Whitsundays snorkeling
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Whitsundays snorkeling cruises

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Snorkelers exploring coral reef in Whitsundays, Australia.
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From happy customers

Loved by 45 million+
Cornishbirds

Cornishbirds

Sep 2025
5/5
Wow! What an incredible day trip this is. We booked the Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout snorkelling cruise a few months back from the UK, not really knowing what to expect. The communication leading up to the day was top-notch. We were picked up from our guest house as planned. After collecting our wetsuits, we hopped on the vessel. Ellie & Kurt were our hosts on board. They made sure to cover the safety briefing. We set sail towards the islands and were lucky enough to spot several whales, so the boat paused to let everyone take a look and snap some photos. Chocolate brownies were served during the ride out. We continued on to the islands. Once we arrived, we hiked up to the Hill Inlet Overlook, where the viewpoints offered breathtaking views of Whitehaven Beach. It was a bit crowded up there since many boats arrived at once, but everyone was respectful of each other and it was a great chance to capture some stunning photos. We then had about an hour to hit the beach, enjoy the white coral sands, and go for a swim. We got back on the boat and shared a tasty lunch, served by Ellie, with plenty of vegetarian choices available. After lunch, we sailed to the first snorkelling spot—mainly a place to see the fish. There was another safety briefing and a chance to ask questions. Snorkels and masks were handed out. Ellie and Kurt were eager to answer any questions and provided reassurance to nervous snorkellers (like me!). Ellie was in the dinghy circling around the snorkellers in the ocean to offer support if needed. After 45 minutes, we returned to the boat to head to the next snorkelling spot—this one aimed at giving us a closer look at the reef. On the way, we were lucky to see more whales. The second spot was fantastic, with lots of coral to see, some quite near the surface. Again, Ellie provided support from the dinghy for those wanting to return to the boat. We then made our way back to the mainland, again treated to more whale sightings, some very close to our boat. Fruit kebabs were served as a snack. A truly wonderful day trip, well-organized and definitely recommended if you're in the area.
Becky T

Becky

Sep 2025
5/5
What an incredible experience - a must for anyone visiting Airlie Beach! We had the best day of our whole trip with the Red Cat Adventure crew - our guides were Kurt and Rosie, who were a blast and really great at their jobs! They brought together professionalism and knowledge with plenty of fun and humor! We loved speeding along on the boat to awesome tunes that created a fantastic vibe! We even had a few unexpected stops to see tons of whales splashing around nearby. We hit up 2 snorkeling spots and saw some amazing fish, coral, and a turtle!! They provided us with short wetsuits and snorkeling gear. Lunch on the boat was a cold buffet with cheese, meats, salad, potato salad, noodle salad, pasta salad, and bread rolls. We also got a sweet treat on the way out (mid-morning snack) and on the way back (mid-afternoon snack). Our last stop was at Whitehaven Beach, which was absolutely stunning - a little slice of paradise and just as gorgeous as the pictures! Rosie got off the boat with us and shared tons of useful info about the beach and surrounding area to help us really enjoy the trip. After walking up to the lookout point (Hill Inlet), we had about 45 minutes to chill on Whitehaven Beach. I’d definitely recommend this trip to anyone! It was a busy but super organized day, and the snorkeling was just incredible! It’s a trip that’s good for the whole family...there were folks of all ages and abilities. For those not so confident in the water, they provided life jackets or pool noodles. Thanks again, Kurt and Rosie, and the whole Red Cat team for a really memorable day!
John N

