WILDERNESS SERIES Great barrier reef...The great barrier reef For true explorers Covering an area of...

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Coral Discoverer > Outerknown Adventures on the Great Barrier Reef > Citizen Science on the Great Barrier Reef > The Torres Strait and Cape York 2021 & 2022 VOYAGES great barrier reef EXPEDITIONS BY SMALL SHIP AUSTRALIA’S COASTAL WILDERNESS SERIES

Transcript of WILDERNESS SERIES Great barrier reef...The great barrier reef For true explorers Covering an area of...

Page 1: WILDERNESS SERIES Great barrier reef...The great barrier reef For true explorers Covering an area of over 2300 km and encompassing over 900 islands, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s

Coral Discoverer > Outerknown Adventures on the Great Barrier Reef> Citizen Science on the Great Barrier Reef> The Torres Strait and Cape York

2021 & 2022 VOYAGES

great barrier reefEXPEDITIONS BY SMALL SHIP

AUSTRALIA’S COASTAL WILDERNESS SERIES

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IMAGES Cover Sudbury Cay | 1 Ribbon Reef #3 | 2 Standing atop Cook’s Look, Lizard Island, credit Quentin Chester

3 Snorkelling at Mackay Reef | 4 Male Figbird at Cooktown | All images taken on expedition

The great barrier reefFor true explorersCovering an area of over 2300 km and encompassing over 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 seven natural wonders of the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage area.

Coral Expeditions pioneered expedition cruises on the outer reaches of the Great Barrier Reef 35 years ago, and since then have forged a reputation for excellence and expertise.

These expedition voyages on board yacht-like Coral Discoverer

explore the hidden corners, uninhabited sand cays, small islands and pristine reef systems. Along the way find freedom and solitude amidst this iconic seascape.

INCLUSIONS

> All excursions and sightseeing

> Use of Xplorer, Glass Bottom Boat, Zodiacs and kayaks

> Daily lectures and briefings

> All meals, chef-prepared on board

> Selected wines, selected beers, selected spirits, juices, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner

> Coffee and selection of teas

> All entrance fees to National Parks and Ports

> Tips and gratuities

WINE SELECTIONS

In addition to our house beverages, we offer two wine selections that guests may purchase, which feature hand-selected Champagne, and Australian and New Zealand wines.

> A Taste of Australia Selection: seven bottles featuring one Australian sparkling, two Whites, three Reds and a Rosé

> Connoisseur Selection: with six bottles featuring one Champagne, two Whites and three Reds

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Snorkelling & Scuba The opportunity to snorkel and scuba dive over

spectacular coral gardens and come face to face with

brightly coloured tropical fish is a highlight of our

Great Barrier Reef cruises.

Beginners can join guided snorkelling tours or

introductory and resort-style dives, while more

experienced divers are able to participate in more

challenging dives (scuba diving at additional cost).

Our qualified Dive Instructor accompanies you

every step of the way. Snorkelling equipment will

be assigned to each guest at the commencement of

the cruise, and the onboard introductory scuba skills

session is complimentary.

Scuba diving is subject to medical clearance and

medical certificate. See our website for requirements.

Expedition Note These are expedition itineraries covering remote regions. Your

Captain and Expedition Team will make changes to the daily

schedule when necessary to maximise your experience. These

itineraries are indicative - some variation may occur due to weather

conditions, safety or local community requirements.

We recommend that you do not arrive to the embarkation port on

the day of boarding or depart on the day of disembarkation due to

unexpected changes that may occur in scheduling.

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Birdwatching KayakingWalking & Hiking

Wildlife Spotting

Historical landmarks

Maritime History

UNESCO World Heritage sites

Workshops & Lectures

Snorkelling & Scuba

VIEW WINE SELECTIONS >

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We explore remote locations that are hard to reach or not often touched by tourists, with shore excursions that promote environmental and cultural appreciation. Our small group sizes ensure that your experience is personal, with minimal impact on the communities and environments we visit.

