Moreton Island Snorkelling & Diving Tours
Discover vibrant coral reefs and marine life with expert-guided snorkelling and diving tours on Queensland's Moreton Island.
Moreton Island, a pristine sand island off the coast of Brisbane, is a snorkeler's and diver's paradise, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine biodiversity. Unlike the Great Barrier Reef further north, Moreton's underwater world is easily accessible, often just a short boat ride or even a swim from shore. The island's protected bays and shallow reefs teem with colourful fish, sea turtles, rays, and if you're lucky, even dolphins and dugongs. These snorkelling and diving tours are designed to showcase the island's most spectacular aquatic environments, from the famous Tangalooma Wrecks to the vibrant coral gardens of the Outer Banks. Visitors can explore a variety of underwater landscapes, experiencing the thrill of swimming alongside majestic marine creatures in their natural habitat. Whether you're a seasoned diver looking for new sites or a first-time snorkeler eager to witness the underwater spectacle, Moreton Island offers a diverse range of experiences. Operators on these tours are often deeply knowledgeable about the local ecosystem, providing insights into the marine life you encounter and the importance of preserving these delicate environments. With a focus on accessibility and discovery, these excursions are a fantastic way to connect with nature and create lasting memories.
Featured Moreton Island Snorkelling & Diving Tours Tours
Discover our top picks for moreton island snorkelling & diving tours in Moreton Island
Travel to Moreton Island from Brisbane or the Gold Coast for a full day of fun in the sun. Your guide takes you by 4WD vehicle along the sands to Tangalooma Wrecks, where you'll see incredible coral reefs on snorkel and kayak outings. You'll also go inland for an exhilarating sandboarding experience on massive sand dunes. This action-packed tour includes a lunch on the beach and time to soak up the scenery of lovely Moreton Island, the third largest sand island in the world. We are the only company that does 3 activties on a full-day tour!
Fully inclusive day cruise with no additional costs. Throw your swimwear into a bag and set sail with See Moreton to discover this world-renowned island paradise! Enjoy miles of unspoiled white sand beaches, snorkel the famed Tangalooma Wrecks, encounter wild dolphins, and satisfy your appetite with a gourmet tropical buffet lunch. Departing daily from Brisbane, cruise in luxury to Moreton Bay Marine Park aboard the brand new, $10M vessel Spirit of Mulgumpin. Here enjoy the freedom to do as much or as little as you please with all activities included and no local fees. Spot the big three: dolphins, dugongs, and sea turtles, paddle board crystal-clear waters, relax on untouched beaches, play a beach cricket match or kick back on our vessel and tap into the licensed bar onboard. Whatever your pace, an all-inclusive day cruise to Moreton Island will leave you feeling revitalised in this unique pocket of the world.
Dolphin Wild Island Cruises is the ultimate eco-adventure to explore Moreton Island. The tour blends the excitement of exploration and the exclusivity of a personalised tour, with a commitment to preserving this pristine natural wonder. Dive into the underwater wonderland and explore the famous wrecks, home to many vibrant marine life. Following this, enjoy relaxing time on the pristine white beaches of Moreton whilst swimming in the crystal clear waters. Transition into an educational marine safari, where the focus shifts to spotting the island’s remarkable wildlife. As you cruise along the coast, keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins, turtles, dugongs and sting rays. The crew will share fascinating facts about these intelligent creatures and their behaviour in Moreton Bay. Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea provided. Departing from Newport Marina.
Fully Inclusive day cruise, no extra costs and no more to pay. Included; Cruise, Lunch, Snorkel, Beach and more Throw your swimwear into a bag and set sail with See Moreton to discover this world-renowned island paradise! Enjoy miles of unspoiled white sand beaches, snorkel the famed Tangalooma Wrecks, encounter wild dolphins, and satisfy your appetite with a gourmet tropical buffet lunch. Departing daily from Brisbane, cruise in luxury to Moreton Bay Marine Park aboard the brand new, $10M luxury catamaran Spirit of Mulgumpin. Here enjoy the freedom to do as much or as little as you please with all activities included and no local fees. Spot the big three: dolphins, dugongs and sea turtles, paddle board crystal-clear waters, relax on untouched beaches, play a beach cricket match or kick back on our vessel and enjoy the licensed bar onboard. Whatever your pace, an all-inclusive day cruise to Moreton Island will leave you feeling revitalised in this unique pocket of the world.
