Port Douglas’ best reef charter boats, for the ultimate, luxury experience.

Elevate your Great Barrier Reef experience with a private charter. Itineraries, locations and activities are curated to meet the needs of your group. Visit exclusive reef sites other boats can’t access. Your group will be the only ones in the water, guided by Marine Biologists to enrich your connection with the reef. You can snorkel and scuba dive, including the opportunity to try an introductory dive with no prior experience needed, or simply relax between sessions. Our 16m dive vessel Independence carries up to 12 guests; our luxury 20m catamaran Voyager welcomes up to 24. This is visiting the reef the way it should be. Families. Friends. Corporate Charters. 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.

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Tripadvisor’s #1 Australian Tourism Experience

<b>Independence</b> private charter <b>exclusive for 12 guests*.</b> Snorkel, Dive, Freedive, <b>Enjoy. </b>

Independence private charter exclusive for 12 guests*. Snorkel, Dive, Freedive, Enjoy.

Be a Great Barrier Reef explorer on Independence by name and nature. This versatile 16m custom dive and snorkel vessel was built to explore the Great Barrier Reef in comfort and style. Taking a maximum of 12 guests* Independence accesses pristine lagoons and shallow reefs that larger boats can’t reach. Her shaded back deck flows seamlessly to the water’s edge for effortless diving and snorkelling, while the sunny bow invites you to soak up the views between reef sessions. Freshwater showers, an onboard bathroom and clever design allows you to move freely without needing to dry off. Cruising at 19–20 knots with the ability to travel 200 nautical miles offshore, Independence delivers speed and stability, ensuring a smooth and memorable journey. Legendary reviews, exclusive locations and small-group freedom, this is reef exploration at its very best. *Can accommodate up to 16 passengers on a private charter, at an additional per person cost. Contact us for more information.

<b>Voyager private charter</b> exclusive for <b>24 guests,</b> in luxury and <b>style.</b>

Voyager private charter exclusive for 24 guests, in luxury and style.

Voyager is ABC Reef Safaris’ brand-new luxury catamaran, and was launched in December 2025. Every detail of this 20m catamaran has been thoughtfully executed to maximise experience. Inside, the air-conditioned lounge offers plush business-class seating, an extensive bar and a striking rainforest timber banquet table crafted from recycled Atherton Tablelands timber. Outside you can choose your retreat, from queen-sized daybeds on the sundeck, shaded breezes on the back deck, or bow seating with ocean views. Barefoot-friendly decking leads to a purpose-built ocean access platform with stairs, making water access effortless. With a yacht-style timber fit-out, multi-zone sound system and refined details throughout, Voyager sets a new benchmark for stylish Great Barrier Reef private charters. Can comfortably take 60 guests, but we limit numbers to just 24, ensuring a spaciousness you’ll appreciate. Cruising at 24-26 knots with the ability to travel 200 nautical miles offshore. Voyager is more white boat than reef boat, for the ultimate experience.

ABC Reef Safaris’ <b>private charter catering</b> packages.

ABC Reef Safaris’ private charter catering packages.

ABC Reef Safaris provides generous catering for private charters, designed to complement a relaxed full day on the Great Barrier Reef. Catering includes morning and afternoon tea, unlimited chilled water, tea and coffee throughout the day.

A generous buffet-style lunch features a rotating selection of fresh local produce, which may include seafood, meats, cheeses, salads and tropical flavours.

View our charter menus:

Further catering upgrades can be arranged on request at additional cost.

Vegetarian, vegan and other dietary requirements can be catered for with advance notice.

Please note that soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are not included in the charter price but can be pre-arranged or purchased on board.

Suggested Itinerary for private charters...

7:45 am

Check in at our vessel for your private charter. Meet the captain and our Marine Biologists. Enjoy morning tea/coffee and cookies.

8:00 am

Depart to the Great Barrier Reef. Morning, safety, snorkelling and scuba dive briefings and marine talks will be provided on our way to the reef. The crew will also provide snorkelling and scuba diving equipment instructions and overviews.

10:00 am

Explore the first reef location until 11.30am. Enjoy guided exploration with our Marine Biologists in the water with you. Option to explore independently. Learn about these pristine environments in a sustainable and eco-friendly manner.

11:30 am

Enjoy morning tea/coffee, pastries and fruit platter while moving to the next reef location.

12:00 pm

Step back into the Coral Sea for more Great Barrier Reef adventures. Our Marine Biologists will ensure you connect and engage with this fascinating underwater landscape in an enriching way. Option to explore independently.

