Guided Snorkel Tour
Immerse yourself in Sydney’s premier marine sanctuary
Just a short walk from Manly Wharf lies a hidden underwater world. Our guided snorkel tour takes you into the heart of the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, home to over 160 species of marine life. From the iconic Blue Groper to camouflaged Wobbegongs and ornate Cuttlefish, we show you the "locals" that others swim right past.
The Experience
Unlike large group tours, we focus on a "slow-snorkel" approach. We don’t just swim over the reef; we explore it. Our guides are trained to spot the small details like Seahorses, Nudibranchs, and Octopus, ensuring you leave with a deeper connection to our local ocean.
Participants Skill Level: Easy/Intermediate (Must be able to swim). For safety purposes, our guides will check that every participant in the tour knows how to swim.
Departure Information
We meet at Shelly Beach or Fairlight Beach, Manly. Depending on the water conditions we choose the best spot for you to have the best water visibility. We offer two daily departures to capture the best light and marine activity:
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The Morning Clarity (9:30 AM): Perfect for glassy water and the best underwater visibility.
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The Afternoon Glow (13:30 PM): A relaxed, afternoon dip when marine life becomes more active.
What to bring
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Swimwear & Towel
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Sunscreen
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Water bottle
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A sense of adventure!
Inclusions
Gear
Mask, snorkel, fins, and flotation device
Tour Guide
Professional guide with local knowledge.
Memories
A digital gallery of photos snorkeling
Essentials
Safety briefing and sunscreen
BOOK YOUR SPOT NOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
You should be comfortable in the water and able to swim at least 100 meters. This is an open-water experience, but it’s very relaxed. We provide optional flotation aids (like foam noodles) to help you float easily, so you can focus on the marine life without getting tired. If you aren't a confident swimmer, just let your guide know!
What if the weather is bad?
We snorkel in most conditions, including light rain. However, if there is a heavy swell or strong winds that make the bay unsafe, we will notify you at least 2 hours before the start to reschedule or provide a full refund.
What is the minimum age?
Our group tours are for ages 12 and up. All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. For families with younger children, please contact us about a private family session.
Where do we leave our belongings?
We recommend bringing only the essentials. We have limited secure storage in our support vehicle for small items like keys, phones, and wallets.
Is there a place to change?
Yes, there are public changing rooms, toilets, and cold showers available right at Shelly Beach where we meet.
Can I bring my own gear?
Absolutely. If you have a mask or fins you love, feel free to bring them. However, high-quality gear is already included in your tour price.