Into the Blue
31 Aug 2017
The northern Great Barrier Reef is an underwater wonderland brimming with aquatic treasures.
There’s something magical about exploring a coral reef system. From the rainbow of vibrantly coloured tropical fish, to giant clams, stingrays and reef sharks, you’ll be mesmerised every which way you look.
As one of the planet’s most magnificent reef systems, stretching 2300 kilometres down Australia’s eastern coast and including over 3000 individual reef systems and coral cays, the Great Barrier Reef is a must-see. For a truly immersive experience, it’s worth spending several days exploring regions beyond the reach of day boats.
That’s precisely the agenda of Coral Expeditions’ four-night northern reef cruise, which stops in at Lizard Island, the Ribbon Reefs and Escape Reef.
Marine wonderland
Our first foray into the warm turquoise waters begins at Lizard Island, a national park known for its rugged and pristine natural beauty. Here, our cosy group of just 22 travellers is treated to a breathtaking variety of hard and soft corals, sea anemones and tropical fish – before dragging ourselves back to shore for sunset drinks.
The following morning we return to Lizard Island to explore Watsons Beach, another snorkeling spot. Here, I spot a shy reef shark that vanishes as fast as it appears, and a cleaning station’ of big fish patiently lining up to be groomed by smaller fish.
“These are like the ‘hair salons’ of the reef and are neutral ground where predator and prey can be side by side,” explains Marine Biologist and Trip Director Bec Finlayson.
Having Bec on board proves invaluable for learning more about the reef; daily glass bottom boat tours give you an insight into everything from how coral grows to the social dynamics and individual quirks of different fish species. Boat tours are also a great way to experience the reef for those who prefer not to get their feet wet.
Gardens under the ocean
After snorkelling Lizard Island, I’m already on a high. But the day keeps getting better as we make our way to the Ribbon Reefs, a string of 10 spectacular coral reefs that boast picturesque coral gardens and isolated bommies.
Anchoring at an exclusive mooring spot on Ribbon Reef No. 9, I know we’re in for something special when Snowy, the ship engineer, confesses “Once I saw the Ribbon Reefs, they spoiled all other reefs for me”.
He’s right; the Ribbon Reefs set the bar really high, even for snorkelling aficionados. The different shapes and colours of the coral form a brilliant tapestry illuminated by shifting beams of sunshine, while small inlets into the reef allow you to glimpse secret gardens teeming with life.
The adventure continues the following day, with a stop-off at the equally stunning Ribbon Reef No. 3, and our final snorkel for this left of the trip. Later that afternoon while in transit to our overnight anchorage, we are treated to yet another highlight – a graceful minke whale appears just metres in front of the ship, and further off in the distance we glimpse more whales and a pod of frolicking dolphins.
It’s a lovely send-off from the reef, and a reminder of just how dynamic and precious this natural wonder is.
Home at sea
The endless entertainment the reef provides calls for a bit of downtime to take it all in, and thankfully there’s relaxation aplenty on board our vessel, Coral Expeditions II. In contrast to giant, ‘floating hotel’ style cruise ships, Coral Expeditions II is a boutique vessel just 35 metres long.
The upper level has an indoor lounge area and a large sun deck where you can happily spend hours reading or snoozing. Food-wise, you can expect freshly prepared, small-batch local cuisine, and the friendly atmosphere on board makes for sociable mealtimes.
The ‘open bridge’ policy means you can spend time with the captain – and see if you can spot any transiting whales before he does.
Setting sail
Coral Expeditions’ four-night northern reef cruise departs from Cairns every Monday. Also on offer is a three-night southern reef cruise and a seven-night expedition combining the three and four-night itineraries. For more information, visit coralexpeditions.com
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