Snorkelling in a tiny group with ABC Reef Safaris. Port Douglas' #1 tour operator.

ABC Reef Safaris sets the benchmark for Port Douglas’ best snorkelling tour on the Great Barrier Reef. Guided by a Marine Biologist or Naturalist Guide, you’ll explore the reef in a tiny group of just 6 guests per guide. Picture turtles gliding past and vibrant corals shimmering below, add in giant clams and schooling fish to make this an experience you’ll never forget. Our guided snorkelling sessions are held in shallow, calm areas of the reef, making them comfortable and easy to explore. With the freedom to roam between hundreds of Outer Great Barrier Reef locations off Port Douglas, our crew selects the best sites for the conditions each day, bringing you face-to-face with pristine coral gardens and abundant marine life.

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Tripadvisor’s #1 Australian Tourism Experience

<b>Port Douglas’ Best </b>Guided <b>Snorkelling Tour </b>on the <b>Great Barrier Reef.</b>

Port Douglas’ Best Guided Snorkelling Tour on the Great Barrier Reef.

Snorkelling is a fantastic way to see the Reef! Coral gardens rise up to within metres (sometimes centimetres) of the surface. You can see the Reef from the boat, the sunlight illuminating the colourful corals, fish and marine life below.

When snorkelling on the Reef you may see Anemone Fish (Nemo), giant Maori Wrasse, Butterfly Fish, Angelfish and much, much more. While snorkelling around the Outer Reef offers chance encounters with Green Sea Turtles, Reef Sharks, Wrasse, Parrotfish and more.

Guided by our passionate team of marine experts in and out of the water, you’ll gain insights that transform your reef visit into a meaningful encounter filled with connection, engagement and discovery. If you see something and aren’t sure what it is, ask them.

Small group guided snorkelling with ABC Reef Safaris, is seeing the Reef the way it’s meant to be. No crowds. No rush. Just you, the Reef, a handful of people and a whole lot of fun.

<b>Snorkellers and divers</b> can <b>experience the Reef</b> together.

Snorkellers and divers can experience the Reef together.

If your group includes snorkellers, first-time divers and certified scuba divers, you can travel together and share the same incredible day on the Great Barrier Reef. You’ll be on the same boat, visit the same reef locations and enjoy your time onboard as one group. Then when it’s time to enter the water, you’ll each join the appropriate guided activity with our professional crew.

Snorkellers explore with a Marine Biologist or Naturalist Guide in groups of no more than 6. Introductory divers are guided by a qualified Dive Instructor with a maximum of 4 divers per instructor, while certified divers explore with a Divemaster in groups of no more than 5. Introductory diving is an optional extra for snorkellers who want to try scuba diving for the first time, with no prior experience needed. More information below. Introductory diving is designed as an addition to your snorkelling day, so first-time divers still have plenty of opportunity to snorkel. Certified divers are also welcome to join the guided snorkelling sessions after their dives.

All the equipment required for your booked activity is included. This means nobody in your group needs to compromise. Some can snorkel, some can dive and everyone will enjoy an exceptional day on the Reef together.

Unique <b>guided snorkelling</b> on the <b>Great Barrier Reef. </b>

Unique guided snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef.

ABC Reef Safaris offers a unique journey away from the crowds. Our philosophy is to provide intimate reef experiences defined by space, attention and connection. Our intentionally low passenger numbers give us the ability to access designated low-use reef sites and rotate between remote locations, helping us deliver quieter, more immersive encounters with pristine coral and abundant marine life.

Our experienced skipper selects the best reef locations for the conditions each day, while our industry-leading staff-to-guest ratio ensures personal attention both onboard and in the water.

It’s our small groups, personal care, relaxed pace and big smiles all day, that have helped make us Port Douglas #1 Great Barrier Reef tour.

Try <b>scuba diving</b> on the <b>Great Barrier Reef</b>. No prior experience necessary.

Try scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef. No prior experience necessary.

Our team of marine biologists and dive professionals are all certified Instructors and Dive Masters, giving you the chance to try scuba diving for the very first time. No experience is required, just a sense of adventure. On the way to the reef our crew will guide you through safety, equipment and communication briefings, so you feel confident before entering the Coral Sea. Once underwater, your instructor is with you the entire time, leading you through the coral gardens and bommies, while providing close encounters with reef life. Introductory dives last around 20 – 40 minutes, depending on an individual’s air consumption, and go no deeper than 10 metres, making them ideal for beginners. This optional experience is offered at an additional cost, and with plenty of time in the day, you’ll still enjoy relaxed snorkelling. If you love it, we can also arrange dive courses.

ABC Reef Safaris' example itinerary ...

Please note: This itinerary is a guide only. Reef locations, travel times, meal service and the order of activities may vary according to weather, conditions, vessel operations and the reef sites selected by your Captain on the day.

7:45 am

Check in at your confirmed departure location and meet your Captain and crew.

8:00 am

Depart Port Douglas for the Great Barrier Reef. During the journey, your crew will provide safety briefings, marine interpretation and instructions for snorkelling, introductory diving and certified diving.

9:30 am

Arrive at the first carefully selected reef location. Snorkellers, introductory divers and certified divers join their respective guides and begin exploring the Reef.

11:30 am

Relax onboard while travelling between reef locations and enjoy fresh onboard catering and refreshments. The timing of meals and refreshments varies according to the day’s reef itinerary.

12:00 pm

Return to the water at another carefully selected reef location for more guided snorkelling and diving.

2:00 pm

Begin the journey back to Port Douglas. Enjoy refreshments onboard and relax after your day on the Reef.

3:00 pm

Arrive back in Port Douglas between 3pm & 4pm Please note return times can vary depending on the reef locations, weather, whale sightings on any selected for the day.

Port Douglas Snorkelling Tour prices and notes.

Prices

Prices
Adult - Snorkelling$547.50 Per PersonGuided Outer Reef Snorkel Only Tour - max 6 guests per guide
Child - Snorkelling$547.50 Per PersonGuided Outer Reef Snorkel Only Tour - max 6 guests per guide
Adult - Certified Scuba Diving (2 Dives)$699.50 Per PersonGuided Scuba Dives - max 5 divers - one instructor marine biologist
Child - Certified Scuba Diving (2 Dives)$699.50 Per PersonGuided Scuba Dives - max 5 divers - one instructor marine biologist Child minimum age 10 years.
Adult - Introductory Scuba Diving (2 Dives)$799.50 Per PersonGuided Intro Scuba Dives - max 4 divers - one instructor (Minimum 2 person booking)
Child - Introductory Scuba Diving (2 Dives)$799.50 Per PersonGuided Intro Scuba Dives - max 4 divers - one instructor (Minimum 2 person booking) Child minimum age 12 years.
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For booking enquiries or questions, complete our enquiry form and our team will be happy to help.

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.

Is snorkelling equipment included in the tour price?

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.

Is ABC Reef Safaris suitable for weak swimmers or non-swimmers?

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.

Are there age restrictions for snorkelling?

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.

Snorkelling with a beard? If I have a moustache and a beard will the mask seal ok on my face?

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.

Snorkelling with accentuated facial features?

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.

What makes this Port Douglas’ best snorkelling tour?

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.

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 I try scuba diving if I’ve never done it before?

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.

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.