WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING WITH ME?
We suggest you bring your own mask, snorkel and fins as it is always more comfortable and less problematic having gear you know. Below is a list of basic items to bring:
- Sunblock 30+ (ideally reef-friendly)
- Sun glasses
- Wetsuit (mainly for buoyancy as the water temperature is about 25°C)
- Mask, fins, snorkel
- Camera (We can recommend cameras if you wish to buy one before you get to Tonga)
- Swimmers
- Sun hat
- Beach Towel (Mainly for the boat)
- Spray jacket/Windproof jacket
- Summer attire shorts, T-Shirts, sandals,
- Bug spray
- Basic medical supplies
WHAT WILL THE INTERACTIONS BE LIKE WITH THE WHALES?
The interactions can last 1 minute or 1 hour depending on how comfortable the whales are, but expect to get up close and personal with them at some stage on your trip.
WILL THERE BE OPPORTUNITIES TO SWIM WITH OTHER MARINE MAMMALS?
We often see dolphins, turtles, sharks and manta rays. You never know what you might come across.
DO WE NEED TO BRING FOOD ON THE BOAT?
All meals, tea, coffee, and soft drinks are provided, as well as water. While we do have water available on board, it’s a good idea to bring your own reusable bottle (to use less plastic). While we try to cater to specific dietary requirements, supplies in the remote areas of Australia are limited so please bring backups if necessary.
CAN YOU MEET CERTAIN DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?
We will be travelling to remote islands, therefore it is important to let us know in advance of any food allergies or dietary requirements, via the booking form.
DO WE STAY ON A LIVEABOARD WHILE WE ARE IN THE GREAT BARRIER REEF?
Yes.
WHAT ARE THE FITNESS REQUIREMENTS?
There are no age restrictions, but should be confident snorkeling in open ocean that may sometime get choppy. We endeavour to stay close to the reefs in calmer waters, and will usually be able to avoid any rough seas.
ARE THERE AVAILABILITIES IN 2024/25?
Yes there are availabilities. Please reach out!
DO I NEED VACCINATIONS? ARE THERE HEALTH ISSUES THERE?
There are lots of mosquitoes, so we recommend bringing a good repellent with you. For any specific concerns, please see a travel doctor before you depart.
HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE IN MY GROUP?
There is a maximum of 6 people on any tour however we are generally on larger vessels with up to 24 guests
ARE WE GUARANTEED TO SEE A WHALE?
I have had 90% success rate over the last several years, and while some days on the water can be more difficult than others, you will definitely see whales both above and below the water during your tour.
WHAT ARE THE AVERAGE TEMPERATURES DAY / NIGHT?
Far North Queensland has a tropical climate and boasts some of Australia’s best weather. Temperatures are steady throughout the year, with an average maximum of 30°C and an average minimum of 21°C.
WHAT IS THE WATER TEMPERATURE?
The Great Barrier Reef is warm all year round, usually between 24°C and 29°C.
CAN I SCUBA DIVE?
Yes, you can either snorkel or scuba dive on the trip.
DO YOU HAVE LARGE SIZE FINS / WETSUITS?
The largest fin size we have available is 15. Generally we recommend everyone bring their own fins / mask / snorkel as it is always more comfortable and less problematic in your own gear.
WILL I BE ABLE TO TAKE PHOTOS OF THE WHALES?
Of course! You are more than welcome to take your photography gear into the water with you (we can recommend cameras if you plan to purchase one before you arrive).
IS THERE INTERNET ACCESS?
There will be no internet access onboard the vessel.
WHAT CURRENCY ARE THE TOUR COSTS IN?
All tour costs are in Australian dollars and there are multiple payment methods you can use for each tour. Note that credit card payments have a 2.8% fee and PayPal payments have a 3.5% fee. You can use a currency converter to get an idea of the currency conversion or exchange rate. check out .Oanda for latest rates.
WHO WILL HOST/LEAD THE TOUR?
Scott Portelli will be your host.
DO WE NEED TO GIVE OURSELVES BUFFER TRAVEL TIME?
It is worth giving yourself an extra day either side of your tour to ensure any flight changes or transport issues don’t affect your connecting flights.
WHAT PAYMENT METHODS DO YOU HAVE AVAILABLE?
I can take deposit and payment via credit card, PayPal, or direct bank transfer. Note there is a 2.8% fee on credit card transactions and a 3.5% fee on PayPal transactions
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Most travelers going to Australia will require an electronical tourist visa to enter Australia and you will be allowed up to 90 days. This visa is called an ETA visa and you must apply for it online or via the Australian ETA app prior to your departure. There are some countries that require a visa issued by an embassy prior to arrival. For more detailed information check out the Australian Government’s website here: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-finder/visit
DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE?
It is very important that you have travel insurance. Travel insurance will cover you for loss of baggage and changes to flights outside your control as well as possible tour cancellations.