Coral Expeditions confirmed a restart of operations for October 14, 2020, with a series of new 7-night voyages onboard its yacht-like MV Coral Discoverer.
Sailing from Cairns (Queensland Australia) with planned departures through mid-December 2020, the nature-based expeditions are expected to take small groups of passengers to explore the outer reefs and lesser-known Great Barrier Reef islands, showcasing the marine life and the rich cultural and natural history of Far North Queensland.
Coral Expeditions is due to be delivering its SailSAFE plan which has been developed by Australian medical specialists giving crew and passengers confidence and peace of mind to sail. The plan has been approved by all Australian State and Territory governments. It is based on the most rigorous safety principles which create a “safe travel bubble” for crew and passengers through pre-screening, onboard mitigation process, and response control.
Highlights of the itinerary feature access to remote locations as well as a glimpse into Reef conservation efforts:
- diving and snorkelling at Escape Reef, Osprey Reef, and Ribbon Reefs
- Great Barrier Reef’s Great Eight and other birdlife and marine creatures
- culture and Australian heritage in Cooktown
- sunset drinks on Sudbury Cay and Hope Island
- snorkel over clam gardens at Lizard Island
- conservation of endangered marine reptiles at Turtle Rehabilitation Centre on Fitzroy Island
- Great Barrier Reef Research Station.
Coral Discoverer is a purpose-built expedition cruise ship with a shallow draft allowing access to locations that bigger vessels cannot reach. Zodiac tenders, an Xplorer tender ship, and a glass-bottom boat enable vacationers to explore the Great Barrier Reef.