Coral Bay is a true playground for lovers of marine life and outdoor adventures. Its close proximity to the Ningaloo Reef makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Australia’s most spectacular underwater sights. Whether you want to swim with manta rays, spot turtles, or encounter whale sharks, this small town offers a variety of tours that deliver unforgettable moments. We especially love the Marine Eco Safari because of its expert spotter plane and the chance to snorkel with gentle giants like manta rays. Plus, the extensive day trips provide opportunities to see sea turtles and even reef sharks in their natural habitat. If you’re looking for a full-immersion experience, the 7-day Ningaloo Reef cruise offers a chance to explore beyond the coast, combining snorkeling, diving, and wildlife watching into one seamless adventure.
While Coral Bay’s underwater attractions are the main draw, the variety of tours available ensures there’s something for every traveler—whether you prefer short cruises, family-friendly excursions, or multi-day expeditions. This list highlights the top options, so you can pick the one that best fits your schedule, budget, and interests.
Quick Overview
Coral Bay offers a mix of half-day and full-day snorkeling trips, ecotours, and specialized encounters like swimming with whale sharks. From glass-bottom boat tours to luxury multi-day cruises, each experience brings its own flavor. Here are some of the best options:
- Snorkeling and reef tours for up-close marine encounters (see more)
- Wildlife-focused tours like turtle ecotours and whale shark safaris (see more)
- Extended cruises for immersive reef exploration (see more)
- Family-friendly rides including glass-bottom boat trips (see more)
Below, we detail each experience, so you can decide which fits your travel style best.
1. Marine Eco Safari – Swim with Manta Rays
At number 1, the Marine Eco Safari is a full-day adventure that centers around snorkeling with manta rays, sea turtles, and other marine life around Ningaloo Reef. This tour really stands out because it uses a spotter plane to locate manta rays, giving you the best chance of swimming among these gentle creatures. All logistics are streamlined so you can relax and focus on the experience, with all-day snacks, a buffet lunch, and even souvenir photos to remember your day.
Guests frequently mention how attentive and knowledgeable the crew is, with reviews highlighting “great snorkeling, stunning scenery,” and “loads of fish, clams, octopus, and coral formations.” The tour’s focus on wildlife and conservation makes it ideal for nature lovers who want to maximize their wildlife encounters. The 7-hour length is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, immersive day without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: If seeing manta rays swim inches from your face is on your bucket list, this tour offers an excellent mix of adventure and comfort, with expert guidance and the chance to see manta rays year-round.
2. Best of Ningaloo Mantas and More
Coming in at number 2, this all-inclusive snorkel tour is designed for those who want to explore Ningaloo Reef’s diversity without the crowds. It includes a 5-hour snorkeling adventure to spots teeming with millions of fish, coral, and wildlife, alongside the chance to see manta rays and even tiger sharks. The tour emphasizes off-the-beaten-path locations, so you’re unlikely to see other groups, making it perfect for adventurous snorkelers.
This tour is highly praised for its knowledgeable guides and the variety of wildlife, with reviews shouting, “best experience ever” and noting encounters with tiger sharks, turtles, and colorful fishes. It’s a full-day experience that offers both depth and breadth, with a focus on marine biodiversity. The price is competitive considering the extensive wildlife encounters and the personalized nature of the trip.
Bottom Line: Best suited for experienced snorkelers eager for a comprehensive exploration of Ningaloo Reef’s marine life, with the chance to swim with sharks and manta rays.
3. Coral Bay 3-Hour Turtle Ecotour
Number 3 is the Coral Bay 3-Hour Turtle Ecotour, a perfect choice for animal lovers and families. This tour offers a gentle, educational experience aboard a glass-bottom boat, giving you a clear view of turtles in their natural habitat. The crew provides engaging commentary about marine life and the importance of conservation.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to snorkel at beautiful sites, with a relaxed pace suitable for all ages and abilities. It’s also a good value, with drinks included and the chance to see turtles, coral, and fish up close without getting wet. Reviewers mention “friendly hosts” and a “great experience all around,” especially for those who prefer not to swim but still want a memorable underwater view.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families, less confident swimmers, or anyone wanting a relaxing but insightful marine experience.
