First time snorkelling
Never snorkelled? We'll be in the water with you.
What to expect on the day, how we help beginners feel at home in the water, and answers to the questions first-timers usually ask.
How the day runs
From Berth 12 to your first fish.
The weather shapes every day on the reef, but the run always follows the same rhythm.
- 01
WP 01
Check in at Berth 12
Meet us at the Reef Fleet Terminal on Spence Street. Your check-in time comes with your booking confirmation.
- 02
WP 02
The run out and the reef talk
On the way out, a marine biologist briefs you on the reef: what lives there and what to look out for.
- 03
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Gear and a wetsuit
Snorkel gear and a wetsuit are included. Take your time getting comfortable with the mask before you get in.
- 04
WP 04
Site one, guide beside you
At the first site, picked that morning for the conditions, beginners snorkel with a guide in the water.
- 05
WP 05
Lunch, then site two
Lunch on board, then a second outer reef site before the run home to Cairns.
Feeling comfortable
Small boat, calm start.
Here's what's on your side when you get in for the first time.
A guide in the water
On the intro snorkel tour, a guide swims with beginners, so help is never far away.
Never more than 30 guests
A small group means the guides can keep track of everyone, and you're never jostling for space.
Sites picked for the conditions
We choose each day's two reef sites for the weather, so you're snorkelling where it suits.
Wetsuits included
A wetsuit keeps you warm and adds a little buoyancy, which helps you float more easily.
A briefing first
The reef talk on the way out covers what you'll see, so nothing comes as a surprise.
Questions
Things first-timers ask.
Can't see yours? Call the bookings line and ask us.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
Tell us about your swimming when you enquire and we'll talk it through honestly. On the intro snorkel tour, a guide is in the water with beginners.
Can kids come?
Yes. We take families with kids aged 8 and up. Let us know the ages when you enquire.
What's included?
Snorkel gear, a wetsuit and lunch on board are included on the outer reef day trip, with marine biologist guides.
Where do we leave from?
Berth 12 at the Reef Fleet Terminal on Spence Street, Cairns City. We'll confirm your check-in time when we confirm your booking.
Which reefs do you visit?
We pick two outer reef sites each morning for the conditions, so it changes from day to day.
Can I get photos of my snorkel?
Yes, there's an optional underwater photo package. Ask us about it when you book.
WP 05 Save your seats
Ready for your first look?
Book the intro snorkel tour, or ask us anything first. We'll come back to you to confirm.
Bookings line Mon to Sun, 7am to 6pm