Private Group Snorkel at Shelly Beach: An Exclusive Hour in Cabbage Tree Bay

MANLY SNORKEL FIELD GUIDE

Private Group Snorkel at Shelly Beach: An Exclusive Hour in Cabbage Tree Bay

A one‑hour private group snorkel for confident swimmers, exploring Shelly Beach and the protected Cabbage Tree Bay Marine Sanctuary with up to 12 people.

Private Group Snorkel at Shelly Beach: An Exclusive Hour in Cabbage Tree Bay.

Duration
1 hour
Location
Manly
Operator
Snorkelling Shelly Beach
Category
Snorkel
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Dive into an exclusive underwater adventure at Shelly Beach in Manly, exploring the protected waters of Cabbage Tree Bay Marine Sanctuary with your own private group—an intimate, celebratory way to encounter crystal‑clear water and abundant marine life while sharing one of Sydney’s most iconic snorkel spots.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE MARINE LIFE

Protected, Vibrant Waters

Shelly Beach sits inside the Cabbage Tree Bay Marine Sanctuary, offering clear water and abundant marine life that make the hour underwater feel like a private aquarium.

THE GROUP

Private, Up To 12 People

This experience is tailored for exclusive sharing—book a private group for friends, family or colleagues and enjoy the bay together in a single booking limited to a maximum of 12 participants.

THE CONTEXT

A Shoreline Made for Sharing

Postcard views, clear snorkel conditions and the sense of an exclusive outing make Shelly Beach an ideal backdrop for bonding or celebration with your chosen group.

What the day feels like

What the Private Group Tour Feels Like

Over the course of one hour you and your group enter sheltered Shelly Beach to snorkel the protected Cabbage Tree Bay Marine Sanctuary. The format is an exclusive group session—designed for confident swimmers—where the shared focus is on exploring marine life and enjoying the shoreline scenery together.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this private snorkel suits — and who it doesn’t.

1
Confident Swim GroupsIdeal for groups of confident swimmers who want a private shared snorkel experience in a protected marine sanctuary; all participants must be able to swim unassisted and confidently in the ocean.
2
Families with Older ChildrenSuitable for families with children aged six and up who are competent ocean swimmers and can follow group guidance.
3
Celebration & Team OutingsWell suited to small celebration groups or team bonding—private booking accommodates up to 12 people so you can share the bay with friends or colleagues.
4
Less Confident SwimmersNot recommended—participants who are not confident swimmers should choose a private one‑on‑one experience instead.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Bring a towel, a wetsuit (water temperature in the bay varies between 14–25°C), a water bottle, sunscreen (avoid applying directly on your face within 1 hour before the tour), and cash or card if you’d like to purchase underwater photos on the spot.

Comfort & Preparation

Come rested and ready to expend energy; note the operator asks participants to remove makeup and that moustaches can affect mask fit (apply Vaseline if you don’t want to shave).

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

Who can join this private group snorkel?

The tour is for confident swimmers only; all participants must be able to swim unassisted and confidently in the ocean.

What is the minimum age for participants?

The experience is suitable for ages 6 and up.

How long is the snorkel experience?

The private group snorkel is a one‑hour experience.

How many people can I bring and how is pricing structured?

Private groups are limited to a maximum of 12 people; the tour is a flat rate of $690 for up to 6 people, with additional participants at $115 per person up to the 12‑person maximum.

What should participants avoid or remove before the tour?

Participants should remove makeup and be aware that moustaches can affect mask fit; the operator suggests removing moustaches or applying Vaseline if you don’t want to shave.

Can I buy underwater photos from the operator?

Yes—underwater photos may be available for purchase on the spot; bring cash or card if you’d like to buy them.