Port Douglas: Low Isles Reef Sprinter Snorkeling Tour Small Group

Summary

Low Isles reef snorkeling by speed boat from Port Douglas no crowds

You’ll zip out from Port Douglas on a speedy boat with just a handful of others, then snorkel right off the back at an exclusive Low Isles reef spot—no island stop needed. Expect colorful coral, curious fish (maybe even turtles), and a friendly local guide who keeps things relaxed and personal. You’ll head home salt-streaked and grinning.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I almost lost my hat on the way out—nobody warned me the Reef Sprinter would take off like that. It’s just 15 minutes from Port Douglas to the Low Isles reef, but with that salty wind and the engine’s roar, it felt like we were flying. There were only 11 of us on board (plus our guide, Jamie, who grinned the whole ride), so it didn’t feel crowded or awkward. I could smell sunscreen and sea spray mixing in the air. Jamie passed around bottled water and checked our wetsuits—mine was a bit snug but honestly, I was grateful once we hit the water.

There’s no island stop on this tour—you slide right off the back of the boat into clear blue. The first thing I noticed? The water was warmer than I expected. And then—coral everywhere, like someone had dropped a box of paint into the sea. Fish darted around my mask and at one point a green turtle glided past so close I could see its shell markings. Jamie floated nearby pointing things out—“That’s a parrotfish,” he said, and then laughed when I tried to repeat its name in his accent (I failed). It felt safe but free; nobody rushed us or herded us along.

I liked that there weren’t other boats around—Jamie mentioned they have special permits for this spot so it stays quiet. Sometimes you could just hear your own breathing through the snorkel and nothing else. When we climbed back up (awkwardly—I’m not graceful in fins), Jamie handed out more water and let us sit in the sun for a minute before heading back. The ride home was calmer; everyone seemed quieter too, maybe just soaking it all in.

I still think about that turtle sometimes. And how close everything felt—the reef, the fish, even strangers sharing snacks on deck afterward. If you want to see Low Isles reef without crowds or seasickness drama, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Low Isles Reef snorkeling tour

• Board speed boat at Port Douglas
• Travel 15 minutes to Low Isles reef
• Snorkel 1.5 hours from boat
• Observe corals, fish, and turtles
• Return 15 minutes to Port Douglas

Top questions

How long is the Low Isles Reef Sprinter snorkeling tour?

The tour lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes total.

Is there island access during this snorkeling trip?

No, there is no island access; all snorkeling is done from the back of the boat.

How many people are on each tour?

The maximum group size is 14 people per boat.

How far is Low Isles reef from Port Douglas by boat?

It takes about 15 minutes by speed boat to reach Low Isles reef from Port Douglas.

Are snorkeling equipment and wetsuits provided?

Yes, all snorkeling gear plus lycra suits or wetsuits are included depending on season.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is provided; bottled water is included though.

Can you see turtles at Low Isles reef?

Yes, green turtles are often seen swimming near the reef during this tour.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries due to bumpy rides.

Where does check-in take place for this tour?

Check-in is at the same marina where cruise ship tenders drop off/pick up in Port Douglas.

What’s included

Your trip includes bottled water for everyone onboard, full use of quality snorkeling equipment plus lycra suits or wetsuits depending on weather—all fees and taxes covered too. Just make sure you check in at least 30 minutes before departure at Port Douglas marina before hopping onto your small group speed boat adventure out to Low Isles reef and back again.