Snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef
Snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef
Sunlover Reef Cruises offers two ways to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, departing daily from Cairns. At Moore Reef, you will snorkel a 7,000-square-metre coral lagoon from our outer reef pontoon with lifeguards, crew support, and all equipment included. At Fitzroy Island, you will explore the fringing reef directly from the beach. Eco-certified by Ecotourism Australia and operating since 1991, we cater to everyone from first-time snorkellers to experienced reef explorers.
Snorkelling is at the heart of everything we do at Sunlover Reef Cruises. The Great Barrier Reef is a World Heritage-listed Australian icon — a natural wonder unmatched anywhere else on Earth — and we are passionate about helping every one of our guests experience it.
For many of our guests, this will be the very first time they have ever snorkelled — and what a place to do it. There is nowhere on the planet quite like the Great Barrier Reef, and our team is dedicated to making sure your experience is safe, comfortable and absolutely unforgettable.
Who Is Snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef Best For?
Our two snorkelling locations suit different experience levels and travel styles. Here is a quick guide to help you decide.
First-Time Snorkellers
Moore Reef is ideal. You enter the water from a stable pontoon, lifeguards are on watch all day, buoyancy vests are available free of charge, and the lagoon has shallow areas starting at just one to two metres deep.
Families with Children
Moore Reef has lifeguards, four rest stations in the water, enclosed ocean pool, and activities beyond snorkelling including the glass bottom boat, semi-submersible, and underwater observatory. Children aged four and over are welcome.
Non-Swimmers
Moore Reef is the better choice. If you are not confident in the water, you can still experience the reef from the glass bottom boat, semi-submersible, or underwater observatory — all included with your tour at no extra cost.
Confident Swimmers and Experienced Snorkellers
Both locations will suit you. At Moore Reef, confident swimmers can explore the 15-metre deep drop-off and canyon at the edge of the snorkelling area. At Fitzroy Island, you can explore the fringing reef at your own pace in a self-guided experience.
Guests Who Want to Learn About the Reef
Add a Guided Snorkel Tour at either location. At Moore Reef, our marine biology team — including Master Reef Guides certified by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority — lead 35-minute interpretive tours in small groups of up to six. Our Reef Research Experience takes it further with participation in the Eye on the Reef monitoring program run by GBRMPA.
Moore Reef vs Fitzroy Island — Which Snorkelling Experience Is Right for You?
Both locations are part of the Great Barrier Reef, but the snorkelling experience at each is quite different. Here is a side-by-side comparison to help you choose.
| Moore Reef | Fitzroy Island | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Outer Great Barrier Reef | Continental island, 45 min from Cairns |
| Reef type | Natural coral lagoon, 7,000 sqm | Fringing reef off the beach |
| Water entry | Pontoon platform with stair access | Walk in from the beach |
| Lifeguards | Yes — elevated tower, always on duty | No — self-guided experience |
| Equipment | Included (mask, snorkel, fins, lycra suit) | Included (mask, snorkel, fins, lycra suit) |
| Best for | First-timers, families, non-swimmers | Confident swimmers, independent explorers |
| Non-snorkel reef viewing | Glass bottom boat, semi-sub, underwater observatory | Glass bottom boat (add-on) |
| Guided snorkel tour | Available as add-on (all tours) | Available as add-on (Best Of and Value packages) |
| Time at location | Approx. 4 hours | Approx. 5 hours |
| Current conditions | Sheltered lagoon, minimal current | Exposed reef, possible tidal currents |
Why Snorkel With Sunlover Reef Cruises?
Sunlover Reef Cruises has been taking guests to the Great Barrier Reef since 1991. We are Australian-owned, eco-certified by Ecotourism Australia, and recognised as a Green Travel Leader. Here is what sets our snorkelling experience apart.
Master Reef Guides on Board
Our marine biology team includes Master Reef Guides — a certification awarded by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority to reef professionals who demonstrate exceptional knowledge and storytelling ability. They lead our guided snorkel tours and reef research experiences.
Eye on the Reef Program
Our crew participate in the Eye on the Reef monitoring program run by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA). Weekly reef surveys conducted at Moore Reef are submitted directly to GBRMPA to help track reef health. Guests can join this experience through our Reef Research Snorkel Tour.
Eco-Certified & Australian-Owned
Sunlover holds Advanced Ecotourism Certification from Ecotourism Australia, is a member of the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC), and supports the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre and Reef Restoration Foundation. We have been operating on the Great Barrier Reef for over 30 years.
Safety First
At Moore Reef, trained lifeguards are on duty from an elevated tower throughout the day. Four rest stations are positioned in the snorkelling area. Snorkel platforms have stair access for easy entry and exit. All operations comply with the Queensland Safety in Recreational Water Activities Regulation 2024.
Snorkelling at Moore Reef
Our Moore Reef pontoon is your base for the day, anchored permanently in a 7,000 square metre natural coral lagoon on the outer Great Barrier Reef. You will have approximately four hours at the reef, with the freedom to hop in and out of the water as many times as you like. There is no set snorkelling schedule — the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
The pontoon provides a stable platform to enter and exit the water with ease. There is no jumping off the side of a boat or swimming against a current to get back. The snorkelling area has shallow sections starting at just one to two metres deep, so you are never far from the platform, and our lifeguards and crew are always on watch both in the water and from the pontoon.
