Coral Discoverer, Coral Futures Expedition presented by the Australian Geographic Society ex Cairns Return

7 Night Cruise sailing from Cairns roundtrip aboard Coral Discoverer.

About the Expedition
Join the Australian Geographic Society and Great Barrier Reef Legacy on a unique and immersive citizen science expedition on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Travel and live aboard the yacht-like vessel Coral Discoverer on this 7-day adventure that explores the outer reaches of the Great Barrier Reef. You will be one of a small community of only 64 like-minded explorers, and every moment of the voyage will contribute to coral conservation. This will be a rare opportunity to combine personal exploration with meaningful action to preserve the ocean’s biodiversity.

The expedition will be led and hosted by Dr Dean Miller and will support the award-winning “Forever Reef Project” which has collected a majority of the 415 varied coral species to be found on the reef and has created a living biobank in its purpose-built premises in Port Douglas. Proceeds of the voyage will go towards this and other worthy conservation projects supported by the Australian Geographic Awards for Nature. Learn as you explore, and enjoy activities including snorkel and dive, coastal hikes and birdwatching. Settle back at the end of each day to enjoy sunset and drinks with new friends.

Expert Hosts:
Dr Dean Miller is the managing director and co-founder of Great Barrier Reef Legacy, a not-for-profit organisation based in Far North Queensland. With his team, he has developed the remarkable “Forever Reef Project”, which focuses on preserving the 415 species of hard corals of the Great Barrier Reef. The organisation has developed state-of-the-art holding facilities designed to keep these corals alive, ensuring their long-term conservation for future generations. Dr. Miller’s dedication to the preservation of this unique marine ecosystem has earned him significant recognition, including the gold-tier Australian Geographic Awards for Nature in 2024.

Dr Robin Beaman is a marine geologist and ocean-mapping scientist leading efforts to reveal Australia’s vast underwater landscape. With three decades of experience, he’s developing the most comprehensive and accurate 3D depth models for the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea.

Visit the Coral Biobank:
The Forever Reef Project aims to preserve the genetic biodiversity of corals by collecting and storing living fragments and genetic samples in a state-of-the-art facility. This “coral ark” will help maintain biodiversity for future generations and aid global reef restoration. Experience an exclusive walk through this innovative facility, where you can witness firsthand the efforts being made to safeguard the future of coral reefs.

Lizard Island Discovery:
Our voyage will include a full day stop at the renowned sanctuary of Lizard Island. We will participate in a remote beach clean-up, hike to the summit of historic Cooks Lookout and enjoy snorkel excursions over the majestic giant clam gardens and seagrass beds to view feeding turtles.

Coral and Species Conservation:
Over the 7 days of the voyage, we will visit pristine and iconic outer reef sites where our guides will share insights into the coral species as well as the abundant marine and birdlife around us. Guests can participate in species surveys and recording as part of the “Eye on the Reef” conservation project and our hosts will share their knowledge about the threats and resilience of the Great Barrier Reef. Assist identify corals for the Coral Biobank.

Mapping the Ocean Floor:
Enjoy interpretation provided across the voyage from renowned Bathymetrist Dr Robin Beaman as we map the seafloor beneath the reef.

At JCU, Dr. Beaman leads efforts to map and understand Australia’s vast underwater landscapes, with a particular focus on the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea. His work involves advanced mapping technologies such as multibeam sonar, airborne lidar bathymetry, and satellite-derived bathymetry. These tools help reveal detailed features of the seafloor, contributing to research on submarine canyons, submerged reefs, mesophotic coral ecosystems, and more. His advanced 3D modelling enhances the understanding of seabed habitats and evolution and supports various marine studies and scientific efforts.

Annual Coral Spawning:
Our adventure takes place across the full moon cycle in December which can be a vital and exciting time on the Great Barrier Reef. Warm waters and seasonally low wind patterns known as the doldrums combine to provide ideal conditions for the annual mass spawning release of coral eggs and sperm from thousands of colonies. Guest may witness the release, or the following stages of fertilization, settlement and growth as new life regenerates across the reef. Guests will be able to participate in a controlled night snorkel experience on the pristine ribbon reefs.

Note: This itinerary is an indication of the destinations we visit and activities on offer. Throughout the expedition we may make changes to the itinerary as necessary to maximise your expeditionary experience. Allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions, and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel. Coral Expeditions suggests that you do not arrive on the day of embarkation or depart on the day of disembarkation due to any changes that may occur in scheduling.