John

Sep 2025
5/5
My wife and I had a lovely day. It started with a bubbly lady picking us up at our place. The check-in at the marina also included getting a wetsuit that fit me [ha-ha]. Kurt was a blast as he entertained the passengers with sorting wetsuits and more. He also played tour guide, dive guide, and deckhand. His infectious laugh reminded me of NRL legend Johnathon Thurston. Natalie was everywhere, from check-in to serving snacks, being a tour guide, and driving the tender. Ben the skipper was a solid boat handler. The return trip was a bit dull weather-wise, but Ben read the conditions well. Thundercat was a great choice since catamarans ride better than mono hulls. As a couple of older folks, we appreciated that and enjoyed the stability of the boat. Her ride nearly rocked me to sleep. Yes, she’s an open boat with a nice breeze and a little spray, but that’s boating. The hundreds of steps to the Hill Inlet Lookout were worth it. My bad knees felt otherwise. My wife walked down to the beach while I chilled at the intersection. A hearty lunch with seconds for the hungry ones. The first snorkel session at Mantaray Bay was excellent. Beautiful coral. The fish life was awesome. George the hump-headed parrot fish was a bit friendly. The second snorkel at Luncheon Bay was very good, though we liked the first one better. I work in tourism, so I tend to be critical. This operation does a great job. Ben, Nat, and Kurt took good care of us. The transfer lady got us back to our place. Can’t remember her name [my bad], but she was nice and informative. Thanks, guys.
Diana L

Diana

Sep 2025
5/5
We had the absolute best trip to the Whitsundays with skipper Rendor (I might've spelled his name wrong) and host Jade! The skipper is a very skilled captain. He sailed the boat so smoothly through the waves! And Jade, from the very beginning, made everything easy with her clear instructions—her voice carried perfectly across the long boat so nobody missed anything. What stood out the most was Jade’s energy—she radiates positivity, always smiling, always lifting the mood, making everyone feel welcome. Her vibe really set the tone for the whole day, turning it into not just a trip, but a joyful experience. We've done quite a few tours before, but this one was by far the best. We're so grateful to the crew for making it such a memorable adventure. If you're lucky enough to have Jade as your skipper, you're in for something special! Tips for winter travellers: if you’re sensitive to the cold like me, it might be wise to over-prepare by bringing a thick winter jacket (waterproof material is best) because the ocean wind can be quite chilly, especially after snorkelling (ignore this if you're visiting in the hot summer). If you want the best view, sit in the front row with a rain jacket and a hat with strings to tie under your chin; you’ll love it, the waves didn’t splash into the boat, just a bit of fun spray!
Dale M

Dale

Sep 2025
5/5
We initially booked the Tongarra, but it didn’t get enough bookings to sail, so we went to the office in Airlie Beach to book another tour. While we were in the office, a rep called me to make sure we knew about the cancellation and the options available to us; that’s great customer service right there. The Wild Cat trip we took was probably an even better option since the faster boat allowed more time on the beach and in the water. The crew was excellent, really entertaining, but always kept an eye on safety. Skipper Reece assured us we’d see a whale, and we weren’t disappointed. Jamie made sure we were all safe and well looked after in the water and was strict about our distance from the reef. Uber driver Kurt ferried us to and from and kept a careful watch while we were snorkeling. Snacks and lunch were excellent, plenty for everyone, all fresh and enough for seconds. Whitehaven Beach is stunningly beautiful, the reef and fish feeding was amazing. Seeing whales, rays, and turtles was an awesome bonus. Do the trip, follow the crew’s advice, and have fun; it was the best day out I’ve had in years. P.S. The Wild Cat has a bar!
Danielle W

Danielle

Sep 2025
5/5
We went on Thursday and it was fantastic. Nat was so sweet and cheerful, and the guys were hilarious. Try to book with the Red Cat adventures crew if you can! Try to get Nat and (we think it was Ben and Kenny) and the guys. They really make your experience better and cater to all types of swimmers - if you're not comfortable, they'll give you small boat rides to the sites and keep an eye on those who might struggle, so being honest about your skills when you sign your waivers is super important. They took photos for friends and couples when they couldn’t, had loads of info, and made the ride back a blast by jumping the boat through waves. We all had an amazing time! The first snorkel site had the best (and most) fish, and at the second site, you got to see so much beautiful coral. We spotted a couple of big fish and my friend saw a giant eel. Whitehaven was lovely and such a treat to experience. Having some free time was appreciated so you could enjoy what you wanted. It was an all-around perfect day.
Rebecca S