Want a deeper understanding of what you are seeing? Add a Guided Snorkel Tour led by a marine biologist.
First Time Snorkelling?
If you have never snorkelled before, there is nothing to worry about — many of our guests are first-timers, and snorkelling is one of the easiest water activities to pick up. Our crew will walk you through everything before you get in the water, buoyancy vests are available free of charge, and lifeguards are always on watch.
Important Health & Safety Information
If you have any medical conditions — such as heart issues, asthma, epilepsy, or anything that may be affected by physical exertion or could cause a loss of consciousness — please let our crew know. This will not prevent you from snorkelling, but it allows our team to provide you with a specially coloured vest so our lookouts can keep an extra eye on you and respond quickly if needed.
What Is Snorkelling?
Snorkelling is floating face-down on the surface of the water, breathing through a snorkel tube, and looking down through a clear mask at the reef below. You stay on the surface the whole time — no diving under, no special training, and no experience needed. You do not need to be a strong swimmer, but you do need to be comfortable in the water. Buoyancy vests are available free of charge, and our crew are on hand if you need help with your gear or technique at any time.
Watch Our Snorkel Safety Briefing
We have created a detailed snorkel safety video that you can watch before your trip so you arrive feeling prepared and confident. The video includes subtitle captions that can be translated into several languages — simply use the subtitle/caption feature on the player below.
Use the CC (closed captions) button on the video player to select your preferred language for subtitles.
Snorkelling at Fitzroy Island
Fitzroy Island offers a completely different snorkelling experience to Moore Reef. Instead of entering the water from a pontoon in a protected lagoon, you snorkel directly from the beach over the fringing reef that surrounds the island. There are no lifeguards or crew stationed in the water, so it is important to be comfortable and prepared before you head out. All snorkelling equipment is included with your day trip, and if you would like guided support, our Guided Snorkel Tour is available as an add-on to the Fitzroy Best Of and Value packages.
First Time Snorkelling from a Beach?
Snorkelling at Fitzroy Island is a self-guided experience — there are no lifeguards or crew in the water, so it is important to feel comfortable before you head out. Read through our beach snorkelling tips below before you get in, take your time gearing up, and always snorkel with a buddy. If you would like a guide by your side, our Guided Snorkel Tour is available as an add-on to the Fitzroy Best Of and Value packages, led by a marine biologist in a small group of up to six.
Beach Snorkelling Tips
If you are new to snorkelling from a beach, these tips will help you get in and out of the water safely and make the most of your time on the reef.
Getting Ready
Before you put your mask on, give the inside of the lens a good rub with saliva and rinse it in the water — this stops the mask from fogging up once you are swimming. It sounds odd, but it is what the professionals do and it works.
Putting Your Fins On
You have two options. You can sit at the water’s edge and put your fins on there, or you can do it the way our crew do — wade in with your fins tucked under your arms until you are about waist deep, then put them on in the water where you have a bit of buoyancy to help with balance. Whichever method you choose, never try to walk around on land or on the beach with your fins on.
Getting Out of the Water
Remove your fins before you stand up or exit the water. You can either take them off while you are still floating in the shallows or sit down at the water’s edge to slide them off. Walking in fins is a quick way to trip and hurt yourself.
Watch Your Feet
Be mindful of very shallow areas — the coral can be much closer to the surface than it appears. Do not touch anything with your feet. Aside from protecting the reef, some coral and marine life can cause painful stings or cuts.
Be Aware of Currents
Unlike the protected lagoon at Moore Reef, the reef around Fitzroy Island is more exposed to open water and can experience stronger currents during tidal changes. Check back with the shoreline regularly to make sure you are not drifting. If you notice you are being pulled along, do not fight the current — swim across it towards the shore to stabilise yourself, then make your way back to your entry point.
Guided Snorkel Tour
$65 Adult | $45 Kids | $175 Family
AVAILABLE AT MOORE REEF AND FITZROY ISLAND
Our Guided Snorkel Tour is the ultimate way to experience the Great Barrier Reef, especially if this is your first time in the water or you are feeling a little nervous. In a small group of up to six guests, you will be personally guided through the reef by one of our passionate marine biologists.
Over 35 minutes, your marine expert will take you to areas of the reef not accessible to other snorkellers, pointing out incredible coral formations, rare species of fish, giant clams, and — if you are lucky — sea turtles. They will share their knowledge of the reef ecosystem, explaining how the coral grows, how the fish interact, and what makes this World Heritage site so extraordinary.
This experience is designed for all abilities, including those who need a little extra assistance in the water. If you have never snorkelled before, are not a confident swimmer, or simply want to learn more about what you are seeing beneath the surface, the Guided Snorkel Tour is for you. Our marine biologists are not just experts — they are passionate storytellers who will transform your snorkel into an enriching, educational adventure you will never forget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there sharks on the Great Barrier Reef?
