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South Pacific
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Queensland
Daintree Region
Cape Tribulation
Things to do in Cape Tribulation
Ocean Safari

Ocean Safari

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Ocean Safari
5
#1 of 15 Outdoor Activities in Cape Tribulation
River Rafting & TubingScuba & SnorkellingBoat Tours
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
About
Ocean Safari offers an exhilarating ride to snorkel the pristine untouched Great Barrier Reef off the Daintree Coast at Cape Tribulation. This half day eco tour visits two different snorkel destinations, each with an extraordinary array of marine life and coral species.The tour begins at Cape Tribulation beach where guests board the vessel bound for the tropical waters of the Great Barrier Reef. After an exhilarating fast ride of approximately 25 minutes guests are ready to snorkel two fabulous locations at Mackay and Undine Reefs. On most days the rainforest can be seen along the mainland beach whilst snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, home to an abundance of marine life as well as beautiful hard and soft corals.The Ocean Safari vessel takes a maximum of 25 passengers allowing guests to experience tropical paradise and the pleasure of a small group. The vessel is based on the original design of a rescue craft and is a rigid inflatable boat driven by 700hp engines. The experienced Skipper and Eco Host ensure the trip is filled with fun and appreciation of the Great Barrier Reef and the coastal rainforest of the Daintree, two world heritage areas side by side. Magical memories like these sometimes only happen once in a lifetime. The Ocean Safari check in office is at the Turtle Rock Cafe and Safari Lodge, Cape Tribulation Road and a courtesy bus pick up from Cape Tribulation accommodation is included. Ocean Safari has Advanced Eco Accreditation.
Cape Tribulation, Queensland, Australia
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

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5.0
5.0 of 5 bubbles2,309 reviews
Excellent
2,138
Very good
132
Average
25
Poor
10
Terrible
4
brucemaclean1
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Bruce M
June 2021 • Family
We took this trip off Cape Trib as the lure of a 20 minute trip to the reef was far more enticing than hours of travel from Cairns. With young kids the shorter trip was definitely a better choice. But wow, easily the best family reef trip you could ask for, Brett the skipper was relaxed but very professional, the way he guided that boat through a decent swell to make it as comfortable as possible for the passengers was truly impressive, I know as a boat owner who often fishes offshore, you can punch through or drive for the conditions to try and make it more comfortable. Well done Brett, it did not go unnoticed. My 8 yo daughter got chilled after an hr in the water and when she got back on the boat Brett wrapped her up in his jacket to warm her. Murray our guide who was both personable and professional with a great sense of humour is constantly watching the passengers in and out of the boat, and dives in with everyone to ensure those who are nervous are eased into this amazing experience.
I've been fortunate enough to dive in many incredible spots all over the world, but as an Aussie, first time on the GBR, so glad we chose you guys , well done.
Written 5 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OceanRafting_Safari
Thanks so much for this wonderful recap of your day!! We couldn't be happier hearing you had a truly wonderful day on the water with Brett and Murray. You can always count on them for professionalism and a fantastic time in any conditions! Thanks so much for choosing to travel with us and we are stoked your first time on the GBR was something to remember! Team Ocean Safari
Written 7 July 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MelbourneSeeTheWorld
Melbourne, Australia421 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
See the Reef. Protecting the Reef.
Jan 2021 • Couples
There are a dearth of operators to choose from that will take you out to explore the reef. There are those out of Port Douglas that run these huge vessels and under different circumstances they would be packed with people. One difference with Ocean Safari is that it is a small vessel, in our case only 13 plus crew on board. This lends itself for a more personal experience. The other plus for me was the real commitment of both Brett and Raz who looked after us. It started from the walk along the beach to meet the boat with Raz collecting plastic that had washed up on shore. This was further demonstrated by Brett turning the boat around on the return trip to pick up a piece of plastic spotted floating in the water. This was not a stunt but a commitment of an operator that was a business but also cared about their environment. Impressive! As for the snorkelling it was excellent. Thorough safety briefing both at the start and when we arrived at the reef sites. Very clear instruction on how to ensure we did not damage the coral from our activity. Saw a lot of fish, coral and turtles. Stinger suits were supplied and felt very safe out there swimming around. Would highly recommend.
