Coral Expeditions has announced a new 11-night expedition exploring Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest and most ecologically diverse coral reef system.
Departing Bundaberg to Cairns on March 31, 2027, the “Science and Conservation on the Great Barrier Reef” voyage will follow the reef’s natural arc from southern coral communities to the tropical north.
The 700 nautical mile journey aboard the Coral Discoverer will be led by Coral’s expedition team together with marine scientists, conservation practitioners and project partners, combining in-water activities with island exploration, wildlife observation, cultural experiences and land-based conservation projects.
Coral reef specialist Dr Dean Miller is also expected to be among guest lecturers.
“This new expedition has been designed to help guests see the Great Barrier Reef as a living, working system. By travelling the length of the reef, meeting the people who study and protect it, and contributing to genuine research projects along the way, guests gain a deeper understanding of both its beauty and its importance,” said Coral Expeditions Chief Commercial Officer Jeff Gillies.
The journey starts with a two-night pre-voyage land program at NRMA Turtle Sands Nature Resort near Mon Repos at Bundaberg, home to the Australian mainland’s largest population of endangered loggerhead turtles.
Sailing north from Bundaberg, guests will explore the southern reef systems around Lady Elliot Island and Wistari Reef, with extended time at Lady Elliot Island allowing them to engage with the Project Manta program.
Next, the voyage continues north through the Whitsundays and central reef region, visiting the lesser explored Cumberland Island group including Scawfell and Brampton Island, then northwards to Magnetic Island and John Brewer Reef.
Here, guests will collaborate with community-based citizen science initiatives, assist local groups with data collection and gain insights into the people and organizations working on the ground to protect the reef.
At John Brewer Reef, the itinerary includes time at the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA), highlighting the intersection of art, science and conservation in a world-first underwater installation.
Further along the route, guests will experience outer reef environments at locations including Yamacutta and Thetford Reefs, with opportunities for guided snorkeling, reef health observations and discussions with onboard experts about changing conditions across the Marine Park.
The voyage’s final days include a sunset event at Dunk Island and then to Port Douglas for a behind-the-scenes experience at the Forever Reef Project.
