The Great Barrier Reef is one of,
not only Queensland's but Australia's natural phenomenon's.
Not only does it amaze and enchant the senses, it casts a spell
over all those who travel from near and far to enjoy it.
The amazing wonder that is, "The Great Barrier Reef"
stretches through the sapphire blue waters of Queensland for
over 2000 kilometres. It is the most extensive coral reef
system in the world. From Bundaberg in the south, to beyond
Cape York in the Tropical North , it is also the largest World
Heritage Listed area, not to mention one of the largest structures
made completely by living organisms.
The Great Barrier Reef is not a single reef, but features
more than 2900 individual reefs and 900 Islands. Some of these
islands are deserted while others are small bare Sand Cays,
Permanently Vegetated Cays and Continental Islands.
The divinely warm waters
off the North Queensland coast offer some of the best fishing
and diving in the world. Diving the Great Barrier Reef will
introduce you to a breathtaking "never seen before"
underwater world of thousands of brilliantly coloured species
of marine life including 1500 types of fish, 4000 types of molluscs,
350 types of echinoderms and 350 types of corals. This diversity
creates a kaleidoscope of colour for divers, snorkeller's, and
people viewing from underwater observatories and glass-bottomed
boats. Average water temperatures on the reef range from around
22'C in July to around 27'C in January making it perfect for
diving and snorkelling all year round.
The
Reef is also the breeding ground for a large number of our
rare and endangered species. The humpback whales swim up from
the Antarctic to give birth to their young in our warmer reef
waters, six of the world's seven species of sea turtle breed
on the reef and lay their eggs on our beaches, and dugong
make their homes among the sheltered seagrass beds.
"The Great Barrier Reef "
would have to be considered one of Australia's major tourist
destinations where many visitor's come in large numbers to experience
it, and high-speed catamarans can now take you to many more
isolated areas, which previously were only seen by a privileged
few.The tour operators now have to observe strict guidelines
relating to the number of tourists and the activities enjoyed
in order to ensure this precious and fragile natural attraction
is preserved,that is why an Environmental Management Charge
(ECM) is levied by the Australian Government for all adults
and children four years and over entering the Great Barrier
Reef World Heritage area, The (ECM) is currently $4 aud per
person per day, to a maximum of $12 aud per person. You should
check with your travel agent or tour operator for payment collection
details at the time of booking.
Nimrod
III Dive Adventures
Nimrod
III Dive Adventures We'll give your diving holiday a flying
start! Nimrod III is a live-a-board dive vessel
travelling between Cairns & Lizard Island,accommodating
just 18 guests, offering 11/12 spectacular dives.
Santa
Maria Yacht Charter Sail to the outer reef onboard a charming
timber schooner. For 3 day/2 nights enjoy snorkeling
& diving at remote locations, Great food,only 10 guests,experience
of a life time! Highly recommended!!
Powerplay
is a custom built 45 foot Gamefisher which offers you the opportunity
of fishing all year round from her home port in Cairns. Imagine
spending your time aboard Powerplay and waking up to the views
of unspoiled coral reefs and secluded sand cays at the edge
of the Great Barrier Reef, diving or snorkelling exploring the
wonderous marine life below then after a leisurely breakfast
be only 20 minutes from the outer reef strapped in fighting
a Giant Black Marlin.