Rebecca

Sep 2025
5/5
Our trip was awesome! Huge thanks to our crew Kerien, Jaz & Leah. The music was a vibe, but it was a bummer that it was so quiet the whole time. The boat ride to the first snorkeling spot was a bit rough with the waves pushing the boat sideways - once we got through that, the rest of the boat ride was great! The food was delicious, brownies and fruit for a snack and a big lunch included in the booking cost. The first snorkeling spot was a blast seeing all the fish and coral. We got stinger suits to wear since it’s jelly season. We skipped the second snorkeling spot and relaxed on the boat instead - we’ve done this tour before, and the coral snorkeling spot was also epic. Whitehaven Beach is gorgeous! The hike up to the viewpoint is tough, especially after a long day in the sun. Two hours at the beach felt a bit long; we’d have preferred more time snorkeling than at the inlet. Overall, amazing experience and we’ll be back for a third time at some point! Thanks again to our crew.
E S

E

Sep 2025
5/5
We had an amazing day on RedCat with Rosie and Kurt on the All-Inclusive Day Tour. Rosie was incredibly knowledgeable, fun, and truly passionate about caring for the local environment. Kurt handled the boat excellently—smooth sailing with just the right amount of splashes to keep things exciting! The whole trip was amazing. I saw more marine life—in both variety and quantity—than I have on any of my previous trips to the Coral Barrier Reef pontoons or even in Fiji. The food was fresh and, to my surprise, quite healthy—a really nice touch. Whitehaven Beach is an absolute must-see—the sand, the view, the whole experience was stunning. Truly a perfect day on the water. Thank you, RedCat team! A few tips: • Bring a windbreaker—it can get chilly during the fast boat ride. • Pack hand sanitizer if you plan to use the toilets at Whitehaven Beach—there’s no running water there.

More things to do near Whitsundays

Great Barrier Reef Tours

Kuranda Scenic Train and Skyrail

Cairns Aquarium

Daintree National Park Tours

What to expect on your Whitsundays snorkeling cruise

Boat near Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays, with Great Barrier Reef backdrop.
Snorkelers swimming with fish in the Whitsundays during Fly + Raft Package tour.
Visitors enjoying the view from Southern Whitehaven Beach Lookout, Whitsundays.
Group enjoying a meal on a boat during Thundercat Whitsundays Full Day Tour, with clear blue water and islands in the background.
Group enjoying a banana boat ride on the ocean, with one person falling off.
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Smooth boarding & setting sail

Step aboard your Whitsundays snorkeling cruise and settle into spacious decks as your captain charts a course for the islands. The Coral Sea’s clear, calm waters set the tone for a day of underwater exploring.

Snorkel vibrant fringing reefs

Drop into colourful coral gardens at sites like Border Island, Mantaray Bay, Hook Island Reef, and Langford Reef. Expect tropical fish, sheltered bays, excellent visibility, and easy guidance for all experience levels.

Check out Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet Lookout

Between snorkel stops, enjoy time on Whitehaven’s silica sands or take a guided walk to Hill Inlet Lookout. It’s the perfect land break before your next underwater session.

Recharge with onboard dining

Most snorkeling cruises include morning and afternoon tea, fresh buffet lunches, or chef-prepared meals. Refuel, relax on deck, and get ready for your next reef site.

Try extra water adventures

Depending on the tour, you can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, clear-bottom kayaking, banana boat rides, floating mats, or simply relaxing in the shallows between snorkel sessions.

