General News
14 September, 2025
Barrier Reef tour operator is on top of the world
A PORT Douglas Great Barrier Reef operator has been named as one of the top 10 tourism experiences in the world.
ABC Snorkel Charters was placed eighth overall and the highest-rated in Australia, with an incredible 4.99/5 from more than 3300 TripAdvisor reviews.
The rankings emphasised authentic, guide-led experiences, with Egypt’s Egypt Tour Guide taking the top spot, followed by attractions in Egypt, Vietnam, Tanzania, Thailand and Peru.
ABC Snorkel Charters attributes its success to its small group sizes (limited to 12) and expert marine biologist guides, offering guests a deeper understanding of the Great Barrier Reef.
Co-owner Jay Wink said “we’re really proud that ABC Snorkel Charters has been recognised among the top 10 tourism experiences in the world”.
“This recognition is wonderful for us, but even more so for Port Douglas and the Great Barrier Reef,” he said.
“It shows that people still value authentic, guide-led experiences and that small-scale operators can make a big impact.
“Guests often tell us they leave with a new appreciation for the Reef – and that’s the most rewarding part of our job.”
Mr Wink said their ethos had always been about keeping things small and personal from their first tour nearly 15 years ago to yesterday.
“With a total of just 12 guests, we then dive this group of 12 into two or sometimes even three groups and each group has an in-water marine biologist guide who actually snorkels alongside our guests rather than just dropping them off at a site,” he said.
“We believe this level of guidance and interaction is what sets us apart and helps visitors really understand and appreciate the Great Barrier Reef.”
He said the acknowledgment underscored the immersive nature of the tours and how personalised guidance enhances guests’ comprehension of the Reef, pushing back against negative media narratives about the Reef’s decline.
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