The Great Barrier Reef is the crown jewel of Australia, the natural wonder of the world and one of the most precious treasures people have been blessed with! So, it would really be a shame to live on this planet and not visit this underwater miracle. Therefore, put it on your bucket list and remember these tips when you first visit the Reef.
Pick the right time
Australia usually gets four seasons throughout the year, but the Reef only gets the wet and dry season! Sure, you can visit Queensland all year round, but it’s much more pleasant during the dry season from May to October. This means very mild temperatures, minimal rainfall, and quite warm ocean temperatures perfect for diving, snorkeling or just splashing around.
You will be stunned by its size
Most people know that the Great Barrier Reef is big, but they still get stunned by its real size! It stretches over 2300 kilometers down the eastern coast of Australia and is made up of many individual reefs and tropical islands. It’s bigger even than the Great Wall of China and it too can be seen from space! This means you have many opportunities and different ways to explore this wonder of nature and get to know its colorful inhabitants.
You don’t have to be a swimmer
If you don’t really feel comfortable in the water, don’t worry. There are activities that will allow you to explore the reef without ever getting wet. Think glass bottom boats, sailing, semi-submarine tours, island explorations, and even helicopter rides!
Bring a camera
The second you dive under the water, you’ll be stunned with a whole new world—it’s something you’ll want to remember forever! So, make sure to get an underwater camera and capture a few photos and videos that will really last you a lifetime. Invest in a waterproof GoPro that will come in handy throughout your Australian adventure and many others to come (they are perfect for all sorts of activities from diving, skiing, mountain biking to skydiving and they produce amazing shots). An alternative to a GoPro is getting a waterproof case for your smartphone.
You’ll have plenty of options
The Great Barrier Reef contains over 3,000 coral reefs and 600 islands that are home to thousands of species of fish, corals, mollusks, anemones, and other marine wonders. This means you can jump to the reef from everywhere on the East coast of Australia! For instance, there are different beautiful cruises from Sydney that will take you to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, which will reward you with fun snorkeling and diving, tropical islands, and extraordinary marine creatures like manta rays and colorful corals. Many people who decide to visit the reef only see the Cairns part and miss the whole other side of the experience. So, you’d better check out all your options and have a complete adventure!
Take care of the reef
The Great Barrier Reef is so massive, but yet so fragile. Thousands of species of flora and fauna have to leave in peace in order for the reef to stay healthy, lively, and colorful. However, tourists and the global warming have a very negative effect on this ecosystem and we must do all that’s in our power to preserve and protect the reef and not disturb this delicate balance. Make sure not to touch the corals as this can damage the coral itself and kill the tiny organisms living on it. Watch out for your fins and keep them away from the reef. Some parts of the reef are really shallow, which makes it hard to navigate and swim on top of it, so be extra careful. Also, don’t disturb the other animal world as well. Don’t try to pet the rays, turtles or fish! Many of the species living on the reef are endangered and they don’t need the extra stress.
Stay safe
Don’t think the Reef is completely helpless, though. There are many types of marine world that can seriously harm you—this is still Australia, remember! At some times of the year, the waters of the reef are full of poisonous jellyfish that can even be fatal. However, as long as you wear your protective suit given to you by the reef operator, you’ll be safe from these nasty little stingers!
In addition, the real danger of Australia is its vicious sun, which will make you burn in a matter of minutes. Plus, the water reflects a lot of sun’s rays, which makes the combination even more dangerous. For this reason, be generous when putting on your sunscreen (pick a high SPF) and cover up yourself with proper clothes!
The Great Barrier Reef is really a sight to be seen! It’s an experience that can’t be replicated and it is completely unique to Australia. So, make sure to book your ticket to the Land Down Under and start your Great Barrier Reef exploration. You’ll cherish your Aussie adventure forever!
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