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Great Barrier Reef - Coral Expeditions · HINCHINBROOK CHANNEL Awaking in the early morning light...

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Great Barrier Reef SMALL SHIP EXPEDITIONS CORAL EXPEDITIONS II > MAXIMUM OF 44 GUESTS 3, 4 & 7-NIGHT EXPEDITION CRUISES DEPART WEEKLY FROM CAIRNS
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Page 1: Great Barrier Reef - Coral Expeditions · HINCHINBROOK CHANNEL Awaking in the early morning light of the Hinchinbrook Channel, the light dances on the mountainous Hinchinbrook Island.

Great Barrier ReefSMALL SHIP EXPEDITIONS

CORAL EXPEDITIONS II > MAXIMUM OF 44 GUESTS3, 4 & 7-NIGHT EXPEDITION CRUISESDEPART WEEKLY FROM CAIRNS

Page 2: Great Barrier Reef - Coral Expeditions · HINCHINBROOK CHANNEL Awaking in the early morning light of the Hinchinbrook Channel, the light dances on the mountainous Hinchinbrook Island.

A Natural WonderCoral Expeditions knows the UNESCO World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef better than most, having pioneered overnight cruises on the outer reef more than 30 years ago. Sailing from our homeport of tropical Cairns, Queensland, our purpose-built reef expedition vessel, Coral Expeditions II takes a maximum of just 44 guests in relaxed comfort on year-round 3, 4 or 7 night expeditions.

The tailor-made itineraries venture to the pristine outer reef, and exclusive mooring destinations, allowing us to offer an unmatched experience of the Reef. Our expedition voyages are truly immersive, venturing beyond the destinations of the day-trips to the underwater world that you’ve long imagined. Out here, your only companions might be a Loggerhead Turtle or a Maori Wrasse.

Resident Marine Biologists bring the species to life, with ‘Touch and Learn’ displays onboard and in the water. As a guest of Coral Expeditions, you will have the rare opportunity to visit the Ribbon Reefs, as well as Escape Reef & Nathan Reef. Divers and snorkellers will delight in some of the world’s finest untouched coral gardens. As you slip into the clear waters of the Reef, you can’t help but me mesmerised by this UNESCO World Heritage Marine Park.

We live and breathe the reef, with our headquarters just minutes from the start of this natural wonder. That’s why its important to us that our guests and operations ensure the long term preservation and conservation of the Reef. Coral Expeditions is a leader in Reef conservation, a member of Ecotourism Australia, and an accredited ecotourism operator.

By choosing Coral Expeditions for your Great Barrier Reef experience, you are choosing to travel with a company that prioritises the long term conservation of the Reef and its ecosystem.

Onboard, you will enjoy quality inclusions, such as small batch dining coupled with boutique Australian wines, and spacious staterooms complete with a turn-down service every night.

Truly an unforgettable experience, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the wonders of the natural world, and can only be experienced to be understood. Let this wonderland move you. And let Coral Expeditions, the experts in this unique ecosystem, show you why it’s worth conserving.

Page 3: Great Barrier Reef - Coral Expeditions · HINCHINBROOK CHANNEL Awaking in the early morning light of the Hinchinbrook Channel, the light dances on the mountainous Hinchinbrook Island.

Your REEF Expedition experienceVisible from space, and recognised by UNESCO for it’s unique ecosystem, the Great Barrier Reef is renowned as one of the finest Reef systems on the planet. On our voyages through the Reef, an expert Expedition Team of Marine Biologists and Dive Instructors will provide you with a complete immersive experience and allow you up-close-and-personal access to the finest spots.

FEATURED EXPEDITION STAFF

Charlie BettiniMaster, Coral Expeditions II

Charlie has been with us for 6 years, and is the expert at navigating the Great Barrier Reef. Taking guests to exclusive mooring sites is a daily pleasure for Charlie. “Since working at Coral Expeditions I have made so many bonds, many of the crew I have worked with over this period have become life long friends.”

