WHEN’S THE BEST TIME TO SNORKEL IN GREAT BARRIER REEF

by Catalin Andries on July 15, 2020

By Ninja Shark’s founder (and water enthusiast), Andrew Porter

Want to go snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef? Unless you want to swim with the jellyfish, make sure you plan ahead. Here’s a guide on the weather surrounding the Great Barrier Reef, and when’s the best time of year to grab your snorkels and hit the waters.

Great Barrier Reef seasons

There are two seasons in the Great Barrier Reef area, wet and dry season.

  1. The wet season is between October and April,
  2. The dry season is from May to September.

1. Great Barrier Reef wet season

The rainy season in the Great Barrier Reef has high humidity and cloudy waters. Temperatures can be 30-40 degrees, with water temperatures of 32 degrees. Sounds ideal, if not for all the rain and storms!

You won’t find any problems booking snorkeling tours in the Great Barrier Reef during wet season, and they’ll often take you to sections of the reef where waters are calmer and clearer. That said, boat trips still often get cancelled due to storms, and visibility is nowhere near as good as in the dry season.

If you have no choice but to book your Great Barrier Reef trip in the rainy season it’s not all bad. It usually rains only in early mornings and at night, but beware of deadly box jellyfish!

2. Great Barrier Reef dry season

This is the best time to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, with cooler weather of about 25-degrees and water temperatures of 24-degrees. The best snorkeling can be done between June and October, with crystal clear waters that let you enjoy the reef at its fullest.

Beware that is the peak season though, so if you want to snorkel the reef with less crowds then shoot for April or May. Snorkeling is still great with good water conditions and temperatures, less crowds, but a little lower visibility.

Best time to snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef:

Between June and October for the best visibility and great weather.

When to not snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef:

October to April when box jellyfish season is peaking!

Protip: Humpback whales migrate along the Queensland coastline during July and September, an exceptional sight if you catch it! You can also catch coral spawning once a year, after the October/November full moon.

 

The Ninja Shark full face snorkel masks makes your experiences the best they can be. They are exclusively sold on the Ninja Shark website.

The Ninja Shark full face snorkel masks comes equipped with advanced Anti-Fog technology, automatic drainage, no CO2 Buildup with improved uni-directional valves, and a revolutionary breathe flow system so you can breathe through both your nose and mouth.





“If you thought we’re just here to sell you products, think again. You’re part of the Ninja Shark family, and your feedback matters! We’re constantly working to improve our products and deliver the full face snorkel mask that exists only in our dreams!”

What customers are saying about us…

“Awesome set.

Loved the complete set. I even used the waterproof phone pouch to take photos and videos underwater. It made my Fiji experience so much better than using the free snorkel set that hurt your face after 2hours and leaving a sun/mask mark. The ninja leaves no marks and gives great vision under water in comparison. It did take some getting used to but it definitely paid off! Only frustration is that the tightening straps are quite basic; they should be much simpler to loosen and tighten both in and out of water.” – Jock

Try our line of snorkelling and swimming gear
by Ninja Shark! You’ll love it.

All Ninja Shark Products are tailor-made
with medical silicone.

We care about making our products safe and healthy for you—and our planet.
That’s why the Ninja Shark Full Face Snorkelling Masks are made from a non-toxic and environmentally friendly anti-allergic medical grade silicone, that’s not only safer for your kids but safer for you too.
15 comments
by Amy on November 26, 2021

So handy to know! Not keen on meeting a box jellyfish!

by Antonio Valenza on November 24, 2020

Man I’ve been looking for these for soo long!!!

by Candace Wai on November 24, 2020

I can’t wait to go to Cairns and do with my partner!

by Jasmin chard on November 24, 2020

There is nothing quiet like snorkelling! I think its the sound for me, or the lack of! All you can here is fish making their noises, specially those parrot fish! It takes you out of your world for a moment and is so therapeutic!

by Inga Hollstein on November 24, 2020

I’m so keen to see more of Australia. Will be buying this mask for my partner’s bday gift and hoping to win one myself just in time for our next trip just after Christmas. Have previously seen parts of the reef with hired snorkel gear and it just doesn’t do the job! Can’t wait to try ninjashark!

