Ocean Drift Snorkeling Safari
(Note: If you want to ride with sea scooters you need to choose the
Sea Scooter option below)
OVERVIEW:
Experience ocean snorkeling like never before. When drift snorkeling, you’ll begin at one spot and finish at another.
We’ll take you to the underwater reef resting place of a 100 year old shipwreck only 5 meters below the surface. You will get to experience marine life beyond the reef. The clarity of the deep, hues of electric blue and a marine wonderland where everything is possible. amazing clarity. See the “Coral Gardens” just outside the reef where it’s possible to swim with turtles, Puffer fish, Reef Sharks and more.
Our drift snorkeling safari’s launch from our purpose designed dive boat that will drop you off in the ocean and then meet you at a designated pick up point when it’s time to end your journey. Don’t worry, our professional Adventure Guides are with you every step of the way and our boat is never far away. Whew….
You'll learn about our coral reefs, the habitat and what we are doing to protect this resource for future generations. As the Eco-Adventure Tourism Award Winner in 2020, you can trust that our tours are eco-friendly and that your safety is our number one priority. NOTE: This tour is without sea scooters.
CONSERVATION & CREDIBILITY
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We are the only tour operator who sponsor " Te Ara O Te Onu" The Cook Islands Sea Turtle Conservation Society. 5% of your tour fee goes to the Society. Thank you!!
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Air New Zealand Eco-Tourism Awards Winners 2020.
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Air New Zealand Outstanding Kia Orana Spirit Awards Winner 2020
HIGHLIGHTS
Ever seen a shipwreck close up? While on a voyage from San Francisco to Wellington, the RMS Maitai was shipwrecked just outside of Avarua Harbour in Rarotonga on December 25th, 1916. After over 100 years of resting just below the surf zone, this shipwreck is now part of the reef.
The Coral Gardens are a uniquely beautiful nature reef formation just outside our northern reef. In the right light the colours of the coral are amazing. It is home to Sea Turtles, Moray Eels, Reef Sharks and hundred of species of fish.
If you are truly lucky you may get to encounter a Humpback Whale. Peak whale season is considered mid-June through October. During this time, we can often hear their singing before an encounter. While there are no guarantees, it is truly a magical experience if you are one of the lucky ones. Riding our eco-friendly sea scooters is also a lot of fun and they are also a safety tool unique to Ariki Adventures.
SAMPLE ITINERARY
We meet at Avarua Harbour next to Trader Jacks Restaurant & Pub in downtown Avarua. We have our boat “Adventurer” berthed there.
Your adventure starts with a quick safety brief, then we fit you with mask, snorkel although we encourage people to bring their own. We fit you with fins and wetsuit, just a 2mm shorty is all you will need. You’ll board “Adventurer” and after running through some boat safety we are off out through the entrance and into the Pacific Ocean.
The exact locations will be determined on the day due to weather and wind conditions. Once we get to the drop off site you will enter the water with our Guides and your adventure will start.
As your drift snorkel experience comes to an end, Adventurer will be waiting at the pick up point. We will board, capture a few photos before we make our way back into Avarua Harbour and our berth.
After the Safari, come on back to the Flying Turtle Cafe where you'll enjoy a 10% discount off all food and beverages not already on special.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
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Departs: Avarua Harbour, downtown. Adventurer is berthed there.
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Duration: Allow 2.5-3 hours
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Return Point: As above
CANCELLATION POLICY
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Cancel at least 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund.
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Cancellations within 24 hours are not subject to refund unless COVID 19 related or due to a serious medical condition. Being hungover is not considered a serious medical condition.
SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Swim Ability: All guests must be able to swim comfortably in the sea, and be comfortable in deep water.
Minimum Age: Minimum age is 7 years old but subject to Crew Chief approval. Children under 12 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
Medical conditions: These must be declared to us at the time of booking so we can assess the situation. This will not necessarily preclude you, however we may have to insist on safety measures.
Disabilities: We have experience in taking out guests with disabilities. Please ask so we can consider the situation and if we can make it happen safely, we will!
Not recommended for pregnant guests
PRICE:
Standard $149pp (without sea scooter)
Sea Scooter Option $199pp
Family/Group Rate: 10% off. 6 x pax minimum,
must pre-pay to secure the rate.