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Reef Snorkelling

Endless opportunities for marine life encounters. Including turtles, manta rays, reef corals and tropical fishes.

Reef Scuba Diving

Safe snorkelling environment with resting station, floatation equipment and safety staff.

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Glass Bottom Boat Tour

Friendly crew share the raw beauty of this natural wonder through glass-bottom boat viewing.

Turtle Viewing

Daily turtle encounters are an everyday norm.

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Full Guided Island Walking Tour

Experienced eco-tour guides interpret the fascinating ecosystems underneath the island forest canopy.

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Explore The Wildlife & History

Holding our eco-tourism certification, we are grateful for the opportunity to maintain an accessible and sustainable tour operation.

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See The Reef from the Glass Bottom boat

Friendly crew share the raw beauty of this natural wonder through glass-bottom boat viewing.

Itinerary

Check-in & Departure

  • Time and Location: Guests should arrive at the marina by check-in time at the marina main office. Look for the sign that says “1770 Reef Eco Tours.”
  • Procedures: At the check-in desk, present your last name, and you will be assigned a group number.
  • Boat Boarding: The crew will greet guests at the top of the ramp for a short brief for the crew to direct passengers into groups for boarding.

Leaving the Bay

  • Scenic Departure: We set sail from the bay. Enjoy views of the coastline as we head towards the lagoon.
  • Safety Briefing: Once we depart the 1770 Marina, a safety briefing will commence as we approach the channel: covering life jackets, all emergency processes, onboard safety, housekeeping requirements and crew introduction.
  • Introduction to Wildlife: On the way, the crew may point out any notable wildlife, such as dolphins or seabirds.
  • Observation Deck: The Skipper will inform passengers over the speaker when other areas beside the cabin are open. This includes access to the top deck for panoramic views and photo opportunities. A guide will be available to answer questions about marine life and geography.

Arriving at the Lagoon

  • Arrival: Once we have arrived into the lagoon we welcome guests to the lagoon, the crew will secure our main vessel Orca to our private mooring. Crew will inform guests about each groups itinerary, snorkel brief, emergency signalling, morning tea then commence the start of activities as directed by the skipper.
  • Preparation for Activities: Everyone will receive a briefing on the activities planned for the day.
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Details on Groups

Split into Groups

  • Group Assignments: Passengers are allocated specific group numbers based on the number of guests on board – please note if you are travelling with another booking group to ensure you are in the same group as your peers. These groups are NOT selected by guests. All group numbers are allocated.

Tour Schedules

  • Guided Island Walk: Start with a 45-minute guided walk around the island, learning about its history and ecosystem.
  • Glass Bottom Boat: Next, board the glass-bottom boat for a 45-minute tour of the underwater world, observing coral reefs and marine life.
  • Snorkelling: Finish with a 1-2hr snorkelling session, where you’ll have about an hour to explore the vibrant underwater scenery.

Food & Tea

  • Lunch: Indulge in a delightful lunch featuring a variety of delicious wraps, crafted to please every palate. For those with specific dietary needs, we offer an assortment of fresh, crisp salads, ensuring everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal.
  • Food & Tea: Morning tea and afternoon tea plus a snack/food platter are provided.

Leaving the Lagoon

  • Departure Time: Everyone must return to their seat while the crew pack down – We leave the lagoon after a head count has been completed, and ensure all passengers are safe and happy.
  • Wrap-Up Talk: The crew will share highlights from the day and answer any remaining questions.

Arriving back at 1770

  • Return: We dock back at the 1770 Marina approximately 8.5 – 9 hours after our morning departure time.
  • Goodbyes: The crew will assist with disembarking, and you’ll have a chance to purchase souvenirs at our gift shop.

Explore Our Reef and Island Map

Discover the vibrant underwater world and scenic beauty of our island with our map. Dive into adventure with clearly marked snorkel and dive locations, highlighting the best spots to witness diverse coral and colourful reef fish. Navigate your way around the island to find key attractions, amenities, and hidden gems. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, our map ensures you won’t miss a single moment of your unforgettable adventure.

FAQs


Our most commonly asked questions from our valued customers

What time does the Lady Musgrave Island Tour depart?

Our departure times change daily with the tidal conditions.

Please check your confirmation email or contact our friendly team to reconfirm your departure time.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us.

Do you provide lunch/tea?
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Yes. Lunch, morning tea and afternoon tea are included. Dietary requirements can be catered for with prior notice given. 

What will I see snorkelling?

While we cannot guarantee what encounters you will have snorkelling, there is a large amount of sea and bird life you may get to see!

From whales, turtles, a range of reef fish, island birds and more, you will have a wonderful sightseeing experience!

