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, scuba diving or freediving 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 – one for snorkelling and first time (intro) diving, and one for certified divers and experienced freedivers – combined with our 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!

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.

Absolutely! At ABC Reef Safaris, we believe that the synergy between PADI training at all levels (from a first-time dive to an Instructor) and our private guiding services will create a diving experience like no other. We invite you to join us on this new chapter, where excellence meets exclusivity in the world of scuba diving.

We are proud recipients of recent awards, including ‘Best in Queensland’ and ‘Best in Australia,’ as recognised by the Experience & Excellence Awards and TripAdvisor.

• Best in Australia
• Best of Queensland

From October 2025. We will be taking advance bookings for certified scuba diving. These bookings can be made online through our website, or can you contact our dive shop in Port Douglas on (07) 4099 6243 or sales@abcreefsafaris.com.au

Private Charter Bookings

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.

With a maximum capacity of 12 passengers on board, 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.

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.

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.

While it’s not strictly necessary it is recommended. If you are unable to swim, you can still experience scuba diving through an ‘Introductory Scuba Dive’ guided by a PADI Instructor. First time scuba dives are only provided on our luxury Port Douglas snorkelling tours.

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. Introductory diving is available on our Port Douglas snorkelling tours.

Yes, ABC Reef Safaris is proud to be a 5-Star PADI Instructor Development Centre. We provide the complete range of PADI scuba diver courses, from Junior Open Water and Open Water to Advanced, Rescue Diver, Boat Diver, Dive Master, OWSI, IDC and IDC Development Course. Theory components can be completed online, or in the classroom, with the ocean dives completed on ABC Reef Safaris.

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.

Check-in for our certified scuba diving tours is at 7.45am for an 8am departure. We arrive back into Port Douglas around 3pm.

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.

Check-in for our snorkelling tours is at 7.45am for an 8am departure. We arrive back into Port Douglas around 4.30pm.

Yes. We have top quality snorkel equipment. Our lightweight fins are made from modern monoprene material which are much kinder to your feet and much nicer than the usual rubber hire fins. We have different sized masks and snorkels, including children’s sizes (for children aged 7 years old and up). We also have prescription masks available without charge (better to advise us in advance) if these are required.

Yes. In our summer months (wet season) we supply full length lycra suits, the material is like what the Australians call a rash guard. These are great not only for Jelly Fish protection but sun protection. In our winter months (dry season) we supply 5mm long armed short leg wet suits. For the juniors approx 7-10 years old we have full 5mm wet suits.

Yes. You don’t have to be a champion swimmer, but it’s important to be comfortable in open water. We cater to singles, couples and families, providing a very family-friendly experience. We even offer full 5mm wetsuits for children aged 7 and above, which is great for keeping them warm. Additionally, we have token flotation devices available, such as noodles and basic life jackets.

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.

No. This is not the ideal tour for you if you can’t swim or are not confident in open water. If this is the case, we suggest maybe one of the larger vessels that visits an Island or a Pontoon might be better. This is just for your peace of mind, comfort on the day and safety. Please note age and fitness levels are critical. Older age and some medical conditions, especially heart disease, increase the risks of snorkelling.

You can book a private guide who could help you on a more 1:1 situation. However you would need to book this in advance and we have this option when you make your booking from our website.

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:

1. Trim your facial hair: Trimming your beard and moustache shorter can help create a better seal between your face and the mask. Even exposing 2 or 3mm horizontally under the nose will help mask to seal correctly.
2. Use a silicone mask: Look for a snorkel mask with a silicone skirt, as it tends to provide a better seal on various facial contours, including areas with facial hair.
3. Test the mask: Before your snorkeling trip, try the mask on and perform a quick fit test by placing it against your face without the strap. Breathe in through your nose, and if the mask suctions to your face and stays in place without any air leakage, it should provide a good seal during snorkeling.
4. Consider using a neoprene mask strap cover: A neoprene cover can help create additional pressure and improve the seal around your facial hair.
5. We also try a spread of Vaseline under the nose to minimize any air leaks.

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.

Opting for a small group tours – maximum of 24 passengers on Voyager and 12 passengers on Independence – 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:

1. Personalised Attention: With a smaller group, every passenger receives personalised and dedicated guidance from our team of expert guides. This tailored approach ensures an enriching and educational experience as you explore the wonders of the reef.
2. Enhanced Learning: Our knowledgeable guides engage with each participant, providing in-depth insights into the reef’s ecosystem and marine life. This intimate setting encourages meaningful interactions and fosters a deeper understanding of the remarkable underwater world.
3. Reduced Environmental Impact: By adhering to a small passenger count, we minimise our ecological footprint on the reef.
4. Tranquillity and Serenity: The peaceful ambiance of a small group fosters a serene environment, where you can immerse yourself fully in the stunning surroundings. Absorb the beauty of the reef without the distractions of a crowded setting, creating memories that linger long after the journey ends.
5. Unforgettable Experience: Ultimately, the small group approach creates a truly unforgettable journey, allowing you to forge a profound connection with the Great Barrier Reef. The intimate interactions, educational opportunities, and unique locations combine to make your experience with us a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

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, all of the ABC Reef Safaris tours provide and include snacks and light meals.

