One-on-One Snorkel in Sydney: Shelly Beach Marine Sanctuary

Snorkel at your own pace with a guide who stays by your side

A one-on-one guided snorkel at Shelly Beach in Sydney's marine sanctuary, designed for non-swimmers and anyone wanting privacy and safety in the water. You get a snorkel, mask, rash vest, and flotation devices; the guide provides a safety briefing and stays with you the entire time, offering hand-holding support if you need it. Children from age 6 are welcome, and the experience runs about an hour.

The Experience

Shelly Beach in Manly is Sydney's most protected marine sanctuary, and this one-on-one setup means you explore it without the crowd. The guide meets you at the beach, runs through a safety briefing tailored to your comfort level, and then enters the water with you—just the two of you. Flotation devices are provided for everyone; in a one-on-one session, you also get a life jacket. The guide stays at your side the whole time, adjusting the pace to what feels right and offering physical support (including hand-holding) whenever you need it.

You don't need to know how to swim. The snorkel, mask, and rash vest are all included, so you show up with nothing but a towel. The guide handles the in-water supervision and knows the sanctuary well enough to point out what's there without rushing you through it. If you're bringing a partner, friend, or child, message the operator to check what options exist for more than one guest—the one-on-one format can sometimes be adapted.

The whole experience is built around making you feel safe and comfortable in the ocean. Whether you're a non-swimmer, someone who's anxious in the water, or simply someone who values privacy and attention, the guide's job is to keep you at ease and let you focus on what's below the surface.

What’s included

• Guided snorkeling in the protected marine sanctuary.
• snorkel, mask, and rash vest.
• flotation devices and life jacket.
• safety briefing and in-water supervision by a qualified guide.

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller friendlyInfant seats availablePets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Snorkelling Shelly Beach

Is this one for you?Book this if you're snorkeling alone or want undivided attention from the guide—the one-on-one format means the pace, the support, and the whole experience stay exactly as comfortable as you need it to be. It's also the right choice if you're a non-swimmer or anxious in the ocean, since the guide's job is to keep you safe and supported the entire time.

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Top questions

What exactly is Shelly Beach and why is it a marine sanctuary?

Shelly Beach in Manly is a protected marine sanctuary in Sydney, meaning it's a designated area where marine life is safeguarded and fishing is restricted. The protection makes it one of Sydney's best spots for snorkeling because the fish and other sea creatures are accustomed to visitors and remain in the area.

Do I really need to be able to swim to do this snorkel?

No. This experience is specifically designed for non-swimmers and anyone who isn't confident in the ocean. You wear a life jacket and flotation devices, and the guide stays with you the entire time, offering hand-holding support and in-water supervision so you can explore safely without swimming ability.

What's included in the one-on-one snorkel, and what do I need to bring?

The experience includes a snorkel, mask, rash vest, flotation devices, a life jacket, and a safety briefing from a qualified guide. You just need to bring a towel and wear swimwear; the guide provides everything else. A lockable wet bag is available if you want to secure small items like your phone or wallet.

Can I bring my child, and what's the minimum age?

Children are welcome from age 6. If you're bringing a child or multiple guests, message the operator to confirm what options are available, since the one-on-one format may need adjustment for groups.

How long does the experience take?

The snorkel runs for about an hour. This includes the safety briefing on the beach and the time spent in the water exploring the sanctuary with your guide.

What languages does the guide speak?

Guides are available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Let the operator know your preferred language when you book.