Swim with wild sea turtles at
Cook Island

You don't need to be a strong swimmer. We provide flotation devices for all guests who need them, and our guides are in the water with you throughout. If you're comfortable floating and putting your face in the water, you can join us.

Cook Island is home to resident Green and Hawksbill turtles year-round, and we see turtles on the vast majority of our tours. While wildlife is never 100% guaranteed, our 25 years of experience in these waters means we know exactly where to look and our turtle sighting rate is exceptionally high.

Absolutely Cook Island is one of the best places in Australia to try snorkeling for the first time. The reef is just 600 metres offshore, the water is generally calm and clear, and the marine life comes to you. We provide flotation devices if needed. Our snorkel supervisors are constantly watching, so you'll never feel out of your depth — literally or figuratively.

Cook Island punches well above its size. On a typical tour you can expect leopard sharks resting on the sandy bottom, eagle rays gliding across the reef, wobbegong sharks tucked into rocky ledges, and vast schools of colourful reef fish including wrasse, parrotfish, and surgeonfish. The reef is also home to octopus, nudibranchs, and sea stars. During whale season (June–November) humpbacks are regularly spotted on the way out.

Your safety always comes first. If conditions make it unsafe to operate, we'll contact you as early as possible and offer a full reschedule or refund. We recommend booking with some flexibility in your travel plans as the Tweed

Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian in the water. For younger children please contact us before booking so we can discuss whether the experience is suitable.

We recommend checking with your doctor before booking. Please let us know at the time of booking so we can make sure we have the right equipment and can look after you properly on the water.

Wear your swimwear under your clothes. Bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen (apply before arriving — not in the water), water, sunglasses, a windbreaker for the boat ride, and a snack for after. Snorkel equipment, wetsuits if needed is available to hire ($20), and flotation devices. Underwater cameras are available to hire — ask us when booking.

We depart from Tweed Heads. Exact departure point details are sent with your booking confirmation. Cook Island is a 15–25 minute boat ride from the departure point.

Yes, Cook Island is accessible year-round and turtles are resident throughout the year. Whale watching opportunities are seasonal, typically June to November, so check our charter page if that's of interest.

We do our best to accommodate guests with varying needs. Please contact us before booking so we can discuss your specific requirements and make sure we can give you a great experience on the water.