Whether you want to make scuba diving a new hobby, splash about in our kayaks & SUPs, snorkel the Tangalooma Shipwrecks, relax on the beach, go for a bush walk, we've got you covered!
This activity offers an unforgettable experience on one of Australia’s most pristine islands. Guests can snorkel the iconic Tangalooma Wrecks, enjoy thrilling sand tobogganing, or paddle in crystal-clear waters—all in one action-packed day. This pass is perfect for adventure seekers, families, and couples alike, combining excitement with the beauty of Moreton Island's natural wonders. Participants benefit from an all-inclusive package that includes equipment, guided activities, and insider tips from friendly guides, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience. Whether it’s discovering marine life, sliding down sandy dunes, or simply relaxing by the beach, this tour creates memories that last a lifetime. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant outdoor adventures Moreton Island has to offer!
Why Choose Moreton Island Snorkelling & Diving Tours in Moreton Island?
Exceptional Marine Life
Moreton Island boasts diverse underwater ecosystems, making it a prime spot for encountering turtles, rays, and abundant fish species.
Iconic Shipwreck Sites
Explore the famous Tangalooma Wrecks, intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef teeming with colourful marine life.
Clear Water Visibility
Often enjoy excellent visibility, allowing for fantastic views of the underwater world and vibrant coral formations.
Pristine Island Environment
Experience the natural beauty of a large sand island with protected bays and a rich natural environment.
Expert Local Guides
Learn about the marine life and the island's ecology from knowledgeable guides who enhance your experience.
Variety of Tour Options
Find tours suitable for all levels, from beginner snorkellers to experienced divers, with various durations and inclusions.
Types of Moreton Island Snorkelling & Diving Tours in Moreton Island
Snorkelling Tours
These tours focus on the accessible snorkelling spots around Moreton Island, including the shallow areas of the Tangalooma Wrecks and protected bays. They are perfect for families and beginners.
Scuba Diving Tours
For certified divers, these tours explore more advanced dive sites, often including the deeper sections of the Tangalooma Wrecks and other reefs further offshore. Expect encounters with larger marine species.
Wreck Snorkel & Dive Trips
Specialised tours that centre around the Tangalooma Wrecks. These often combine snorkelling and diving opportunities, providing ample time to explore this unique artificial reef.
Half-Day & Full-Day Expeditions
These tours offer comprehensive experiences, combining snorkelling or diving with other island activities like beach visits, kayaking, or sandboarding. Full-day options provide more time to explore multiple locations.
What to Expect on Moreton Island Snorkelling & Diving Tours
Duration
Tours typically range from 3-4 hours for a focused snorkelling trip to a full 6-8 hours for comprehensive expeditions that might include other island activities.
Weather Conditions
Visibility can vary with tides and weather. Tours operate year-round, but calm, sunny days offer the best underwater viewing. Check conditions with the operator.
Group Size
Group sizes vary from small, intimate tours (6-10 people) to larger excursions (up to 30-50 people), depending on the operator and boat capacity.
What's Included
Most tours include snorkelling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins), safety gear, and guidance from a knowledgeable crew. Diving tours will specify equipment inclusions or rental options.
Meeting Point
Tours typically depart from either Tangalooma Island Resort jetty, Pinkenba or Brisbane City Botanic Gardens Riverwalk (for ferry transfers), or directly from the Gold Coast.
Additional Costs
While most tours include equipment and guided activity, consider bringing cash for personal expenses, souvenirs, or optional extras not explicitly listed.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Book in advance, especially during peak season or school holidays, as tours can fill up quickly.
Consider purchasing an underwater camera or renting one to capture the amazing marine life you encounter.
