What To Expect

What‘s Included

Reviews

• Very disappointing trip but good crew

  785clivem,Mar 30, 2026

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  1.00

  One of the reasons we booked this trip was the promise of a glass bottom boat. We spoke with 2 other couples who did the same, one of which went for the glass bottom boat only. All 3 couples were told only on the trip, and when they / we asked, that the glassbottom boat had been cancelled 'having been damaged by the effects of a cyclone' and that this was displayed on a notice at the registration desk. It most definitley had not, although it was there when we returned from the trip. One of the other couples were actually assured that the glass bottom boat part was on when they registered on the day. So that was very poor service. The sea was quite choppy and when my wife and I did some snorkling all we could see was murky seawater with occassional glimpses that there may be more. It also promised tea and coffee throughout the day whereas it was part of the day. The lunch was reasonable but not great. And it is not a lixury snorkel, many of the wet suits were ripped and the snorkels seemed like childrens kit. So a very poor return on £271 and as far as the glass bottom boat is concerned we feel deliberatelly mislead. However, the individual crew members were very helpful. In particular one member, a young man named Ollie, swam to my wife's aid when she got into difficulties and needed help. She is actually a very strong swimmer but the choppy sea caused her to be unable to clear the water from her snorkel and before she could recover her breath she was hit by the swell several times, swollowed seawater and became very dizzy as a result of being unable to breathe. This was frightening, but Ollie looked after her very professionally and with care. All in all we consider the whole trip was very disappointing.

• Overall a good experience with some things that could be improved

  Kristine A,Mar 30, 2026

  - Review from Viator

  4.00

  We were originally booked on the Ocean Freedom boat, and then we were asked to switch over to the Ocean Free boat, which we informed ourselves about and agreed to. It just didn't end up being as amazing as expected. Pros: The staff was incredibly kind, helpful, and enthusiastic. They put in a lot of effort to check in with everyone to make sure we were all taken care of, and able to experience the things we wanted to do. The guests doing the dives seemed to have a great experience and only had positive things to say about that. I can tell the instructors are excellent at what they do and making sure guests experience a memory they'll always cherish. The snorkeling felt so safe, too; it was great being able to hold onto a rope while snorkeling for those who weren't as confident as swimmers. You can tell safety is a top priority. The apple danishes, cheese/crackers, and dessert cakes were delicious. Cons: We did think it would be a bit better of an experience considering the reduced number of people planned to be on the tour. While there were fewer than 20 people on the boat, which was nice, it still felt a bit cramped. Of course the rainy weather was under no ones control, but it was tough when it rained hard and there wasn't enough space for everyone to sit under the covered boat area. Additionally, the bathroom was rough. The toilet seat was broken and I think some passengers ended up just removing the seat since it wasn't functional. Lunch was fine. This boat probably isn't a sea-sick person's best friend. It's not for the weak. We appreciate the true sailing boat experience, but if you are considering this boat for the tour, just know it's not for folks who like glam and luxury (maybe the Ocean Freedom would be better for this). FInally, the wet suits provided were still damp (likely from being rained on the previous night?). Putting on a damp wet suit is a weird experience. Overall, a good experience with room for improvement in certain areas. Excellent and caring staff.

• Brilliant experience and friendly team

  amyw1572,Mar 21, 2026

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  We had a brilliant day on this tour - a smaller group meant that the boat didn’t feel crowded and the crew were super friendly & helpful. The food was great and served at good intervals throughout the day. It’s clear that the team care about guests; taking time to support people with varying swimming abilities. Seeing the reef up close was amazing and can’t recommend the ocean freedom tour enough!

• Unforgettable day on the Great Barrier Reef!

  Rachel L,Mar 18, 2026

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  Our Great Barrier Reef tour was an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience with a fantastic, friendly crew who kept us fueled with regular, tasty snacks. The reef itself was breathtaking, and we loved seeing it from every angle by both snorkeling and taking the glass-bottom boat. A huge special shout-out to Maddie, who was incredible with my husband; he isn't the most confident swimmer, but she helped him feel completely comfortable and at ease in the water so he could fully enjoy the experience. It was a brilliant day from start to finish, and we would 100% recommend this tour to everyone!

• A fabulous day on the reef.

  Lednod,Mar 15, 2026

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  We had a fabulous day on our Ocean Freedom Great Barrier Reef snorkelling day. The crew were friendly, informative and professional. We were a small group of 21 and everyone was catered for - from snorkelling novices to experienced divers. The reef and wildlife were spectacular. Food was good quality and plentiful and we were surprised with snacks throughout the trip. Tea and coffee was available all day. It was definitely value for money.

• Just a fantastic...

  H R,Mar 13, 2026

  - Review from Viator

  5.00

  Just a fantastic experience all-around. Ollie was a superb dive instructor, working the equipment for me and helping me identify some awesome animal life. Snorkeling was also great, even in the strong current. Everything was on time, everyone was efficient and kind, and the equipment was all top-of-the-line (with prescription masks!).

• Good outer reef tour

  Kaleah P,Mar 11, 2026

  - Review from Viator

  5.00

  The staff were all fantastic and the first snorkel location was amazing. The second location was just okay but still overall amazing compared to the shorter day trips to nearby islands. Lunch was tasty and had something for everyone. Drinks you have to purchase. The Lycra suits stunk when given out but the rest of the equipment was fine.

• Great crew, well equipped...

  Susan R,Mar 10, 2026

  - Review from Viator

  5.00

  Great crew, well equipped boat, great food throughout the day. They did their best to make sure everyone had a good experience.

• One of the best experiences of my life

  Tracew,Mar 10, 2026

  - Review from Tripadvisor

  5.00

  From start to finish it was just the most fantastic day. Great itinerary, amazing crew, super food and lots of lovely surprises. I had never snorkelled before but they were so helpful.. thank you guys - what an experience - I would do this again in a heartbeat. 👍

  

• Great Experience in rough seas!

  Bonnie M,Mar 9, 2026

  - Review from Viator

  5.00

  The boat and crew were amazing! So helpful, patient and friendly. Multiple times throughout the experience they checked on folks to make sure we were ok. They advised sea sickness pills because of rough seas and admitted they also took them, which i find endearing. The snorkeling was rough and not ideal. A storm went through the area several days earlier causing the water to be cloudy. Also, the water was very choppy with 4 (??) Foot waves. I say 4 for because that's how big they looked when I was in the water. So it was a battle to stay in one spot to see stuff. I think most folks stopped snorkeling before they typically would have because of the choppy water. Because of the water, the crew gave small group guides tours instead of free snorkeling for safety reasons. Completely understandable, but that meant a bunch of folks in a small location all at once. I got kicked in the face several times and I know I hit others as well. It is strongly advised you wear a lycra suit because of sun protection and jellyfish. I do wish they would have been more clear about that as a long sleeve swim shirt and pants would have worked and i could have brought my own to be more comfortable. They provided breakfast, lunch and several afternoon snacks. Everything was delicious! There was fruit, cheese and crackers, pasta, shrimp, chicken and cake throughout the day. We had a great time! I would definitely recommend this tour Ocean Freedom to anybody. They did a wonderful job making sure we had a great a time as possible. There wasn't anything the crew could have done to make the trip better! Thank you!

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