\ IMPORTANT NOTICE
If the 8am time slot is available please book this option first as we will only depart on later trips once this has been filled.
Please arrive 30 minutes before your tour starts for introduction and gear collection.
Just a short 15-minute drive south from the Gold Coast Airport and a mere 600 meters off the shores of Fingal Headland lies the volcanic marvel of Cook Island. This captivating sanctuary hosts a permanent community of Green, Hawksbill, and Loggerhead Turtles, thriving amidst the vibrant tapestry of hard and soft corals that adorn the reef.
Venture into this underwater paradise and discover a bustling ecosystem teeming with life – from playful clownfish darting amongst the anemones to the elusive wobbegongs lurking in the shadows. Keep your eyes peeled from June to October for the majestic humpback whales as they journey along their annual migration route. And during the balmy summer months, don't miss the chance to encounter the elegant and entirely harmless leopard sharks.
As you embark on this remarkable journey, be prepared to be accompanied by a pod of dolphins, their playful antics adding to the magic of the experience. This tour is not just an excursion; it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Tweed Coast.
Prepare to be spellbound by the beauty of the Tweed's underwater world, and we assure you, the memories of this extraordinary adventure will linger long after your holiday ends. Get ready to recount tales of your Cook Island escapade for months to come – it's bound to be the highlight of your trip!
Tour itinerary
· Your Snorkel with the Turtles experience starts with gearing up and going through a snorkel brief before we leave the dock.
· Enjoy a 15-minute boat ride along the Tweed River, through the Tweed bar and past some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches.
· We’ll anchor off Cook Island, make sure everyone is kitted out with snorkelling gear and then … dive in!
· Our snorkelling instructor will be in the water with you to help any beginners and to make sure you don’t miss any turtle sightings. Plus give you a educational tour throughout your snorkel.
Tour details
WHEN : Available 7 days a week, all year round departing at 8.00AM, 10.30AM & 1.00PM NSW time if first boat is full.
( Please be flexible with your times and be aware that we will fill up the morning boats first! )
– weather permitting. Departures are usually scheduled for mornings to ensure the best conditions.
WHERE : Departs from and returns to Fingal Boathouse, Fingal Road, Fingal Head, NSW 2487.
DURATION : Approximately 2.5 HRS
SUITABLE FOR : Intermediate and experienced snorkelers.
Children from age 6 YRS and up are welcome – children under 14 YRS must be accompanied by an adult.
WE CATER FOR : Individuals, couples, families and groups of up to 9 people.
WE SUPPLY:
- Qualified Snorkel Guide - ALL equipment ( wetsuits, fins, mask & snorkel ) - sunscreen - life-jackets - floatation device - FUN & ADVENTURE !
Q&A :
Q : Does Cook Island have a beach?
A : Cook Island is a volcanic outcrop which had been awarded a marine reserve park status so no access to the Island is granted.
Q : What if I have never snorkelled before?
A : We do require experience with a snorkel mask on. Our staff are highly trained & qualified and refresh the necessary skills for snorkelling before each tour. We happily provide private Snorkel Skill Lessons if desired and suggest for beginner snorkelers to ensure more confidence & safety in the water.
Q : Do you need to be able to swim?
A : Yes, this is very IMPORTANT for both your experience and others on the boat. Our guides are there not only to keep you safe but to also show you the delights of the underwater realm of Cook Island.
Not be there to teach you how to swim.
Q : How big is the boat?
A : We take exclusive tours of only 9 snorkelers at any time to ensure you have the best experience possible! This allows a personal experience and to make sure you see the turtles.
Q : Is it possible that I will get sea sick?
A : This is dependant on the individual. If you have previously been sea sick in the past it is a possibility due to the varying conditions on the day.
Q : Will I see turtles?
A : Cook Island is home to a large variety of Green Turtles, Hawksbill Turtles and also Loggerhead Turtles. It is extremely uncommon to snorkel the Island and not encounter the turtles.
Q : Will I see a shark?
A : We have never sighted a dangerous shark at Cook Island. We do however get to see Wobbegongs & Leopard Sharks.
T&Cs
Please note that if you cancel a tour/activity or your tour/activity is cancelled the merchant fee/credit card fee is unable to be refunded as this is deducted by a third party payment platform.
Cancellation Policy: cancellations within 24hrs of your tour are non-refundable unless contacted by the Guru team.
Cook Island marine sanctuary is an offshore snorkel site.
Ocean conditions can sometimes be challenging with wind, swell and chop.
To snorkel with the Turtles we require you MUST have medium swimming ability as conditions may vary.
You MUST be self reliant in the water and MUST be able to swim 100m unassisted.
Entry back to the boat is via a step ladder ; You MUST be able to climb the ladder unassisted.
Wetsuits MUST be worn for flotation and protection from the elements which go up to size XXL and fins 15 - 17 shoe size.
If you do not fulfill the requirements, it is unsafe for you to join us as we will not be able to guarantee your safety.
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