Activities

Tropical Scuba Diving 

Discover some of Earth’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems, many of which have been designated as ‘Hope Spots’ by Mission Blue. Perhaps embark on a wreck dive, encounter majestic marine wildlife including dugong, sea turtles and whale shark, and marvel at spectacularly-shaped and brightly-coloured coral. Buddy up and be part of a small group of up to 8 divers to experience the magnificent underwater world that few others get to see.

The diving activity is not for beginners. You must be at least an Advanced Open Water Diver with a minimum of 30 logged dives. You are also required to complete a minimum of 6 of those dives in the last 12 months. You should be 14 years of age or more to participate in the scuba diving programs.

The  plan is to dive up to twice per day (except for days at sea), but an exact number of dives cannot be given. It all depends on sea and weather conditions. Voyage
itineraries are only a guideline and safety is always the priority

Tropical Snorkelling

All you need is to be a competent swimmer and to have a sense of curiosity and wonder to enjoy this fun activity – we will provide the mask, snorkel, fins. In some of the warm climate destinations that we explore, you will enjoy aquatic scenes usually reserved for privileged and experienced divers. Snorkel among a kaleidoscope of coral reefs brimming with brightly-coloured tropical fish and perhaps swim with curious sea lions.

Complimentary snorkelling is offered as a self-guided activity but with Zodiac support to ensure your safety. From the Zodiacs, our expedition team will keep a close eye on you to ensure you remain visible and safe at all times. While it is an advantage to have previous snorkelling experience, complete beginners are welcome to participate.

On voyages where snorkelling is offered as a complimentary activity, Aurora Expeditions will provide you with a snorkel, mask, fins, and carry bag for personal use during the voyage.

Tropical Sea Kayaking

Led by highly-experienced and enthusiastic guides, join a small group of up to 20 like-minded adventurers and create lasting memories immersed in some of the world’s wildest, remotest and most pristine destinations. Paddle over colourful coral reefs, in sheltered bays, where you may encounter dolphins showing off acrobatic skills, among mangroves harbouring nesting seabirds or along spectacular coastal desert landscapes surrounded by sparkling seas and perhaps playful sea lions.

The experience of kayaking in one of the most biologically intense regions of the world both above and under the water is guaranteed to stir your soul. Weather permitting, the kayaking activity is normally available anytime the other expeditioners go out. Rather than travelling large distances, our aim is to see as much as possible. A paddle can be anywhere between 5-15 km / 3-9 mi. (2 to 4 hours) per outing, sometimes taking a snack and a cool drink to enjoy on our excursion.  Each group of up to 10 kayakers (per guide) generally visit the same wildlife sites as our fellow expeditioners.

Sea kayaking is offered in place of regular shore excursions. The aim to paddle as frequently as shore landings, or Zodiac-cruises, are offered to all other passengers, sometimes more. Depending on the itinerary, this is generally twice per day.

For our tropical trips you should have some prior paddling experience, be active in the outdoors and have an adventurous spirit. We may encounter wind on these trips, however the water is fairly protected. You do not need to be an expert or know how to roll. However, you are required to be able to swim and you should have experience in a wet exit and assisted re-entry.
You should also be proficient at putting on a spray skirt by yourself, and be comfortable paddling on seas with up to half a metre swell. It is also important that you gain some practice getting into a kayak from a pier, wharf, or deep shoreline where you can’t step into the kayak from standing position. All this can easily be practiced at home before your trip. You should paddle in a variety of weather conditions to prepare for your tropical adventure.

Ningaloo Marine Wildlife Experience

Swim with majestic whale sharks or humpback whales. Whale sharks are frequent visitors to Ningaloo Reef, and if we’re lucky, you may be able to swim with these beautiful creatures. If the opportunity presents itself, you may also be able to swim with humpback whales.

Temperate Climate Scuba Diving and Snorkelling

Uncover an underwater world that few have seen. In a wetsuit or perhaps even a drysuit, you may explore remarkable kelp forests, swim among sonorous whales, uncover historic ship-wrecks and perhaps even swim between two continents! Diving in some of the world’s wildest and remotest locations is a privilege that is reserved for the lucky few, experienced adventurers. Buddy up and be part of a small group of up to 6 divers for get ready for some unforgettable moments.