Coral Discoverer, Citizen Science on the Great Barrier Reef ex Brisbane to Cairns

10 Night Cruise sailing from Brisbane to Cairns aboard Coral Discoverer.

Join Coral Expeditions as we undertake another unique citizen science themed expedition along the length of the Great Barrier Reef. With a maximum of 70 guests and leading research experts onboard, our small expedition ship Coral Discoverer will call on remote reefs, islands, and significant wildlife habitats in the Coral Sea marine zone.

Along the way get hands on experience with marine conservation at the Mon Repos Turtle Centre in Bundaberg and as you meet with resident researchers at work. Connect with the Project Manta team in the protected “green zone” sanctuary of Lady Elliot Island. Participate in species surveys on guided snorkelling sessions. Travel with a community of conservation-minded explorers and gain access to far reaching atolls and reefs. Contribute to conservation programs including biodiversity databases, wildlife rehabilitation and coral science throughout the voyage.

-Visit the Mon Repos Turtle Centre and enjoy a ranger guided Turtle Tracks and Tales walk exploring the conservation park and learn about turtle conservation, research, turtle tracks and nesting sites
-Learn about the Coral Restoration Program and how corals are planted and rejuvenated across the Great Barrier Reef
-Snorkel and dive at John Brewer Reef, home to the largest installation of Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) sharing in a message of reef conservation and restoration
-Lend a hand to the volunteers at the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, where sick and injured turtles are card for before being returned to the wild
-Meet and learn about how you can collaborate with the Project Manta team, a multidisciplinary research collaboration focusing on the population ecology and biology of manta rays within Australian waters
-Participate in scientific and conservation efforts to monitor and research marine biodiversity through programs including Eye on the Reef, GBRMPA Sightings Network, Coral Watch and Mangrove Watch

Expert Guide:
This special Citizen Science departure will be hosted by Guest Lecturer Jodi Salmond. A lifelong passion for marine science led her to pursue a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Marine Biology and Marine Parasitology at James Cook University. Over the past 15 years, Jodi has built a dynamic career as a marine researcher and conservation biologist, specialising in citizen science, reef ecology, and eco-leadership.

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.