Enjoy excursions or activities each day, guided by expert Expedition Leaders and lecturers who provide commentary on culture, history, and the region’s unique geology, plants and wildlife to help you connect with these special places.

Our ships are built for environmentally responsible small-ship cruising, with refined navigation and nimble Xplorer tenders to bring you close to remote coastlines.

Australian Hospitality at SeaOn board, you will discover a personalised style of cruising. With only 72 maximum guests, there is no need for queues, waiting, or assigned seating. Instead, an intimate, convivial atmosphere shared with other like-minded travellers makes you feel at home.

Our Australian and New Zealand crew share their passion for our destinations and the explorer’s life. Join our engine room tours, watch our chefs at work in the open galley, and chat with our Captain or officers on the bridge – they will be delighted to have your company.

Our chefs, inspired by destination flavours, prepare cuisine from fresh regional produce. Our wine cellars hold a curated selection of Australian wines and unique beers.

Our guests love to mingle over drinks as the sun sets, enjoy daily educational presentations by our lecturers, participate in stargazing sessions after dark, or simply find a quiet corner on deck and enjoy the solitude.

The Expedition Experience

Our SailSAFE Plan - Keeping you safe when you cruise with usIt is our priority to keep our guests and crew safe while travelling with us, and our SailSAFE Plan ensures we operate responsibly in the new environment that COVID-19 has created.

Remote, nature-based expeditions with Australian crew, and small groups less than one hundred guests provides a lower-risk environment. The addition of our approved SailSAFE COVID response plan, as well as our thorough pre-cruise testing model, create additional confidence when sailing with us.

We have partnered with Respond Global, a specialist medical advisory agency, to assist us in developing these protocols that are among the most thorough in the world.

With a focus on prevention, to target a 100% COVID free environment when we set sail, we have a three-tiered medical screening system in place before boarding. This prevention protocol is supported by onboard mitigation actions and a thorough and compassionate response plan.

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READ OUR SAILSAFE PLAN >

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Dive into the pristine waters of the remarkable outer Great Barrier Reef

Learn about the history of Cook’s visit to Cooktown

Find sanctuary surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the Great Barrier Reef

Meet the iconic marine species of the Great Barrier Reef

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Our renowned Australian team of Expedition Leaders and regular guest lecturers have a wealth of knowledge of the unique landscapes, flora and fauna and Indigenous cultures of the Great Barrier Reef region. Passionate explorers, marine biologists, and naturalists, they provide on board lectures and interpretation and are always keen to chat with you and share their expertise. They will ensure your experience is as rich, enlightening and enjoyable as possible by bringing you a new understanding and appreciation of the places you will discover on your expedition.

Escape to discover Australia’s remote natural wonders. Meet charismatic marine species including the sea turtles surfing the ocean currents, find clownfish nestled amongst the coral gardens and marvel at the magnificent humpback whale migration in the deep blue of the Coral Sea. Share the journey with soaring seabirds and swim, dive and snorkel at far-flung Osprey, Escape and Ribbon Reefs. Learn about the history of Cook’s visit to Cooktown. Visit a Turtle Rehabilitation Centre at Fitzroy Island and stretch your legs with a hike to the summit of Cook’s Look on Lizard Island. Enjoy a sundowner with the sand beneath your toes at deserted Sudbury Cay.

Recharge surrounded by tranquillity and warm hospitality aboard our small ship expeditions.

