GBR snorkeling in June?
 

My husband and I are wanting to snorkel the reef area mid-June. I know this is late fall, early winter. What are the water and air temps this time of year? I have read that it will probably be in the low 70's during the day. Is that correct? Will the "stingers" be gone by then? Thanks for any info you can offer!

If you are committed to autumn/fall then go as far north as possible, eg Green or Lizard islands. Temperatures vary quite considerably from the south of the reef (Lady Elliott Island, Heron Island) to the north. So I'd suggest you look at the temperatures listed for northern waters--I would think low 20 C would be correct for the south.

The water temperature around this time of year in the area of Cairns and Port Douglas should be about 24 degrees C (about 75 degrees F) and the air temperature should be around 26 degrees C (about 78 degrees F). I find the water temperature comfortable for frolicking in the water off the beach, but for snorkeling on the reef, I recommend renting a wetsuit. Not only will it keep you warmer in the water, but it will also aid in buoyancy.
As for stingers--you have nothing to worry about. Stinger season is from about November to May and that's only close to shore. Stingers are not a worry when you are at the Reef.

Cairns/Port Douglas avg daily high in June is 78F with avg low of 61F at night. Expect water temperatures of around 78F. June can be windy, but usually not as blowy as July and August.

Stingers have usually gone from coastal areas by June, but not always. They're very unlikely to be as far offshore as reef, but if in doubt rent a stinger suit from the reef operator.

Thanks for the excellent advice (as always)!!

I do agree with longhorn about renting a wetsuit for any prolonged time in water at reef in June, and the extra buoyancy factor is definitely a plus.

Hi, we snorkled last june / july on the GBR and the water temp was perfect. We had sunshine which made some difference but we spent hours in the water and never got chilled. No one in our group of 30 snorklers used a wet suit. Most of the day trip boats have wet suits to rent if you decide you want one.

Thanks so much for all the advice. We are thinking of doing the Lizard Island day tour. I have read so much about what I nice snorkel area it is that I think it would be worth the trip!

Hi Leeann.

Last year we did the tour out to Lizard Island with Greg from Daintree air and had an amazing adventure.

Lots to see and do apart from snorkelling although the snorkelling was brilliant.

The views from the top of Chinaman’s ridge out over the reefs were so beautiful.

Make sure the batteries in your camera are well charged.