Embark on an 9-day cruise from Cairns aboard Coral Discoverer on a conservation-focused journey across the Great Barrier Reef. Experience reef monitoring at Mackay Reef, join mangrove surveys and a Tangaroa Blue cleanup in the remote Howick Island Group, and dive or snorkel the marine-rich Ribbon Reefs. Explore Moore Reef and enjoy sunset on Sudbury Cay before hiking or snorkeling around Fitzroy Island and visiting the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Center. Discover the village of Port Douglas and take part in coral research led by the Forever Reef Project. This voyage offers hands-on science activities, expert-led excursions, and access to rarely visited reef sites that create a meaningful and engaging exploration of Australia’s iconic marine environment.
Highlights
Snorkel Mackay Reef while practicing essential reef monitoring skills
Enjoy sunset barefoot on the remote Sudbury Cay shoreline
Explore Moore Reef through guided snorkeling and diving activities
Visit the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Center supporting injured turtles
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.
Arrive in Cairns, and check in to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to do as you please before resting up for your journey the next day.
Board Coral Discoverer at 4:00pm and meet the Australian Geographic team and fellow travelers. Share sunset drinks as the ship departs Cairns, starting a focused week of reef research, hands-on conservation, and citizen science along the Great Barrier Reef.
Use your new reef monitoring skills during guided snorkel and dive sessions launched from the beach and the Xplorer. Spend your downtime on the sand, or take time to identify the seabird species that nest and feed around the cay.
Spend a full day exploring the rarely-visited Howick Island Group. This is an isolated group of islands with highly diverse biospheres – here guests will take part in mangrove watch surveys and discover the importance of mangroves to reef health. There will also be the opportunity to participate in a Tangaroa Blue Beach Cleanup and help mitigate the impact of marine debris in this unique part of the Great Barrier Reef.
Dive or snorkel the vibrant Ribbion Reefs, known for stunning coral and marine life. With warm waters and excellent visibility, conditions are ideal. The expert team tailors to suit all levels, while guests help collect Citizen Science data for a truly immersive reef experience.
Stroll the Secret Garden trail or hike to the lighthouse for incredible views. Snorkel the fringing reef or relax on the beach. Visit the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Center to meet volunteers caring for sick and injured sea turtles.
Explore the village of Port Douglas, nestled between reef and rainforest. Learn about the Forever Reef Project and join hands-on coral research activities on board, led by founder Dean Miller. Enjoy a farewell dinner with your expedition team.
Day 9: Cairns | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Disembark at the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal at 8:30am. Complimentary transfers to city hotels or airport are included. Transfers to the Northern Beaches or Port Douglas can be arranged on board with the Purser if not pre-booked.
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.
$5,8902-3 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 was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
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