Outer Reef Snorkelling Tour (With or Without Aqua Scooter)

This was a great experience to see the 'outside' of Lord Howe Island that many people wouldn't normally do and we highly recommend it. My husband and I enjoyed our tour around Lord Howe Island on their amazing boat despite haphazard weather. Following a safety briefing by Dave we set off and visited the spectacular caves and cliffs on the outside of the Island below Mt Eliza. The water was an amazing cerulean colour in the caves. We could see amazing fault lines running the full length of the cliffs too - the geological formations were quite impressive. We then went over to the Admiralty Islands and toured these too. Normally the tour would head straight down to Balls Pyramid but because of a squall Dave took us back to the jetty to have coffee and chocolate chip cookies to let it ride out. We then boarded the boat again and headed to Mt Gower to see the tallest sea cliffs in Australia. Simply amazing. Unfortunately our trip to Balls Pyramid was not meant to be as the ocean chop was too much and not safe - we got to see Balls in the distance - and turned around and headed for home. Dave and Glenys very generously gave us a significant refund because they couldn't complete the tour which we were not expecting. They were lovely hosts who made the trip fun - but most importantly safe for us all.

I cannot rave or recommend this company for a boat tour of lovely Lord Howe Island enough! Blessed with a cracker of a day, weather-wise, on Anzac Day off we set off to tour around Lord Howe and beyond to Ball’s Pyramid and The Admiralty Islands with Dave Gardiner and “Pommy” Michael. These two gentlemen are amazing – they kept us informed and amused for hours. Dave is a wealth of knowledge on everything you’ll experience on this fantastic tour – the history, the landscape, the sea life, the bird life, the geology – you name it, Dave has all the fascinating facts and information. He’s also a keen photographer so he’s always happy to position the boat so you get great composition for your happy snaps. I was also impressed with the way Dave ensures both sides of the boat get the opportunity to view each and every scene and that Michael took the time to photograph everyone, using their camera/phone to take a portrait in front of Ball’s Pyramid. It’s the little things that can make all the difference. The boat is so comfortable, which is important when you’re spending hours aboard and sometimes having to endure a few bumps now and then – especially great for those of us with bad lower backs. At no time did I feel uncomfortable or seasick. The tour itself will have you viewing the most spectacular, naturally beautiful spots around the area you’ll be amazed at how many hundreds of photos you’ll take. The Admiralty Islands are so picturesque with the landscape changing at every turn. Ball’s Pyramid and surrounds is a haven for birds – the place almost looks mythical. If conditions are right, you’ll get the chance to snorkel off the boat around Ball’s Pyramid, which was an awesome experience. The water was warm and we got to see a flute fish, Galapagos shark, yellow drummer and some saw a turtle – among the hundreds of species of fish also here. Even after docking, the tour continues – with morning tea and homemade cake back at the shed. My husband and I loved every single minute of this tour and would highly recommend it – I can’t remember a more totally enjoyable experience on a tour as I did on this one. Book it now!

Amazing experience. My jaw dropped when I saw Ball’s Pyramid. So majestic. Captain Dave is fantastic - experienced, you feel extremely safe and in good hands. Boat is wonderful. It was awesome to go around Lord Howe - such a different perspective. Lot’s of big waves breaking - very cool stuff to see. Oh and Dolphins riding your side on the way back from Ball’s Pyramid..!

Dave ensured we had the best possible time, providing a completely tailored, friendly and fun (with a dash of education) experience. Not to mention the James Bond-esque style scooters - I'm so spoilt now I wouldn't want to snorkel without one! Thanks again to Dave, his lovely wife Glenys and our co-guide Caitlyn.. we had a ball.

Fantastic outer reef snorkelling trip using aqua scooters in waters below Mt Lidgbird. Majestic coral formations and the odd friendly shark. Greenback were great, friendly & knowledgeable people, excited to show us the wondrous waters.

This was our second visit to LHI and our second boat experience with Dave, Both of which were excellent . We loved the boat ride to Balls Pyramid , Dave was informative re history, bird life etc Balls Pyramid is amazing and a not to be missed experience, Thank you for a fantastic experience both Dave & Glenys