Citizen Science on the Great Barrier Reef
From $10,490 per person
10 days
Ship: Coral Discoverer
From $10,490 per person
10 days
Ship: Coral Discoverer
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 <em>Coral Discoverer </em>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.
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<li>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</li>
<li>Learn about the Coral Restoration Program and how corals are planted and rejuvenated across the Great Barrier Reef</li>
<li>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</li>
<li>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</li>
<li>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</li>
<li>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</li>
</ul>
<h4>Expert Guide</h4>
This special Citizen Science departure will be hosted by Guest Lecturer <a href="https://www.coralexpeditions.com/crew/guest-lecturer-jodi-salmond/">Jodi Salmond</a>. 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.
Day-by-day description of your cruise and cruise activities.
Day 1: Depart Brisbane
Arrive at Brisbane’s International Cruise Terminal at 10:00am, where there is time to settle into your stateroom before our departure. Today you will meet your guest lecturers, Expedition Team and receive an overview of the scientific survey activities ahead. 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.
Lady Elliot Island
Join your Expedition Team and guest lecturers for an introduction to citizen science and species identification. Then, spend the next day and a half exploring the vibrant biodiversity of Lady Elliot Island—a renowned marine sanctuary home to over 1,200 marine species. Enjoy opportunities to snorkel, dive, and take part in research initiatives such as Project Manta, a leading manta ray research program. Learn how scientists identify and track these gentle giants by their unique markings, then head into the water to snorkel or dive alongside them while contributing to ongoing marine surveys.
Mon Repos
Visit Mon Repos Turtle Centre to learn about the endangered loggerhead turtles’ life cycle on a ranger-guided excursion. Then, at Monsoon Aquatics, dive into coral conservation, exploring innovative restoration techniques that protect reef ecosystems for future generations.
Wistari Reef
Snorkel and dive Wistari Reef, a biodiversity hotspot in the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Join expert-led discussions on reef resilience, climate change, and marine conservation. If conditions allow, explore the reef from a glass-bottom boat for a unique underwater perspective.
Scawfell Island
Enjoy a day at Scawfell Island’s secluded cove. Beachcomb along pristine shores, kayak its coastline, or take a glass-bottom boat tour. Weather permitting, gather for beach drinks and a BBQ under the stars, soaking in the island’s natural beauty and abundant marine life.
Cid Harbour / Langford Island
Choose between two scenic hikes: the Dugong-Sawmill track, offering insights into the island’s ecology, or the Whitsunday Peak trail, leading to breathtaking panoramic views. If conditions limit hiking, your Expedition Team will offer alternative activities.
In the afternoon, snorkel or dive in some of the Whitsundays’ best reef sites, selected based on conditions. Visit Langford Island for a guided walk to its lookout, where keen botanists may spot the rare Whitsunday Bottle Tree amid the island’s rich flora.
Museum of Underwater Art / John Brewer Reef
Dive or snorkel John Brewer Reef, home to the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA). Explore Jason deCaires Taylor’s iconic underwater sculptures and learn how they aid reef restoration. Continue marine surveys while spotting turtles and rays in the surrounding lagoon.
Yamacutta Reef
Explore the thriving coral ecosystem of Yamacutta Reef, a haven for marine life. On a previous voyage, guests identified a new resident manta ray—will we spot it again? Continue marine monitoring efforts to contribute valuable data to citizen science programs.
Fitzroy Island
Hike through Fitzroy Island’s lush rainforest, climb to the lighthouse for panoramic Coral Sea views, or visit the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre. Snorkel fringing reefs, relax on white-sand beaches, or explore the underwater world from a glass-bottom boat.
Sudbury Cay
In the afternoon, arrive at a remote sand cay where the Coral Sea gently meets soft, powder-white shores. Snorkel, dive, or explore the vibrant reef from a glass-bottom boat. As the sun begins to set, share twilight drinks with fellow travellers, then gather for a final evening of good food, great company, and lasting memories.
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