4. 5 Night Ningaloo Reef Ningaloo Escape from Coral Bay
For those dreaming of an extended, immersive experience, the 5 Night Ningaloo Reef Escape ranks at number 4. This 6-day cruise combines sailing the calm waters of Ningaloo Reef with daily snorkel and dive excursions. You get to explore remote reefs, see dolphins, dugongs, whales, and even historical shipwreck sites like the Norwegian Bay wreck.
Guests rave about the opportunity to sail along the reef, with meals and snacks included, and the chance to snorkel in a variety of pristine locations. The cruise is perfect for confident snorkelers and divers who want to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed, intimate setting.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventurous travelers seeking an extended, all-inclusive reef adventure with plenty of wildlife encounters and off-the-beaten-path exploration.
5. Coral Bay 2-Hour Coral Viewing and Snorkeling
Number 5 offers a concise 2-hour tour to see Ningaloo Reef from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat. It’s a great option for travelers on a tight schedule or those wanting a quick but rich glimpse of coral life.
Guests enjoy the easy transportation to snorkel sites and engaging commentary on marine ecosystems. The tour is praised for its friendly guides and the opportunity to see colorful fish and coral without any strenuous activity. It’s an economical way to get a taste of Ningaloo’s underwater beauty.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or travelers with limited time who still want an authentic reef experience.
6. Coral Bay: Ningaloo Reef 3-Hour Turtle Ecotour
This 3-hour turtle ecotour offers a unique perspective, focusing on turtles in the wild. Using a glass-bottom boat, you’ll observe these gentle creatures in their natural environment and visit snorkel sites with abundant marine life. The knowledgeable crew are great at sharing insights about the different turtle species and reef ecology.
Guests often mention how informative and friendly the crew is, plus the chance to snorkel at two sites makes this an excellent choice for those wanting a compact but rewarding marine experience. It’s well-priced considering the educational component.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife lovers and those seeking an engaging, shorter tour with a focus on turtles.
7. 3 Night Ningaloo Reef Snorkel and Dive Getaway from Coral Bay
Number 7 is a three-night, all-inclusive cruise perfect for serious snorkelers and divers. Over four days, you’ll visit various secluded locations, snorkel, scuba dive, and kayak among the reef’s most colorful coral gardens. You’ll also have opportunities to see manta rays and humpback whales during migration season.
Guests highlight the small group size and the freedom to explore at your own pace without crowds. The experience is tailored for those ready to spend multiple days immersed in the reef environment, with all meals provided.
Bottom Line: Best for seasoned snorkelers and divers who want an extended, personalized reef journey without the hassle of land-based tours.
8. Coral Bay Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
Number 8 is a quick, 1-hour coral viewing tour that’s perfect for families or travelers with limited time. The custom-built glass-bottom boat provides clear views of the reef’s dense coral formations and marine life.
Guests mention how knowledgeable crew make the trip fun and informative, and the short duration makes it ideal for combining with other activities. It’s a cost-effective way to see the reef’s highlights without getting wet.
Bottom Line: Great for families, quick stops, or those curious to see coral without the need for snorkeling or diving.
9. Humpback Whale Safari
Number 9 is a full-day whale-watching tour that runs from June to October, when humpback whales migrate past Ningaloo Reef. This is more than just spotting whales—there’s the chance to swim with whales if conditions permit. The expert guides focus on providing a safe, respectful encounter with these majestic creatures.
Guests rave about the personalized experience, with some saying, “swimming with whales was impossible to forget.” The tour includes lunch, snacks, and a sparkling wine toast, making it a special way to connect with nature.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts eager for close encounters with whales, and those who don’t mind a full-day commitment.
