Frequently Asked Questions​

Top Frequently Asked Questions

1HR TOUR – Ideal if you do not want to snorkel and you are interested in finding out more about the Ningaloo reef.

2HR TOUR – Young Families (including babies) this tour is broken into sections – always something happening.

3HR – Families with older children and snorkel lovers. A little more time and space to enjoy the reef and relax.  

Sub Sea Explorer is a semi-submersible catamaran. This means we have a lower deck located below the water line. Our guests have a unique view of the reef and will feel completely submersed within the marine environment. The 16 windows are located on the sides of the hull and allow passengers to look out at a 360 degrees. On a regular glass bottom boat, the windows are in the floor of the hull, and have a limited range of viewing compared with semi-submersible vessel.

800 meters to 1 kilometres from Tantabiddi boat ramp. We explore the Tantabiddi sanctuary area of Ningaloo Reef.

A wonderful variety of reef fish and hard corals. We often see turtles, sharks, rays and larger fish, for example Queensland groupers when we explore the deeper waters outside of the coral garden area.

If you need to make changes to an existing booking please contact us. We are happy to make changes to your booking pending availability.

We only supply food on our half day and private tours. You are welcome to bring your own snacks on our 1 hour and 2 hours tours.

Toddlers should not snorkel independently, but they can enjoy shallow water play while wearing life jackets and under constant parental supervision. The coral viewing experience provides perfect entertainment for very young children.

The crew is experienced with nervous children and will provide gentle encouragement and support. Children can return to the vessel at any time, and there’s no pressure to continue if they’re uncomfortable.

There are no strict age restrictions, but the 1-hour tour is recommended for families with very young children or elderly members who prefer shorter experiences.

You’re welcome to bring personal equipment, though the vessel provides high-quality masks, snorkels, and fins in all sizes. Personal equipment should be clearly labelled with your name.

Yes! we supply masks snorkels and fins. We do not supply wetsuits. Please contact Tom from Exmouth Surf Centre for a great deal on 24 hours wetsuit hire.

No. We explore the inside of the Ningaloo Reef. Whalesharks are on the outside on the Ningaloo fringe Reef. We recommend contacting Ningaloo Discovery or Ocean Eco Adventures for Whaleshark tours.

Tantabiddi boat ramp, which is a 25 min drive from Exmouth town centre.

Swimwear, water bottle, towel, camera or phone. You are welcome to bring a snack.

If you require a dog sitter to look after your best friend please contact these dog loving locals;

Renata 0427877728
Johanna 0439516090 (Please text dates/time required first)
Daly 0476256929 (available until June 2025)
Elke 0472591909

Alternatively, pop into Mutts Cafe for an up-to-date list of local dog sitters.

The semi-submersible design significantly reduces motion, but seasickness remedies are available onboard. The crew can provide assistance and recommend the most stable seating areas.

The beauty of semi submarine tours is that family members can participate at their comfort level. Non-swimmers enjoy coral viewing while swimmers snorkel, then everyone reunites for continued exploration.

Basic changing facilities are available, though most families find it easier to arrive in swimwear with cover-ups for the journey to and from the reef.

While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, the crew knows the best locations for turtle encounters, coral gardens, and fish aggregations, maximising your chances of incredible marine life experiences.