Masked marvels
Put on a mask, look beneath the surface and be mesmerised by the world below. Snorkelling is an easy, safe and fun way to explore the reef, moving at a slow and gentle pace so you have time to admire the intricate coral gardens or see one of thousands of marine species going about their day.
It’s an experience for all your senses. Underwater, you might hear a distinctive chomping sound – that’s parrotfish eating algae off the coral. These brightly coloured fish spend 90 per cent of their day nibbling away and are performing a vital function to preserve the health of the reef.
Snorkellers are spoiled for choice in Tropical North Queensland. The Great Barrier Reef is just offshore and trips depart to the inner and outer reef every day from Cape Tribulation, Port Douglas, Cairns and Mission Beach. Most reef trips will be accompanied by a marine biologist who will point out specific corals and marine life, and share their insights into the fascinating life of the reef.
Some islands, like Fitzroy, Normanby and Lizard, are blessed with fringing coral reefs, so you can strap on your mask and snorkel straight from the beach. Nothing beats the thrill of stepping into the water and finding yourself drifting past giant clams, angelfish and clownfish sheltering within the tentacles of a sea anemone. Keep your eyes peeled for slightly larger creatures – like rays, sharks and turtles – while snorkelling fringing reef systems off coastal islands and sand cays.
More adventures lie further off-shore. Take a trip to the outer reef and jump straight off the back of your boat to explore the hidden world that lives along the reef wall. Or swim over the reef from the comfort and safety of a pontoon. Out here, you’ll be able to snorkel with other colourful reef fish and turtles. And the Ribbon Reefs are the only place in the world where dwarf minke whales congregate in large numbers: you can interact with these gentle giants on tours offered by several operators during the migration period in June and July each year.
Snorkelling and diving are exciting activities but can be strenuous for some people. To ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure, it’s important to follow the safety instructions provided by your dive operator. Be sure to share information on any medical conditions you have with them and fill out all forms accurately. By staying informed and knowing your limits, you can make the most of your time underwater and have a memorable, safe experience!

Snorkelling at Moore Reef with Sunlover Reef Cruises
Snorkelling at Moore Reef with Sunlover Reef Cruises

Snorkelling at Michaelmas Cay with Ocean Spirit
Snorkelling at Michaelmas Cay with Ocean Spirit

Swim side-by-side with tropical fish at Moore Reef
Swim side-by-side with tropical fish at Moore Reef
Discover more
Explore the breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest coral reef.
Snorkel vs intro vs certified dive
Check out this handy guide to find your reef style – from donning a mask and snorkel or taking your very first dive, to unique diving experiences reserved for certified divers.
This is what a day on the reef looks like
Ready to dive in? Pack your swimmers, hat and sunscreen. Quicksilver Cruises has you covered with all the rest.
Reef Talk – A chat with marine biologist Gareth Phillips
The Great Barrier Reef is a thriving, living marine environment. It inspires all who visit, even those who see it every day, like marine biologist and owner of Marine Discoveries, Gareth Phillips.
12 Famous residents of the Great Barrier Reef
Only 12 residents? There’s probably a gazillion of them, but let’s start things slowly shall we. It’s not easy to keep track of every single one of the Great Barrier Reef’s inhabitants but here are some of the most famous ones in Tropical North Queensland.
Swim with dwarf minke whales on the Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is the only place in the world that you can swim with dwarf minke whales: an experience so exclusive it only happens for two months of the year and only in Tropical North Queensland.
25 Fun facts about the Great Barrier Reef
As you’d expect from one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Great Barrier Reef is home to some weird, wonderful and just plain loveable creatures. Here’s 25 fun Great Barrier Reef facts about a marine world larger than Italy.
Dreamy sand cays you must visit on the Great Barrier Reef
We’ve all seen those gorgeous wisps of whiteness poking out from an azure sea on Great Barrier Reef. But what are they? More importantly, where are they? And how can we get a piece of sand cay action? We're here to reveal all.
Snorkel the reef
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