Dive Darwin Berry Springs Snorkel Tour

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A morning in the clear, shady freshwater pools of Berry Springs, 47 km south of Darwin, snorkelling or scuba diving with a guide in a group of no more than four. Return transfers from Darwin and all the gear are included.

Days

About 5 hours

Age

10 years and over

Group size

Max 4

Start / finish

Darwin / Berry Springs Nature Park / Darwin
Darwin, around midday

Return

Darwin, around midday

Transport

Return transfer from Darwin

Meals

No meals are listed as included

Route

Map of Dive Darwin Berry Springs Snorkel Tour

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Included experiences

Berry Springs — snorkel the clear freshwater pools of Berry Creek
Guided dive — scuba dive the springs if you hold Open Water
Main pool — see the remains of World War II weirs and huts
Picnic area — shade and lawns between swims

Pictures / Videos

Itinerary

Map

EARLY MORNING: DARWIN TO BERRY SPRINGS

The day starts early, with a transfer from Darwin at about 7am, before the heat builds. It's a drive of about 47 kilometres south down the Stuart Highway to Berry Springs Nature Park, and with no more than four people on the trip, there's plenty of time on the way to talk through the plan with your dive guide. During the Second World War the springs were a rest camp for troops based around Darwin, and you can still see their old weirs and hut remains near the main pool.

IN THE WATER

Berry Creek runs through the park in a chain of clear, spring-fed pools, shaded by monsoon forest. Snorkellers need no experience: with mask and fins you float over the surface, looking down on native fish and other small aquatic life. If you hold an Open Water certificate, you can scuba dive instead and go below with your guide, who supplies all the gear and stays with you in the water. The fresh water is warm and calm, a long way from the boat rides and swell of an ocean dive.

BETWEEN SWIMS AND BACK TO DARWIN

Between swims you can dry off on the lawns of the picnic area, in the shade of the big trees. Keep an eye out for birds and butterflies, which the park is known for, and for the walking track that loops through monsoon forest and woodland. The kiosk opens in the dry season if you want a snack. About five hours after you set off, you're back in Darwin around midday.

Map

Good to know

Meeting point: Pick-up in Darwin; your pick-up point is confirmed when you book.
Departure time: Around 7am, back about midday.
Minimum age: 10 years.
Fitness: Snorkellers need no experience. Divers must hold an Open Water certification and show their card.
Suits: Beginner snorkellers, certified divers wanting a freshwater dive, and anyone wanting a cool swim near Darwin.
Please note: Every diver fills in a PADI medical questionnaire, and divers over 65 need a doctor's clearance; some conditions or medicines rule out diving. Berry Springs can close for swimming in the wet season, between October and April, because of flooding, water quality and crocodile risk. The operator can cancel or change a trip for bad weather.

What to bring

Swimwear and a towel
Your scuba certification card if you are diving

What is included

Return transfers from Darwin
Scuba diving or snorkelling equipment
Dive guide in the water

Not included

Food and drink; a kiosk in the park opens from May to October

FAQ

Preparing for the trip

Do I need travel insurance?

Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended. Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.

Where can I get more information about this trip?

If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have.

What immunisations do I need?

For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.

Do I need to take any medical supplies?

It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour carries a first aid box, and the tour guides are all certified in First Aid.

Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?

You can use your mobile while touring in Australia or New Zealand, but coverage may be limited in remote areas. For best connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international roaming plan.

How fit do I need to be?

These tours are designed to be fun, informative and active, and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking or walking up to 5km each day.

What should I pack?

Depending on where in Australia or New Zealand you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.

Private tours and families

Is it possible to travel in a private group?

If you are looking for a private tour based on one of these trips, please contact us directly and we may be able to help. Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip.

Booking the trip

How far in advance do I need to book my tour?

As a rule of thumb, try to book at least 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible. Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.

Do I have to book this tour online?

Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.

If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?

Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.

Does the tour price include flights?

No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself. If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!

How do I know when a tour is available?

You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.

If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?

Balance on tours need to be paid at least 30 days prior to departure. Failure to do so could result is the cancellation of your seat with a fee charged. If you need more time to clear your balance then let us know ASAP and arrangements can be made.

Who travels with us

Is it ok to travel alone on one of these tours?

Plenty of travellers book these tours on their own. Solo travellers are very much welcomed and encouraged. During your outback adventure you'll meet new and interesting people and forge relationships that last a lifetime.Solo travellers will usually share a room with a travelling companion of the same sex, but even if you do get your own room you won't be charged extra. On camping tours there are generally enough tents available that you can have your own if you choose to.For more information please contact us directly.

Cost and Fees

Do I need to tip the guide?

If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip your guide, that is completely up to you. Tipping is not customary in Australia and is not at all expected.

Will I need additional money?

Travellers are advised to bring some cash, as ATMs and banks can be few and far between in the remote parts of the trip. It is handy to have some extra cash, as the tour does stop by local shops and cafes.

Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?

Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.

What does Paid Locally mean?

Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.

Whilst on tour

Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?

We know our country inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations. Please contact us for recommendations.

Where do I meet the tour?

For pick-up times and locations, please check the "Start/Finish" section directly under the itinerary, which lists every pick-up point and its time.There is a lot of information there to help you plan your flights and arrival.Please review it carefully, as pick-ups can vary from tour to tour.