CORAL BAY BUS TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Under the Wing: A Full-Day Ningaloo Quest to Snorkel Mantas and Coral Gardens
A 7.5-hour full-day boat tour from Coral Bay that combines two guided reef swims or dives, a manta‑ray search and on‑board buffet—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Under the Wing: A Full-Day Ningaloo Quest to Snorkel Mantas and Coral Gardens.
Set off from Coral Bay for a full day on the world‑heritage Ningaloo Reef: two guided reef dives or snorkels among shallow coral structures, a targeted manta‑ray search in Batemans Bay, time cruising for other marine life and a relaxed buffet lunch aboard.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Snorkel with Manta Rays
The day includes a dedicated manta search in Batemans Bay using a spotter plane; if manta rays are located you’ll have the chance to snorkel with the resident population up close.
Two Guided Reef Swims or Dives
The tour includes two in‑water activities on Ningaloo Reef—either two snorkels or two guided dives—over shallow fringing reef teeming with coral structures and tropical fish.
Buffet Lunch and Comfortable Transit
Between water sessions the crew prepares a buffet lunch on board; the vessel then cruises the bay in search of other marine life before a final in‑water activity.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
You’ll check in at the Coral Bay shop before boarding a bus to the jetty; the morning unfolds with guided reef swims or dives among shallow, coral‑rich sites, a plane‑assisted manta search in a sandy bay, a communal buffet lunch aboard and a final return to the reef for one more in‑water session before heading back to shore.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The full day tour runs 7.5 hours; meet at Coral Bay Arcade (Shop 8, 46 Robinson St) at 08:00 for check‑in. The boat returns between 14:30 and 15:30.
Two dives or two snorkels, all equipment supplied, full‑length 5mm wetsuits for divers, plus a buffet lunch on board with accommodation for dietary requirements.
Guided reef dives range from about 4m to 12m depth (average 6–8m) with typical dive durations of 45–50 minutes and average visibility around 10–15m, depending on conditions.
Dive groups are limited to a maximum of eight per guide, though groups are often smaller; the operator takes divers and snorkelers together on the day tour.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The tour is 7.5 hours in duration.
Where and when do we meet?
Meet at the operator’s shop in Coral Bay Arcade (Shop 8, 46 Robinson St) at 08:00 for check‑in.
What age can join the tour?
The tour is open to guests aged 5 years and older.
Are dives guided and how long are they?
Yes—dives are guided with maximum group sizes of eight; dives typically last 45–50 minutes.
Is lunch provided and can dietary needs be accommodated?
A buffet lunch is provided on board and the operator can accommodate dietary requirements.
Will I definitely see manta rays?
A spotter plane is used to search for manta rays in Batemans Bay; if mantas are located, guests have the opportunity to snorkel with them—sightings are dependent on conditions and animal presence.