This is one of the most common questions we receive, and we completely understand why it is on your mind. The Great Barrier Reef is home to a wide variety of marine life, and while reef sharks do live in the area, they are small, shy and pose no threat to snorkellers. Species such as white-tip reef sharks and black-tip reef sharks are typically timid and will move away from people. Our snorkelling area at Moore Reef is a calm, sheltered lagoon and shark sightings are extremely rare. In years of operation, we have never had a shark-related incident. Our crew and lifeguards are always on watch to ensure your safety.
Do you provide flotation jackets?
Yes! We provide buoyancy vests (flotation jackets) free of charge and we highly recommend them for all snorkellers, especially if it is your first time. The vest keeps you floating comfortably on the surface so you can relax and enjoy the reef without worrying about staying afloat. Even experienced snorkellers often choose to wear one as it allows you to conserve energy and spend more time enjoying the underwater scenery.
I wear glasses — can I get a prescription snorkel mask?
Absolutely. We have prescription snorkel masks available to rent for just $5.00 per person. They are available in a range of common prescriptions so most guests can find a suitable match. Availability is limited, so we recommend requesting one early once you are onboard by visiting the crew behind the bar on the main deck. If you have a very specific prescription, you are of course, welcome to bring your own personal equipement.
I find it difficult to breathe through my mouth — is there an alternative snorkel?
Yes! We carry a specially designed mask with a snorkel built directly into the top of the mask. Unlike a standard snorkel setup — where the snorkel clips to your mask strap and you breathe through a mouthpiece in your mouth — this mask removes the mouthpiece entirely. You simply breathe in and out through your nose, just like you do on land.
This is a great option for first-time snorkellers, guests who find gripping a mouthpiece uncomfortable, or anyone who just prefers the ease of natural nose-breathing while exploring the reef.
A couple of things worth knowing before you choose this option. Because of the way the snorkel connects to the mask, it does not suit every face shape. It tends to work best for guests with rounder faces. If you have a more oval face shape, our standard mask and snorkel combination will usually give you a better, leak-free seal. Our crew will help you try it on before you hire, to make sure the fit is right for you.
This mask is available to hire for $5.00 for the day from the bar onboard, and comes in two sizes to help get the best possible fit.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer to snorkel?
Not at all! Snorkelling at Moore Reef is designed to be accessible for all confidence levels, even if you have never swum in the ocean before.
Our pontoon provides a stable platform to enter and exit the water at your own pace — there is no jumping off the side of a boat or swimming against a current to get back. The snorkelling area has shallow sections starting at just one to two metres deep, so you are never far from the platform.
Buoyancy vests are available for everyone and we encourage anyone who wants one to grab one. They keep you floating on the surface without any effort — no need to tread water or swim hard. Just relax, float, and look down.
Our lifeguards and crew are always on watch in the water and from the pontoon. If you would like extra confidence, our Guided Snorkel Tour is a small group of up to six people led by a marine biologist who can give you one-on-one guidance, point out the best coral and marine life, and stay right by your side the whole time.
Is snorkel equipment included or do I need to bring my own?
Yes, all snorkelling equipment is included with your day trip at no extra cost. This covers a mask, snorkel, fins, and a lycra suit for sun protection and warmth. Buoyancy vests are also available free of charge for anyone who would like one.
If you need something extra, optional upgrades are available to hire from the bar onboard:
- Prescription masks — $5.00
- Nose-breathing snorkel masks (no mouthpiece, breathe through your nose) — $5.00
- Wetsuits — $10.00
You are also welcome to bring your own equipment if you prefer.
How long do I get to snorkel at the reef?
You will have approximately four hours at Moore Reef, which is plenty of time to enjoy everything at your own pace. There is no set snorkelling schedule — you are free to hop in and out of the water as many times as you like throughout the day.
Most guests like to break up their snorkelling with lunch, relax on the pontoon, and try some of the other activities available. Whether you want to spend the whole four hours in the water or take it easy with a few shorter sessions, the day is yours to enjoy however you like.
If you add a Guided Snorkel Tour, a marine biologist will take you on a 35-minute interpretive tour of the reef, pointing out coral species, marine life, and the stories behind what you are seeing. Your tour time is scheduled when you sign up, so you can plan the rest of your day around it. Just make sure you are ready to go at your allocated time. You will still have plenty of time to snorkel on your own before or after your tour.
What will I see when snorkelling?
Moore Reef is home to an incredible diversity of marine life, and because the snorkelling area covers 7,000 square metres of natural coral lagoon, there is always something new to spot no matter how many times you get in the water.
You can expect to see a mix of colourful hard and soft corals, along with tropical fish such as clownfish, parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish weaving in and out of the reef. Keep an eye out for giant clams nestled among the coral, and if you are lucky, you may even encounter a green sea turtle cruising past.
The reef changes throughout the day as different species come and go, so it is worth hopping in more than once. If you want to get the most out of what you are seeing, our Guided Snorkel Tour pairs you with a marine biologist who will help you identify species and understand the reef ecosystem as you go.