It is recommended to wear a stinger suit as a precaution for any water activities in the Great Barrier Reef. Even if the chances of being stung is low, we wouldn't want anything life-threatening to be happening to you! Best you grab a stinger suit and explore the Great Barrier Reef waters safely.

While not legally mandatory, wearing a stinger suit is highly recommended in 2026, especially during "stinger season" which runs from November to May. March falls right in the peak of this window, when lethal Irukandji and Box Jellyfish are most active in the warm tropical waters of North Queensland. A stinger suit—a lightweight Lycra or nylon one-piece—covers roughly 75% of the body, providing a physical barrier that prevents jellyfish tentacles from touching the skin. Beyond the life-saving protection from venomous marine life, these suits are essential in 2026 for UV protection, as the Australian sun is notoriously harsh. Most tour operators provide these suits for free or a small rental fee ($5–$10). Even outside of stinger season, many snorkelers wear them to protect against minor coral scrapes and the occasional stray sea jelly, making them a standard piece of "must-have" gear for anyone entering the reef.