Coral Expeditions

History of Coral Expeditions
40 years of pioneering history
Started by a fisherman-entrepreneur with a passion for life at sea was the original Coral Princess, a converted ‘Fairmile’ submarine chaser, commissioned in 1983.

The company has always been based in Queensland, in the tropical north of Australia. From our base in Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, the company pioneered small ship expedition style cruising in the Kimberley, the Great Barrier Reef, the Islands of the South Pacific and Papua New Guinea. The Coral Expeditions’ product has always been defined by leading immersive excursions to remote areas untouched by traditional cruise ships and tourism operators. Given its origins exploring the Great Barrier Reef, it should come as no surprise that environmentally sensitive operations with minimal impact are part of the company’s DNA.

As the company grew, it pioneered many developments that have since become standard in the cruise industry such as the use of interpretive guides onboard and the practice of offering all inclusive shore excursions. The build of Coral Discoverer in 2005 was also a landmark – a state-of-the art small ship with bluewater capabilities built to very high standards in Australia.

Today, with new builds Coral Adventurer and Coral Geographer, Coral Expeditions is continuing to expand on a rich Australian heritage and takes cruises further and further afield. Coral Expeditions is one of the largest employers of Australian seafarers today.

In 2023, we celebrated our 40th anniversary – a significant milestone representing four decades of delivering unforgettable experiences to our guests. We are looking forward to reflecting on our company’s history and accomplishments while also planning for future adventures.

Protecting the Places You Explore

For more than 40 years, Coral Expeditions has remained committed to sustainable expedition cruising, guided by the belief that responsible travel should leave a positive and lasting impact on the environments and communities you visit. Every voyage encourages a deeper understanding of remote coastlines, ancient landscapes, vibrant coral reefs, and marine ecosystems while supporting their long-term conservation. Coral Expeditions continually reduces environmental impact, supports conservation initiatives, and collaborates with scientists, Traditional Owners, and local communities to help protect these remarkable places for future generations. Through thoughtful operations, education, and meaningful partnerships, every expedition inspires greater appreciation for the landscapes, wildlife, and cultures that make each destination unique.

Conservation Partners

• Eye on the Reef – Reef Data Collection
  Coral Expeditions supports the Eye on the Reef monitoring and assessment program operated by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA). During Citizen Science voyages, Rapid Monitoring Survey observations contribute valuable reef health data that supports the ongoing conservation of the Great Barrier Reef.
• iNaturalist – Plants, Animals, Fungi & More
  During Citizen Science voyages, you can record wildlife observations through iNaturalist. These records contribute to global biodiversity research by helping scientists monitor species, understand ecosystems, and strengthen conservation efforts across the Great Barrier Reef.
• Project Manta – Citizen Manta Research
  You can help collect valuable data on manta rays through Project Manta during Citizen Science expeditions. The information supports long-term population monitoring, scientific research, and the conservation of these iconic marine species throughout the Great Barrier Reef.
• Crown-of-thorns Starfish Control Program – Coral Recovery
  Coral Expeditions supports the Crown-of-thorns Starfish Control Program through targeted efforts that reduce outbreaks of this native coral predator. These initiatives help safeguard reef ecosystems and strengthen the long-term health of the Great Barrier Reef.

Community and Scientific Initiatives

• Yenbuba Reef Restoration Project
  Working alongside the Yenbuba community in Raja Ampat, Coral Expeditions helps restore degraded reef habitats by constructing and deploying artificial reef structures, attaching coral fragments, and identifying suitable restoration sites. The project also provides practical training in reef monitoring, snorkelling safety, and conservation techniques while supplying snorkelling equipment that supports ongoing community-led monitoring.
• Celebrating First Nations Art & Culture
  Coral Expeditions proudly sponsors the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF), celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, culture, and storytelling. This partnership supports the creativity, cultural heritage, and traditions of First Nations communities.
• The Forever Reef Project
  Coral Expeditions supports the Forever Reef Project, the world's first living coral biobank, preserving coral species and genetic diversity for future reef research and restoration. Through Citizen Science expeditions and Coral Futures voyages, you can connect with leading conservation initiatives while helping raise awareness and support the long-term protection of the Great Barrier Reef.
• Supporting Sea Turtle Rehabilitation
  Coral Expeditions supports the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre on Fitzroy Island, helping improve sea turtle rehabilitation outcomes. During 7-day Great Barrier Reef itineraries, visits to the centre and ongoing donations contribute to the sanctuary's conservation efforts and the protection of threatened marine wildlife.

Onboard Sustainability Initiatives

Sustainability is embedded in every Coral Expeditions voyage. Through thoughtful operational practices, continuous improvement, and guest education, Coral Expeditions reduces environmental impact while protecting the remarkable destinations you explore. Onboard sustainability initiatives include:

• Eliminating polycarbonate plastics from the supply chain wherever possible.
• Sourcing provisions through Supply Nation and First Nations-owned businesses.
• Providing complimentary marine-friendly sunscreen to help protect sensitive reef environments.
• Implementing emissions reduction initiatives that improve fuel efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
• Offering on-demand housekeeping to reduce water consumption and unnecessary laundering.
• Utilizing advanced hull surfacing and antifouling technology to improve vessel efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.