Things to know before booking a Whitsundays snorkeling cruise

  • Your booking strategy: Whitsundays snorkeling cruises are some of the first to sell out, especially during school holidays and the peak season (June–September). Booking online in advance ensures the best departure time, snorkel-focused itineraries, and upgrade options like guided tours or scenic flights.
  • Snorkel sites: Different tours visit different fringing reef sites. These include Border Island, Mantaray Bay, and Maureens Cove. Some cruises prioritise more snorkel time with multiple reef stops (like the Outer Great Barrier Reef cruise), while others like Camira Sailing Adventure combine reef time with beach visits and guided walks. Choose based on whether you want maximum snorkeling or a mix of activities.
  • Boat types & comfort: Your experience varies depending on the vessel: high-speed catamarans reach reefs quickly, sailing catamarans offer a relaxed pace, and adventure-style boats suit guests who prefer a faster, more social experience. Premium vessels may include sun lounges, A/C cabins, shaded decks, and onboard bars.
  • Meals & refreshments: Most Whitsundays snorkeling cruises include lunch + morning and afternoon tea. Some offer BBQ buffets or chef-prepared meals, while premium tours may include beer, wine, or soft drinks. Dietary requirements can typically be accommodated with advance notice.
  • Water activities & extra fun: Snorkeling gear, stinger suits, flotation devices, and seasonal wetsuits are standard across nearly all snorkeling cruises. Selected tours include stand-up paddleboards, clear-bottom kayaks, banana boat rides, floating mats, or beach games. Activity options vary by operator.
  • Hill Inlet & Whitehaven access: Not all snorkeling cruises include Hill Inlet Lookout or Whitehaven Beach time. Some offer long beach stops, others focus on reef-only itineraries, and a few combine both. Check the itinerary if visiting Hill Inlet is important to you.
  • Duration & pace: Tours run 6–9 hours depending on route and reef access. Sailing tours are slower-paced with fewer stops, while high-speed vessels maximise snorkel time and distance covered. Choose based on whether you prefer relaxed cruising or a high-energy itinerary.
  • Boarding & transfers: All snorkeling cruises depart from Airlie Beach or Coral Sea Marina. Arrive 15–30 minutes early for check-in. Only selected cruises include round-trip hotel transfers.
  • Weather & marine conditions: Snorkeling visibility varies with tides, wind, and swell. Itineraries may be adjusted if a reef site becomes unsafe or conditions change. Operators will reschedule or refund fully cancelled departures due to weather.
  • Accessibility notes: While boats may offer shaded lounges and spacious decks, snorkeling, beach landings, and water activities are not suitable for wheelchair users. Guests with mobility concerns should confirm accessibility with the operator before booking.

Find your ideal Whitsundays snorkeling cruise here

CruiseBoarding pointBoat typeDurationSnorkeling locationsInclusionsPrice

Airlie Beach: Whitehaven Beach Premium Cruise with Lunch & Activity Upgrades

Coral Sea Marina

High-speed A/C “SuperCat” catamaran

8 hours (9 hours with snorkel upgrade)

Border Island Reef (only with snorkel upgrade)

On-demand beach transfers, buffet lunch, South Whitehaven Lookout walk, stinger suit, guided snorkel tour + gear (selected option)

From AU$229

Airlie Beach: Whitsundays Snorkel and Hill Inlet Tour with Hotel Transfers

Coral Sea Marina

Semi-rigid inflatable vessels

6.5 – 8 hours (based on ticket option)

Border Island OR Mantaray Bay & Maureens Cove (depends on Northern/Southern variant)

Hill Inlet Lookout walk, guided snorkelling with instruction, reef talks, stinger suit & equipment, round-trip transfers, scenic flight with tropical lunch(selected option)

From AU$209

From Airlie Beach: Camira Sailing Adventure with BBQ Lunch

Airlie Beach

Large sailing catamaran (Camira Whitsundays)

9.5 hours

Mackerel Bay

Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet Lookout walk, morning & afternoon tea, BBQ lunch, snorkel gear, stinger suits, beer & wine, beach activities

