Outer Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Adventure in Airlie Beach
Overview
Available languages
8 hours
Mobile ticket
Experience the beauty of the world-famous Great Barrier Reef on this small-group snorkelling eco-adventure.
Travel on the smoothest, most comfortable wavepiercer to visit the incredible coral wonderland of the outer reefs. Explore a variety of
different snorkelling locations during the day.
Sit back and relax with a delicious locally catered lunch while taking in the sights and sounds of the natural world from the top deck.
The all-inclusive day trip is great for families who want to bond while
reconnecting with nature, couples searching for a romantic escape, or small groups seeking adventure and fun.
This Outer Great Barrier Reef experience will deliver unbeatable memories that will last a lifetime.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Guests should be aware that the Outer Reef Snorkel Adventure is designed for snorkelling. For travellers who cannot swim, the skipper reserves the right to, and may refuse snorkelling in the open water due to safety reasons. We do have an alternative tour, Thundercat, experience Whitsunday Island and Whitehaven Beach along with 2 snorkels near to Hook Island which is suitable for those less confident in the water.
In the event of inclement weather where it is deemed unsafe to travel to the outer reef, rest assured that we’ll still deliver an exceptional experience by taking you to the inner reef within the picturesque Whitsunday Islands.
We reserve the right to adjust or change snorkelling sites at any time due to tidal shifts, location changes, weather conditions, or other safety concerns. The comfort and safety of our guests are always our top priorities, ensuring every guest has an enjoyable experience.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Morning & Afternoon Snacks
Full Buffet Style Lunch
All Fees and Taxes
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Restroom on board
Available for ages 18 years and older
Soda/Pop
What To Expect
- Check-in at the Shute Harbour Marina Terminal at 8:40am. - Tour departs from the Shute Harbour Marina Terminal at 9:00am sharp. - Travel by high speed catamaran to first Outer Reef Snorkel site, arriving at 9:45am, while taking in the beautiful scenery of the Whitsunday Islands and morning tea. - Safety briefing conducted at the first Outer Reef site - 9:45am to 10:00am. - In water activities at first Outer Reef site 10:00am - 11:30am. - Depart for second Outer Reef site. - Arrive at second Outer Reef site 12:00pm. - Explore second Outer Reef site 12:00pm - 2:00pm. - Lunch served 12:30pm - 1:15pm. - Depart Outer Reef for the Coral Sea Marina, Airlie Beach 2:00pm. - Kick back and relax on the return journey to Airlie Beach, taking in the beautiful scenery of the Whitsunday Islands with a tasty beverage from our fully licensed bar 1:15pm to 5:00pm. - Return to the Shute Harbour Marina Terminal at 5pm.
Options
Outer Great Barrier Reef Snorkel Adventure in Airlie Beach
Pickup included
Reviews
98 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great experience wish there was more education
mt10climber,
Oct 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00We had a great time and crew took all the steps to make sure we were fed well and safe. What would make this 5 star is to have a slide show or photos around the vessel about what we will see. As non locals we do not know the names of anything- never snorkeled before- would love to know if I was seeing dead coral, coral, a sea anemone. There’s a lot of travel time and this could be used for education, history, conservation lessons.
Zero stars unfortunately not possible
utas927,
Oct 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00We were not picked up by the organizer and now he does not want to refund us our money. I call it a rip-off
Exciting adventure
Sarah B,
Oct 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Very worthwhile venturing out a bit further to explore the reef where most other tours don't go. Felt very safe in the group and we saw some stunning wildlife.
Excellent snorkelling location (Stepping Stones) and comfortable boat
L5762YMcatherinec,
Oct 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was better than expected: the boat was very comfortable, we got served sufficient amounts of food and snacks, but the highlight of course was the reef. I did the trip with some overseas friends who were going to the Great Barrier reef for the first time. I scuba dived many times on the Great Barrier Reef and I know that sometimes snorkelling there can be disappointed if what you are looking at is too deep. However the snorkelling location was excellent. The boat took us to the Stepping Stones on Bait reef and it was stunning, the water was very clear, the fish abundant, and it was really fun do go from bommies to bommies. My friends loved it, so did I. I'd recommend this trip.
Outer Reef Experience
tanyagavin,
Oct 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00It was too windy & choppy to be out so couldn’t snorkel at Outer Great Barrier Reef, went to a different destination which wasn’t that good, we thought it was supposed to be a small group tour but was not the case, our second destination to snorkel was a no go, so headed back to shore, a lot of money spent for not so great an experience, crew were lovely though
Doesn't worth your time.
adiqil,
Sep 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00Waist of time. Took longer than they claim, for 2*45 min snorkeling we spent 10 hours for transportation on boat, picking up people from island and bus dropping. We also didn't see much while snorkeling I would recommend, doesn't worth time and or money Lunch wasnt a gurma but there was enough food and water
Must do
SamanthaP2593,
Sep 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Thoroughly enjoyed the whole day. The crew were fabulous- super friendly and very knowledgeable. Would highly recommend
Was a really fun...
Luke T,
Jul 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Was a really fun experience. The crew and staff we are really friendly and helpful. We weren’t able to make it out to the outer reef due to weather and sea conditions but they took us to some other areas which were just as amazing. The food laid on was fantastic and the trip was well worth it
Epic an adventure fun filled day highlights the Mighty Barrier Reef Snorkeling
aidanmW8693SC,
Jul 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Let be solo or friends family highly recommend this your with Red Cat Adventures. Excellent staff and great sense of humor with the Captain. Throughly enjoyed.
Beautiful Reef Snorkelling
katemQ3406FO,
Jul 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing snorkelling experience; saw lots of beautiful fish and even some whales. Amazing crew as well, super helpful and fun to chat with… especially Ellie!
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Operated by Red Cat Adventures