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Outerknown Adventures on the Great Barrier Reef

IMAGES 1 Green Sea Turtle off Lizard Island | 2 Cooktowns Grassy Hill Lookout over Endeavour River | 4 Coral gardens captured by guest Chris Trench

3, 5 & 6 Sunset drinks on Sudbury Cay | 7 Rainforest hike on Fitzroy Island | 8 The Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, Fitzroy Island

Page 5: WILDERNESS SERIES Great barrier reef...The great barrier reef For true explorers Covering an area of over 2300 km and encompassing over 900 islands, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s

Sip sundowners and feel the sand between your toes on uninhabited islands and sand cays

Participate in conserving and protecting the Great Barrier Reef

Step ashore on remote Islands

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TRIP LOG”We took eager guests up to Cook’s Look at 6am, making it to the summit in just over

an hour. The view from the top was spectacular. After breakfast, we landed at Watson’s

Bay where we enjoyed snorkelling, beach walking and glass bottom boat tours,

spotting giant clams and tiny fish twirling around anemones. We departed Lizard

Island for Ribbon Reef #9 and arrived just after lunch. Snorkelling and diving were

amazing here - we saw so many different schools of fish, large red bass and clouds of

sweet lips congregating around the reef. One large white tip reef shark was spotted

multiple times, and lots of moreish idols and beautiful butterfly fish were seen. The

keen snorkelers were impressed with the coral density and spectacular visibility.”

MARYSIA PAWLIKOWSKA > LIZARD ISLAND & RIBBON REEF #9

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Immerse yourself in one of the world’s great seascapes

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> Immerse yourself in one of the world’s great seascapes with the Great Barrier Reef experts

> Learn about Cook’s landing at Cooktown and visit the museum

> Swim, snorkel, dive or simply view the iconic marine species of the Great Barrier Reef

> Observe the vibrant underwater world of the untouched outer Great Barrier Reef

> Enjoy solitude and seven magical Queensland sunsets

> Sip sundowners and feel the sand beneath your feet on isolated sand cays and uninhabited islands

> Visit a turtle rehabilitation center and participate in efforts to conserve the Great Barrier Reef

Expedition Highlights

outerknown adventureson the great barrier reef

Prices are per person, listed in Australian Dollars (AUD) and include GST.

*Limited sole use occupancy available.

DEPARTURES & FARES7 Nights | Departs from Cairns aboard Coral Discoverer

> 10 July 2021 (Sold out)

> 24 November 2021 (Sold out)

> 02 November 2022

> 09 November 2022

> 16 November 2022

> 23 November 2022

> 30 November 2022

2022 Fares

Bridge Deck Stateroom

Promenade Deck Cat A

Promenade Deck Cat B

Main Deck Cat A

Main Deck Cat B

Twin Share $6,650 $6,175 n/a $5,225 $4,750

Sole Use n/a n/a $8,550* n/a n/a

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Aboard our expedition vessel Coral Discoverer, join us as we embark on an immersive 7-day adventure to the remote and untouched Northern reefs. We take a maximum of 72 guests to explore the 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 ancient indigenous culture and Australian heritage at historic Cooktown. Stretch your legs with a hike to the summit of “Cooks Look”. Enjoy a sundowner with the sand beneath your toes and the setting sun at deserted Sudbury Cay.

On board, you will be accompanied by expert guides and a qualified Marine Biologist. Our purpose designed small ships are custom built for expedition cruising in tropical waters. With refined steering capabilities, shallow draught and nimble explorer tenders we will bring you closer to remote sites and natural habitats.

outerknown adventuresFOR TRUE EXPLORERS

ITINERARY: 7 NIGHTS CAIRNS TO CAIRNS

DAY 1: DEPART CAIRNSAfter SailSAFE check-in at 2:00pm, board at Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal at 4:00pm for a 5:00pm departure.

DAYS 1-7: Our Great Barrier Reef itineraries are flexible, to take

advantage of changing weather and reef conditions. Below is a

selection of the key destinations we visit.

COOKTOWN Come ashore in historic Cooktown and learn the history of the Guugu Yimithirr, the first people of this ancient country. Discover recent European history with a visit to the site where Lt. James Cook beached HMS Endeavour to effect repairs in 1770. Wander through the rare flora collection at the Botanic Gardens and visit James Cook Museum, where the story of Cook’s landing is told from an Indigenous perspective and where artefacts are on display.

