Guide to visiting the Great Barrier Reef
Guide to visiting the Great Barrier Reef
If there’s one thing that we can all agree on, it’s that the Great Barrier Reef is undoubtedly one of the most phenomenal natural wonders of our world.
Whether you’re a pro scuba diver or are just longing to find Nemo, discovering the utter magic of the underwater world is a memory that will stay with you forever. It is a dream that only the luckiest of people will ever get to experience first hand.
Although, there isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ approach when it comes to choosing the ultimate GBR adventure. Here is a compilation our best tips and tricks to plan your journey of a lifetime to the World Heritage listed GBR.
Calyspo Snorkel & Dive
Are you and the family a bunch of confident swimmers? Get the most out of your reef adventure and visit three different sites in one day on the Calypso Snorkel and Dive cruise. Spend hours swimming in the breathtaking Opal Reef with clownfish, stingrays and giant clams – you’ll probably come across some friendly reef sharks!
Regardless of if you decide to snorkel or scuba dive through this pristine eco-system, the team of experienced and helpful staff will be there to ensure your day goes smoothly. You’ll be able to enjoy the serenity in comfort when travelling with Calypso.
Poseidon and Silversonic
Poseidon and Silversonic 5 star cruises deliver the best of the best when it comes to small tours with huge value. These multiple site reef trips are the perfect option if you’re heading out with a partner or travelling solo.
Poseidon is the best choice for certified divers or those wanting to do an introductory dive. Immerse yourself in the beauty of three unique sites and relax on the modern catamaran’s expansive sundecks in between swims.
Silversonic also ventures out to three remarkable sights suitable for swimmers, snorkelers and divers. If you are lucky enough to encounter a dwarf minke whale on this cruise, you’ll be able to swim alongside the incredible mammal – talk about a story to tell the grandkids!
Quicksilver Pontoon
If you’re bringing the kids along or swimming just isn’t your forte, board the wavepiecring catamaran to the Quicksilver Pontoon on the Agincourt Ribbon Reef. This way, you can stay dry and still experience the magic of Australia’s Continental Shelf from semi-submersible boats and a unique fish and coral observatory. The kids will love watching the fish feeding from the underwater viewing platform!
There are endless entertaining activities on the pontoon for the swimmers and non-swimmers, so you don’t have to worry about crowds. When lunchtime rolls around, indulge in a tropical smorgasbord of prawns, pasta, meats and fruit to really put the icing on the cake.
The Reef Sprinter
The Reef Sprinter can grant your wishes if you’re desperate to see the GBR but don’t want your sea sickness getting in the way. Board in Port Douglas and in just fifteen minutes you’ll be gazing at the unimaginable blues of the World Heritage Low Isles Reef.
Jump on the glass bottom boat to follow some majestic Green Sea Turtles, and then snorkel with the colourful fish over the exquisite coral cays. The two Reef Sprinter vessels are the only boats with permits for this exclusive green zone site, so you’ll have the dreamlike ocean and unreal marine life all to yourself.
This is a half-day getaway which leaves you plenty of time to explore the rest of Tropical North Queensland.
Quicksilver Outer Reef & Helicopter
Visiting the Great Barrier Reef is an unforgettable experience in itself, but this package experience is absolutely next level. Take off from the heli-pad on the Agincourt Reef and soar through the sky overlooking spectacular blues of the Ribbon Reefs, rich coral formations and plentiful ocean life.
You’ll fly at heights of up to 500ft for ten scenic minutes before commencing your activities on the Quicksilver Pontoon. Remember to bring your camera!
Afterwards, join the rest of the tour group for snorkelling, a coral and fish observatory, fish feeding and plenty of delicious food.
Wavedance Quicksilver
Do you prefer the finer things in life? Treat yourself to a half day island escape to Low Isles on the luxury sailing catamaran Wavedancer. This secluded tropical haven is the ultimate destination to lay back, relax and watch the wonders of the reef. When you aren’t snorkelling in the coral gardens amongst the bright variety of fish, take a stroll around the island or set up under a palm tree to unwind. Only a small group of travellers will be on board to protect the reef and ecology, so you will be able to appreciate peace and seclusion.