Rebecca FinlaysonTrip Director & Marine Biologist

Bec was drawn to the tropical waters of far north Queensland to complete her BSc (Hons) in Marine Biology, at James Cook University. Passionate about educating and sharing her knowledge of this unique ecosystem and how to care for it, Bec also speaks whale.

EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS

› Stay dry and view a diversity of wildlife from our Glass-Bottom Boat

› Enjoy guided walks and interpretative presentations with our Trip Director

› Get up close and personal with interesting sea creatures at a ‘Touch Tank’ experience on deck

› Kayak around the sheltered bays of the islands we visit

› Scuba dive or snorkel the outer reefs and discover a whole new world underwater

› Watch the sunrise over the ocean from our top deck

EXPERT EXPEDITION TEAMOn each Great Barrier Reef voyage, our Expedition Team bring guests an unrivalled level of expertise, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Our Trip Directors provide exceptional interpretation throughout the voyage.

ALL-INCLUSIVE EXCURSIONSTo enjoy the Reef, is to engross yourself in all its surroundings. Excursions on board are immersive and include Glass-Bottom Boat cruises, interactive ‘Touch Tank’ displays and of course scuba diving and snorkelling. All accompanied by expert interpretation and tuition.

Page 4: Great Barrier Reef - Coral Expeditions · HINCHINBROOK CHANNEL Awaking in the early morning light of the Hinchinbrook Channel, the light dances on the mountainous Hinchinbrook Island.

RIBBON REEFSThe Ribbon Reefs form the outer edges of the Northern Reef, bordering the edge of the continental shelf. Stretching over 100 kilometres to the north of Cairns, the ‘Ribbons’ are a string of 10 stunning coral reefs. They are generally quite shallow and sometimes become exposed at the water’s surface with tidal movements. These long thin strips of reef hold beautiful coral gardens and isolated bommies topped with corals and anemones, surrounded by a rainbow of reef fish.

Snorkellers and divers on the Ribbon Reefs might encounter huge giant clams, moray eels and reef sharks. You might also meet Pelagic fish and see Gorgonian Fans. Access into the water is easy. With the Aft Deck platform lowered, you can enter the water directly from the rear of the ship. If you prefer not to get your feet wet, our Glass-Bottom boat still allows you to experience what can be seen underwater.

LIZARD ISLANDA designated National Park, Lizard Island boasts 24 sandy beaches and a lagoon on its 1,013 hectares. Guests of Coral Expeditions will join the fortunate few who are able to enjoy the natural beauty of this island. Spend a full morning exploring this granite-based island; swimming or snorkelling in its fringing reefs. You might spot Elephant Ear Coral, Spaghetti Coral, Blue Sea Stars and delicately patterned Rabbit Fish. If you prefer land, wander the pure white sands of Watson’s Bay or walk up to Cook’s Look.

COOKTOWNThe historic township of Cooktown is where the British crew of the Endeavour spent seven weeks repairing their ship, replenishing food and water, and caring for their ill. Stroll the wide main street of Cooktown and see the colonial buildings that date back to the 1870s as well as the Botanic Gardens and the James Cook Museum. See endemic flora including the famous Cooktown Orchid, Lemon Myrtle and Candlenut.

› Wander through the sleepy township of Cooktown and learn of its historical significance with a guided tour by your Trip Director

› Enjoy a guided walk to the ruins of Mary Watson’s cottage on Lizard Island and learn how she became folk icon of the region

› Hike to Cook’s Look and imagine the renowned explorer, Lieutenant James Cook charting his route along the coastline

› Kayak the calm waters of Watson’s Bay at Lizard Island

› Dive or snorkel at private and exclusive moorings, including Ribbon Reef’s No.3 and No.9 and Escape Reef

› Learn about wildlife from a resident Marine Biologist, with hands-on displays

EXAMPLE ITINERARYDAY DESTINATION

1 CAIRNS2 COOKTOWN – LIZARD ISLAND3 LIZARD ISLAND – RIBBON REEFS4 RIBBON REEFS – ESCAPE REEF5 CAIRNS

4 night northern Reef EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS

4 NIGHT NORTHERN REEF CRUISE

CC4: 4 night Cairns – Lizard Island – Cairns.

