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An Underwater Paradise Awaits
Just a short 15-minute drive south from the Gold Coast Airport and a mere 600 metres off the shores of Fingal Headland lies the volcanic marvel of Cook Island. This captivating marine sanctuary hosts a permanent community of Green, Hawksbill, and Loggerhead Turtles, thriving amidst a vibrant tapestry of hard and soft corals. 🐢
Venture into this underwater wonderland and discover a bustling ecosystem teeming with life. Watch playful clownfish darting amongst the anemones, spot elusive wobbegongs resting in the shadows, and swim alongside majestic sea turtles. Depending on the season, you might even witness humpback whales on their annual migration (June to October) or encounter harmless, elegant leopard sharks during the balmy summer months. 🐬
Your Snorkel Adventure Itinerary
- Gear Up & Briefing: Meet at the boathouse to collect your premium snorkelling gear and receive a safety and educational briefing.
- Scenic Boat Cruise: Enjoy a scenic 15-minute boat ride along the Tweed River, crossing the Tweed bar and passing some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches.
- Dive In: We’ll anchor in the sheltered waters of Cook Island, where you’ll slide into the water to explore the reef.
- Guided Exploration: Our experienced snorkel guide will be in the water with you, helping beginners feel confident and ensuring you don’t miss any magical turtle encounters.
Tour Details
- Departure Times: Daily departures at 8:00 AM, 10:30 AM, and 1:00 PM (NSW time). Please note: We fill the 8:00 AM departure first, so please select this time slot if available.
- Location: Departs from and returns to Fingal Boathouse, Fingal Road, Fingal Head, NSW.
- Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours of pure fun and adventure. 🌟
- Suitability: Perfect for intermediate and experienced snorkellers. Children aged 6 and over are welcome (under 14s must be accompanied by an adult).
- Boutique Group Size: We limit our tours to just 9 guests to ensure a highly personalised and intimate experience.
What We Supply
- Qualified Snorkel Guide
- All premium equipment (wetsuits, fins, mask, and snorkel)
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Life jackets and flotation devices
- Unforgettable memories and adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cook Island have a beach?
Cook Island is a protected volcanic outcrop with marine reserve status, meaning landing on the island is not permitted. All snorkelling takes place directly from our custom boat.
What if I have never snorkelled before?
We require guests to have some basic experience using a snorkel and mask. Our highly trained guides will refresh your skills before we enter the water. Private skills lessons can also be arranged prior to the tour to build your confidence.
Do I need to be able to swim?
Yes, basic swimming ability is essential for your safety and enjoyment. Our guides are there to show you the wonders of the reef, not to teach basic swimming.
Is it possible to get seasick?
This depends on the individual. If you are prone to motion sickness, we recommend taking preventative measures beforehand, as ocean conditions can vary.
Will I see turtles?
Cook Island is a permanent sanctuary for Green, Hawksbill, and Loggerhead Turtles. While nature is unpredictable, it is extremely rare to snorkel here without encountering these beautiful creatures!
Will I see sharks?
We do not see dangerous sharks at Cook Island. You are, however, very likely to spot harmless and fascinating species like Wobbegongs and Leopard Sharks.
Hi and thanks for booking in with Watersports Guru!
We can’t wait to get you out snorkelling with our turtles, but before you do, just a couple of things to make your trip a little smoother.
What to Bring
- Swimmers
- Towel
- Water bottle
- Motion sickness tablets (if necessary)
We provide all equipment, and you’re welcome to bring your own if you’d like!
Important Schedule Information:
- We may need to change your original booking times due to tides, weather, or unforeseen circumstances, so please remain flexible.
- Your tour time may change due to changing tides or weather. We operate up to three trips a day, though we will always fill up the morning tours first. We operate in the open ocean and have no control over the weather. Again, please be flexible and keep your day open!
- We have a no refund policy if cancellation is within 24 hours, so make sure you let us know if you can’t make it.
Preparation Tips
If you have the opportunity, go for a snorkel in a pool if it’s been a while to make sure you are super comfortable once out at Cook Island.
How to Find Us
You will find our blue boathouse opposite the She Oak Shack cafe right on the water at 10 Lighthouse Parade, Fingal, NSW 2487. There is lots of parking just behind.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Terms & Conditions
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 24 hours of your tour are non-refundable unless contacted by the Guru team.
Safety & Physical Requirements
Cook Island marine sanctuary is an offshore snorkel site. Ocean conditions can sometimes be challenging with wind, swell, and chop. To ensure your safety and enjoyment, we enforce the following strict requirements:
- Swimming Ability: To snorkel with the turtles, you MUST have medium swimming ability as conditions may vary. You MUST be self-reliant in the water and MUST be able to swim 100 metres unassisted.
- Boat Re-entry: Entry back to the boat is via a step ladder. You MUST be able to climb the ladder unassisted.
- Equipment: Wetsuits MUST be worn for flotation and protection from the elements (available up to size XXL, and fins up to shoe size 15-17).
Please Note: If you do not fulfil these requirements, it is unsafe for you to join us, as we will not be able to guarantee your safety.