Please note we can accommodate dietary requirements, including vegetarian and vegan, but ask your specific details be provided to us at the time of booking.

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.

It’s possible. Responses to boat travel can vary greatly from person to person, and the conditions of each trip are unique. Some individuals experience seasickness even on perfectly calm days. If you tend to get motion sickness in cars or planes, you might be more susceptible to seasickness. Consider taking a travel sickness medication if you’re unsure, as a precautionary measure.

If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking motion sickness medication before the trip. Also, avoid heavy meals before boarding the boat and stay hydrated.

Seasickness medication serves as valuable insurance for your trip. Preventing seasickness is far preferable to dealing with it once it sets in. ‘Travacalm’ Chewable tablets (pink and white box) are readily available at most Australian pharmacies. To maximise the effectiveness of the medication, it is advisable to take it one hour before departure. We usually have these available on board in a convenient 2 pack. PLEASE NOTE As this is pharmacy medication, we’re not permitted to give these away there is a small additional charge.

Elevate your reef experience by renting a GoPro from ABC Reef Safaris. Why miss out on preserving the best memories of your day? Our GoPro rentals offer exceptional video and picture quality that will ensure your moments last a lifetime. Designed with a waterproof housing and a convenient handle, the GoPro is your perfect companion for capturing stunning images both above and below the water’s surface. Our skilled crew are eager to help and if asked nicely they can record some up-close videos for you with some of our mesmerising marine life, all while you enjoy your ABC snorkeling adventure.

At the conclusion of your excursion, we provide you with the SD card and adapter containing all your breathtaking pictures. Booking your GoPro rental is a breeze – you can secure it in advance or opt to rent one onboard, depending on availability.

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.

Absolutely, the chance to spot turtles is always a highlight of our snorkel tours. The Great Barrier Reef is home to six out of the world’s seven species of sea turtles, making it a promising destination for these captivating creatures. Among the turtles commonly encountered are the Green Sea and Hawksbill Turtles. The possibility of encountering turtles on any given day is influenced by several factors. These include temperature conditions, water visibility, the presence of nourishment sources and the natural balance of predators. While we cannot guarantee turtle sightings, the diverse ecosystem of the Great Barrier Reef significantly enhances the likelihood of these incredible marine beings gracing us with their presence during your tour.

There is indeed a chance of encountering smaller shark species during our reef trips, however, you can rest assured that these species pose no danger to snorkelers or scuba divers. The most commonly sighted species are the elegant White-Tip and Black Reef sharks. Despite their presence, these sharks are relatively small, typically measuring just over a meter in length. It’s important to note that their usual behavior involves swimming away when approached closely. For instance, the White-Tip Shark, primarily a nocturnal species, is often spotted in a ‘sleeping’ position on the sandy ocean floor, gently ventilating its gills by opening and closing its mouth. While some guests might initially have concerns about sharing the water with sharks, these smaller species frequently become the highlight of their reef experience.

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.

Generally, there are very few species that would pose a spontaneous threat to your safety. However, we strongly advocate for a no-touching policy while exploring the reef. Even though many species do not display aggressive behaviour, they might have various defence mechanisms. The primary risk you might face is by aggressively approaching or touching marine life. Adhering to a “look but don’t touch” approach is not only the best way to fully relish the experience but also serves to safeguard the reef and its inhabitants simultaneously.

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.

Yes lots of FREE parking and just a few metres from our boat, we are located at Maranos Wharf on Port Street, Port Douglas, QLD 4877. Once you have booked with us, we send you a confirmation where there is a GET DIRECTIONS BUTTON so Google can guide you to our boat.

We can arrange pick-ups and drop-offs at most resorts. Please note we use a third-party service provider for transfers, hence there is an additional cost which is provided on this page.

Please note that Port Douglas is a relatively small place, and most hotels are within walking distance of our boat. As such, we encourage you to walk or cycle to the wharf. We meet at 7.45am and the exact vessel location can be found in your booking confirmation. To get directions, please press the ‘GET DIRECTIONS’ button, which will redirect you to Google Maps and provide you with the exact route and estimated time from your location. For those driving, there is plenty of free parking available right next to our vessel.

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:

• Safeguarding our natural surroundings.
• Delivering top-tier education and interpretation to our guests.
• Engaging and uplifting our local community.
• Minimising our carbon impact.
• Defending our distinctive wildlife and at-risk species.
• Making meaningful strides in conservation.
• Preserving the rich traditions of Australian Indigenous cultures.
• Ensuring a memorable and superior guest experience.

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:

• Environmental Sustainability: Cycling is a green and sustainable mode of transportation that reduces carbon emissions, helping to protect our beautiful marine environment.
• Cost-Effective: Cycling is an economical way to travel, saving you money on fuel, parking expenses and/or transfers.
• Exercise: It provides a great opportunity for morning exercise, contributing to your physical wellbeing.
• Avoid Traffic: You won’t have to deal with traffic congestion, making your journey smoother and less stressful.
• Scenic Experience: Port Douglas boasts stunning scenery, and cycling allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
• Accessibility: Bicycles can often access areas that cars cannot, making it easier to reach our vessel.

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!