Departs Cairns: Mondays at 5.00pm. Boarding commences at 4.00pm.

Genuine single travellers cruise at Twin Share price.

CORAL EXPEDITIONS II TWIN SHARE TRIPLE SHARE

Deluxe Stateroom 2,870 n/a

Upper Deck Stateroom 2,670 n/a

Stateroom 2,470 1,853

Cabin 2,170 n/a

Prices are listed in Australian Dollars (AUD).

FARES

Page 5: Great Barrier Reef - Coral Expeditions · HINCHINBROOK CHANNEL Awaking in the early morning light of the Hinchinbrook Channel, the light dances on the mountainous Hinchinbrook Island.

HINCHINBROOK CHANNELAwaking in the early morning light of the Hinchinbrook Channel, the light dances on the mountainous Hinchinbrook Island. This is a mangrove habitat, and the Glass-Bottom Boat might allow views of crocs and crab pots from above as you cruise the maze of creeks that run through the channel. The mangrove system is an incredibly important buffer and connection between the marine and terrestrial environments in the area. It also remains an important breeding ground for Dugong, Sea Turtles and many other marine animals.

FITZROY ISLANDHead to the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre and become part of the story of conserving these beautiful creatures. The centre is a voluntary non-profit organisation dedicated to the rehabilitation of sick and injured turtles. Founded in 2000, the centre relies on the donations from the public and local businesses to keep running and ensure that turtles are given the care that they need.

SUDBURY CAYA small, low level sand-based island which has formed on top of a coral reef, Sudbury Cay changes in shape each day with the ebb and flow of the ocean current. Enjoy some drinks and nibbles as we watch the sun set over the mainland.

EXAMPLE ITINERARYDAY DESTINATION

1 CAIRNS – SUDBURY REEF

2 HINCHINBROOK CHANNEL – WHEELER ISLAND

3 DUNK ISLAND – NATHAN REEF4 FITZROY ISLAND – CAIRNS

› Snorkel and swim off the back of the ship at Nathan Reef

› Join a Glass-Bottom Boat tour through the mangroves of the Hinchinbrook Channel

› See Indigenous middens as you walk the Haven Track

› Enjoy sunset drinks at Wheeler Island and/or Sudbury Cay

› Experience the rainforest ecosystem on a guided walk through Dunk Island

› Learn to scuba dive with an introductory dive course included

› Enjoy informative presentations and documentaries

› Visit the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre at Fitzroy Island

3 night Southern ReefEXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS

3 NIGHT SOUTHERN REEF CRUISE

CC3: 3 night Cairns – Hinchinbrook Channel – Cairns.

Departs Cairns: Fridays at 11.00am. Boarding commences at 10.00am.

Genuine single travellers cruise at Twin Share price.

CORAL EXPEDITIONS II TWIN SHARE TRIPLE SHARE

Deluxe Stateroom 2,250 n/a

Upper Deck Stateroom 2,100 n/a

Stateroom 1,900 1,425

Cabin 1,650 n/a

Prices are listed in Australian Dollars (AUD).

FARES

Page 6: Great Barrier Reef - Coral Expeditions · HINCHINBROOK CHANNEL Awaking in the early morning light of the Hinchinbrook Channel, the light dances on the mountainous Hinchinbrook Island.

The 7-night Immersive Reef itinerary includes all destinations mentioned in the 3 and 4 night itineraries. Some of the activities that you might experience onboard are detailed here instead.

GLASS-BOTTOM BOAT TOURSView the marine ecosystem without getting your feet wet, aboard our Glass-Bottom Boat. Comfortable and sheltered, you’ll float over coral gardens and school of fish – maybe even see a graceful Sea Turtle. Boarding of the Glass-Bottom boat is safe and easy. Simply step aboard before the boat is gently lowered into the water by hydraulic lift, ensuring there is no need to clamber aboard or get your feet wet.

The Glass-Bottom Boat is equipped with magnified glass panels, allowing guests to see the reef and marine life up-close and personal.

