Charters

A Once in a Lifetime Experience

Look no further for your next unforgettable experience – swim with minke whales.

Encounter the Extraordinary

Are you an adventure seeker looking for your next unforgettable experience? If so, you’ve come to the right place.

Argo Expeditions is excited to offer you the opportunity to swim and snorkel with minke whales during an eye-opening seven-day trip on the Great Barrier Reef.

About the whales

Meet the Dwarf Minke

Spanning up to eight metres and weighing several tonnes, minkes are one of the most majestic creatures in the sea. They are known to be incredibly inquisitive and will often linger in an area for a number of hours, allowing you to appreciate their beauty up close.

Whether you are a seasoned swimmer, avid ocean-goer or completely new to all sorts of water activity, this all-new Argo trip provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Where & when

Responsible Encounters

Our best chance to interact with minkes is during the months of June and July, along a particular stretch of the Ribbon Reefs near Lizard Island up north. With only a handful of operators having the necessary permit to swim with these animals, we are proud to offer this opportunity.

During the expeditions, we follow the necessary guidelines to keep both our visitors and the whales safe. Interactions are based on the behaviour of the whales on the day, and we have a strict ‘no-touch’ policy at all times during the whale swims.

Our low guest numbers allow for an intimate wildlife encounter and more time in the water with the whales.

On board

Everything You’ll Need

Argo is a 27-metre motor yacht with a cruising range of 3,000 km, comfortably accommodating up to 18 guests. Onboard, you’ll find everything you need for an unforgettable trip:

Your trip includes six nights’ accommodation and all snorkelling equipment. All the logistics are handled by our professional crew, so you can focus on the experience.

Next Trip Dates

2026 Departures

24–30 June
1–7 July

2027 Departures

9 June · 16 June · 23 June
30 July · 7 July

Rates are per person, based on shared cabins
Rates are inclusive of GST
Departs and returns Crystalbrook Marina, Port Douglas

Voices of Satisfaction

Minke whales trip of a lifetime! I highly recommend anyone considering a minke whale trip to go with Argo. Their professionalism, customer service, and the love and care the crew have for the whales and the ocean is wonderful. The two trips I have done with Argo focused purely on snorkelling with minke whales and allowed for maximum encounters.
Jemma
July 2023
Be surprised – book this trip. If you have ever wanted to swim with whales this is the easiest, safest and most exhilarating way to do it. Great boat, lovely crew and best captain. You won’t go hungry and you won’t be disappointed. Vanessa is a very knowledgeable and approachable guide, making everyone feel like part of an amazing adventure.
Louise D
June 2024
Ten stars! This was trip number five on Argo and I loved everything about it. The boat is very comfortable and homey, and I love the small group size. The crew is super professional and knowledgeable, attentive and helpful. And don’t get me started about the food. I cannot wait for next year’s trip.
Vmignon
June 2024
On board

Flexible Cabin Options

We offer a range of cabin options, including a bunk cabin, mid cabins with a queen bed and bunks for up to four guests, and ensuite cabins with a queen bed and bunks for twin to quad occupancy plus a private bathroom.

Make Your Trip Extraordinary

Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the underwater world with these gentle giants. Register your interest today.

Or call +61 455 557 179 · charters@argoexpeditions.com.au