Overview
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.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
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 not guaranteed during the tour, as our team's highest priority is always the safety and wellbeing of all guests. We recommend bringing your own camera or waterproof device to capture your special moments and relive your experience. Tour times vary daily to ensure you are snorkeling in the safest and best conditions available.
Options
Swim With The Turtles Rarotonga
What‘s Included
Convenient shower facilities for after your adventure
Premium snorkeling gear for your comfort and safety
Photos are occasionally taken but not guaranteed, as guest safety is always our priority.
Energizing local fruits to keep you fueled up
100% Safety record
Secure storage for your valuables
Ample parking for your convenience
Transportation
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
555 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Cancelled but found out hours after turning up
JillHorne475,May 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
2.00Poor . Turned up and no one there
Totally awesome!!!
838raewyns,May 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Highly recommend this company! They were so supportive to anyone who was nervous in the water. Their safety protocols were 10/10. So much fun and such a great friendly team. Will definitely do it again!!
Incredible to swim amongst the turtles
desmondkirwin,May 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fantastic experience, guides did a great job. We were put into 3 groups depending on your snorkeling experience. Safety was the number 1 priority as the currents were strong .The guides lead us to the turtle locations . Only negative was no toilet facilities, particularly for the women . A portable toilet would assist this problem!! Cheryl & Des Woodend Australia
A genuinely awesome morning !
Escape14792093887,May 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Just WOW ! The early morning swim was delayed a bit but that worked well as by the time we got out there to the passage there were not many people out there. The 2 guides were amazing they really looked after everyone as there were confident and not so confident swimmers. We saw so many turtles, lots more tropical fish than near beach snorkelling and a huge ray. We will be doing this tour again next year when we go back. A huge thank you to Snorkel Cook Islands xx
Exceptional Value. Highly Recommended.
GeordieManners85,May 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The guys were great at giving everybody confidence in the water which was very important for me. We saw lots of turtles throughout the trip and a load of rays hiding at the bottom of the passage. The photographer from Tahiti was especially good with us, took the time to have a quick chat and made sure everybody had opportunities for photos. Though photos are not part of the package, He made sure to separate a group of people from the rest and take them away to another spot and made sure they got some photos which was especially nice. Exceptional value for money and great quality snorkel equipment. Tip for anybody heading there; make sure you use the toilet before you arrive as we were told there was no toilet facilities. Unfortunately we had to leave before the snacks were given out to find a toilet elsewhere.
Wow! What a time we had
Tegan G,May 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00You guys absolutely knocked it out of the park with this one. My sister and I had the best time, and we saw a heap of turtles. Even the big beautiful mama T made an appearance. What I love about your team is that you explain where we're going, the ins and outs of it all, and you made sure we felt safe and confident before we entered the water. Plus you dont use a boat! Which is very important for the safety of the marine life.
The team was amazing,very supportive and the experience itself was out of this world. Highly recommend doing this.
Roving65060053012,May 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The crew made sure you were completely safe, and comfortable being in the water especially in the deep if your not that confident being out that far. They made you feel relaxed so you could have a great and memorable experience swimming with the turtles especially if it's your first time.
Fantastic experience snorkelling with the turtles
P8755XEjonathanr,May 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely worth it, crystal clear water right down to 25 metres. Saw multiple turtles and eagle rays. Guides were knowledgable and topped off the entire experience.
Your safety could be at risk
Tugtug4433,May 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00Beware - Snorkel Cook Islands are rogue operators. I took this tour in May Yes many people have enjoyed themselves on their tours, but many people enjoyed P Diddy's company before they could be warned about him. So here's your warning: Snorkel Cook Islands are stressing the whole ecosystem with their MASSIVE 25 person groups of barely guided, incompetently managed participants stepping on coral, invading the turtles' space and kicking turtles with their flippers. This is all common knowledge amongst locals I've spoken to. And this ain't about sea scooters, I'm not some phantom from another company; they're all taking advatange at nature's expense. But if you are going to have safety issues due to non-existent guiding through this dangerous passage, or literally harm a turtle, I will bet my house that Snorkel Cook Islands can be the ones to provide this for you.
Absolute best turtle tour!
Tourist06896893608,May 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Incredible experience! I’m not a super confident swimmer so was a bit nervous but I felt safe with the instruction of the guides and loved every moment of it! The turtles are so beautiful, and I love the care the guides have for the ocean and the creatures living in it.
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