SNORKELLING & SCUBA DIVINGOur snorkelling and scuba diving departments are fully stocked with a wide range of snorkels, fins and masks (to fit all sizes) along with all the necessary equipment to allow you try the unforgettable experience that is scuba diving. Snorkelling equipment will be assigned to all guests at the commencement of each cruise. A qualified Dive Instructor is onboard and an introductory scuba skills session is complimentary.

ONBOARD PRESENTATIONSEnjoy a presentation by our Marine Biologist or watch a documentary on board so that you can be informed about the areas that you are travelling through. We also have ‘Touch Tank’ displays on the Main Deck, allowing you to have a hands-on experience with some local sea creatures that you may see as you snorkel and dive.

› Dive or snorkel directly from the ship at some of Coral Expeditions’ private and exclusive moorings

› Spend time exploring the remote paradise of Lizard Island

› Get up close and personal with endemic wildlife from a resident Marine Biologist, with ‘Touch Tank’ displays and expert interpretation

› Take in the history of Cooktown as you wander through on a guided tour

› Take in the views of the North Queensland coastline as you enjoy drinks on the Sun Deck

› Enjoy an interpretative tour of the mangrove ecosystem of Hinchinbrook Channel

› Become immersed in Indigenous culture at Tjabukai Cultural Park

EXAMPLE ITINERARYDAY DESTINATION

1 CAIRNS2 COOKTOWN AND REEFS3 LIZARD ISLAND – RIBBON REEFS4 RIBBON REEFS – ESCAPE REEF5 CAIRNS – THETFORD REEF

6 HINCHINBROOK CHANNEL – WHEELER ISLAND

7 DUNK ISLAND – NATHAN REEF8 FITZROY ISLAND – CAIRNS

7 night IMMERSIVE Reef EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS

7 NIGHT IMMERSIVE REEF EXPERIENCE

CC7: 7 night Cairns – Lizard Island – Hinchinbrook Channel – Cairns v.v.

Departs Cairns: Mondays at 5.00pm or

Departs Cairns: Fridays at 11.00am (Reverse direction)

Genuine single travellers cruise at Twin Share price

CORAL EXPEDITIONS II TWIN SHARE TRIPLE SHARE

Deluxe Stateroom 4,595 n/a

Upper Deck Stateroom 4,295 n/a

Stateroom 3,985 2,921

Cabin 3,395 n/a

Prices are listed in Australian Dollars (AUD).

FARES & SAILING SCHEDULE

Page 7: Great Barrier Reef - Coral Expeditions · HINCHINBROOK CHANNEL Awaking in the early morning light of the Hinchinbrook Channel, the light dances on the mountainous Hinchinbrook Island.

Coral Expeditions IIJust 35 metres in length, Coral Expeditions II is the ideal ship for discovering the World Heritage-Listed Great Barrier Reef with a shallow draught to allow snorkelling directly from the ship.

The 21 onboard rooms are equipped with a private ensuite, air conditioning and ample storage space, as well as large picture windows, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the spectacular scenery.

The ship features a spacious lounge with cocktail bar, comprehensive reference library and digital map displays. The large Sun Deck offers comfortable deck chairs and teak furnishings. Meals are served in the dining room, with space for all guests to dine during one sitting and no assigned seating.

Coral Expeditions II operates an Open Bridge policy, allowing you to spend time with the Captain and his maritime crew as we cruise.

FACILITIES ON BOARD CORAL EXPEDITIONS II › Large Sun Deck with sun lounges

› Glass-Bottom Boat and Kayaks for marine exploration

› Two fully stocked cocktail bars

› Dining Room & spacious lounge

› Reference library

› Small gift shop with souvenirs and personal items available for purchase

› Scuba diving facilities, snorkelling equipment

INCLUSIONS › 3, 4 or 7 night Expedition Voyage

aboard Coral Expeditions ll

› Expert Expedition Team, including Marine Biologists to provide expert interpretation, presentations and commentary