10. Coral Bay: 2-Hour Coral Viewing and Snorkeling
This is a shorter version of the earlier snorkeling tour, offering a 2-hour cruise with two snorkel stops. It’s perfect for those wanting a quick, immersive experience with marine life and coral.
Guests praise the friendly guides and the opportunity to swim with turtles and sharks. It’s a practical, affordable option for travelers who want a taste of Ningaloo Reef’s vibrant underwater world.
Bottom Line: Great for a brief but memorable reef experience, especially if combined with other activities.
11. Half Day Sailing and Snorkeling Tour from Coral Bay
Number 11 offers a half-day sailing adventure with stops at two snorkel sites. The small group size and delicious onboard lunch make for a relaxed day on the water. Expect to see fish, coral, and turtles, with up to an hour at each site.
Reviewers appreciate the informative crew and the chance to explore reef locations at a leisurely pace. This tour suits travelers seeking a balance of activity and relaxation.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a half-day escape to snorkel and sail in Ningaloo.
12. Coral Bay 1-Hour Coral Viewing
The shortest option on our list, this 1-hour coral viewing tour is a great quick activity. The glass-bottom boat provides an easy way to see the colorful coral and marine life from above, making it ideal for families with small children.
Guests enjoy the informative guides and the opportunity to feed fish during the trip. It’s a budget-friendly way to experience Coral Bay’s underwater beauty.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers with limited time or those wanting a family-friendly experience.
13. Snorkel with Giants at Ningaloo Reef
Number 13 is the Whale Shark snorkeling tour, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This 9-hour tour combines snorkeling on the outer reef with a spotter plane search for whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean. Passengers also explore vibrant coral gardens and enjoy photos and meals included in the price.
With only 7 reviews but glowing feedback, this is for adventurous travelers keen to swim with whale sharks, usually from March to July. It’s a premium experience with a high price point but unforgettable memories.
Bottom Line: The ultimate choice for those wanting to swim with the world’s largest fish and experience Ningaloo’s marine life at its most spectacular.
14. Coral Bay: Half Day Ningaloo Reef Adventure with Manta Rays
Finally, the Half Day Ningaloo Reef with Manta Rays is an efficient, 5-hour tour focusing on snorkeling with manta rays. Using a spotter plane, this tour aims to give you the best chance to see and swim with these graceful creatures, along with coral and fish.
Rated strongly with just 2 reviews, it’s a solid choice for a shorter, wildlife-focused trip. The buffet lunch adds value, making it suitable for those who want a mid-length experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife lovers short on time but eager to see manta rays and reef highlights.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Coral Bay
When picking a tour, consider how much time you have and what kind of experience you’re after. For example, if you want to swim with manta rays and enjoy a full day of wildlife, the Marine Eco Safari is perfect. If your schedule is tight but you still want a glimpse of coral and turtles, the 1-hour Coral Viewing fits the bill.
For those who crave multi-day adventures with the chance to see whales, dolphins, and reef wrecks, the Ningaloo Reef cruise offers incredible value, with all meals included. Budget travelers might prefer the Coral Bay Glass-Bottom Boat Tour, which delivers a quick but vivid reef experience.
Don’t forget to check seasonal considerations—whale shark tours operate mainly from March to July, while humpback whale safaris run June to October. Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot in these popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Coral Bay presents a fantastic array of tour options—whether your passion is snorkeling, wildlife watching, or multi-day reef exploration. For a quick taste, the glass-bottom tours are economical and fun, while the longer cruises deliver a deep dive into Ningaloo’s marine world. The full-day manta ray tours offer the chance to swim with some of the ocean’s most graceful creatures, making them a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts.
If you’re planning your trip, consider your interests, schedule, and budget carefully. The tours here cover everything from family-friendly outings to in-depth wildlife adventures. The key is to book early, especially for seasonal experiences like whale shark swims. Coral Bay’s marine life is mesmerizing—don’t miss the chance to see it firsthand.