Great Barrier Reef Cruise From Cairns

Expedition Cruises on the Outer Great Barrier Reef

Coral Expeditions pioneered expedition cruises on the outer reaches of the Great Barrier Reef four decades ago and have forged a reputation for excellence and expertise. These expedition voyages take you to explore hidden corners, uninhabited sand cays, small islands and pristine reef systems. Along the way, find freedom and solitude amid this iconic seascape. The Great Barrier Reef is in our DNA and we ensure the most immersive and educational experience possible. Our expert guides share their knowledge with you above and below the water, bringing you close to the natural wonders and wildlife, and giving you a deep understanding of this precious destination.

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Citizen-Science-on-the-Great-Barrier-Reef-Coral-Expeditions

In partnership with Australian Geographic, learn about marine conservation and research facilities in the company of guest lecturers, scientists and like-minded fellow travelers. Contribute to species surveys, wildlife rehabilitation and coral science while enjoying snorkelling and diving in the pristine outer reefs and atolls of the Coral Sea.

Departs 23 October 2023

Sudbury Cay Northern Australia Coral Expeditions Cruise

Explore hidden corners, uninhabited sand cays, small islands and pristine reef systems. Share the journey with soaring seabirds and swim, dive and snorkel at far-flung Osprey and Ribbon Reefs. Learn about Indigenous culture and Australian heritage at Cooktown, hike to the summit of “Cooks Look” Lizard Island, and enjoy a sundowner with the sand beneath your toes.

Departs November 2023 & 2024

This voyage explores the small islands and reefs of the northern Great Barrier Reef, Cape York coastal walks and the magic and mystery of our rarely seen Torres Strait Islands. Join local elders who will share the customs and stories of this ancient country.

Departs October 2024

Great Barrier Reef Voyage Logs

Outerknown Adventures on the Great Barrier Reef,

23-30 November 2022

“The visits to all of the reefs along the way only got better and better, a lot of us were saying that the ribbon reefs were the highlight of the trip because of all the amazing life we were able to see including a plethora of different fish, giant clams, moray eels and some very shy sharks. A fantastic day out on the reef topped off with Captains Drinks on the top of Coral Discoverer.”

Citizen Science on the Great Barrier Reef

30 June – 10 July 2021

“After a delightful lunch, by 14:00 we were all ready and rearing to transfer over in the Xplorer to Sudbury Cay. The snorkelers jumped into cool, clear water to explore the sand-separated bommies. The certified divers geared up, did some dive refresher skills, and went over to see the GBR Legacy team collecting corals in about 7m of water – before going to explore and seeing a white-tip reef shark & a swimming flatworm – amongst other things.”

Outkneron Adventures on the Great Barrier Reef

October 2020

Discover the Great Barrier Reef onboard Coral Discoverer

Our purpose-designed small ship Coral Discoverer is built for expedition cruising, with refined steering capabilities, shallow draught and nimble Xplorer tenders. Onboard, enjoy fresh seasonal cuisine and boutique Australian wines and brews. With an intimate atmosphere and our renowned warm Australian hospitality, you will quickly feel at home on your Great Barrier Reef expedition.

Coral-Discoverer-at-the-Great-Barrier-Reef

Exploring Remote Reaches of the Great Barrier Reef

Covering an area of over 2600km and encompassing more than 900 islands, The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest living structure and home to an abundant and thriving array of marine and birdlife species. It holds pride-of-place as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World and is a UNESCO World Heritage area.

Outerknown Adventures on the Great Barrier Reef – Coral Discoverer

20^th December 2022

We had all come from far and wide, but we were all very happy to see and board the Coral Discoverer. It was a hot day in Cairns as to be expected at this time of year, but the prospect of the ocean breeze when under sail was a very exciting one.

Day 4. 23.01.22. Stanley Island. Cara (54)

Voyage Log: Outerknown Adventures on the Great Barrier Reef – Coral Geographer

28^th November 2022

Turnaround day is always frenetic. The ship has to be serviced, stores loaded, departing crew signed off and their replacements established. The new guests of course are oblivious to all this. They had gathered at the Pullman Hotel in Cairns where they were met by our shoreside staff.

Dean Miller during the Citizen Science Voyage 2021

Creating A Legacy on The Great Barrier Reef

18^th November 2021

In June 2021, we embarked on our first Citizen Science expedition on the Great Barrier Reef with a goal of furthering and participating in the preservation of the reef through Great Barrier Reef Legacy’s Living Coral Biobank Project.