Coral Futures Expedition Presented by The Australian Geographic Society

Welcome aboard the Coral Discoverer. Step aboard at 4:00pm, ready to depart at 1700hrs, as your much-anticipated adventure begins. Meet your Australian Geographic hosts and join your fellow travelers for the Captain’s Welcome Drinks to toast the journey ahead.

Lizard Island is a tropical haven with fringing reefs and a turquoise lagoon. Hike to Cook’s Look, snorkel over giant clam gardens, relax on the beach, or try a shore dive. Join guided walks, explore by Glass Bottom Boat, and support the Tangaroa Blue Project—helping collect and catalogue marine debris, to stop litter at its source through smarter systems and behavior change. Tonight, join nature photographer Brett as he shares practical tips and techniques for capturing the perfect wildlife and landscape shot. – Lead by Brett Lobwein

Visit Stanley Island to view rare Endaen Aboriginal rock art showing the first sailing ships to Queensland. Back on board, learn about mangrove ecology and join Mangrove Watch surveys from Xplorers and zodiacs, led by expert Aus Geo hosts and our expedition team. - Mangroves lecture lead by Murray Hunt

Dive or snorkel the vibrant Ribbon Reefs, known for stunning coral and marine life. With warm waters and excellent visibility, conditions are ideal. Our expert team tailors sites to suit all levels, while guests help collect Citizen Science data for a truly immersive reef experience. – Citizen Science lecture lead by Andrew Ryan

Explore the vibrant waters of Moore Reef with a snorkel or dive among dazzling coral gardens and marine life. Later, unwind at remote Sudbury Cay —shoes off, toes in the sand, drink in hand—as the sun sets over the Coral Sea with fellow adventurers.

At Fitzroy Island, stroll through the Secret Garden rainforest or hike to the old lighthouse for stunning views. Snorkel the fringing reef, relax on the beach, and visit the Cairns Turtle Rehab Centre to meet volunteers helping rescue and release injured turtles.

Discover a region rich in gold rush history, sugar industry heritage, and natural beauty, nestled between reef and rainforest. Learn about the Forever Reef Project, preserving coral biodiversity for future generations, then in the afternoon, we welcome Dean’s expert team onboard where they will host hands-on coral activities. Enjoy some free time in Port Douglas, with laid-back village vibe before a special farewell dinner onboard. Lead by The Forever Reef Project Founder Dean Miller

We’ll arrive at Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal with disembarkation at 8:30am. Post-cruise transfers to Cairns CBD and the airport are included. If you’re heading to the Northern Beaches or Port Douglas, transfers can be arranged onboard with the Purser (at passenger cost), if not already booked before embarkation.