Explore Queensland’s iconic Great Barrier Reef on an 8-day cruise aboard Coral Discoverer. Depart from Cairns and discover remote destinations including Lizard Island, Stanley Island, Ribbon Reef, Sudbury Cay, Fitzroy Island, and Port Douglas. Hike to Cook’s Look, snorkel vibrant coral gardens, and dive alongside expert guides. Visit Aboriginal rock art sites and take part in marine conservation, from beach cleanups to coral restoration projects. Join photography workshops, learn from marine biologists, and contribute to citizen science. Meet rescued sea turtles at Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Center. Enjoy remote island sunsets and free time in Port Douglas before returning to Cairns. Experience reef, rainforest, and meaningful adventure.
Highlights
Hike to Cook’s Look on scenic Lizard Island trails
Dive Ribbon Reefs with expert marine biologist-led excursions
Learn photography tips from expert wildlife photographer onboard sessions
Visit rescued turtles at Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Center
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Board Coral Discoverer at 4:00 p.m. for a 5:00 p.m. departure. Meet the Australian Geographic team and fellow travelers, then gather for the Captain’s Welcome Drinks to kick off the expedition.
Day 3: Lizard Island (Dyiigurra) for the Tangaroa Blue Project
Lizard Island features fringing reefs and a clear turquoise lagoon. Hike to Cook’s Look, snorkel over giant clam gardens, relax on the beach, or try a shore dive. Join guided walks, explore by Glass Bottom Boat, and take part in the Tangaroa Blue Project by collecting and recording marine debris for environmental research.
In the evening, attend a photography session with Brett Lobwein, focused on wildlife and landscape techniques.
Visit Stanley Island to view rare Endaen Aboriginal rock art showing the first sailing ships to Queensland. Back on board, learn about mangrove ecology and join Mangrove Watch surveys from Xplorers and zodiacs, led by expert Aus Geo hosts and the expedition team.
Dive or snorkel the vibrant Ribbon Reefs, known for stunning coral and marine life. With warm waters and excellent visibility, conditions are ideal. The expert team tailors sites to suit all levels, while guests help collect Citizen Science data for a truly immersive reef experience.
Explore the vibrant waters of Moore Reef with a snorkel or dive among dazzling coral gardens and marine life. Later, unwind at remote Sudbury Cay —shoes off, toes in the sand, drink in hand—as the sun sets over the Coral Sea with fellow adventurers.
At Fitzroy Island, stroll through the Secret Garden rainforest or hike to the old lighthouse for stunning views. Snorkel the fringing reef, relax on the beach, and visit the Cairns Turtle Rehab Center to meet volunteers helping rescue and release injured turtles.
Discover a region rich in gold rush history, sugar industry heritage, and natural beauty, nestled between reef and rainforest. Learn about the Forever Reef Project, preserving coral biodiversity for future generations, then in the afternoon, welcome Dean’s expert team onboard, where they will host hands-on coral activities. Enjoy some free time in Port Douglas, with a laid-back village vibe, before a special farewell dinner onboard.
Led by The Forever Reef Project Founder Dean Miller
Day 9: Cairns | Disembark
You’ll arrive at Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal with disembarkation at 8:30 am. Post-cruise transfers to Cairns CBD and the airport are included. If you’re heading to the Northern Beaches or Port Douglas, transfers can be arranged onboard with the Purser (at passenger cost), if not already booked before embarkation.
This itinerary is an indication of the destinations to be visited and activities on offer. Throughout the expedition, the team may make changes to the itinerary as necessary to maximize your expeditionary experience. Allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions, and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$5,8802-3 travelers
Rates displayed are based on the current exchange rate from the Australian Dollar, and therefore may fluctuate.
Main Deck B
Averaging 195 sq. ft. Three cabins located on the Main Deck, equipped with twin portholes, desk, sofa, telephone and your choice of Junior King or twin bedding.
Main Deck A
Averaging 195 sq. ft. Six cabins located on the Main Deck, equipped with twin porthole windows, desk, sofa, telephone and your choice of Junior King or twin bedding.
Promenade Deck B
Averaging 160 sq. ft. Four cabins located on the Promenade Deck, equipped with picture windows, desk, telephone and Junior King bedding.
Promenade Deck A
Averaging 195 sq. ft. Eighteen cabins located on the Promenade Deck, equipped with picture windows, sofa, desk, telephone and your choice of Junior King or twin bedding.
Bridge Deck
Averaging 195 sq. ft. Five cabins located on the Bridge Deck, equipped with picture windows, sofa, desk, telephone and your choice of Junior King or twin bedding.
Notes
Solo Travelers:
Solo cabin occupancy is limited and based on availability in Promenade Deck B cabins only. Single supplement is an additional 50%.
Important Fare Information:
Rates are posted based off of the current exchange rates from Australian or New Zealand Dollars. Please contact us for current exchange rates.
Initial deposit is 25%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by Bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
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