LIZARD ISLAND We spend a whole day at Lizard Island where there is time to hike to the summit of Cook’s Look and enjoy the same view Lt. James Cook did when searching for safe passage through the maze of coral reefs. Snorkel over giant clam gardens at Watson’s Bay, relax on the white-sand beaches beneath shady she-oak trees and learn about the tragic story surrounding Mary Watson.

There may be an opportunity to visit Lizard Island Research Station, operated by the Australian Museum to facilitate coral reef research and education on the Great Barrier Reef.

OSPREY REEFRemote Osprey Reef is the summit of a 2,000m undersea mountain located beyond the continental shelf with no landmass visible. Enjoy amazing underwater visibility here, and observe magnificent corals, plummeting drop-offs and many fish in the crystalline waters. Osprey Reef is a highly prized tropical dive location amongst scuba divers, called an ‘oasis for living creatures of all kinds’ by Sir David Attenborough.

Osprey Reef is a true expedition-style destination and our visit is subject to appropriate weather conditions.

RIBBON REEF #9 & RIBBON REEF #3The Ribbon Reefs are a line of outer coral reefs on the edge of the continental shelf and are renowned for their prolific marine life and extensive coral species. Enjoy the rare opportunity to snorkel and dive over these excellent reefs, with Ribbon Reef #9 a favourite for its wide variety of marine life and pinnacles cloaked in coral. Join a guided snorkel tour led by our expert Expedition Team and witness this extraordinary ecosystem up close. These northern reefs are renowned for spotting iconic marine species such as potato cod, wrasse, sharks and turtles.

MACKAY REEFThis afternoon, enjoy more spectacular diving and snorkelling opportunities at Mackay Reef, where we look for green sea turtles, and explore the vibrant soft and hard coral gardens.

FITZROY ISLAND & SUDBURY CAYAt Fitzroy Island enjoy a walk through the Secret Garden rainforest or a hike to the lighthouse to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding islands and mainland mountain ranges. Snorkel over the fringing reef, relax on the beach and learn about the life cycle of turtles at the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre where sick and injured turtles are cared for before being returned to the wild.

Later, arrive at secluded Sudbury Cay and enjoy the Captain’s farewell drinks at sunset on the tiny sand island.

DAY 8: ARRIVE CAIRNSDisembark in Cairns at 8:00am. Complimentary post-cruise transfer to a CBD Hotel or airport following disembarkation.

IMAGES 1 Sudbury Cay | 2 Introductory Scuba at Lizard Island | 3 Cooks Look hike

MAKE A BOOKING ENQUIRY >

TRIP LOG”We were blessed with postcard perfect conditions at Fitzroy Island for what would

be a fitting final day to an adventurous week on expedition. Today was filled with

swimming, snorkelling, walking and simply relaxing on the beach with an abundance

of time to enjoy one or all of these activities. Mid-morning, many of us made our way

to Fitzroy Island’s Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, where we met Julie, who explained

what the rehab centre’s mission is, what they did day-to-day and then introduced us

to Leila, a beautiful little Green Sea Turtle due to be released in the next couple of

months. Later that afternoon we steamed for the sandy haven of Sudbury Cay, for

adventure drift snorkelling and diving in what was aquarium-like conditions, teeming

with tropical fish, green sea turtles, corals and other magical marine creatures. ”

MARYSIA > TUESDAY 20TH OCTOBER 2020 > FITZROY ISLAND & SUDBURY CAY

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Citizen Scienceon the great barrier reef

> Have the chance to swim amongst Minke Whales and come eye to eye to make a true personal connection with these beautiful and curious creatures.

> Be a part of conservation history by taking part in coral surveying and collections for the world’s first Living Coral Biobank project

> Share your journey with a team of the most respected and knowledgeable Marine Scientists in the world

> Discover Australian heritage and history as you explore the frontier township of Cooktown

> Learn about reef conservation at the Research Station on Lizard Island and visit the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre on Fitzroy island

> Close each day over a refreshing sundowner as you watch the sun set over the blue expanse of the Coral Sea

> Explore spectacular Osprey Reef, and observe overnight scientific research on the elusive Nautilus

Expedition Highlights

Prices are per person, listed in Australian Dollars (AUD) and include GST.

