Snorkeling Adventure in Port Orford, Oregon
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic swimming ability and be comfortable in open water environments.
Overview
Join South Coast Tours on a two-hour snorkeling journey off Oregon's southern coast. Explore kelp forests, reefs, and caves, then enjoy fresh fish and chips in Port Orford!
Snorkeling Port Orford Boat Tour
Snorkel by Boat in Port Orford • 2.5 hours
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 2-hour snorkeling adventure aboard the "Black Pearl," a state-of-the-art vessel. Guided by a Dive Master, explore stunning rocky reefs, swim through arches and caves, and navigate lush kelp forests at Orford Heads State Park. Conclude your journey with delicious fish and chips in Port Orford!
Duration
- 2 hours
About
Snorkel the amazing Orford Heads with us on the "Black Pearl", our new ocean vessel similar to the boats the Coast Guard uses. Our Dive Master will guide you into some beautiful rocky reef around Nellies Cove. Swim through an arch, into caves and through the kelp forests under Orford Heads State Park. The Pearl is a comfortable dive vessel equipped with a deep dive ladder making it easy to exit the Pacific when ready to locate to another dive spot or head back in for some fish and chips at one of the great restaurants in Port Orford. You will have an unforgettable experience on the Black Pearl out of Port Orford!
Adventure Tips
Bring a wetsuit for cool water
Water temperatures off Port Orford can be chilly even in summer, so a wetsuit is essential for comfort underwater.
Arrive early to the dock
Arriving 30 minutes before departure gives you time to get settled and receive snorkeling gear instructions.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect marine life by applying biodegradable sunscreen recommended for snorkeling activities.
Secure personal belongings
Keep your valuables onshore or secured; the boat has limited storage space and no lockers.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- River otters often swim near kelp forests
- Colorful Garibaldi fish inhabit the rocky reefs
History
Port Orford has been a fishing and marine hub since the 1800s, with a rich local indigenous heritage.
Conservation
South Coast Tours supports local marine conservation efforts by promoting responsible snorkeling and minimizing ecological impact.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit
Wetsuits keep you warm and comfortable in Oregon’s cool coastal waters, especially in spring and fall.
spring specific
Mask and snorkel
A high-quality mask and snorkel allow clear underwater vision and easy breathing during the tour.
Waterproof camera
Capture stunning marine life and scenery with a camera designed for underwater use.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin and the environment with biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen.
summer specific