Day 15 Feature Down Under

15 October: Great Barrier Reef

Did you know:

The Coral Sea off the coast of Queensland is the home of The Great Barrier Reef. It’s the world's largest coral reef, stretching over 2,300 kilometres and comprising more than 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands and can be seen from outer space. Not that we have actually seen it from outer space, but I believe it to be true.

If you like diving, snorkelling, swimming, scuba, sailing, skydiving, looking at turtles (and giant stingray), fishing, sailing, lazing on beaches, sun, great seafood…the Great Barrier Reef has to be high on your list.

You can take day tours, or two night live-aboard trips departing from Cairns and Townsville. Cairns’Cairns' Great Barrier Reef Tours Three Day adventure gives you extra time to experience mother nature at her best. The tour includes live-aboard accommodation, chef prepared meals and unlimited snorkelling and dive upgrade options. From Townsville, Reef Free Tours offer a wide range of options.

Or peruse the Ten Top Things to Do on the Great Barrier Reef







If you would prefer a relaxing break staying on one of the many Great Barrier Islands, Destination Queensland provides a good range of packages, from adventure packed tours and family-focussed holidays to romantic getaways for honeymooners.

There are too many beautiful islands to showcase them all, but here are three:



Orpheus Island provides a wonderful 28 guests only luxury experience. Its Gwandalan Spa looks amazing. Their treatments reflect a blend of modern and indigenous herbalism, aromatherapy and touch therapy, inspired by traditional Aboriginal techniques, and aim to restore balance and wellness.

Hayman Island is another gorgeous place. Take a look at this image - I think an ocean massage would be so cool...



Lizard Island is a National Park. Unfortunately, it’s closed right now, but once open again you can enjoy camping and visiting the unique terrain, flora and fauna.






Fitzroy Island a mountainous rainforest oasis surrounded by fringing reef formations, is actually just off the Great Barrier Reef. It is also a National Park, and is open. You can enjoy the resort facilities and rainforest walks to white coral beaches and spectacular lookouts. Fitzroy Island also offers a wide range of water sport activities as well as snorkelling, introductory and certified diving and a learn-to-dive school.