The Great Barrier Reef, off the coast of North Eastern Australia, is the world’s largest living structure, as well as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. And it isn’t hard to see why…
The reef, at around 65km wide in some parts, is a gathering of brilliant, vivid coral, containing an abundance of tropical marine life, providing divers with the most spectacular underwater experience imaginable. The reef is a breeding area for humpback whales, migrating from the Antarctic and is also the habitat of a few endangered species, including the Dungong (Sea Cow) and the large green sea turtle. In recognition of its significance, UNESCO listed the Great Barrier Reef as a World Heritage Site in 1981. Because of its natural beauty, both above and below the water’s surface, the reef has become one of the world’s most sought after tourist destination.
There are a wide variety of ways to experience the reef, allowing you to choose your own adventure. Whether you’re diving amongst the fish, or viewing it through a glass bottom boat, the reef is sure to leave a lasting impression. Snorkelling is the easiest, cheapest and most popular way to be in close contact with the reef and its array of colourful creatures. Alternatively, keep your hair and face dry & breathe as normal whilst walking beneath the waves with the ‘Seawalker’ experience. The specially designed Seawalker helmet allows you to walk along the sand of the Great Barrier Reef without swimming or diving. You can also go sailing, hire yachts, catamarans or even give yourself the tour and hire a paddle board. For those looking for a more daring experience, you can even sky dive in Cairns and view the reef from above!
To make the experience even more exciting, you can hire a Liveaboard boat for 3-15 nights and venture out of the deep waters into the outer reef. Or for something completely different, try ‘Scuba Doo’, an underwater scooter that you can drive around underwater to see the reef at your own leisure. There’s also the option to go whale watching or swimming with dolphins.
Cairns is one of the most popular places to visit the reef. Known as the gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, the city is located in the tropical far north of Queensland. However, there are many other things you can do to explore, including trekking through the tropical Daintree Rainforest. To see the tree tops from above you can take the cable car up to the village of Kuranda, see the breathtaking views and wander around the streets lined with daily markets, food vans and boutiques. Cairns has many great hotels and resorts to suit any budget.
The Great Barrier Reef holds hundreds of picturesque tropical islands with some of the worlds’ most beautiful, golden beaches. Here are just a few:
Hamilton Island
Hamilton Island is the most popular holiday destination on the Great Barrier Reef. Situated in the heart on the Great Barrier Reef, it is a perfect destination for exploring the reef and world-famous Whitehaven Beach. There’s an abundance of activities on the island including; water sports, walking trails, golfing on one of Australia’s premier courses, go-kart racing and even sporting events such as marathons and ocean swims. The island holds six different levels of accommodation – from luxurious suites to family friendly holiday homes, so it’s a retreat everyone can enjoy.
Haggerstone island
Haggerstone Island is an exclusive island retreat located on the Great Barrier Reef, about 600km north of Cairns. This private island is teeming with colourful fish & surrounded by some of the most incredible coral gardens. Each lodge is individually designed, and each private villa has its own beachfront and sea view. The island is filled with miles of pristine white beaches, adventure, remoteness and a beautiful tropical climate.
HERON ISLAND
Heron Island is a World Heritage-Listed Marine National Park, with all flora and fauna protected so its emphasis is on enjoying its natural beauty. It’s world famous for its impressive scuba diving and snorkelling sites, with 10 Great Barrier Reef dive sites being within just 15 minutes of the island. This gives you greater opportunity to discover the amazing array of animal life, a unique experience exclusively for guests. The island is one of Australia’s most prestigious marine research stations and even trains students in marine sciences.
If exploring the Great Barrier Reef is on your bucket list, then why not start planning that dream trip with one of our Travel Experts today.
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