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Citizen Science of The Great Barrier Reef – 11 Day Cruise

Citizen Science of The Great Barrier Reef – 11 Day Cruise

From AUD $9,990

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Description

Join Coral Expeditions as we undertake our 3rd unique citizen science themed expedition along the length of the Great Barrier Reef. With a maximum of 70 guests and leading research experts onboard, our small expedition ship Coral Discoverer will call on remote reefs, islands, and significant wildlife habitats in the Coral Sea marine zone.
Along the way get hands on experience with marine conservation at the Mon Repos Turtle Centre in Bundaberg and as you meet with resident researchers at work. Connect with the Project Manta team in the protected “green zone” sanctuary of Lady Elliot Island. Participate in species surveys on guided snorkelling sessions. Travel with a community of conservation-minded explorers and gain access to far reaching atolls and reefs. Contribute to conservation programs including biodiversity databases, wildlife rehabilitation and coral science throughout the voyage.
Expert GuideThis special Citizen Science departure will be hosted by Guest Lecturer Jodi Salmond. A lifelong passion for marine science led her to pursue a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Marine Biology and Marine Parasitology at James Cook University. Over the past 15 years, Jodi has built a dynamic career as a marine researcher and conservation biologist, specialising in citizen science, reef ecology, and eco-leadership.

Trip Name
Citizen Science of The Great Barrier Reef - 11 Day Cruise
Days
11
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition Length: 63 metres Passenger Capacity: 72 (in 36 rooms) Built: 2005 / Refurbished: 2016 Launched in 2005, Coral Discoverer set a new benchmark standard for small ship cruising in Australia. Refurbished in November 2016, she continues to raise the bar to new levels of sophistication in expedition cruising in the Southern Hemisphere. The 1800-tonne Coral Discoverer is the grand vision of Coral Expeditions, pioneers in expedition and adventure cruises around Australia, Papua New Guinea and South East Asia. Her shallow draught and manoeuvrability allow her to go where larger vessels cannot. Her tender vessel, Xplorer, can seat all 72 passengers for excursions to beaches and rivers. Coral Discoverer is equipped with latest technology active stabilisers to ensure comfortable cruising in open waters and is fitted with modern safety and navigation equipment and wireless internet facilities. Coral Discoverer was built to the exacting international SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) standards and specifications in Cairns, Australia, with one aim in mind; to create the ultimate small ship cruising experience. Australian flagged, and staffed entirely by an Australian and New Zealand crew, your experience aboard Coral Discoverer will be unique. After the refurbishment, the Sun Deck has evolved to become a new social space and the hub of on board community living. This area has been converted into an undercover deck area complete with round ‘Explorer Bar’ with bar stools and sun deck with lounges and an area for outdoor exercise equipment. Guest accommodation has also received a substantial upgrade with the addition of six Bridge Deck Balcony Staterooms providing coveted inside/outside living quarters. Each of our other Stateroom grades has also received a full upgrade with updated bathroom fixtures, soft furnishings and artwork making for an even more comfortable stay on board Coral Discoverer. The Coral Discoverer offers five different grades of staterooms, ranging from Bridge Deck Balcony Staterooms to Main Deck Staterooms. Bridge Deck Balcony Staterooms are on the top deck and have private balconies opening out from french windows. All rooms are furnished with contemporary flair and feature original artwork, a small private en-suite, individually-controlled air-conditioning, an iPod dock, ample storage and Australian toiletries. All staterooms are serviced daily. Each stateroom is spacious, sized between 15sqm (161 square feet) to 20 sqm (215 square feet) and has either a balcony, feature picture windows or porthole windows. Most staterooms can be configured to either junior king or twin bedding. FACILITIES ON BOARD > Sun Deck with undercover area, sun lounges and ample seating > Three fully stocked cocktail bars, including brand new round Explorer Bar on Sun Deck > Spacious, modern dining room, recently refurbished > Forward lounge > Reference library > Gift shop > Open bridge > Workout Area > Wireless internet available for laptops, mobile devices or via onboard guest computer > Limited laundry facilities available > SCUBA diving department (selected itineraries)