You can also keep an eye on our Facebook & Instagram to see what current sightings we have had.

How long are the Full-Day Tours?

Depending on the tides, which generally control when we can enter back into 1770, a Full-Day Tour is approximately 8.5 – 9 hours.

What to bring on your full-day tour?
  • Swimwear
  • Towel
  • Sunglasses
  • Reef Safe Sunscreen
  • Hat
  • Footwear that you don’t mind getting wet (thongs are fine)
  • Warm clothing
  • Reusable coffee cup
  • Water bottle
  • Sea Sickness Medicine (We do not sell sea sickness medicine, we recommend purchasing some before arriving – Find Local Chemists)

Optional: 

  • Wetsuit 
  • Your own snorkel equipment 
Do I need to hire or bring my own equipment?
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We provide snorkel equipment and floating devices free of charge, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own. 

For your convenience, we offer the following equipment for hire.

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Wetsuits: You can rent wetsuits for $10 each for the day. you can hire a wetsuit by speaking to one of our friendly staff members on the boat at the gallery.

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Hire Underwater Camera (Comes with water proof case)

Underwater Cameras: You hire an Underwater Camera for $50 that come with an SD card you can keep and take home. You can easily hire the underwater camera online when you book your adventure or speak to one of our friendly staff members on the boat at the gallery. Please note that once you sign out your camera from the gallery, no refunds are allowed. 

Will I get seasick?

If you’re not accustomed to being on the water, there’s a strong chance you might experience motion sickness, even on a calm day. The journey to Lady Musgrave Island and Lagoon involves crossing open ocean, so we suggest all guests take precautions to prevent seasickness.

We are not permitted to sell sea sickness tablets, we recommend purchasing some from the chemist before checking in. Find Local Chemists.

Can I hire a camera from 1770 Reef Eco Tours?

Yes, we do have underwater cameras available for hire. You can hire from us online when you book or talk to one of our friendly staff at the office. You get to keep the SD Card to take home.

Once you sign out your camera from the gallery, no refunds are allowed.

Do you have a seniors/student discount?

We do have a seniors and students rate for those who hold a valid current Australian Seniors/Student card. This must be presented upon check-in.

What is your Cancellation Policy?

– Cancellations made by guest less than 48 hours prior to tour start time are NON-REFUNDABLE and a 100% cancellation fee is charged. 

– Cancellations made by guests outside of the 48-hour window will incur a 10% cancellation fee, equivalent to your 10% deposit made at booking. 

– The 10% deposit made at the time of booking is NON-REFUNDABLE on guest cancellations. The 10% deposit will ONLY be refunded in the event that 1770 Reef make the cancellation due to weather or other.

In the event that your tour is cancelled by the operator due to weather guests will receive a free reschedule or 100% refund.

Extra fees may be applicable on Public Holidays – please check at time of booking.

What if I don’t want to go on the Glass Bottom Boat or Island Walk?

Please let our staff know when you check in or leave a note when you book online.

What if I want to snorkel all-day? 

Please let our staff know when you check in or leave a note when you book online.

Where is 1770 Reef and how can I get there?

The 1770 Reef Office is located at the 1770 Marina (Get Directions) and is right next to the 1770 Marina Cafe (Famous for its amazing Vanilla Slice).

There is a local Taxi/Shuttle service to help with transport to and from 1770 Marina. Yes, there is also free parking at the 1770 Marina where you can leave your car.

Getting to Agnes Water/Town Of 1770 can be done by bus (Greyhound), partly to Miriam Vale by Train (Tilt Train or the Spirit of Queensland) and by driving (Get Directions).

Do I have to stay in the water all the time when snorkelling?

No, during designated snorkelling time, guests are able to hop in and out of the water as the they please. Some people like to come back to the boat to warm up and head out exploring again.

Are there options for individuals with special requirements?

Yes, we strive to make our tours accessible to all visitors, including those with special requirements.

We are dedicated to making your experience as comfortable as possible. While our vessel does not have a ramp or alternative seating, we do provide a disabled toilet on board for your convenience. If you or anyone in your party has sight or vision impairments, special requirements, or is an inexperienced swimmer, we offer an extra guide to assist throughout the tour. Additionally, our vessels are equipped to accommodate prams and strollers.

Please note that these needs must be communicated prior to booking your tour to ensure we can accommodate you effectively.

If you have any concerns or questions about accessibility, please contact us in advance so we can ensure your experience is enjoyable and comfortable. We are committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive experience for all our guests.

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About & History of 1770 Reef Eco Tours

Fully catered and hot drinks are available all day.

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Island Camping & Local Accommodation

Fully catered and hot drinks are available all day.

Accessibility & Sustainability

Fully catered and hot drinks are available all day.