Great Barrier Reef snorkeling

[simonv]

We are taking a cruise next year through the Great Barrier Reef, stopping at Darwin, Cairns, Townsville and Whitsunday Island. This is our first time in the Great Barrier Reef. Ship offers a snorkeling excursion to reef pantoon in Cairns. Many snorkel boats out of Cairns seem to go there. I'm wondering if I should charter a private boat to take us to other spots, or is the pantoon best there is around there? Any recommendation on the outfit?

Are there good snorkeling in Darwin and Townsville? How about Witsunday Island? Is there any good operator you can recommend for a private trip?

[MaggieS]

Tou might want to post this on the aust/new zeal thread too. Might get more responses. Just a thought.

[joramrose]

I took a ship's tour to the pontoon out of Cairns.

 

There were a great many people there, but the snorkeling was terrific. Had excellent tour guides as well.

 

Also had glass bottom boats (free) and submariners (also free) to enhance the experience.

 

Best shipl's tour money I ever spent.

 

love

joan