LORD HOWE ISLAND GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Glasswater Cathedrals: Snorkeling the Lagoon and Outer Reefs of Lord Howe
A guided, 2.5-hour snorkel tour with Dive Lord Howe that visits lagoon and outer-reef sites — this guide clarifies what you’ll see and how to prepare.
Glasswater Cathedrals: Snorkeling the Lagoon and Outer Reefs of Lord Howe.
The Snorkel Tour on Lord Howe Island is a guided exploration of nearshore coral gardens and outer reef walls, where vibrant coral formations and a mix of tropical and temperate marine life — including abundant reef fish and the occasional turtle — can be seen from the surface. The experience is staged from sheltered lagoon sites to outer reef locations and is presented as accessible for both beginners and more experienced snorkelers.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Shallow coral gardens close to shore
Guided snorkels often visit shallow lagoon sites teeming with small coral formations and schooling reef fish, ideal for easy surface observation and for joining divers at shallow depths.
Large coral structures and reef channels
Where conditions allow, snorkel tours include outer-reef locations such as around the Admiralty Islands and the bases of Lord Howe’s volcanic peaks, revealing larger coral formations and a mix of tropical and temperate species — and often turtles.
Small-group guidance for all skill levels
The tours are led by Dive Lord Howe guides who select sites to suit conditions and participant ability, making the outing suitable for novices and seasoned snorkelers alike.
What the day feels like
What the Snorkel Tour Feels Like
From the surface you pick apart a layered underwater world: coral gardens in glassy lagoon basins, then, when weather permits, the more open outer-reef terrain where sculpted coral and larger fish congregate. The guided format keeps the focus on observation — guides choose sites that match sea conditions and the group’s comfort — so the emphasis is on relaxed, attentive snorkelling rather than speed or depth.
THE LAGOON
Shallow coral gardens close to shore
Guided snorkels often visit shallow lagoon sites teeming with small coral formations and schooling reef fish, ideal for easy surface observation and for joining divers at shallow depths.
THE OUTER REEF
Large coral structures and reef channels
Where conditions allow, snorkel tours include outer-reef locations such as around the Admiralty Islands and the bases of Lord Howe’s volcanic peaks, revealing larger coral formations and a mix of tropical and temperate species — and often turtles.
THE GUIDED TOUR
Small-group guidance for all skill levels
The tours are led by Dive Lord Howe guides who select sites to suit conditions and participant ability, making the outing suitable for novices and seasoned snorkelers alike.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Swimwear; towel (your lodge will normally provide one); drinking water; reef-safe sun protection; sea-sickness medicine if you are prone to seasickness on the open ocean.
A 5mm wetsuit is suitable year-round; during cooler months a hood and/or vest is recommended for those who feel the cold — these items are available from Dive Lord Howe.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How do I book?
You can book online or contact Dive Lord Howe on 02 6563 2253; see the operator’s Terms & Conditions for booking policies.
Do I need to book before arriving on the island?
Yes — because the operator takes small groups, it is recommended to pre-book dive and snorkel packages prior to arrival to avoid disappointment.
Where on the island do you snorkel and dive?
Dive Lord Howe selects from a variety of sites around the Lord Howe Island Group; specific sites are picked based on suitability given prevailing conditions.
I haven't dived in a while — what should I do?
If you haven't dived within a few months a quick refresher is recommended; refresher dives can be completed on the island or at a dive centre before you arrive.
What if the diving or snorkel tour is cancelled due to weather?
Check the operator’s cancellation policy; trips may be postponed when conditions are unsuitable and travel insurance is recommended.
How do I get to the dive shop?
The dive shop is located along the foreshore of the Lagoon within easy walking or riding distance of most lodges; your accommodation will direct you on arrival.