Great Barrier Reef

I left Ayers in the Red Center and flew to Northern Queensland in the North Eastern corner of Australia. This is the kickoff point for the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. I arrived in the Cairns airport which is surrounded on one side by the Pacific and three sides by mountains Cairns which is the large tourist town but stayed in Port Douglas which is the 2nd largest town and actually has a beach.

The Barrier Reef stretches for hundreds of miles along the Queensland coast. The southern portion has been the most popular area in the past but due to a lack of environmental care, the coral is no longer as colorful and the fish not as plentiful. So the best undersea viewing has moved north. There are several islands with resorts some very exclusive but I took a day cruise from Port Douglas. The Quicksilver is the biggest and best known carrying hundreds of people out.

They took us out to their own private platoon anchored in the reef. From there they take can take you to dive spots, but most people stay onboard and go snorkeling off the platoon, ride in the glassed in semi submersible, or step into a platform under the ocean with a diver’s helmet on. I lucked out with a very calm and sunny day. Still they suggest you rent wet suits to protect against any Stinger jellyfish that might be around and can cause excruciating pain before they kill you. Australia is well known for their deadly creatures. But it's No Worry mate.



Even though my Kodak underwater camera didn’t function too well you can a taste of the view.

Next stop Daintree Rainforest

Or return to Australia