AU$249

Airlie Beach: Whitsunday Islands Sail, SUP & Snorkel Premium Cruise with Lunch

Airlie Beach

60-foot luxury sailing catamaran

6 hours

Hook Island Reef

Morning tea platter, seafood buffet lunch, snorkel gear & wetsuits, SUP, clear-bottom kayaks, A/C lounge, jacuzzi, sundeck

AU$230

Airlie Beach: Whitehaven Beach Snorkel Cruise with Hill Inlet Tour and Buffet Lunch

Coral Sea Marina

High-speed catamaran

8 hours

Mantaray Bay & Stonehaven Bay

2 snorkel sessions, Hill Inlet Lookout walk, lunch + morning & afternoon tea, transfers, lycra/stinger suits, snorkelling gear, wetsuit (winter)

AU$230

Airlie Beach: Outer Great Barrier Reef & Whitehaven Beach Snorkel Tour

Airlie Beach

High-speed Viper jet-boat (fastest in Whitsundays)

9 hours

Bait Reef Lagoon & Stepping Stones

Marine biologist crew, outer reef snorkel safari, Hill Inlet Lookout walk, lunch & snacks, croc pad & slide, snorkelling gear, wetsuits, stinger suits

AU$319

From Airlie Beach: Whitsundays Sail and Snorkel Tour with Lunch

Airlie Beach

Tongarra sailing catamaran

8.5 hours

Langford Reef

Snorkelling gear, banana boat ride, lunch & snacks, lycra/stinger suits & wetsuits (seasonal hire)

AU$199

Your Whitsundays snorkeling cruise boarding points

Address: Port of Airlie, Shop 7/33 Port Dr, Airlie Beach QLD 4802, Australia | Find on map

Getting there:

  • By public transport: Local buses stop at Airlie Beach Central, about a 10-minute walk from the marina.
  • By car/taxi: Around 5 minutes from the main town centre; limited paid parking is available at the marina.

Famous for: A modern waterfront marina with cafes, shops, and ocean views — the main departure hub for Whitsundays cruises and reef tours.

Address: 1-3 Shingley Dr, Airlie Beach QLD 4802, Australia | Find on map

Getting there:

  • By bus: Nearest stop at Coral Sea Marina Resort.
  • By car/taxi: 3 minutes from Airlie Beach main street; free parking zones nearby.

Famous for: Scenic marina beside the resort precinct, great for sailing adventures and sunset departures.

What you'll see on a Whitsundays snorkeling cruise

Tropical fish swimming over vibrant coral reef in Ras Mohammed National Park.

Fringing coral reefs

Explore vibrant fringing reefs filled with colourful corals and marine life, found all throughout the Whitsundays.

Tropical fish swimming over vibrant coral reef in Ras Mohammed National Park.
Hawaiian green sea turtle swimming underwater in clear blue ocean.
Aerial view of Black Island, Whitsundays, surrounded by vibrant coral reefs.
Coral reef display at Nausicaá Aquarium featuring diverse marine life.

Plan your Whitsundays snorkeling cruise

General cruise timings:

  • Whitehaven Beach premium cruise: 9am–5pm
  • Whitsundays snorkel and Hill Inlet tour:
    • Southern Whitehaven Beach snorkel tour: 10am–4:30pm
    • Northern Whitehaven Beach snorkel tour: 8:45am–3:30pm
    • North Whitehaven snorkel + scenic flight: 7am–2:45pm
    • South Whitehaven snorkel + scenic flight: 8:15am–3:45pm
  • Camira sailing adventure: 8:15am–5:45pm
  • Whitsunday Islands sail, SUP & snorkel premium cruise: 9am–3pm
  • Whitehaven Beach snorkel cruise with Hill Inlet tour: 9am–5pm
  • Outer Great Barrier Reef & Whitehaven Beach snorkel tour: 8am–5pm
  • Whitsundays sail and snorkel tour: 10am–6:30pm
Know more

Best time of day

  • All Whitsundays snorkeling cruises operate during the day, typically between 7am and 6pm.
  • Daytime departures offer calmer seas in the morning, bright midday reef visibility, and golden light across the islands in the late afternoon.