1:30 pm

Enjoy lunch at your own leisure. Alcoholic drinks (beer/wine) service made available on return journey. Summary of the day’s wildlife encounters.

3:00 pm

Arrive at Port Douglas.

Private charter prices and notes for ABC Reef Safaris

Prices

Prices
Independence - Standard Snorkel only Private Charter$6900 Standard Snorkel Only Private Charter up to 12 guests
Independence - Luxury Snorkel only Private Charter$7500 Luxury Snorkel Only Private Charter up to 12 guests
Independence - Standard Dive & Snorkel only Private Charter$7900Standard Dive & Snorkel Private Charter up to 12 guests
Independence - Luxury Dive & Snorkel Private Charter$8500Luxury Dive & Snorkel Private Charter up to 12 guests
Voyager - Standard Snorkel only Private Charter$18950Standard Snorkel Only Private Charter up to 24 guests
Voyager - Luxury Snorkel only Private Charter$19950Luxury Snorkel Only Private Charter up to 24 guests
Voyager - Standard Dive & Snorkel only Private Charter$20950Standard Dive & Snorkel Private Charter up to 24 guests
Voyager - Luxury Dive & Snorkel Private Charter$21950Luxury Dive & Snorkel Private Charter up to 24 guests
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Transfers

Private Transfers Can Be Arranged
Shared - Return within Port Douglas$20Per Person
Shared - Return Thala Beach Port Douglas$30Per Person - Minimum 2 persons
Shared - Silky Oaks Port Douglas $100Per Person - Minimum 2 persons
Shared - Return Palm Cove Port Douglas $125Per Person - Minimum 2 persons
Private - Return Port Douglas $200Up to 7 passengers
Private - Return Port Douglas $350Up to 11 passengers
Private - Return Port Douglas $1200Up to 24 passengers
Private - Return Thala Beach Port Douglas $240 Up to 7 passengers
Private - Return Thala Beach Port Douglas $375Up to 11 passengers
Private - Return Thala Beach Port Douglas $1200Up to 24 passengers
Private - Return Silky Oaks Port Douglas $340Up to 7 passengers
Private - Return Silky Oaks Port Douglas $440Up to 11 passengers
Private - Return Silky Oaks Port Douglas $1300Up to 24 passengers
Private - Return Palm Cove Port Douglas$540 Up to 7 passengers
Private - Return Palm Cove Port Douglas$900Up to 11 passengers
Private - Return Palm Cove Port Douglas$1200Up to 24 passengers
Private - Return Cairns Port Douglas $640Up to 7 passengers
Private - Return Cairns Port Douglas $1000Up to 11 passengers
Private - Return Cairns Port Douglas $1400Up to 24 passengers

Extras

Extras
Hire an additional guide $590Ideal to have your own private guide if you are a weak or nervous swimmer and need help to get the most from your outer reef adventure.
Reef Safe Sunscreen 70g$1970g reef-safe roll-on sunscreen for your day on the reef.
Water Proof Phone Bag$49Great for mobile phones: Fits all iPhones and Android phones, waterproof up to 10m depth. NOTE: Not suitable for folding phones.
On Board PurchasesVariousBeer, wine, canned soft drinks, seasick medication, memory cards.

Notes

Notes

  • Book Early: We always recommend booking early, as tours can be fully booked two to three weeks in advance during busy periods.
  • Environmental Management Charge: The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Environmental Management Charge is included in tour prices.
  • Guided Activities: Snorkelling is fully guided, with approximately six snorkellers per guide. Certified scuba diving is fully guided, with approximately five divers per guide.
  • Equipment Included: Snorkelling and scuba diving equipment is included, along with lycra suits during warmer months and 5 mm wetsuits in winter. Full-length 5 mm wetsuits are provided for children aged 7 to 12. Prescription masks are also available, but please contact us in advance so we can confirm availability.
  • Snorkelling Requirements: Some swimming ability and a reasonable level of fitness are required to snorkel on the Outer Great Barrier Reef. Older age and certain medical conditions, particularly heart disease, can increase the risks associated with snorkelling. If you have any concerns, please contact us before booking.
  • Additional Snorkelling Assistance: Guests who may require additional assistance can arrange to hire a private guide. This provides extra support while allowing the regular guide to look after the other members of the group.
  • Introductory Scuba Diving Requirements. For your safety, all introductory scuba divers are required to complete a medical questionnaire before joining the dive. This is a standard part of the PADI Discover Scuba Diving program. The form asks about common medical conditions such as asthma, epilepsy, heart disease, diabetes, ear or sinus problems and recent surgeries. If you answer “Yes” to any condition on the questionnaire, you may need to obtain clearance from a doctor before diving. Please note that certain conditions, including pregnancy or recent chest/ear surgery, may prevent participation. Participants must be at least 12 years old (with parental consent for minors). You should be able to swim comfortably and feel confident in the water. Our professional instructors will review your form with you and ensure you meet the requirements before entering the water. Safety is always our highest priority.
  • Introductory Diving Cancellations: Within 48 hours of departure, introductory diving is non-refundable if you cannot participate because of a medical condition, do not meet the questionnaire requirements or decide not to dive on the day.
  • Scuba Diving Requirements. We can accommodate scuba divers of all experience levels, starting from Junior Open Water and Open Water certification and above.  Certified  diver requirements – If you have not scuba dived while taking your current medication, or have not dived in over 12 months, you are required to complete the Diver Medical Participant Questionnaire. If you answer “Yes” to any item (e.g., asthma, heart/cardiac issues, diabetes, ear/sinus problems, recent surgery, pregnancy), doctor’s clearance may be required before diving.
  • Parking and Directions: Free parking is available at our vessel departure locations. You can view maps and directions on our website or select “Get Directions” on your booking confirmation.

