Ocean Safari · Cape Tribulation
A 4.5-hour snorkel trip that leaves straight from the beach at Cape Tribulation, about 25 minutes by fast boat to two sites at Mackay Reef. Pick it if you are staying north of the river: it is the shortest way from the rainforest to the reef.
Ocean Safari is a family-owned business that launches a rigid inflatable boat from the beach at Cape Tribulation. You meet at The Turtle Rock Cafe on Cape Tribulation Road, or take the courtesy pickup from local accommodation. The ride to Mackay Reef takes about 25 minutes each way, and you get roughly two hours in the water across two sites. Guests talk about turtles, reef fish, eagle rays and giant clams.
With 25 guests at most and reef talks from the crew, it feels more personal than a big boat from Cairns. Snorkel gear, a sunsuit or wetsuit, instruction, a fruit platter and Marine Park fees are included. The listing says the exact sites depend on weather and tide, and if the weather cancels the trip you can reschedule or get a refund.
The listing rules out pregnant guests and people with back problems, so take the boat ride seriously. It suits anyone sleeping at Cape Tribulation or Cow Bay. From Port Douglas it is a long drive to reach the beach in time.
Meet at The Turtle Rock Cafe on Cape Tribulation Road, or use the courtesy pickup from your accommodation.
Fit your snorkel gear and sunsuit or wetsuit and get instructions on the beach.
The rigid inflatable boat launches from the beach and heads out to the reef.
Snorkel two sites chosen on the day for the weather and tide, with a fruit platter and reef talks between them.
The fast ride back to Cape Tribulation.
★★★★★we had the best morning. weather conditions were perfect. our guides were fabulous. we saw a turtle which was magical.
★★★★★Really fantastic snorkeling. Beautiful coral. Beautiful fish. Beautiful turtle.
★★★★★The snorkeling was fantastic. We had never done this before.
★★★★★Perfect weather, amazing guides who made sure they spoke to each of us.
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From the beach at Cape Tribulation. Meet at The Turtle Rock Cafe on Cape Tribulation Road, or take the courtesy pickup from local accommodation.
About two hours in the water across two sites at Mackay Reef. The whole trip takes about 4.5 hours.
The listing says sites depend on weather and tide. If the trip is cancelled for weather, you can reschedule or get a refund.
Yes. Instruction is included and guests who had never snorkelled before have joined. It is not suitable if you are pregnant or have back problems.
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A fast boat from the beach at Cape Tribulation to two reef sites, with about two hours in the water.
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