Great Barrier Reef Tours and Vacation Packages

Overview

Believed to have been formed 600,000 years ago, the Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system comprising a complex of reefs, coral cays, islands, mangroves, and seagrass beds, over an area of 133,000 sq-mi (344,468 sq-km). So vast is the site that it is the only living structure visible from space. It is home to 600 types of corals or three-quarters of the world's coral species, over 1,500 species of fish, and 4,000 types of mollusks, and the habitat of endangered species, including the dugong (sea cow), loggerhead turtle, and saltwater crocodile.

You can experience the beauty and variety of the reef in various ways. Snorkel and scuba dive along the coral reefs, sail along tropical islands, observe marine life from a glass-bottomed boat, and soar over the sights on a scenic helicopter ride. The Great Barrier Reef is accessible from various points along the Queensland Coast, including Cairns and Port Douglas. Mainland attractions on the reef include diving and snorkelling at Whitehaven Beach, hiking on Hamilton Island, and interactions with koalas and kangaroos at the Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas. The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is between May and October when humidity is low. October to May is 'stinger season' and requires wearing stinger suits for protection while swimming.