Great Barrier Reef Conservation Cruise

Start your adventure in Cairns as we set sail to explore the northern Great Barrier Reef, and learn more about the toolkit being developed to restore and protect this global icon. Our first evening together will include sunset drinks and canapés, an introduction to the Great Barrier Reef from conservation experts, and evening dinner cooked by your on-board chef.

Today’s adventure is a diver and snorkeller’s dream. We begin the day immersed in the underwater splendour of Ribbon Reef No. 3, a true coral wonderland teeming with dazzling marine life and kaleidoscopic reef formations. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or prefer the serenity of a snorkel, the waters here are a breathtaking window into the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Next, we venture to Ribbon Reef No. 10, home to one of the reef’s most iconic dive sites – Steve’s Bommie. Known for its vibrant coral towers and rare marine species, this world-renowned site is a hub for critter lovers and macro photographers alike. Watch in awe as schools of snapper shimmer past, giant clams nestle in the coral, and the elusive nudibranch makes a cameo beneath the surface. Between dives, unwind with a fresh juice or a chat with our onboard marine biologist – there’s no better way to deepen your connection with this fragile and spectacular ecosystem.

As well as snorkelling and diving to see marine life under the water, including the giant clams of the Clam Gardens, guests will be able to tour the world-leading research station, which is a supplier of on-reef facilities for coral reef research and education. Lizard Island was also ground zero for the bleaching event of 2016, which saw as much as 40% of corals in nearby waters show signs of bleaching, alongside an invasive crown-of-thorns starfish outbreak (COTS) which devastated the local coral populations. The island has become a key site for restoration activities on the Great Barrier Reef. Scientists from all over the world visit to develop solutions to these challenges common including advancements in reproductive technologies to vastly increase the number of corals that can be replanted, as well as innovative ways to predict and respond to COTS outbreaks.

The northern tip is commonly known as Shark City, as whitetip, grey and silvertip reef sharks are often seen cruising along the wall. Masses of fish gather along the steep wall which is covered with an incredible variety of colourful corals and invertebrates.

Tijou Reef is home to many different dive sites, particularly the coral gardens on the inner side and wonderful wall dives on it out of eastern side.

Wreck Bay is a beautiful site for exploring caves, ledges and bommies, and swimming amongst corals, clownfish, turtles and gropers. Spend the morning with researchers who are tagging whale sharks. Once tags are applied, you’ll be able to snorkel with these incredible creatures. Or jump in a helicopter in search of whale sharks, Omura Whales and Oceanic Manta Rays. We will showcase some of the technologies that are being deployed to research large marine mammals, including to underpin management and conservation decisions being made by Reef managers. The afternoon will be spent moored up behind Wreck Bay where there are numerous spots for snorkelling and diving.

Today we’ll make our way to Lockhart River to connect with our charter flight back to Cairns along the beautiful Queensland coastline.

Disembark True North II at Lockhart River for a charter flight to Cairns along the beautiful Queensland coastline.

Itineraries are subject to change.