› Daily guided excursions on the Glass-Bottom Boat

› Use of snorkelling equipment; masks, fins, flotation vests and wetsuits

› Small-batch local cuisine, prepared fresh in our Galley: buffet breakfasts, buffet lunches and table d’hote dinners including a spectacular local seafood buffet

› Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Events

› 24 hour specialty coffee and selection of teas

› Use of all onboard facilities, including reference library

› Comprehensive and fully guided sightseeing in each destination

› Introductory scuba skills session

› Access to islands, marine and national parks

› Post cruise transfer from ship to Cairns airport or central Cairns hotels

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED › Alcoholic spirits, wine and beer

› Stinger Suits (available at a cost)

› Scuba diving (available at a cost)

› Environmental Management Charge (EMC) levied by government of AUD $19.50 per person (subject to change)

› Please note: There is no internet access on board Coral Expeditions II.

DECK PLAN

Exclusive Charters and Group prices on application. All prices may be subject to a fuel surcharge at the discretion of Coral Expeditions. Government Environmental Management Charge (EMC) of AUD19.50 per person (subject to change) is additional and payable on board the vessel. No Single Supplement on Great Barrier Reef – cruise only. The offer is open for new bookings by genuine single travellers for all departures in 2017/18 and until further notice. Guests travelling together who elect to travel in single rooms will be required to pay a 25% surcharge. Enquire for further details. Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made within 30 days of departure will incur the following fee: • From 14 – 30 days forfeit 20% of relevant fare • From 7 – 13 days forfeit 50% of relevant fare • From no show to 6 days forfeit 100% of relevant fare. Children fare: 0 – 3 free of charge, 2 children sharing (aged 4 – 14) @ 50% of relevant fare, when calculating 2A + 1C, 2A travels at standard triple share rate and 1C travels at 50% of triple share rate. Triple share not suitable for 3 adults. Silver Xplorers club members save 5%, Gold and Platinum members save 10% where applicable. Please note: Departures from 15 January to 12 February 2018 will be operating on Coral Expeditions I due to scheduling.

Page 8: Great Barrier Reef - Coral Expeditions · HINCHINBROOK CHANNEL Awaking in the early morning light of the Hinchinbrook Channel, the light dances on the mountainous Hinchinbrook Island.

Online www.coralexpeditions.com

Email [email protected]

Freecall within Australia 1800 079 545

Outside Australia +61 7 4040 9999

Head office PO Box 2093 Cairns 4870 QLD Australia

ABN 51 010 809 417 Issued February 2017

PRESERVING THE REEFThere’s been a lot of talk recently about the health of the Great Barrier Reef and what can be done to preserve it for future generations. Created 34 years ago to showcase this unique ecosystem it to the world, Coral Expeditions is committed to Reef conservation. Our onboard processes and continuing outreach programmes aim to conserve and raise awareness about the fragile reef ecosystem. At the same time, our continuous monitoring of reef health ensures we are able to pick and choose from a vast menu of reefs systems to delight our guests. We are a certified member of Ecotourism Australia, and work closely with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority who have granted us access to exclusive mooring sites. It is our intention to continue the legacy of respectful tourism in the Great Barrier Reef for decades to come.

IT’S OUR REEF

MEET THE LOCALS: THE GREEN TURTLEThe only herbivore amongst the species, the Green Sea Turtle is so named for the colour of its cartilage and fat – not its shell. Correctly named the Chelonia mydas, they move gracefully in the water, and migrate long distances to the feeding ground, with the females always returning to the location of hatchment to lay their eggs. With a large pair of paddle-like flippers they easily navigate the seagrass that the turtles feed on, only biting off the blade, to keep the seagrass healthy and plentiful; a beautiful symbiotic relationship that enables them to live up to 80 years in the wild.

SOLO TRAVELLERS: NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENTCoral Expeditions welcomes everybody aboard our voyages, and solo travellers are made especially at home. We understand sometimes you may be travelling on your own, whether due to choice or circumstance. Genuine single travellers can travel at the twin-share rate in a room for their sole use with no single supplement.

Please contact our Reservations Team should you have any further queries.

Contact us today or speak with your travel agent.


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