The Barrier Reef is immense, stretching 2100 kilometres (1250 miles) down the northeast seaboard of Australia.
Do you want to stay on an Island or at a beach resort and just relax? Are you a serious scuba diver, or is snorkeling your preference?
Do you wish to explore tropical rainforest and rivers...or is it a combination of a little of all of these?
You are going to need to consider the amount of time you intend to spend experiencing tropical Australia and the Barrier Reef as a part of your total Australian trip.
Hamilton island is a popular destination in the Whitsundays and can be reached by direct flights from Melbourne and Sydney. Dunk Island and Lizard Island to the north are accessed through Cairns. Lizard Island, in particular is a great diving destination, being home to the world famous Cod Hole.
Excellent 4 and 7 day cruises run out of Cairns to Townsville and Lizard Island which combine the pleasure of a short eco-cruise with the thrill of discovering uninhabited islands and amazing snorkeling anddiving opportunities.
It is possible to plan your own trip to the area, or you can include this area of Far North Queensland as part of an escorted group tour.
Working with a knowledgeable Australian Travel Planner to arrange and reserve an individualised, customised trip will make sure you use your time wisely.