Townsville & Magnetic Island: MOUA & Reef Snorkel Experience
Chamonix
Discover a world below the surface and visit the Great Barrier Reef. Be inspired by the wonder of the Museum of Underwater Art and explore the colorful Central Section of the Great Barrier Reef.
Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving from Townsville or Magnetic Island
This full-day snorkeling and diving experience departs from Townsville Breakwater Marina or Nelly Bay, Magnetic Island, suitable for snorkelers and divers of all levels.
Highlights
- Spend a full day snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef
- Discover the Museum of Underwater Art offshore on John Brewer Reef
- See colorful marine life and shallow reefs
- Learn about reef management and conservation efforts
Description
Begin your journey from Townsville Breakwater Marina or Nelly Bay. Please specify your departure location when booking.
Sail to the Central Section of the Great Barrier Reef aboard a custom-built day vessel. Your first stop is the Museum of Underwater Art (MoUA), an underwater exhibition located offshore on John Brewer Reef. Explore this unique site surrounded by coral reefs while learning about reef conservation, restoration, and education, with a focus on indigenous culture and history. Key installations include The Coral Greenhouse and the Ocean Sentinel, both ideal for snorkeling trails in shallow water (2 to 7 meters deep).
After the MoUA visit, snorkel or dive at other reef sections with depths ranging from 1 to 20 meters, suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike. Expect to see schools of baitfish, Parrotfish, Maori wrasse, Clownfish, Angelfish, turtles, stingrays, White Tip Reef Sharks, and Black Tip Reef Sharks.
Throughout the day, the friendly crew provides information on how the Great Barrier Reef is managed and protected. Return trips conclude at either Nelly Bay or Townsville Breakwater Marina.
Includes
- Transfer to the Great Barrier Reef
- Snorkeling or scuba diving experience (depending on option selected)
- Visit to the Museum of Underwater Art
- Morning and afternoon tea
- Buffet-style lunch
- Iced water, cordial, tea, and coffee throughout the day
- Demonstrations and instructions on snorkeling techniques
- Snorkeling equipment: mask, snorkel, fins, and full-length suit
- Floating devices including pool noodles and life rings
- Diving equipment: BCD, regulator, computer, and safety accessories
- Environmental talks with marine biology experts
- Museum of Underwater Art maintenance, mooring, and environmental management charges
- Mooring and Environmental Management Charges (EMCs) fees
Excludes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Snorkel guide (available for additional charges)
- Discover Scuba Diving program (available for additional charges)
- Camera hire (available for additional charges)
- Fuel levy (may apply and payable on the day due to changing fuel costs)
- Tips
Important Information
- Scuba diving requires swimmers aged 12 or older. First-time divers must complete a basic medical questionnaire.
- Passengers with mobility impairments should contact the supplier after booking to assess suitability. The vessel and dive conditions may limit access.
- Notify the supplier in advance if you cannot stand up while wearing dive gear.
- Snorkelers receive mask, snorkel, fins, and protective full-length suits.
Easy Cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours before departure to receive a full refund.
Book in advance to secure your preferred departure location. Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and a sense of adventure. The best time to visit is during calm weather periods between late spring and early autumn.