*Limited sole use occupancy available.

DEPARTURES & FARES

10 Nights - Departs: 30 June 2021 aboard Coral Discoverer (Sold out)

Bridge Deck Stateroom

Promenade Deck Cat A

Promenade Deck Cat B

Main Deck Cat A

Main Deck Cat B

Twin Share $17,250 $15,150 n/a $13,050 $12,400

Sole Use n/a n/a $19,900* n/a n/a

This voyage is hosted by Australia’s leading reef experts Dr Charlie

Veron and Dr Dean Miller. Dean is an Australian Geographic sponsored

explorer, as well the Director of Science and Media and co-founder of the

Great Barrier Reef Legacy, a scientist, multi-media professional and BBC

television presenter. Charlie is a biologist, taxonomist, and specialist in

the study of corals and reefs. He is believed to have discovered more than

20% of the world’s coral species naming more coral species than anyone

in history, becoming widely known as the Godfather of coral.

IMAGES 1 Master Reef Guide surveying, credit Tourism and Events Queensland

2 Snorkellers with Dwarf Minke Whales, credit Tourism and Events Queensland

Your Australian Geographic Society Hosts

Dr Charlie Veron Dr Dean Miller

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Page 9: WILDERNESS SERIES Great barrier reef...The great barrier reef For true explorers Covering an area of over 2300 km and encompassing over 900 islands, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s

We have partnered with the Australian Geographic Society for a once-in-a-lifetime nature conservation experience on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. This special Citizen Science departure will explore some of the most remote edges of the outer reef, discovering beautiful and complex habitats.

Hosted by some of Australia’s most accomplished reef experts including Dr Dean Miller from the Australian Geographic Society, and Dr Charlie Veron, widely known as the ‘Godfather of coral’, you will participate in real scientific research projects.

The Citizen Science component of the expedition will be curated by this expert team, and includes a focus on the annual migration of the dwarf Minke whales - with the chance to swim eye to eye with these magnificent creatures - and coral surveying and identification for the world-first Living Coral Biobank project.

With full access to the most knowledgeable and respected marine scientist in the world and the opportunity to witness their expertise, energy and passion, this expedition offers a rare chance to learn and make a difference in coral conservation on the Great Barrier Reef.

$500 from your fare benefits GBR Legacy.

citizen scienceFOR TRUE EXPLORERS

ITINERARY: 10 NIGHTS CAIRNS TO CAIRNS

DAY 1: DEPART CAIRNSAfter SailSAFE check-in at 2:00pm, board at Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal at 4:00pm for a 5:00pm departure.

DAYS 1-10: Our Great Barrier Reef itineraries are flexible, to take advantage of

changing conditions. Below are the key destinations we visit.

RIBBON REEF #9 & #10The Ribbon Reefs are renowned for their prolific marine life. Enjoy excellent diving and snorkelling, with interpretation from our marine scientists and the opportunity to spot iconic species. Here we have the chance to snorkel with the graceful dwarf Minke whales. Growing 8-9 metres long, they migrate through the Great Barrier Reef during winter months. An encounter with them is a magical experience, the whales are known for their curiosity and may want to have a closer look at you. Our time here will be dictated by the whales.

RACHEL CARSON REEF & MACKAY REEFNamed after the renowned American conservationist, Rachel Carson, this well-protected platform reef provides our main opportunity to assist with the citizen science project. Dr Miller will present on the Coral Biobank project before he leads an expedition underwater to survey coral species and marine life. The GBR Legacy team will review survey results and conduct collection of specimens. The following day, continue your surveying work at beautiful Mackay Reef, located off Cape Tribulation. The vibrant fringing reef offers a rewarding underwater discovery and you might spot some of the numerous turtles that gather here.

