the Great Barrier Reef. Australia

Facts on the Great Barrier Reef. Stretching for over 2000 miles, one of the World's natural wonders. A mesmerizing mix of palm fringed islands, coral cays and tropical reef, with water a dazzling blue inhabited by the richest marine life. In fact over 400 species of coral, 1500 species of fish life. Did you know that different species of fish feed at different times, from daytime to nighttime even only at dawn and dusk? There are many ways to see the Reef, from a week's holiday on one of the resort islands or permanently moored cruise boats, to a day trip from the mainland.

port douglas charters

Barrier Reef Trips from Cairns. Take a 300 seater fast catamaran from Trinity Wharf in Cairns to Green Island Marine National Park less than 30km offshore, whilst there take a semi submersible tour, ride in a glass bottomed boat, snorkel or take a 40min walk around the island.

Or to Fitzroy Island (a continental island) only 5 km off the mainland, activities there include: snorkelling (usually certain area are lifeguard patrolled) the reef at your leisure, scuba diving from introductory dives to PADI learn to dive 3 day courses leading to open water certification, whilst land based activities include exploring the walking tracks and board walks to just relaxing on the beach. Why not charter a yacht island hopping, or a day spent snorkelling or scuba diving from a local boat, anchored offshore from one of the Cays.

Mission Beach to Dunk Island - Queensland Further south of Cairns take a Dunk Island cruise from Clump Point Jetty near Mission Beach. Part national park, part high class resort- as close to paradise as we could find- an oasis of peace and tranquility. Maybe combine a trip to Dunk with Beaver Reef Cay. Forest fruit. Branmo Bay. Take the walking trails to Coconut beach or to Mount Kootaloo allow at least 4 hours.

We particularly enjoyed the boat trip to Dunk island because the boat was limited to a maximum of 28 passengers, a far cry from the hundreds of people on the catamarans from Cairns. Novices might enjoy an introductory scuba dive or a guided snorkelling tour. Whilst certified divers can hire equipment and with a buddy explore the reef at their own pace.

Furthur down the coast of Queensland the reef is some 60km from the mainland. Take a day trip from Airlie Beach across the Coral Sea in fast catamaran. Fairy, Hook, and Elizabeth Reefs offer some of the best snorkelling and diving. From wall dives to viewing coral gardens and the prolific marine life of the reef.

Note. Though not so much of a problem as on the mainland marine stingers are still present and the hire of a suit is recommended. Also though so beautiful, do not stand on the coral or pick up any object, both the cone shell and the blue ringed octopus can kill you with one bite or injection of venom. Drink plenty of water, wear sensible shoes, use a water proof sunscreen and keep yourself covered from the heat of the mid day sun.

Take only photographs, and bring home only fond memories with you.

Beautiful Australia from the Rock to the Reef - a tourist guide with nice pictures.

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