Best season/month

  • May–June & September–October (Shoulder season): Perfect for snorkelers—warm waters, fewer crowds, 22–27°C, and generally excellent underwater visibility.
  • December–February (Summer): Warmer seas (25–30°C) and ideal swimming conditions, but expect higher humidity and busier beaches.
  • June–August (Winter): Comfortable sailing conditions (20–25°C) with clear reef views and cooler air. Wetsuits are usually provided for snorkeling.
Know more
  • Comfortable seating, shaded lounges, and open-air decks for ocean views.
  • Onboard restrooms on all large catamarans.
  • Snacks, lunch, tea, and refreshments included on most snorkeling-focused cruises.
  • Climate-controlled cabins on larger vessels; breezy decks on sailing catamarans.
  • Safety equipment life jackets, stinger suits, flotation devices.
  • Space for bags, towels, and personal gear.
  • Professional, trained crew providing safety briefings, snorkel instructions, and marine insights.
  • Pier-side facilities include toilets, waiting areas, and ticket counters for smooth boarding.
  • Most snorkeling cruises feature stable decks and shaded seating; a few provide ramp-based boarding for easier access.
  • Snorkeling, beach landings, and water activities are not wheelchair accessible.
  • Larger catamarans have full restrooms; smaller sailing vessels may have limited facilities.
  • Guests with mobility concerns should advise the operator before booking for tailored assistance.
  • Best snorkeling entry point: Head toward the bow when arriving at reef sites like Mantaray Bay or Hook Island Reef for quick water access and early entry into coral gardens.
  • Photography: For Whitehaven Beach or Hill Inlet moments (if included), morning light gives soft pastels, while late afternoon produces golden reflections across the sand.
  • Boarding & seating: Arrive 20–30 minutes early to secure shaded outdoor seating or a front-deck spot for reef views.
  • Water activities: Put on your stinger suit or lycra early. You’ll save time and stay protected during snorkeling sessions.
  • Protecting your gear: Use waterproof pouches for phones and cameras; choose reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral.
  • Stay hydrated: Bring a refillable bottle—sun exposure + ocean swims = quick dehydration, even when water is provided.
  • Marine life spotting: Keep an eye out for turtles, rays, and fish from the deck. Many appear before you even get in the water.

Frequently asked questions about Whitsundays snorkeling cruises

Are Whitsundays snorkeling cruises suitable for beginners?

Yes. Most tours include safety briefings, flotation devices, and shallow reef sites ideal for first-time snorkelers. Crew members also assist beginners in the water.

What should I bring on Whitsundays snorkeling cruises?

Pack swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a refillable water bottle. Most cruises provide snorkeling gear, stinger suits, and refreshments, but personal essentials are recommended.

Do Whitsundays snorkeling cruises go to different reef locations?

Yes. Snorkeling sites vary by tour and weather. Operators choose the clearest, safest reefs on the day, commonly Mantaray Bay, Hook Island, or selected fringing reefs around the Whitsundays.

Can I join a snorkeling cruise if I can’t swim?

Non-swimmers can join, but snorkelling may be limited. Many cruises offer flotation aids or guided assistance; guests can also stay onboard and enjoy reef viewing from the boat.

Is snorkeling gear included on all tours?

Most snorkeling cruises include high-quality masks, snorkels, fins, and stinger suits at no extra cost. Premium tours may also offer buoyancy vests and prescription masks.

Are food and drinks included on snorkeling cruises?

Depending on the operator, you may receive morning/afternoon tea, lunch, and onboard snacks. Some cruises also offer soft drinks or onboard bars for additional purchases.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my cruise?

Tours may adjust routes or reef stops for safety. In cases of strong winds or poor visibility, operators may reschedule or offer alternative options according to their weather policy.

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