Escape to Second Valley Beach for a guided snorkel in Encounter Marine Park. Our professional snorkel leaders and marine biologists will help you explore the jetty, reef and seagrass beds—areas that have been impacted by the recent harmful algal bloom, with fewer fish and invertebrates than usual, but still home to blue devilfish, leafy seadragons (last leafy spotted by EMS in September), reef fish and other resilient marine life. With depths ranging from 2–4 m, this relaxed, supported snorkel is a chance to witness first-hand how the reef is coping and beginning to recover, while learning about the challenges facing our Great Southern Reef.

Your ticket includes quality wetsuits and snorkel gear for adults and children (sizes from Adult 5XL to Child 4). All wetsuits are washed and masks/snorkels sterilised between uses. Suitable for confident swimmers aged 5+. Children under 15 must be accompanied by a parent/adult (max ratio 1 adult : 2 children). 

Discover South Australia’s iconic seadragon country—safe, educational and unforgettable.

Safety first: EMS actively monitors local Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) reports and water-quality advisories for Second Valley and the wider Encounter Marine Park. If conditions are unsafe, we’ll cancel or reschedule your tour and notify you promptly; guests will be offered a new date or a full refund per our weather/water-quality policy. Your health—and the reef’s—always comes first.

Please arrive at least 30 minutes before start time to fill out the registration form and be fitted with snorkel gear.

FAQ

What concessions are available?

A concession is defined as a Senior or Australian Health Care Card Holder who hold an Australian Government issues Senior Card, Pension Card, Repatriation Health Card or Veterans Affair card. For an overseas senior, Proof of Age Card or Passport showing age as 65+ years old.

A student is defined as any primary and secondary school student or full time tertiary and post-secondary students who have an approved photo ID. 

Where do I meet to take part in the tour?

EMS Snorkel leaders will have a registration table set up in the car park area near the jetty entrance  - look for the EMS trailer, marquee tent and banner.

Is there an age limit to enter the event?

The event is open to children 5 years and above who can swim.

What can/can't I bring to the event?

Bring your own wetsuit and snorkelling gear (if you don’t have your own snorkelling equipment we provide free of charge).

The name on the registration/ticket doesn't match the attendee. Is that okay?

That is fine, we will update at registration on the day.

Do you need to have snorkelling experience?

You don’t need snorkelling experience but you do need to be able to tread water and swim a short distance (at least 25m).  Larger groups will be broken down to smaller groups with similarly experienced snorkelers in each group - this allows more assistance to those who require it.