The Australian Geographic Society has partnered with Coral Expeditions and Great Barrier Reef Legacy to launch the Coral Futures Expedition, a seven-night citizen science voyage on the Great Barrier Reef.

Departing from Cairns on December 4, 2025, the voyage will feature marine scientists, conservationists and travelers in research efforts to support reef resilience. Participants will assist with coral monitoring, data collection and Great Barrier Reef Legacy’s Forever Reef Project, a coral biobanking initiative recognized with the Australian Geographic Society’s gold-tier award for nature in 2024.

“Our partnership with Coral Expeditions and the Forever Reef Project enables us to offer an immersive and meaningful experience for those who want to take an active role in reef conservation,” said Chrissie Goldrick, chair of the Australian Geographic Society. “This is more than a voyage – it’s an opportunity to make a real impact on the future of the Great Barrier Reef.”

“We are proud to elevate our partnership with Australian Geographic Society and Great Barrier Reef Legacy, and to lead the way in presenting world-leading science and conservation efforts on the reef in a way that allows participation of guests. This will be a most enriching experience for guests who will join us on this rare opportunity,” added Jeff Gillies, chief commercial officer at Coral Expeditions.

The expedition will explore remote sections of the Great Barrier Reef, giving travelers access to exclusive research sites and insights into coral conservation. Participants will engage in expert-led talks, fieldwork, snorkeling and diving.

“We are thrilled beyond words to be once again be supported by Coral Expeditions and Australian Geographic Society, not only to advance our crucial coral ark with the Forever Reef Project which aims to collect all 415 Great Barrier Reef coral species by 2026 and keep them alive in our state of the art holding facility in Port Douglas, but for the first time to be able to share our work and a host of other exciting research initiatives, with each and every guest on this seven-day expedition to some of the most spectacular parts of our beautiful Great Barrier Reef,” said Dr Dean Miller, managing director of Great Barrier Reef Legacy.