Itinerary



Day 1 - DAY 1: DEPART BRISBANE
Arrive at Brisbane Cruise Terminal, Hamilton at 8:00am, where there is time to settle into your stateroom before our 9:00am departure. There will be a light breakfast available upon boarding. Take the time to become acquainted with all the facilities onboard and mingle with fellow guests and crew before Captain’s Welcome Drinks this evening.
Day 2 - LADY ELLIOT ISLAND
Located at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef, Lady Elliot Island is a coral cay which serves as a sanctuary for over 1,200 species of marine life. Situated in the ‘green zone’ the island is protected and hosts Project Manta – the research program run by the University of Queensland. Since 2007, Project Manta has been closely monitoring the biology and ecology of the manta rays here. Each manta ray has unique ventral markings, similar to a human fingerprint, and photo-identification of these markings are a primary method of observing the population. On our visit here, learn about Lady Elliot Island’s pivotal role in Project Manta and enjoy kayaking, snorkelling, diving and citizen science activities.
Day 3 - MON REPOS, BUNDERBERG
Visit Mon Repos Turtle Centre, the only ranger-guided turtle encounter opportunity on the east-coast and key researcher in turtle conservation, specifically the endangered Loggerhead turtles that frequent the Mon Repos beach. Explore the conservation park and learn all about the wildlife conservation activities that take place here. On a ranger guided excursion, you can witness an ancient life cycle of the animal kingdom as majestic sea turtles make their journey to the shore to lay their eggs and then delight at the sight of their young, hatching weeks later, and making their perilous journey to the sea.
Day 4 - WISTARI REEF
On this day of the expedition, guests will participate in a Citizen Science monitoring program focused on developing a deeper understanding of coral reef systems. Through snorkeling and diving at Wistari reef, you’ll explore the impacts of climate change and human activity on the resilience of these delicate ecosystems. If conditions are favorable, there will be guided tours of the reef from our glass bottom boats. There will be opportunities to continue monitoring and logging sightings both in the marine and shoreside environments.
Day 5 - SCAWFELL ISLAND
After a morning at sea, guests will enjoy a variety of engaging activities in the stunning, sheltered cove of the protected Scawfell Island. Start your day by beachcombing along the pristine shoreline. Take advantage of kayaking and a tour on a glass-bottom boat, where you can explore the island’s coastline and learn about its natural wonders. Weather permitting, we’ll gather for beach drinks and a BBQ on either the beach or the Vista Deck, surrounded by the island’s tranquil beauty. Water activities are easily accessible from the beach, offering opportunities for snorkelling and swimming. Keep an eye out for turtles, with the possibility of spotting their tracks on the beach, and the graceful stingrays that glide through the shallow waters.
Day 6 - CID HARBOUR / LANGFORD ISLAND
At Cid Harbour, guests will have the option to choose between two scenic walking routes, each offering a unique experience of this beautiful location. For a leisurely pace, take the easy trail along the coastline, where you can enjoy the serene surroundings and learn about the local environment from our Expedition Team. For those seeking more of a challenge, the uphill trail leads to a stunning viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the harbor and surrounding islands. Please note that due to the presence of sharks in the area, there will be no swimming, snorkeling, or diving at this location. Instead, we recommend a glass-bottom boat tour, where you can safely observe the abundant marine life, including the many sea turtles that frequent these waters. Throughout your visit, our Expedition Team will provide local interpretation, enriching your understanding of the area’s natural and cultural significance. Back on board, guests will work with Guest Lecturer and Expedition on identifying, verifying and submitting collected data to the various monitoring programs.
Day 7 - MUSEUM OF UNDERWATER ART / JOHN BREWER REEF
Also known as the ‘coral greenhouse’, John Brewer Reef is in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The reef is notably home to the largest Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) installation with the first underwater building created by sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor. The display aims to aid in the education of reef restoration and allow for a unique learning opportunity through snorkelling or diving the installation. Divers will have the opportunity to explore the display, while snorkellers will enjoy time at the lagoon and reef where turtles and rays are commonly present. Here we will continue our monitoring and survey activities.
