Great Barrier Reef Adventure CruiseBy Tony Adams
This scene may well have been a nightmare for hapless voyagers in days gone by, but in the balmy conditions off Australia's Great Barrier Reef in the present day, it is pure bliss. The small cruise ship Reef Endeavour sails to some of the most picturesque points on the reef and passengers simply jump into the water with snorkelling or scuba equipment. Those lucky enough to have experienced it describe exploring the reef as one of life's truly amazing experiences, being at one with the thousands of colourful tropical fish and observing the stunning colours and shapes of the abundant coral. The tranquility, spectacular scenery and warm, crystal clear waters combine to make it an unforgettable time, with lucky adventurers feeling like they have just dived into a giant aquarium. Regarded as one of the seven wonders of the modern world, the Great Barrier Reef is the only living organism that can be seen from outer space. Stretching some 1500 miles along Australia's coastine, it dates back 240 million years and is one of the highlights of any trip down under. The reef is actually comprised of 2500 individual reefs and is home to 2000 species of coral, many with spectacular fluorescent colours. There are many ways to see the reef, with a voyage on the Reef Endeavour, a small cruise ship with a capacity of only 160, one of the best. The intimate size of the ship is a welcome alternative to the giant cruise liners that also travel up and down the coastline, with personal service a feature. Sailing out of the city of Cairns in far north Queensland, the Reef Endeavour has two weekly cruises - a four night trip north and a three night journey south - or a gala combination over seven nights. For those unfamiliar with snorkelling, the skill can be learned in only a few minutes and is the ultimate way to explore all the reef has to offer. But for those who prefer a drier view, the Reef Endeavour also has a glass-bottom boat, as well as a marine biologist who points out amazing facts about the many varities of coral and fish on view. As well as stopping on the reef, the cruise visits picturesque resorts including Dunk, Fitzroy and Lizard Islands.
Ironically, Cook's ship, the original Endeavour, actually came to grief on the reef in 1770 and he took refuge in what became Cooktown to repair the damage as he continued his epic voyage around Australia. It took Cook the best part of two months to get the vessel seaworthy again and there must have been times when he was tempted to stay in the tropics, rather than return to the bleak, cold of his native England. The town - the last outpost of civilisation in northern Australia - has a museum dedicated to Cook, including artifacts from his historic maiden voyage to the great southern land. The food on board Reef Endeavour is all inclusive in the price and is superb - the problem is when to say 'enough'. Cabins are small but well appointed, with most opening straight onto the fresh air of the open deck - and the sensational views. The boat also has a swimming pool for those unwilling to venture into the open waters and, of course, a well-stocked bar. Spending some time in and around Cairns before or after the cruise is also highly recommended. The region boasts many worthwhile sights including massive waterfalls and jungle-like rainforest walks. The most famous of these, Milla Milla falls, was found by the Aborigines centuries ago and is among the most photographed spots in the massive state of Queensland. Without doubt the best way to see both the rainforests and waterfalls is on Skyrail, the world's longest electronic gondola ride.
At the end of the ride is the charming town of Kurunda, with a host of tourist markets selling local wares and Aboriginal artworks. Cairns itself is a thriving tourist town with a casino that boasts its own tropical rainforest zoo high above the gambling tables. For those who prefer taking it easy, the luxury resorts of Palm Cove and Port Douglas are an easy hour's drive north of Cairns and both lay claim to spectacular beaches and five-star resorts. But everywhere one travels in the far north, the warnings are clearly posted - swim at your own peril. The waters in the area are home of the dreaded saltwater crocodile, one of the most dangerous predators known to man. FACT FILE:Captain Cook Cruises have four night northbound cruises departing Cairns every Monday and three night southbound cruises departing Friday. Prices range from A$1170 (approx US$870) twin share for a three day cruise to A$1560 (US$1150) and A$2457 (US$1830) for the combined seven night cruise. Prices include on board accomodation, all meals, snorkelling equipment, glass-bottom boat excursions and guided rainforest and island walks. Website: www.captaincook.com.au |
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The captain brings the ship to a halt in the middle of the high seas - no land in sight in any direction - and orders the passengers into the ocean, one by one.
Another highlight is a visit to the historic Cooktown, named in honour of its founder, Captain James Cook.
The system spreads more than five miles, taking nearly an hour to complete, with tourists able to stop at several points along the route to sample the scenery and snap .