by Janet White on November 24, 2020

Anytime is the best time to see this wonderful natural wonder of the world.

by Deborah Laird on November 20, 2020

The Great Barrier Reef is one place I am wanting to go to very soon.

by Amanda on November 19, 2020

Snorkelling the great barrier reef was by far one of the most exciting and wonderful experiences I’ve had in my life so far.
I’m not overly a fan of the traditional snorkelling masks but we made it work.
I wish I had one of these masks as I have read so mny positive reviews with them and have seen others whilst on holidays using them and thought what a wonderful idea.
These masks truly would have made the experience better than it was just by the ease and simplicity these masks give.
I can’t wait for my kids to use these as I believe this will help them snorkel quicker and more confidently. They can focus on swimming rather than trying to breathe and wrestle with the traditional types.
Looks like I’ll just have to make another trip to the GBR with my new masks when I get them 😁 any excuse will do I reckon…

by Rosalyn Plunkett on November 13, 2020

I can’t wait to get snorkelling. Getting the gear now for a trip to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree (I hope) in 2021.
Swimming with turtles is a must for me – been wanting to do this since I was a kid.
These tips you have in the blog are something I’d also love to experience so thank you for these.
‘Humpback whales migrate along the Queensland coastline during July and September, an exceptional sight if you catch it! You can also catch coral spawning once a year, after the October/November full moon.’

I can’t wait to start exploring the underwater world.

by Linda Thompson on November 13, 2020

I will be buying one of these masks before our next reef visit. I really struggled trying to use a regular snorkel. I’m not a good swimmer and to struggle with breathing as well made the experience not as great as it could have been. I really want to see it all again without the hassle of trying to breath through my mouth and choking because I can’t. I also like the mounted camera, I had one attached to my wrist and it hit me in the head. Also no photos, more worried about my breathing and the constant emptying and refitting of my mask.

by Loic on November 13, 2020

I cannot wait for the border restrictions to be lifted to finally explore the great barrier reef

by Farhana Dawood on November 13, 2020

I struggle to breathe with normal snorkel gear. Waiting to win the Ninja Shark snorkel package so I can snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef.

by Michael Potter on November 08, 2020

See the reef… before it disappears.

by Jaana on November 08, 2020

Thanks for the guide about when to head to the Great Barrier Reef. I’ve been before some years ago and though I struggled with the snorkeling gear, I rushed home and demanded my sister come with me next time (oh, there is going to be a next time!!). Work and life has gotten in the way, but this blog has reignited our desire to go. We’re planning for a trip next year (I’m thinking June as the water will be clear as crystals)!

by Monica Joy Locsin on November 08, 2020

I’ve snorkelled in the Great Barrier Reef back in November 2016 to celebrate my birthday. I went with just ordinary snorkelling gear. Didn’t really like breathing through my mouth using the mouthpiece and I gel uncomfortable with my nose all covered up with the snorkel mask. I felt I was suffocating. I ended up just using my goggles and held my breath as long as I could lol This year on my birth month, November, I’m heading out to the good old Great Barrier reef and hopefully I’ll get to enjoy it more with the ninjashark face mask. 😍 When I saw the ad for it on social media, I thought that this was a Godsend! Perfect solution to my snorkelling woes. I’ll get to finally breathe comfortably and enjoy viewing the marine life with all its glory. ❤️

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Based on 1514 reviews
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Prescription Lens for full face snorkel

Recently we went on a cruise to the South Pacific with lots of opportunities to snorkel. I was asked so many times "are they prescription lenses in there" & "where did you get them from".

The lenses were awesome, I was able to see and enjoy the snorkelling. Others tried mine and were amazed how good they were. As they were suctioned to the mask it made sure the mask was in the correct position on you face (not too high/low). Initially my lenses were a little tight to put together but they went in alright in the end :)

It was easy to find out what level (prescription/strength) was needed, I just went to my optometrist with the options and they told me which ones I needed.

