Port Douglas to Low Isles Island Cruise with Guided Snorkel

Escape to an untouched coral paradise just 30 minutes from shore, where you'll enjoy the same reef time as full-day tours but with half the commitment. This exclusive half-day adventure gives you 2.5 hours to explore vibrant coral gardens, spot playful marine life, and wander the historic lighthouse island—all without battling the crowds that descend on other reef locations.

Getting started

Head to Crystalbrook Marina in Port Douglas, where the friendly Calypso crew will welcome you aboard and fit you with snorkelling gear. Choose from convenient morning (7:15am) or afternoon (1:00pm) departures to suit your schedule.

What to expect

Low Isles is a picturesque coral cay where the Great Barrier Reef hugs close to the shoreline, making it perfect for snorkellers of all experience levels. This protected marine sanctuary boasts spectacular coral formations teeming with colorful fish, turtles, and rays, all accessible via easy beach entry or from the back of the vessel.

Features

• Expert-guided snorkel tours revealing hidden underwater treasures.

• Historical lighthouse walks offer fascinating insights into the island's maritime heritage.

• Glass bottom boat tours for those who prefer to stay dry while witnessing reef wonders.

• Sandy walking paths wind through island vegetation, rich with breeding seabirds.

• Light refreshments and morning or afternoon tea are included to keep you energized throughout your adventure.

After 2.5 well-spent hours, reboard for a relaxing 30-minute cruise back to Port Douglas, taking in the coastal views.

Port Douglas to Low Isles Island Cruise with Guided Snorkel

Discover the pristine beauty of Low Isles on this Port Douglas day cruise that includes a guided snorkeling adventure, morning or afternoon departure options, and a visit to the historic lighthouse. The 2.5-hour reef exploration allows you to swim among vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life, all while enjoying the comfort of an air-conditioned vessel equipped for your convenience. With just a 30-minute journey from Port Douglas, this tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Australia’s Great Barrier Reef without the crowds typically found at more popular sites. The guided snorkeling session is led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the marine ecosystem and help you spot colorful fish and other aquatic creatures up close. Additionally, the cruise includes access to Low Isles’ sandy beaches where visitors can stroll through nesting seabird colonies or explore the island’s lush vegetation. This tour is ideal for families with children aged 5 and above, as well as snorkeling enthusiasts who want a memorable reef adventure. The air-conditioned catamaran ensures comfort throughout your journey, while audio guides are available in multiple languages including English, German, French, Japanese, and Mandarin. With its small group size of up to 20 people, this tour guarantees personalized attention and an intimate experience of the Great Barrier Reef.

Explore Low Isles' Coral Gardens

Your tour stops at Low Isles' coral gardens where you can swim among vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters. The reef system covers approximately 15 square kilometers, teeming with over 120 species of hard and soft corals as well as numerous fish species, making it a paradise for snorkelers of all levels. Established in the early 1980s, this area is part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and offers visitors an opportunity to witness firsthand the health and diversity of coral ecosystems up close. During your visit, you'll have around 2 hours to explore the reef's intricate formations and observe various marine creatures like angelfish, butterflyfish, and even sea turtles. Low Isles' coral gardens are unique because they offer shallow water access right from the shore, making it ideal for beginners who want to try snorkeling without feeling overwhelmed by deep waters. This area also plays a crucial role in research efforts aimed at understanding reef resilience and conservation strategies.

Discover Low Isles' Seabird Colonies

At Low Isles, guests can explore the island's sandy paths where numerous seabird colonies nest during specific seasons. The nesting areas are spread across several acres of undisturbed coastline, providing a safe haven for species like terns and noddies to breed and raise their young. Historically, these islands were used as navigational markers by early European explorers in the late 1800s, but it wasn't until the mid-20th century that conservation efforts began protecting these bird habitats from human interference. Visitors can spend about an hour walking along designated trails to observe various seabird species and learn about their nesting behaviors through informative signs and guided tours offered by knowledgeable staff members on site. This area is unique compared to other island destinations because it combines ecological significance with recreational opportunities, allowing tourists to appreciate the natural beauty while supporting conservation efforts.

Visit Low Isles' Historic Lighthouse

Your tour includes a visit to Low Isles’ historic lighthouse, constructed in 1878 and still operational today. Standing at approximately 25 meters tall, this iconic structure is one of the oldest surviving lighthouses on the Great Barrier Reef, offering panoramic views of the surrounding marine environment from its observation deck. The lighthouse itself was built using local materials and serves as a testament to early engineering achievements in remote coastal areas. Visitors can spend about 30 minutes climbing up the spiral staircase inside the tower to reach the top, where they will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas over the reef and beyond. This landmark is unique compared to other lighthouses around Australia due to its strategic location on this small island, making it an integral part of maritime navigation history in the region.

Tour Highlights

• Snorkel adventure at Low Isles' coral gardens
• 2.5-hour reef exploration with diverse marine life
• Audio guides available in multiple languages including English, German, French, Japanese, and Mandarin
• Morning or afternoon departure options to suit your schedule
• Explore nesting seabird colonies along sandy paths on the island
• Visit historic lighthouse built in 1878 standing at approximately 25 meters tall
• Small group size of up to 20 people for personalized attention
• Air-conditioned catamaran with comfort and convenience throughout your journey

Perfect for families, snorkeling enthusiasts, and nature lovers, this day cruise provides an immersive experience through guided tours at Low Isles' coral gardens, nesting seabird colonies, and historic lighthouse. The 2.5-hour reef exploration allows you to swim among vibrant marine life while enjoying the comfort of an air-conditioned vessel and personalized attention from knowledgeable guides. This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the Great Barrier Reef's beauty without the crowds typically found at more popular sites.