Day 8 - HEDLEY REEF
On this day at Hedley Reef, guests will have the unique opportunity to contribute to the Australian Institute of Marine Science Reef Coral Monitoring program. Last surveyed in 2020, this program plays a crucial role in tracking the health and changes in coral reef ecosystems. Your participation will aid in providing valuable data for ongoing research and conservation efforts. In addition to your contribution, you can enjoy a glass-bottom boat tour, offering a fascinating view of the reef’s underwater world without getting wet. For those who wish to dive deeper, snorkeling and diving opportunities will allow you to explore the vibrant coral formations and marine life up close. This immersive experience combines hands-on science with the natural beauty of Hedley Reef, enhancing both your understanding and appreciation of these vital marine environments.
Day 9 - FITZROY ISLAND
At Fitzroy Island, enjoy a walk through the Secret Garden rainforest, or for the more adventurous, a walk to the de-commissioned lighthouse will reward hikers with panoramic views of Coral Sea, islands and mainland mountain ranges. Visit the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, a passionate non-profit organization dedicated to the care of sick and injured turtles. Snorkel over the fringing reef, relax on the beach or enjoy a ride on the glass bottom boat if conditions are favorable.
Day 10 - SUDBURY CAY
Sudbury Cay is a small sand cay that barely rises above the Coral Sea and is far removed from the bustle of civilisation. Here we slip off our shoes and feel the sand between our toes as the tropical waters of the Coral Sea lap gently against the shoreline. We have an opportunity to enjoy snorkelling, diving and a glass bottom boat tour. Weather permitting, surrounded by glistening sea and bathed in the glow of twilight, we enjoy sunset drinks and the company of like-minded explorers as we relax and watch the sun gently sink below the horizon.
Day 11 - DAY 11: ARRIVE CAIRNS
Arrive in Cairns at 8:00am this morning. Say a fond farewell to fellow guests and crew as our expedition comes to an end with enhanced knowledge and new memories to treasure from this rare expedition experience.Post-cruise transfers to Cairns CBD and airport are available while transfers to the Northern Beaches or Port Douglas can be arranged on board with the Purser prior to disembarkation.
Day 12 - Please Note:
This itinerary is an indication of the destinations we visit and activities on offer. Throughout the expedition we may make changes to the itinerary as necessary to maximise your expeditionary experience. Allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions, and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel. Coral Expeditions suggests that you do not arrive on the day of embarkation or depart on the day of disembarkation due to any changes that may occur in scheduling.
Day 13 - Please Note:
This itinerary is an indication of the destinations we visit and activities on offer. Throughout the expedition we may make changes to the itinerary as necessary to maximise your expeditionary experience. Allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions, and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel. Coral Expeditions suggests that you do not arrive on the day of embarkation or depart on the day of disembarkation due to any changes that may occur in scheduling.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
17-03-202627-03-2026AUD $9,990Main Deck B Stateroom
17-03-202627-03-2026AUD $10,490Main Deck A Stateroom
17-03-202627-03-2026AUD $10,790Promenade B Stateroom
17-03-202627-03-2026AUD $12,090Promenade A Stateroom
17-03-202627-03-2026AUD $14,890Bridge Deck Balcony Stateroom

Inclusions

    • Visit the Mon Repos Turtle Centre and enjoy a ranger guided Turtle Tracks and Tales walk exploring the conservation park and learn about turtle conservation, research, turtle tracks and nesting sites
    • Learn about the Coral Restoration Program and how corals are planted and rejuvenated across the Great Barrier Reef
    • Snorkel and dive at John Brewer Reef, home to the largest installation of Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) sharing in a message of reef conservation and restoration
    • Lend a hand to the volunteers at the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, where sick and injured turtles are card for before being returned to the wild
    • Meet and learn about how you can collaborate with the Project Manta team, a multidisciplinary research collaboration focusing on the population ecology and biology of manta rays within Australian waters
    • Participate in scientific and conservation efforts to monitor and research marine biodiversity through programs including Eye on the Reef, GBRMPA Sightings Network, Coral Watch and Mangrove Watch

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