Rarotonga: Swim With Turtles & Reef Snorkeling Tour

Summary

Swim with turtles in Rarotonga’s clear waters, guided beach entry and reef life

You’ll slip into Rarotonga’s lagoon with a local guide, swim beside turtles and rays on a guided reef snorkeling tour, and taste fresh island fruit back on shore. All equipment is provided—just bring your swimsuit and towel—and there’s secure storage for your things while you’re out exploring. Expect laughter, salt on your lips, and that weirdly peaceful feeling that lingers after watching turtles drift by.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I was nervous before we started — something about slipping into the sea in Rarotonga and not knowing what would glide past my mask. But our guide Tama just grinned, handed me my fins, and said, “You’ll see them soon.” We shuffled down the warm sand together, masks fogging a little from all our chatter. The water was cooler than I expected at first touch, but you forget that quick when you spot your first turtle. I still remember how its shell caught the sunlight — kind of greenish-brown with these pale lines — and it moved so slowly it made me feel like I should slow down too.

There were rays too, almost ghostly under the surface, and schools of fish darting around us like confetti. At one point I got distracted by a parrotfish chewing coral (it’s loud if you listen underwater), then realized everyone else was following Tama toward a deeper patch where two turtles were circling each other. He told us not to chase or touch them — just float and watch. It felt respectful somehow. The current wasn’t strong but you do need to be comfortable swimming out there; I was glad for the good gear they gave us because my old mask always leaks.

After maybe an hour — honestly I lost track — we headed back to shore for fresh fruit (I’d never had pawpaw that sweet) and rinsed off under the outdoor shower. Someone cracked a joke about turtle selfies (photos are taken if they can, but safety comes first), and we all laughed because none of us looked very graceful flopping out of the water anyway. When I think about this day trip snorkeling in Rarotonga now, it’s mostly those quiet moments underwater that stick with me. Not just seeing turtles up close but feeling like you’re part of their world for a bit… even if only until your fingers get wrinkly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling with turtles and reef life

• Arrive at beach entry point
• Receive snorkeling equipment
• Swim alongside turtles and rays
• Explore colorful tropical fish
• Enjoy guided snorkeling tour

Top questions

Do I need to be an experienced swimmer to join the Rarotonga snorkeling tour?

A moderate level of swimming confidence is recommended; all skill levels are welcome but you should feel comfortable in open water.

Are snorkeling gear and wetsuits included in the tour?

Yes, premium snorkeling gear is provided for comfort and safety during your experience.

Will I definitely see turtles on this Rarotonga snorkeling trip?

Turtle sightings are guaranteed on this guided tour.

Is transportation or hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is included but there is ample parking available and public transport options nearby.

How long does the swim with turtles experience last?

The guided snorkeling tour lasts around two hours total.

Are photos taken during the tour?

Photos are taken on all tours when possible but safety is always prioritized over photography.

Is there somewhere safe to leave my valuables during the tour?

Yes, secure storage is provided for your valuables while you snorkel.

What should I bring for this day trip snorkeling in Rarotonga?

You only need to bring swimwear and a towel; everything else is supplied.

What’s included

Your day includes premium snorkeling gear for comfort and safety, convenient shower facilities to rinse off after swimming with turtles in Rarotonga’s lagoon, fresh local fruit to snack on post-swim, secure storage for any valuables while you’re out on the reef, plus photos taken whenever possible so you can remember those turtle encounters later—just don’t forget your swimsuit and towel!