Join Coral Expeditions as we undertake our 3rd unique citizen science themed expedition along the length of the Great Barrier Reef to learn about two iconic species – Turtles and Rays. With a maximum of 70 guests and with leading research experts onboard, our small expedition ship Coral Discoverer 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 at the John Brewer and Ribbon Reefs. Travel with a community of conservation-minded explorers and gain access to far reaching atolls and reefs such as Orpheus, Middle Percy and Heron Islands. Contribute to conservation programs including biodiversity databases, wildlife rehabilitation and coral science throughout the voyage.
- 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
- Experience the work of dedicated marine scientists in Coral Reef Studies at the oldest and largest marine research station on the Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island Research Station
- Learn about the Coral Restoration Program and how corals are planted and rejuvenated across the Great Barrier Reef
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or [email protected]) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Coral Discoverer
| Length | 63 metres |
|---|---|
| Launched/refurbished | 2005/2018 |
| Max capacity | 72 Passengers |
Yacht-like Coral Discoverer set a new benchmark standard of sophistication in expedition cruising when she was constructed by us in 2005. Coral Discoverer sailed on pioneering expeditions through Papua New Guinea, the islands of the South Pacific, Vanuatu, New Zealand, West Papua, and the Spice Islands. She led explorations into remote areas, focusing on destinations that were largely inaccessible to larger cruise ships.
Coral Discoverer is exceptionally nimble and maneuverable, with a shallow draught to get up close to destinations, ocean views from all public spaces, an expansive open-air sun deck, all outside-facing staterooms, and state-of-the-art tools for exploration including the Xplorer, zodiacs, a glass-bottom boat, and kayaks. A full refurbishment in 2018 saw the addition of private balconies, the much-loved Xplorer sundeck bar, and all new furnishings throughout the ship.
Comfortable, reliable, and intimately scaled, Coral Discoverer now conducts expeditions across Australia’s coast – Tasmania, Cape York and Arnhem Land and the Kimberley. Australian flagged and staffed by an Australian and New Zealand crew, your experience aboard Coral Discoverer will be memorable.
Onboard Accommodation
Onboard accommodation comprises 36 spacious modern staterooms. You can select from Bridge, Promenade or Main Deck staterooms offering a choice of twin through to junior king-size doubles. All staterooms have an ocean view, en-suite facilities, settee, large wardrobe, desk, luggage storage, individual air-conditioning control, and are serviced daily.
Onboard Facilities
What you would expect of a much larger cruise ship:
- Large sundeck
- Spa Pool
- Guest computer
- Comprehensive reference library
- Phone and fax facilities
- Lecture lounge with large plasma screen
- Limited laundry facilities
- Two fully stocked cocktail bars
- Boutique and dive shop
- Air-conditioned public areas
Coral Discoverer is equipped with the latest technology active stabilizers and is fitted with state-of-the-art safety and navigational equipment and is the only Australian passenger ship registered with full SOLAS compliance allowing opportunities to explore a multitude of international voyages.
Dining
All meals during the cruise are included. Breakfast and lunch are served in the Dining Room located on the Main Deck and are buffet-style while dinner is table d’hote. Coffee and tea is available 24 hours. Standard hours are breakfast from 7:00-8:30am, lunch at 12:30pm and dinner at 7:30pm however meal times may vary according to the day's activities. Meal times will be advised in the onboard daily bulletins.
Excursion Boats And Zodiacs
The "Xplorer" is a specially designed aluminium excursion vessel used for the majority of our excursions. This vessel has high horsepower engines and will accommodate all passengers at one time. The "Xplorer" will be used for landings and for extensive exploration of rivers and tributaries. For your added convenience and comfort, the "Xplorer" is equipped with an awning and toilet.
We also carry two inflatable landing craft (Zodiacs). Designed for expedition work, these large and heavy-duty inflatables are extremely safe. Separate air compartments retain a large reserve of buoyancy even if the boats damaged. The flat bottom design permits these crafts to land directly onto the beaches. Expect nonetheless to wade through shallow water to reach the shore. See photo below (right)