OSPREY REEFOsprey Reef is the summit of an undersea mountain in the Coral Sea. With amazing underwater visibility, magnificent coral, and plummeting drop-offs, it is a highly prized dive destination and a true expedition experience. In the late evening, observe as the marine science team conducts research on the elusive Nautilus. Our visit here is subject to weather conditions.

COOKTOWN Come ashore and learn the history of the Guugu Yimithirr, the first people of this country. Discover European history at the site where Lt. James Cook beached HMS Endeavour, wander through the Botanic Gardens and visit James Cook Museum.

DAVIE REEF & CAYAt Davie Reef enjoy snorkelling or glass-bottom boat tours over the colourful fringing reef or stroll on the cay to see the lively Brown Boobie bird colony.

LIZARD ISLAND Start the day with a dawn hike to the summit of Cook’s Look, from where Lt. James Cook searched for safe passage through the reef. Snorkel over giant clam gardens, or relax with a walk on the beach. We may visit Lizard Island Research Station to learn about coral reef research. Later, enjoy sunset drinks on a quiet beach.

FITZROY ISLAND & SUDBURY CAYExplore beautiful Fitzroy Island with a walk through the Secret Garden or a hike to the Summit. Snorkel over the fringing reef, relax on spectacular Nudey beach, and learn all about turtles at the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, where sick or injured turtles are cared for before being returned to the wild. In the late afternoon, arrive at Sudbury Cay, a tiny sand cay to enjoy the Captain’s Farewell Drinks as the sun sinks below the horizon.

DAY 11: ARRIVE CAIRNSDisembark in Cairns at 8:00am. Complimentary post-cruise transfer to a CBD Hotel or airport following disembarkation.A post cruise transfer to the city or airport is included.

MAKE A BOOKING ENQUIRY >

INCLUSIONS> All excursions, including hiking, kayaking, snorkelling and introductory scuba session, with the exclusion of selected optional museum entry fees and scuba diving

> Presentations, briefings & workshops by our highly experienced Expedition Team and guest hosts

> Snorkelling and introductory scuba session

> All meals, with morning and afternoon tea

> Selected beers, wines, spirits, juices & soft drinks with lunch and dinner service, and 24 hour tea and coffee

> Post-cruise transfers

> Open bridge access and engine room tours

> Australian Geographic expedition jacket and hat

> All fees & gratuities

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> Enjoy a Champagne sunrise or sunset at the tip of

Cape York, Australia’s northernmost point

> Learn about Torres Strait art and cultural traditions at

remote island Art Centres and be welcomed to

communities with song, dance, and traditional feasts

> Snorkel the clam gardens of Lizard Island and scuba dive

the northern Great Barrier Reef at Davie and Osprey reefs

> Admire Endaen rock art at Stanley Island and hear stories

from an elder of the Yiithuwarra people

> Spend time in the beautiful islands of Cape York &

the northern Great Barrier Reef, rich with historic stories

and bird-spotting opportunities

> Be refreshed by the remote beauty of northern Australia

Expedition Highlights

the torres strait& cape york

Prices are per person, listed in Australian Dollars (AUD) and include GST.

*Limited sole use occupancy available.

DEPARTURES & FARES

10 Nights aboard Coral Discoverer

> 03 November 2021 - Departing Cairns

> 13 November 2021 - Departing Horn Island

> 12 October 2022 - Departing Cairns

> 22 October 2022 - Departing Horn Island

2021 Fares

Bridge Deck Stateroom

Promenade Deck Cat A

Promenade Deck Cat B

Main Deck Cat A

Main Deck Cat B

Twin Share $15,750 $13,650 n/a $11,550 $10,900

Sole Use n/a n/a $18,900* n/a n/a

2022 Fares

Bridge Deck Stateroom

Promenade Deck Cat A

Promenade Deck Cat B

Main Deck Cat A

Main Deck Cat B

Twin Share $15,260 $14,170 n/a $11,990 $10,900

Sole Use n/a n/a $19,620* n/a n/a

TRIP LOG”Today would be our last day on the wet and wild east coast of Australia! And the

plan was to get to the very top of that coast. So as we woke to board the Xplorer, it

was still dark outside, although humid in the pre-dawn air. The walk to the tip was

covered in salt water cyanobacteria, which made the rocks extremely slippery. The

crew laid out their blue and white towels for the guests, as I raced ahead to find the

