The Best Ways to See the Great Barrier Reef

This article was written by Samuel Phineas Upham.

The Great Barrier Reef is an adventure only as amazing as you make it, and there are tons of ways to approach it. You can explore under water, discovering the diverse wildlife awaiting you, or check out the luxurious life at the hotels. Those lucky enough to visit the Reef should be sure to spend time visiting one or more of these attractions.

Explore a Pontoon

Grab a boat for a full-day excursion that takes you to a permanently anchored pontoon. You can party amongst the reef, admiring the sights of the ocean from the comforts of hotel life. You can learn about the Reef through scientific presentations from biologists working in the area, snorkel amongst the wildlife, or take a boat tour around the islands.

Stay on an Island

The islands in the Reef are like miniature getaways in and of themselves. Fitzroy Island is a wonderful place to visit, with glass-bottom boat rides that the whole family will enjoy. You can also enjoy a walk through the bush, exploring rainforest-like jungles through national park land. The island resort features 99 rooms, including apartment-style rooms with their own kitchens.

Scuba Dive

There are helmet dive tours that can take you underwater for an up close and personal view of the marine life without getting your hair wet. There is also the sea-walker adventure on Green island, where guests tour the ocean floor by walking an artificial platform.

Soar Above

If you’ve ever wanted to go on a helicopter ride, the Great Barrier Reef is the place to do it. Some cruises even offer a discounted helicopter ride that launches from a pad on the ship, so check with your travel agent before booking your trip.

About the Author: Samuel Phineas Upham is an investor at a family office/hedgefund, where he focuses on special situation illiquid investing. Before this position, Samuel Phineas Upham was working at Morgan Stanley in the Media & Technology group. You may contact Samuel Phineas Upham on his Facebook page.