it’s preventative and it’s better to take some ‘just in case’), something dry to wear for the return journey, camera and natural insect repellent.
Yes we advise you wear your swimming costume underneath the stinger suits or wet suits that we provide. We also have a range of rash guards, wet suits or stinger suits if you would like to buy your own.
Yes, you should wear boat or reef shoes to and from our boats for your comfort. You will not need to wear shoes on the boat during the day.
The visibility of the sea floor upon entry is influenced by the tide and our site’s specific location for the day. In most instances, as soon as you step into the water, the sea floor becomes visible. You’ll often be greeted by captivating coral pinnacles, slopes, or vibrant walls bustling with marine life. Occasionally, we might encounter scenarios where the water appears blue upon entry, and the reef or sandy bottom becomes visible after a brief swim.
Yes our booking system is live and operates 24/7. You can easily check availability and make a booking by clicking the “Book Now” button found on most pages of our website. In case you don’t see availability on your desired date, please feel free to call or email us. Please note that on some days, we may ask you to call for bookings. In any case, it’s always worth calling to double-check for any last-minute availability, cancellations and/or to be added to our cancellation list for a specific date.
Yes, you can book and pay online. Please note that a booking fee is usually added to the price. If you prefer not to pay this fee, you can call or email us directly to make the booking over the phone or we can send you a payment link without any booking fees.
The answer to this question often depends on your individual circumstances which may include injuries, mobility, sensory, visual or auditory impairments. Please Check our general accessibility guidelines and don’t hesitate to contact us if you would like to discuss your circumstances with our team.
Experience the magic of tropical rain in Port Douglas! Unlike the reef’s outer areas, rain in Port Douglas does not deter fish or disrupt our daily activities. Don’t be deceived by the rain in town; at the reef, clear skies prevail. Port Douglas enjoys the beauty of convection rainfall, where oceanic evaporation nourishes the mountains, resulting in occasional rain. Embrace the contrasting scenes as the reef invites you into its serene oasis amid Port Douglas’ moody ambiance.
ABC Reef Safaris has earned recognition through Ecotourism Australia’s premier ecotourism certification program. By choosing to journey with us, you’re endorsing a business with a solid dedication to sustainable practices and outstanding nature-based tourism offerings. Our certification underscores our dedication to:
Ecotourism Australia Certification programs have received approval from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).
Why should I consider cycling to your vessel in the morning instead of driving?
Cycling to our vessel offers several benefits, both for you and the environment. It’s a convenient and eco-friendly way to reach us. Here are some compelling reasons:
Is there bicycle parking available near your vessel?
Yes, we provide secure bicycle parking facilities near our vessel, ensuring your bike is safe while you’re on board.
Do you provide any special amenities for cyclists?
We understand the value of cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation. As a token of appreciation, we offer cyclists a small discount or special incentive for choosing to cycle to our vessel. Check our website or contact us for current offers.
Are there shower facilities available for cyclists who may want to freshen up upon arrival?
Yes, we have shower facilities available for cyclists who may want to freshen up before boarding our vessel. We want to ensure your comfort and convenience.
Can I bring my own bicycle, or do I need to rent one?
You can absolutely bring your own bicycle if you have one. We encourage the use of bicycles to reach our vessel, whether you rent one or bring your own.
How can I rent a bicycle in Port Douglas?
There are bike hire companies in Port Douglas that make it easy to rent a bicycle for your trip. You can find several options within the town.
What’s the distance between the center of Port Douglas and your vessel?
The center of Port Douglas is approximately 2 kilometers from our vessel.
How do I plan my cycling route to your vessel from Port Douglas?
You can use GPS apps or consult local maps to plan your route. If you need specific directions or recommendations feel free to reach out to our team, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
Is cycling safe in Port Douglas?
Port Douglas is known for its cycling-friendly atmosphere, with dedicated bike lanes and well-maintained roads. However, we recommend following basic safety precautions, such as wearing a helmet, obeying traffic rules and being aware of your surroundings.
Cycling to our vessel is not only a practical and environmentally responsible choice but also a memorable part of your experience with us. We look forward to welcoming you on board!
Yes. Fresh onboard catering is included as part of your reef day. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free and other dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Please provide details when booking so our crew can prepare accordingly.