Cape York ‘tip’ after all these years. Everyone had their photos taken near the sign

and then enjoyed a glass of champagne or orange juice, or both. The more relaxed

headed back to the ship, while those ready for some more adventures continued

with myself and Tom along the Cape York ridge and down into the moist monsoon

forest. We could see and hear the colours and trills and of Rainbow Bee-eaters

and the coos of Bar-shouldered Doves. We also spotted Imperial Pigeons flying

overhead, Yellow-spotted Honeyeaters in the forest canopy, Dollarbirds in the sky,

and good views of Broad-billed Flycatchers. The highlight was a small group of Palm

Cockatoos briefly glimpsed at the start of the jungle, although they didn’t hang

around for long.”

DAMON RAMSAY > FRIDAY 9 APRIL 2021 > CAPE YORK & GULF

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IMAGES 1 Standing at the top of Cape York | 2 Snorkelling remote Great Barrier reef

from the Xplorer | 3 Jardine river cruise in Xplorer & Zodiac March 2021

With almost 300 islands dotted across the narrow stretch of water between Cape York and Papua New Guinea, an expedition by small ship is the ideal way to access these remote regions. Visit uninhabited sand cays, remote islands and pristine reef systems, where our expert guides will share their knowledge above and below the water. With decades of experience and deep respect for the communities of the region, Coral Expeditions will facilitate an enriching journey accompanied and hosted by local Elders who will share the customs and stories of this ancient country.

Torres StraitFOR TRUE EXPLORERS

ITINERARY: 10 NIGHTS BETWEEN CAIRNS & HORN ISLAND

DAY 1: DEPART CAIRNS OR HORN ISLANDAfter SailSAFE check-in at 2:00pm, Board in Cairns at 4:00pm for a 5:00pm departure. Board in Horn Island at 4:00pm for a 5:00pm departure.

DAYS 2-10: Key destinations of your expedition.

COOKTOWNDiscover historic Cooktown, with buildings dating back to the 1870s. Visit the Botanic Gardens and the James Cook Museum to see original artefacts from the HMS Endeavour.

LIZARD ISLAND Spend a day exploring secluded Lizard Island. Snorkel over giant clam gardens and walk on the white-sand beach. There may be the opportunity for a guided tour of the Lizard Island Research Station. An optional dawn hike leads to the summit of ‘Cook’s Look’.

REMOTE OSPREY REEFOsprey Reef is the summit of an undersea 2,000m mountain located beyond the continental shelf with no landmass visible. Enjoy amazing underwater visibility here, and observe magnificent corals, plummeting drop-offs and many fish in the crystalline waters. Osprey Reef is a highly prized tropical dive location amongst scuba divers, called an ‘oasis for living creatures of all kinds’ by Sir David Attenborough.

STANLEY ISLAND & DAVIE REEF At Stanley Island, view the Indigenous contact-period rock art depicting sailing ships and marine life, and hear stories from a traditional owner of the Yiithuwarra saltwater people. Later, visit Davie Reef and sand cay for snorkelling and birdwatching.

FORBES & RESTORATION ISLANDSAt Forbes Island, walk to the grave of beche-de-mer fisherman Frederick Lancaster, beachcomb on sweeping beaches and snorkel in the tropical waters. Later we visit Restoration Island, with its tall palm trees and white beaches, which was named by Captain Bligh who landed here after the mutiny on the Bounty. It is the home of ‘millionaire castaway’ David Glasheen. We will visit David and stroll on the beach.