Cancellations

Cancellation Policy

Daily tours:

  • Cancellations made within 48 hours prior to the booked tour date or ‘no shows’ are subject to 100% cancellation charge with no refund.
  • For full cancellation policy please see our Terms & Conditions

Private charters:

  • Cancellations within 5 days of charter date occur a 100% charge.
  • For full cancellation policy please see our Terms & Conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

Prices & Payment Options – Save up to 5.5%

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.

We are coming to Cairns or Port Douglas on a cruise ship would our times work for an ABC tour or Private Charter?

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.

What’s included in an ABC Reef Safaris private charter?

A private charter includes exclusive use of either Independence (12 guests) or Voyager (24 guests), captain and crew of at least one Marine Biologist, premium snorkelling and diving equipment, site briefings and guided in-water experiences. Catering and drinks packages are available and can be customised to your group.

How many guests can join a private charter?

Independence accommodates up to 12 guests within the quoted charter price; can take up to 16 guests with an additional per person charge. Voyager takes up to 24 guests. Whether a family trip, special celebration or corporate outing, charters are tailored to your group size.

Can we snorkel and scuba dive on a private charter?

Yes. Private charters allow you to mix activities across snorkelling, certified scuba diving and first-time introductory dives. Our crew ensures flexibility while keeping safety first.

What catering packages are available?

We offer Standard and Luxury charter catering options, with buffet-style lunches featuring a rotating selection of fresh local produce. Depending on your chosen menu, this may include seafood, meats, cheeses, salads and tropical flavours.

View our menus for details:

Further catering upgrades can be arranged at additional cost. Vegetarian, vegan and other dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are not included in the charter price but can be pre-arranged or purchased on board at additional cost.

Are there age or health requirements for snorkelling and diving?

Yes. Snorkellers must be able to swim and feel comfortable in open water. Introductory divers must be 12 years or older and complete a medical questionnaire. Certified divers must hold Junior Open Water/Open Water certification or higher. Certain health conditions may require medical clearance before diving.

What equipment is supplied for snorkelling and diving?

We provide high-quality snorkel and dive gear, lycra suits in summer and 5mm wetsuits in winter. Prescription masks are available, please request in advance. Children aged 7+ can be fitted with equipment. All the necessary gear for your chosen activities, is included in your charter cost to ensure safety and comfort.

Can I learn to dive or try scuba on a private charter?

Yes. Introductory scuba diving is available on private charters, guided by certified instructors. No previous experience is required, but you must be at least 12 years old and medically fit. This option lets beginners try scuba in a safe, personalised setting while others in your group snorkel.

How far in advance should we book a private charter?

Private charters are popular and often book out weeks in advance, especially during school holidays and peak season. We recommend securing your preferred date early to ensure availability of the vessel and crew. Contact our team to check live availability.

Are wetsuits or lycra suits supplied on this Port Douglas snorkelling tour?

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.

Can snorkellers, introductory divers and certified divers travel together?

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.

What should I bring on the day of my ABC Reef Safaris tour?

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.

Where do we depart from and is parking available?

Private charters depart from the marina assigned to your vessel:

  • Independence: Marano’s Wharf, 39 Port Street, Port Douglas.
  • Voyager: Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, Main Finger C, 44 Wharf Street, Port Douglas.

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.