D
Lifetime Warranty
Diane K. (Melbourne, AU)
The Ninja Shark Snorkel mask is awesome!

We bought these snorkel masks as we were going on a tropical holiday which included snorkelling tours and we both hated breathing through traditional plastic snorkels shoved in our mouths. My partner in particular did not want to snorkel because of this. These snorkel masks are FANTASTIC and were GAME CHANGERS. We did several lots of snorkelling on our holiday and every time, we were able to lie in the water, breathe normally and focus on looking underwater without worrying about breathing. Even if you dive underwater with these masks, the valve blocks water from coming into your snorkel mask. I bought the premium Equaliser Pro with the ability to pinch your nose if diving and my partner bought the basic model. Both are fantastic products - comfortable, easy to wear and highly recommended. You need to fit it tightly but it's really comfortable in the water and doesn't leak. Even when you come up you don't need to take it off, just keep breathing normally. I loved snorkelling with this product and even my anti-snorkelling partner really enjoyed it and felt this mask was a game changer.

T
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Tom P. (Melbourne, AU)
Recommended

Great product and even better customer service

J
Package : Air Adults (Mask + Fins + Bag)
JEANNIE O. (Piara Waters, AU)
Bloody love this!

Never snorkelled in my life. Petrified of putting my head under water. But now my neck is bad - if I don't alter the way I swim - then no more swimming for me. This has opened 'a whole new world' - (haha -that songs stuck in your head now) - to me. I'm just using my ninja gear in my gym outdoor pool atm. My legs are getting so strong - and my lungs too - as I'm doing some great breathing. I have huge surgery coming up soon - and i believe this is allowing me to get to a great level of fitness - in preparation. Honestly - i can't go on enough about this product enough. My friend bought a cheaper version. She's given it away already... say no more 🤿🤿🤿

B
Electra - Full Face Snorkel Mask
Bolang C. (Perth, AU)
Great design

This is the best snorkel mask I’ve ever had. Very comfortable on face, easy to breathe. I am not a good swimmer, it makes me feel safe and enjoy snorkelling without distraction. Thank you ninjiashark.

Best snorkel ever!!

Got one of these for me and my 7 year old daughter for Xmas. We’ve used them twice already and love them!! So much easier to breathe, can see so much and just makes the whole snorkelling experience better! Would highly recommend!

Clear as day

Clear to see and easy to breathe,
Whole family loves the NinjaShark Snorkel mask.

R
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Robyn H. (Adelaide, AU)
Amazing

The best snorkel and mask combination. No going back now! I could snorkel for over an hour easily. So glad I made this purchase

M
(DRAFT) Package: Dry Snorkel (Set + Fins + Bag)
Maureen R. (Townsville, AU)
Mermaid

While travelling in Timor leste l met a fellow snorkeller. We snorkelled for 10 days together the food was shit but the water was stunning. The friend was using Ninja Shark fins and mask mine were steaming up, letting in water and heavy. On arriving back in Australia l ordered straight away.
I was a little bit anxious on receiving my order as the mask was quite different to my old one and the fins were short and adjustable ( l wanted them to be my size ! ) well to my luck the weather was beautiful ( yes mid winter in Mackay ) and perfect for boating so off we scooted to Cockermouth ( don't laugh it's a real place ) jumping in and WOW I'm now a mermaid 🧜‍♀️ the mask and fins felt like part of me. I actually cried as not only was the equipment allowing me to explore as l wanted but the reef was STUNNING. So lm indepted to Ninja Shark for making me the mermaid l always aspired to be 🧜‍♀️

Took it to Tahiti

I wasn’t quite sure about getting a full face mask but bought mine (Electra package) before a trip to Tahiti which we got home from yesterday - absolutely LOVED it!!! I’ll be getting one for my wife before our next trip to a similar destination. BTW I make LOTS of crazy videos with lots of toys.

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Life changing

I do love my full face snorkel.. the freedom of nose breathing under the water.. the meditative and relaxative effect of this snorkeling is unexpected and great. Fits so well.. comfy to wear for long time.. highly recommend

J
(DRAFT) Diving Dry Snorkel Set with GoPro mount
Joanne T. (Brisbane, AU)
Super quality & fit

So happy we got Ninja shark, perfect for Great barrier reef snorkel day.
Flippers, mask, dry wallet, carry bag (good quality bag), anti fog spray, happy days.

