The Keppel Islands sit just off the Capricorn Coast near Yeppoon, a scattered group ringed with 17 white sand beaches and some of the best hard coral cover left on the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you want a guided fast boat adventure between islands, a glass bottom boat and snorkel combo, a simple day trip with lunch, or your own boat to explore at your own pace, here is what is bookable through Experience Oz.
Fast boat island hopping
The Kraken Yeppoon Keppel Island Hopping Snorkel Adventure departs Keppel Bay Marina at 9am aboard a fast boat, weaving through narrow channels and secluded bays across the Keppel group. Along the way you can paddleboard, snorkel over coral reefs or simply take in the scenery, with the boat returning to the marina around 3pm.
Glass bottom boat and snorkel combo
The Great Keppel Island Glass Boat and Snorkel Combo Tour pairs a guided glass bottom boat tour with a snorkelling stop at one of the island's prime reef sites, led by a Master Reef Guide and marine biologist. A sausage sizzle snack follows your snorkel, with free time on the island before the return ferry to Rosslyn across a 6 hour day.
Day trip with lunch and drinks
The Great Keppel Island Day Trip with Lunch and Drinks covers your return ferry from Keppel Bay Marina plus a lunch of either a burger or Caesar salad, with a choice of beer, wine or soft drink included. Morning departures at 7.30am or 9am pair with a 2pm or 4pm return, leaving the rest of the day free to explore the beaches at your own pace.
Hire your own boat
The Great Keppel Island Polycraft Boat 2 Hour Hire puts you behind the wheel of a stable, easy to handle Polycraft Tuffy, no boat licence required. It suits families, couples and first time boaters who want to reach a quieter beach or bay around the island without committing to a full day on the water.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a boat licence to hire a boat at Great Keppel Island?
No. The Polycraft Boat 2 Hour Hire uses a stable, easy to handle vessel designed for first time boaters, with no licence required.
Which options include snorkelling?
The Kraken Island Hopping adventure and the Glass Boat and Snorkel Combo Tour both include guided snorkelling stops on the reef.
Is lunch included on the day trip?
Yes. The Day Trip with Lunch and Drinks includes a choice of burger or Caesar salad plus a beer, wine or soft drink, served at GKI Hideaway on the island.
Can I explore Great Keppel Island independently?
Yes. The Polycraft Boat 2 Hour Hire lets you explore beaches and bays around the island at your own pace without a guide.
Where do these activities depart from?
The Kraken tour and the Day Trip with Lunch and Drinks both depart Keppel Bay Marina, while the Glass Boat and Snorkel Combo Tour departs Rosslyn, both near Yeppoon on the Capricorn Coast.
Local tip: if you want a guided day with snorkelling and food sorted for you, book the Kraken tour, the Glass Boat combo or the lunch day trip, but if you would rather set your own pace and find a quiet beach, the Polycraft hire gives you that freedom.
Compare the Great Keppel Island activities above and choose the mix of guided touring and independence that suits your day.