If you're prone to seasickness, take precautions before boarding, as the boat trip can sometimes be choppy.
Always listen to your guide's instructions for your safety and to maximize your enjoyment of the underwater environment.
Sunscreen (reef-safe), a hat, and sunglasses are essential for protecting yourself from the strong Queensland sun, both on the boat and on the island.
Bring a towel and a change of clothes for after your snorkelling or diving adventure.
Most tours are suitable for beginners, but if you're a beginner diver, ensure the tour is specifically catered to your certification level.
Check the tour operator's cancellation policy, especially if travelling during a season with a higher chance of changing weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Do I need to be a certified diver to go on these tours?
A: No, not all of them! Many tours are specifically for snorkelling and are perfect for beginners of all ages. If you want to scuba dive, you'll need to ensure the tour is for certified divers and bring your certification card.
Q:What marine life can I expect to see?
A: You'll likely see a colourful array of fish, including parrotfish and angelfish, as well as green sea turtles, rays (like eagle rays and stingrays), and sometimes dolphins. Dugongs are also known to frequent the waters around Moreton.
Q:Is snorkelling or diving at the Tangalooma Wrecks safe?
A: Yes, the Tangalooma Wrecks are generally safe for snorkelling and diving. They are popular for good reason and are regularly visited by tour operators who ensure safety protocols are followed. The waters are usually calm and relatively shallow near the shore.
Q:What should I wear for a snorkelling tour?
A: Wearing your swimwear is standard. Many people also wear a rash vest for sun protection and to prevent chafing from a life jacket. It's also wise to wear a hat and sunglasses for the boat trip.
Q:Can children participate in these tours?
A: Absolutely! Snorkelling tours are very family-friendly and children are welcome. Some diving tours may have age restrictions for certified dives, but often offer 'discover scuba' programs for younger participants under strict supervision.
Q:What happens if the weather is bad?
A: Tour operators monitor weather closely. If conditions are unsafe or significantly impact the experience, they will typically offer to reschedule your tour or provide a refund, as per their specific cancellation policy.
Q:How do I get to Moreton Island for the tours?
A: Many tours include transport from the mainland, often via ferry. If you are making your own way, you'll need to catch a ferry to Tangalooma Island Resort or another departure point used by the tour operator.
Why Visit Moreton Island?
Discover pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving adventures.
Experience incredible wildlife encounters, from whales to dolphins and dugongs, right off shore.
Escape the mainland bustle with 4WD adventures and camping under starry Australian skies.
Learn about the Quandamooka people's rich cultural heritage and connection to Moreton Island.
Enjoy world-class sandboarding down towering, natural sand dunes for a thrilling rush.
Moreton Island offers an unspoiled natural paradise for an unforgettable island getaway.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Moreton Island enjoys a subtropical climate with warm, humid summers and mild, dry winters. Expect sunshine year-round, with most rainfall occurring during the summer months (December to February). The island benefits from sea breezes, which can moderate the summer heat.
Best Months
The shoulder seasons, from April to May and September to October, are often considered the best times to visit Moreton Island, offering pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and fewer crowds.
Peak Season
The peak season typically runs from December to January during the Australian summer school holidays, and again during the June-July winter school holidays. Expect warm weather, larger crowds, and higher accommodation prices.
Off Season
The off-season generally falls during the wetter months of summer (February to April, excluding Easter) and the cooler, quieter months of late autumn and winter (May to August). You can often find better deals and a more tranquil experience.
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Plan Your Moreton Island Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around Moreton Island is primarily done via 4WD vehicles due to its sandy tracks. Your own 4WD or a rented one is ideal for exploring. Ferries from Brisbane (like the MICAT or Tangalooma Flyer) can transport vehicles and passengers. Public transport is non-existent; consider guided tours if you don't have a 4WD. Ensure your vehicle is registered and insured for sand driving. Book ferry crossings in advance, especially during peak times.
Car Rental Deals in Moreton Island
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Where to Stay
Find the perfect accommodation for your Moreton Island adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Best Hotel Deals in Moreton Island
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