Written 28 January 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OceanRafting_Safari
We and the team are committed the health of the reef, oceans and the land basins that surround them, no stunts or gimmicks here just a love for nature and the planet we live on! We couldn't be happier hearing that you had an outstanding day exploring the beauty of the reef with Brett and Raz, who would have been more than happy to share their passion for this amazing ecosystem. Thanks so much for the wonderful recommendation. Team Ocean Safari
Written 29 January 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Amanda B
3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Best tour of my life!!!!!
Dec 2019 • Solo
The tour was just perfect in absolutely every single detail. To start all the crew since the beginning did an outstanding job, the way to the reef is already an amazing part of the trip and then we arrived at one of the most beautiful spots that I’ve ever seen in my whole life. I will never forget all the colourful corals moving and shining surrounded by the most beautiful fishes, turtles, starfishes, stingrays. This part of the reef is impeccable and everyone once in life should see how stunning is the world under those waters. More than recommend the tour and with no doubts was the best part of my trip in Australia!
Written 6 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OceanRafting_Safari
Wow, Amanda, thank you!!! We couldn’t be happier to hear about your day and to know it was a super special experience for you! There is something so special about the underwater world, isn’t there?! It’s captivating. Cheers Team Ocean Safari
Written 8 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sean C
Sunshine Coast, Australia214 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Full day excitement packed into a half day
Aug 2020
What a top notch experience. I'm normally a hard to please tourist but this was excellent value for money, great fun and something I will not be forgetting for a very long time.
Brett and Diane were engaing, funny and certainly added to the experience.

Although the session is only half a day, the boat ride is a quick 25 minutes to the reef and stopping at two different locations to experience the different types of coral was fantastic.
Turtles decided to join us which absolutely put this experience over the top - couldn't have asked for a better morning.
A quick ride back to base and we stopped for a quick bite for lunch.
The only thing to improve on would be to get the trip photos out same or next day - although the photos were great, it would be better to get them same day when the excitement is still high.
Written 19 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OceanRafting_Safari
Couldn’t be happier hearing your experience with Brett and Dianne was top notch!! It sounds like it was a wonderful day on the water with lots of magical experiences. Cheers for the feedback on the photos too, we definitely understand wanting to see them on the day. The images are usually available to view within 24-48 hours of your tour. Team Ocean Safari
Written 22 August 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nevada1972
8 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Great day
Jan 2020
Day was well organised, had great time. Easy pick up location and easy access to the boat that transported us to the reef. Stayed at accommodation across the road, they charged 9 dollars extra than the tour cost, my suggestion is to contact Ocean Safari directly and save the 9 dollars.
Written 27 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OceanRafting_Safari
Thanks for the great review! The whole team is thrilled you enjoyed your time exploring the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef with us! In regards to the purchase of your ticket from the reception team at your accommodation, they should have only charged you the standard tour price. Should you have any further queries about this please don't hesitate to contact reservations on tours@oceansafari.com.au. Team Ocean Safari
Written 30 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
hhussey2020
Adelaide, Australia1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Highly recommended
Sept 2020
We could not fault this tour. We have snorkelled on the reef at various spots before - out of pt Douglas and in the Whitsundays but this was the best. To see a turtle close up was simply amazing. The skipper was extremely good with managing the boat on A very rough weather day. The crew were professional and competent and fun. Would highly recommend this tour. We had a wonderful day with great memories.
Written 23 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OceanRafting_Safari
We are absolutely delighted to hear you had a wonderful day out on the water despite the windy conditions! Seeing a sea turtle up close as it glides effortlessly through the water is one of life's great joys!! Hope the beautiful memories last a lifetime!! Team Ocean Safari
Written 23 September 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Club59
Noosaville, Australia11 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Awesome CGR experience!!