TIP OF CAPE YORK: NORTHERNMOST POINTThe rocky headland of Cape York Peninsula is the northernmost point of Australia. Go ashore and experience a Champagne at sunrise or sunset at this special place. Later visit historical sites at Somerset, Possession Island and Albany Island.

TORRES STRAIT ISLANDSThe Torres Strait is home to 200 strikingly beautiful islands, however only 17 are inhabited. Have the privilege of spending three immersive days exploring this remote region, visiting islands where the local communities will welcome you and share their distinctive culture. Visit and purchase art from renowned art centres and enjoy a local meal and exciting cultural performances.

DAY 11: ARRIVE HORN ISLAND OR CAIRNSDisembark in Horn Island at 8:00amDisembark in Cairns at 8:00am

Complimentary post-cruise transfer to a CBD Hotel or airport following disembarkation.

MAKE A BOOKING ENQUIRY >

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CORAL DISCOVERER

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Classic small ship Coral Discoverer is built for environmentally responsible small-ship cruising, with refined steering capabilities, active stabilisers, shallow draught, and a nimble Xplorer tender to bring you close to remote places on the Great Barrier Reef with ease.

With only 72 guests, an intimate atmosphere and warm Australian hospitality make you feel at home. Spacious lounge areas, communal dining and open decks provide the opportunity to relax or spend time with old and new friends.

FEATURES

> One Xplorer tender, three Zodiacs

and a Glass bottom boat

> Open Bridge

> Single seat dining

> Three cocktail bars

> Panoramic Sun Deck with daybeds

> Spacious lounge and deck areas

Xplorer

Boarding

B02

B01

B04

B03

B06

B05

B08

B07

B10

B09

B12

B11

B14B16

B15

B18

B17

B20

B19

B22

B21

Dining Room

C01C03

C02

C05

C04

C07

C06

C09

C08

A02A04

A03

A06

A05

Lounge

A01

Workout A

rea

Galley

Reception

SUN DECK

BRIDGE DECK

PROMENADE DECK

MAIN DECK

Sundeck Bar

WC

Bridge D

eck Bar

Bridge

Bridge Deck Balcony Staterooms

Promenade Deck Cat A Staterooms

Promenade Deck Cat B Staterooms

Main Deck Cat A Staterooms

Main Deck Cat B Staterooms

• 20sqm • Private Balcony

• 18sqm • Picture Window

• 15sqm • Picture Window

• 18sqm • Porthole Windows

• 18sqm • Porthole Windows

Page 14: WILDERNESS SERIES Great barrier reef...The great barrier reef For true explorers Covering an area of over 2300 km and encompassing over 900 islands, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s

Contact us today or speak with your travel agent.

Online www.coralexpeditions.com

Email [email protected]

Free call (Australia) 1800 079 545

Outside Australia +61 7 4040 9999

Head office PO Box 2093 Cairns 4870 QLD Australia

ABN 51 010 809 417

Our Range of Expeditions Include

> The Kimberley > Great Barrier Reef > Tasmania > Cape York, Torres Strait & Arnhem Land

> Papua New Guinea > Raja Ampat & The Spice Islands > Islands of Indonesia > The Solomons & Vanuatu

> New Zealand > Small Islands of the Indian Ocean > Circumnavigation of Australia

“ Had an amazing journey on Coral Discoverer from Cairns to Cairns ( 7 nights)

fantastic crew who went over and above to ensure that we had a COVID safe

and fun cruise. There were only 42 passengers and we were totally spoiled

by the crew... so accommodating to our every need or request. Cannot speak

highly enough about the crew and all encompassing wonderful experiences.

Thank you Coral Expeditions,so much”

NOVEMBER 2020 > TRIP ADVISOR MEMBER JANNI2

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Coral ExpeditionsCoral ExpeditionsBest Cruise Line for AdventureBest Cruise Line for Adventure

IMAGES 1 Fitzroy Island | 2 Boobie Bird at Davey cay | 3 Dive instructor | 4 Stanley Island rock art