Hi there, I posted a message yesterday about going to Aussie Land, and I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on going snorkling during December. I hear that the jellyfish are deadly, but is the outer reef safe or not? Need help, because we are still planning to the last detail, any help would be appreciated.

Box jellyfish are only a problem on the beaches, not on the GBR. There are tons of tours that can take you out there. Where on the mainland will you be goin from?

Hey fighterpilot...I'll be going to Port Douglas in late March and I had asked the same basic question on this site before. I was informed that the box jellyfish or stingers are common from late October thru March or April, especially on the northern beaches. Many beaches, I'm told, use some sort of protective netting and one should stay in those areas of beach only. Also, take some vinegar with you to use as an "antidote" to the toxin or sting. The jellyfish are typically only found within a mile or so of the mainland coast...not out in the reef or on the islands. Use pools at the hotel or lifeguarded and netted areas of the beach. Good luck. <BR>

The stingers are only along the shore, not out on the reef (90 min. boat ride). Don't swim from the beach. If you need vinegar because of a sting, they have it on the beach next to the signs warning of marine stingers.

Alan - <BR> <BR>All other advice you were given is good, but also keep in mind that Dec. starts the rainy season up north. I spent a week in Cairns during Dec. & it poured for the whole 7 days - snorkeling was out. Just have other things planned if the weather doesn't cooperate.

Re marine stingers-Please remember that for many reasons tourists arent always told the exact truth. Stingers are more common on the mainland beaches( OCT- MAR) but often sting swimmers out at the islands and can be as far out as the reef. Please be carefull and wear some sort of protection. eg wetsuit, or lycra stinger suit or even tights (panty hose) and long sleeves. Better safe than sorry!