July 2020
Our favourite part of the tour was the clarity of the ocean, the time allowed actually in the water snorkelling (two solid hours) and the fact we still had half a day to do other sight-seeing around Cape Trib. The tour only took an exhilarating 30 minutes to get out to the reef and sand cay and our awesome marine biologist Frederico was a wealth of knowledge. We also stayed at Safari Lodge the night prior and highly rate their en-suited cabins to stay in.
Written 20 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OceanRafting_Safari
Stoked to hear you had a fantastic reef and rainforest experience with us here in Cape Tribulation! The water clarity at Mackay is so amazing some days that it feels like you could see forever and what a view it is!! Thanks so much for this wonderful feedback, the whole team is over the moon. Hope to see you again one day soon. Team Ocean Safari
Written 24 July 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
RachanaCreation
Brisbane, Australia1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Personalised reef experience in a group: Memory of a life time for amateur snorkelers like us
Dec 2019
Federico (Fede), Glenn, Meri and Ocean safari ground team was awesome.
They were very knowledgeable and protective for the wildlife. They knew about turtle eggs on Mackay reef (sand cay) and prevented any harm to them from human activities which was very appreciable.
Considering amateur snorkelers, they provided us with all guidance along with physical and mental support and encouraged us to explore beautiful wildlife underneath clear blue water on a perfect sunny day. We spotted green sea turtles, bright blue star fish, sting ray, reef shark, nemo, tiger fish, puffer fish, parrot fish, sea cucumber, and many more colourful corals and species.
We always wanted to explore the coral ecosystem but we were bit scared going into the water. But believe us, being Fede on our side we forgot that we were amateurs and enjoyed our experience to the fullest.
Amazingly, Fede spotted someone’s engagement ring on the ocean floor and did not hesitate to drive straight and got it. I wish we had a recording of it. This could have easily ended up as a Hollywood movie scene.
We would love to visit again as experienced snorkelers with camera next time!
Written 27 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OceanRafting_Safari
Thanks so much for this beautiful review of your time with the team at Mackay Reef, it sounds like you had the most magical day! We are exceptionally passionate about what we do and protecting this natural wonder that we are lucky enough to call the "office". Fede would have made sure that you felt confident while exploring all the beauty that the underwater world holds and has eagle eyes, so you'll never miss even the smallest of creatures or in this case engagement rings hahahaha! Hope to see you again sometime in the future for another adventure!! Team Ocean Safari
Written 13 April 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
kenF3291YQ
Sunshine Coast, Australia1 contribution
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Great day out
June 2020
We did a trip to the closer reef off Cape Trib in fairly windy conditions. Was only a 20-25 min ride and the boat ride was surprisingly good given the 20 knots of wind. The reef was good, we saw loads of soft corals and more giant clams than we have seen anywhere and in shallow water. Also saw moray eel a painted cray and clown fish. Crew were great - professional and relaxed.
Thanks for a fun day !
Written 8 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OceanRafting_Safari
Our rigid inflatable vessel provides a petty comfortable ride to the reef in 20knots whilst still providing a fantastic adventure trip. Delighted to hear you had a great day out. Team Ocean Safari
Written 12 July 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Bente Jensen
8 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
A must!
Jan 2021 • Friends
We did a tour with Frederico and Brett and it was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING.
I have a tendency to worry a lot and I was worried too this time as it was stinger season. We were equipped with a stinger suit and they did an absolutely perfect briefing which calmed me a lot.
The boat ride there was fun and the two guys I travelled with really enjoyed the fast pace of they motor boat. The captain was fun and the also really took notice and respected everybody’s needs.
When we got in the water I completely forgot all my fears. It was so beautiful and even though it was raining the water was very clear under the surface. I felt VERY safe the entire trip. I will recommend doing this to everybody! Absolutely amazing ❤️
Written 15 January 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OceanRafting_Safari
Thanks so much for this great feedback!! We couldn't be happier knowing you had wonderful time seeing the beauty of the reef with Brett and Fede. Sounds like they did a fantastic job of ensuring that you felt comfortable to explore while having a true underwater adventure! Thanks again Team Ocean Safari
Written 17 January 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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