Ninja Shark Kids Mask

We recently brought the Ninja Shark Kids 3-11 Mask + Fins + Bag package for our 7 year old who absolutely loves it! Will be buying three more for the rest of the family. 😊

Even better than expected!

I saw the kids full face snorkel masks online, and thought they looked pretty cool. I ordered two for Christmas, for my 3 and 6 year olds. Wow, did they have a great time with them!

I wasn't sure how the 3 year old would go with it, but he was comfortable in it almost immediately, and spent hours swimming around and seeing a whole new world of underwater scenery.

They were easy to fit, zero issues with them staying on. No leaks or fog.

They can't wait to get back to the water!

Highly recommend this product :)

N
Electra - Full Face Snorkel Mask
Nick J. (Brisbane, AU)
mask swimming

The mask did exactly what was stated. I was very happy and will get another mask for my daughter.

R
Electra - Full Face Snorkel Mask
Raffaele S. (Perth, AU)
Great way to swim

I have NEVER been able to snorkel but love swimming. These full face snorkels are an absolute game changer in my life. Now I try to swim around 5 kms a week in the local pool. The Ninja mask makes it easy to do laps. I’ve been using the Ninja Shark for a quite few years and find the new Electra the best full face mask ever. No leaks, no fog and really easy to use and great quality. I’ve noticed my regular chats with other swimmers at the pool have encouraged many of them to purchase one of their own. I’ve given my older models to my grandkids and they love them too.

Fabulous

I got one for the 3 year old and one for the 5 year old, I thought maybe the 3 year old would get the hang of it eventually but they both loved it and mastered it pretty quickly. We’ve only used in the swimming pool, excited to go snorkeling in the ocean soon. Great product.

S
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Sarah B. (Surfers Paradise, AU)
Love it!

Amazing product ! Have the electra package, kids love it. So easy to use. Highly recommend

J
(DRAFT) Diving Dry Snorkel Set with GoPro mount
Jen M. (Brisbane, AU)
Love it

Bought these for myself and my husband after getting the full face masks for the kids, and they were so good we’re getting them for the rest of the extended family for Xmas. The fact u can dive down and not get water down ur snorkel is a brilliant bonus! Makes our family holidays much easier and better without snorkel dramas!

This made our holiday

The product itself was amazing, but the service we received allowed us to get our 2 sets of masks for our cruise. We took them with us and used them multiple times for snorkelling on our cruise to Nouméa and New Caledonia. It was amazing snorkelling and being able to breathe easily, and the fins were the most comfortable I've ever used. I've got size 13 feet, and not only were they completely adjustable, but they were THE most comfortable fins ever invented. A massive shoutout to Colleen Zamora from your support staff who helped me out and made it possible to take our gear on holidays! Thanks Colleen!
The photo is us snorkelling off Amadee Island looking for turtles!

My kids love them

I’ve got three of these masks for my younger kids, however the oldest wants one too as the young ones rave about how good the are.

Summer Family Fun

Our Ninja masks have made snorkelling as a whole family very easy and enjoyable. The kids (and parents) find them super easy to use and have allowed us as a family of five to snorkel for longer than we ever could using traditional snorkel gear. I would highly recommend these masks.

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Geri D. (Sydney, AU)
Lifetime warranty

Glad I have but haven’t needed to use .. yet

Great Mask

Love this mask. Kids find it so much easier snorkelling with the Ninja Shark. The snorkel mask is super clear and doesn’t fog up. The adjustable straps are great and easy to loosen and tighten. Very happy that we made the decision to get these for the kids.

A must for snorkelers!

Recently purchased the Equaliser Pro Mask, Finns and bag. 🤿 🐠🐡🐟🦈 Had an amazing time snorkeling off Fitzroy Island, the Pro mask allowed me to explore for over 7 hours. Higly recommend! Planning must next snorkeling trip! 🤿💦🌴☀️