The Great Barrier Reef holidays

One of Australia’s most remarkable natural sights is the world heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef in the world. Beneath the water is a kaleidoscope of colours with more than 400 types of coral and 1,500 species of fish. Above the surface are coral cays and picturesque tropical islands with some of the world’s most beautiful sun-soaked golden beaches. The reef stretches over 2,300km, from the Torres Strait in Tropical North Queensland down to Bundaberg in the south, but is most easily accessible from Port Douglas and Cairns. There are more than 900 islands, ranging from small, uninhabited islets and cays to exclusive private island retreats.

Explore The Great Barrier Reef

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Top things to do in The Great Barrier Reef

Cruising over the Great Barrier Reef

Cruises to the Great Barrier Reef depart from Port Douglas, Cairns or many of the other islands. Cruises typically sail out to floating pontoons that are located near to the reef, from where you can explore the surrounding waters and view the many species of fish and coral. Snorkelling equipment is usually included, or cruises in a glass-bottom boat with a marine naturalist are available. Short cruises sail out for an hour to the Low Isles, which are closer to the shore and more often visited. For those with more time and in search of more pristine surroundings, cruises are available to the edge of the Barrier Reef including areas such as the lagoons of the renowned Agincourt Reef.