Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
We believe the ocean should be experienced safely, respectfully, and in its most natural state.
Our tours are designed with a minimal-impact, eco-friendly approach, allowing you to enjoy Rarotonga’s marine life without disturbing the reef or its wildlife. Unlike some operations that rely on motorized equipment, our experience focuses on guided, human-powered snorkeling, creating a quieter, more natural encounter with turtles and other marine life.
Safety is at the core of everything we do. Since 2018, we have maintained a 100% safety record, with experienced guides who carefully assess daily ocean conditions to select the best and safest locations for each tour.
We intentionally operate in a way that prioritizes:
Guest safety and comfort
Protection of marine ecosystems
A more authentic and immersive snorkeling experience
By choosing this tour, you’re not only creating an unforgettable memory—you’re also supporting a more responsible way of exploring Rarotonga’s ocean environment.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Swim alongside wild sea turtles in one of Rarotonga’s most unforgettable snorkeling experiences. This guided tour takes you to Avaavaroa Passage, one of the island’s best-known snorkeling locations, where turtles, rays, and vibrant tropical fish are often seen in their natural habitat. With crystal-clear waters and rich marine life, it offers an incredible opportunity to experience Rarotonga’s underwater world up close. From the moment you enter the water, our experienced guides will be right by your side—helping you feel confident, comfortable, and fully immersed in the experience. Whether you’re new to snorkeling or more experienced, this tour is designed to be safe, relaxed, and truly memorable. We take pride in offering an eco-friendly, minimal-impact experience—protecting the reef while allowing you to enjoy it responsibly. Photos are taken during the tour so you can relive your experience, while our team remains focused on your safety at all times. Tour times vary daily to ensure you are snorkeling in the safest and best conditions available.
Convenient shower facilities for after your adventure
Premium snorkeling gear for your comfort and safety
Energizing local fruits to keep you fueled up
100% Safety record
Secure storage for your valuables
Photographs are taken on all tours but not guaranteed as your safety is our priority
Ample parking for your convenience
Transportation
528 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
AnaBeeston,Apr 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had the best fun with Josh and crew at Snorkel Cook Islands. They were really focused on safety, sustainability and fun! Will be back one day, and when I do I would not hesitate to go with them again. They took awesome photos with the turtles as well!

Nicky M,Apr 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
The crew are all amazing, the experience is an absolute must on your holiday agenda!!!! The experience of swimming around the beautiful graceful turtles is heavenly. I felt very safe with the staff!!!
Kate H,Apr 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Absolutely amazing. the guides were friendly and there’s always something to see!
Heidi L,Apr 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Turtles are awesome! So are this fish, and the setting is beautiful. Need to be able to swim, but felt extremely safe, and love it that they dont use any motors! (That disturb and disrupt.) Meitaki, a lovely morning
geoffhH8185YK,Apr 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Such a special experience. It's hard to put words to it, but suffice to say our visit with the turtles was well organised, safe, and very meaningful (as well as a lot of fun).

Christine P,Apr 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
Swimming with the turtles under the stewardship of this local team was nothing short of magical. My husband and I took our daughters (11 and 14), and it’s an experience we will all remember. The water was so warm and crystal clear, making it feel like we were swimming in an aquarium. We were incredibly lucky to encounter a critically endangered Hawksbill turtle, along with many other turtles and a stunning array of fish - truly breathtaking. The team was incredibly accommodating, kindly rescheduling our tour when our youngest was unwell, and communication throughout was seamless. From the moment we arrived, it was clear how deeply they care for the marine environment. We especially appreciated learning about the impact of fuel on coral - it added real depth and meaning to the experience. Our youngest was initially a little hesitant, but Charlotte’s kindness and patience made all the difference. She gently guided her through the water, ensuring she felt safe and didn’t miss out, something we’ll always be grateful for. A truly special, thoughtful and beautifully run experience. We couldn’t recommend this team more highly.
Aimee M,Apr 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had such an incredible experience on the turtle snorkel tour as a family of five. From start to finish, the guides were absolutely fantastic—friendly, knowledgeable, and made everyone feel safe and confident out on the water, even at night. What really stood out was their genuine passion for conservation. It wasn’t just a tour, it felt like we were learning about and connecting with the environment in a meaningful way. The guides shared so much insight about the local marine life and ecosystem, which made the whole experience even more special. It was also great value for money—something unique, memorable, and well-organised. Our kids loved it just as much as we did, and it’s something we’ll be talking about for a long time. Highly recommend this experience to families or anyone looking for something a little different and truly special
LoveAndalucia2021,Apr 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Found it a bit complicated to find the exact place as there are several operators close to each other on both sides of the road. The lady at the parking took a look at our ( online) ticket and told us to go away to one of the other business even if we were at the right company/parking. In doubt, we did. When we came back and complained that we were there for the second time, she was rude to us. Bad start. Once on the beach at 4 pm, we were a group of 44 tourists. Gear allocation + Safety briefing which was extensive ( some 25') . By the time we got into the water was 4:30 Five or maybe 6 team members taking care of the group by marking the limits for safe swimming, right, left, direction to the place where the " resident " turtle could be seen. Soon after we started swimming towards the reef we realised that the current was very strong, so strong that we could not keep our position. This is because the turtles live near a well known reef passage with strong currents, we learned later. We were drawn towards the deep and the team had to help us to reach the swallows and adviced us to stay there for the rest of the hour while those who could, snorkled. We were not the only ones in the group to stay away from the fun due to that scary current. Bruce offered to take us to see the turtle safely by clinging to his buoy and we both did. We were happy to do that, even if very short, as that was the whole point of the activity. For that, and the team actively helping away from the current I give a pass mark. Otherwise, we found that part of the reef dangerous, and saw the turtle only briefly ( let alone swimming with them as the activity title claims). Therefore we would not recommend this activity
jb2205,Apr 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Highlight of our trip! We loved this experience so much!! It feels surreal to be with the turtles in their natural home. The guides are amazing at making you feel at ease with fantastic new snorkeling gear and in depth explanations as needed. Highly recommend this as part of your holiday!
Angelo E,Apr 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Fantastic turtle experience
Operated by Snorkel Cook Islands