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CORAL SEA
Project LIHOU
Join our team of scientists and conservationists for an 11 day luxury conservation cruise to the Coral Sea. This is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure "beyond the Great Barrier Reef", where you will dive and snorkel with sharks, see pristine coral reefs, watch the sun set behind thousands of soaring Frigatebirds and observe turtles nesting. Or... you can lounge in the luxury of the Elizabeth EII and be waited upon by their experienced staff.
The islands we visit are part of Lihou Reef, which is a strict nature reserve and can only be accessed under Commonwealth permit. Visiting these islands is a unique privilege.
This expedition suits both the diver and non-diver. For the divers, there are superlative shark dives at Anne Cay and the sheltered lagoons offer the chance of night dives. We will aim to do at least two dives per day. The islands are also significant seabird breeding sites and we will go ashore morning and evening to do counts and photography.
Lihou Reef is a photographer's paradise. Colourful fish and Tawny Nurse Sharks abound in just a couple of metres of water, whilst nesting boobies, noddies and frigatebirds are perfectly photogenic and approachable. Whether you know little or a lot about ocean wildlife, this is the trip for you.
The Elizabeth EII is a custom built 108ft charter vessel and one of the most luxurious in Queensland. Each cabin has its own ensuite and is serviced daily by friendly hostesses who are sure to make your stay enjoyable. At meal times enjoy culinary delights preparedby the onboard chef. In the evenings, buy a drink at the bar and enjoy presentations by our science colleagues.
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Rough Itinerary
Note, this itinerary is only indicative. The general aim is to head direct to East Diamond Islet then transit to Lihou Reef, visiting Anne Cay, where there is spectacular diving. We will also visit other islands during the expedition. Precise details will depend on the direction of prevailing weather. We are also currently working on the scientific proposal for the project, which may influence where we go.
Day 1 Depart Mackay and head across the Great Barrier Reef.
Day 2 Cross the Capricorn Channel. Chance of Pilot Whales, Spinner Dolphins and Tahiti Petrels.
Day 3 Arrive East Diamond Islet. A day spent diving, snorkelling, photographing the nesting seabirds, watching turtles and relaxing.
Day 4, 5, 6 Depart East Diamond Islet and head to Anne Cay on Lihou Reef, where we will spend two or three days, depending on conditions. In 2009, this site offered some of the best diving anyone had ever done. Chance to snorkel or dive with sharks and visit the island sanctuary.
Day 7, 8 Transit to another reef at Lihou, either on the northern or southern fringe (depending on prevailing conditions) and spend two days there.
Day 9 Head west back towards the Great Barrier Reef, across the Capricorn Channel, aiming to arrive on the outer reef by dawn.
Day 10 A day transiting the Great Barrier Reef. We will stop for a dive during the day. There is also very good chance of Spinner Dolphins, Bryde's Whales, sea snakes and Manta Rays.
Day 11 If time permits, we may stop at a resort in the Whitsundays for an evening of refreshments.
Day 12 Cruise back to Mackay via coastal waters. Chance of Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphins and a range of coastal species, including Flatback Turtles.
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