Great Barrier Reef Conservation Cruise
Experience the Great Barrier Reef like never before, over seven nights, alongside marine researchers and conservationists who have dedicated their lives to protecting and restoring this natural wonder.The Expedition has been structured to travel to remote coral reefs and across vast seascapes, due to turtle and seabird nesting season there will be limited opportunities to set foot on land.
Highlights
• Snorkel and dive at Ribbon Reef No. 3 and Steve’s Bommie, exploring vibrant coral towers and rare marine species like giant clams and nudibranchs.
• Tour Lizard Island Research Station, learning about coral restoration and the impact of bleaching and crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks.
• Join whale shark tagging at Wreck Bay, snorkeling with these gentle giants and discovering marine conservation technologies.
Start your adventure in Cairns as we set sail to explore the northern Great Barrier Reef, and learn more about the toolkit being developed to restore and protect this global icon. Our first evening together will include sunset drinks and canapés, an introduction to the Great Barrier Reef from conservation experts, and evening dinner cooked by your on-board chef.
Today’s adventure is a diver and snorkeller’s dream. We begin the day immersed in the underwater splendour of Ribbon Reef No. 3, a true coral wonderland teeming with dazzling marine life and kaleidoscopic reef formations. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or prefer the serenity of a snorkel, the waters here are a breathtaking window into the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Next, we venture to Ribbon Reef No. 10, home to one of the reef’s most iconic dive sites – Steve’s Bommie. Known for its vibrant coral towers and rare marine species, this world-renowned site is a hub for critter lovers and macro photographers alike. Watch in awe as schools of snapper shimmer past, giant clams nestle in the coral, and the elusive nudibranch makes a cameo beneath the surface. Between dives, unwind with a fresh juice or a chat with our onboard marine biologist – there’s no better way to deepen your connection with this fragile and spectacular ecosystem.
As well as snorkelling and diving to see marine life under the water, including the giant clams of the Clam Gardens, guests will be able to tour the world-leading research station, which is a supplier of on-reef facilities for coral reef research and education. Lizard Island was also ground zero for the bleaching event of 2016, which saw as much as 40% of corals in nearby waters show signs of bleaching, alongside an invasive crown-of-thorns starfish outbreak (COTS) which devastated the local coral populations. The island has become a key site for restoration activities on the Great Barrier Reef. Scientists from all over the world visit to develop solutions to these challenges common including advancements in reproductive technologies to vastly increase the number of corals that can be replanted, as well as innovative ways to predict and respond to COTS outbreaks.
The northern tip is commonly known as Shark City, as whitetip, grey and silvertip reef sharks are often seen cruising along the wall. Masses of fish gather along the steep wall which is covered with an incredible variety of colourful corals and invertebrates.
Tijou Reef is home to many different dive sites, particularly the coral gardens on the inner side and wonderful wall dives on it out of eastern side.
Wreck Bay is a beautiful site for exploring caves, ledges and bommies, and swimming amongst corals, clownfish, turtles and gropers. Spend the morning with researchers who are tagging whale sharks. Once tags are applied, you’ll be able to snorkel with these incredible creatures. Or jump in a helicopter in search of whale sharks, Omura Whales and Oceanic Manta Rays. We will showcase some of the technologies that are being deployed to research large marine mammals, including to underpin management and conservation decisions being made by Reef managers. The afternoon will be spent moored up behind Wreck Bay where there are numerous spots for snorkelling and diving.
Today we’ll make our way to Lockhart River to connect with our charter flight back to Cairns along the beautiful Queensland coastline.
Disembark True North II at Lockhart River for a charter flight to Cairns along the beautiful Queensland coastline.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Book now |
Ocean Class - Twin
River Class - Double
Ocean/River Premium Cabin
Explorer Class - Stateroom
|
Book now |
Ocean Class - Twin
River Class - Double
Ocean/River Premium Cabin
Explorer Class - Stateroom
|
Book now |
Ocean Class - Twin
River Class - Double
Ocean/River Premium Cabin
Explorer Class - Stateroom
|
Book now |
Ocean Class - Twin
River Class - Double
Ocean/River Premium Cabin
Explorer Class - Stateroom
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: True North - 50 metres/True North II - 35 meters
Passenger Capacity: 36/22
Built/Refurbished: 2005/2023
TRUE NORTH
The TRUE NORTH allows discerning adventurers to experience wilderness in surroundings more akin to one of the world’s most exclusive hotels. Guests are able to take advantage of a number of lavish vantage points including a sundeck, a forward observation lounge, a ship’s lounge and an alfresco bar. The ship’s naturalist presents interpretative information on plasma screens and, an internet café enables convenient communication with the outside world.
A popular venue on any North Star cruise, the lower deck dining room offers the ultimate in comfort and uninterrupted vista – large panoramic windows ensure that guests never miss any of the action, even when they are enjoying the ‘finest in fine dining’. All cabins feature stylish décor, en-suite facilities, in-house entertainment and satellite telephones. The Explorer Class staterooms and the River Class cabins offer king size beds that can be converted to singles and the Ocean Class twins feature roomy single beds.
Multiple expedition boats provide guests with greater opportunity to do “what they want, when they want” and, to add yet another dimension to adventure, most cruise options feature an onboard helicopter!The purpose built TRUE NORTH is able to explore the upper reaches of shallow river systems – guests need only step out of their cabins to experience wilderness and, the latest in computer controlled motion stabilizers ensures a comfortable ride.
TRUE NORTH II
TRUE NORTH II features a more intimate experience with just 22 guests and a combined saloon/lounge. The dining salon features a stunning ‘boardroom’ setting and the revered True North dining experience. There is also a sundeck, outdoor bar deck and a dedicated sports deck.
All cabins feature ensuite or private facilities with in-house entertainment and satellite telephones. The Explorer Class staterooms and River Class cabins offer queen-size bedsand the Ocean Class cabins feature roomy bunk-configured singles.
Just like the TRUE NORTH – TRUE NORTH II is purpose-built to explore coastal areas including the upper reaches of shallow river systems – guests need only step out of their cabins to experience wilderness. But the adventure doesn't stop there! Multiple adventure boats provide guests with greater opportunity to do “what they want, when they want” and, to add yet another dimension to adventure, most itineraries feature an onboard helicopter!
And again, just like they are on TRUE NORTH, the crew of the TRUE NORTH II are generally young Australians who create a truly authentic onboard experience. Our crew are always very much part of onboard life - you may even feel as though they are having just as much fun as you are! That’s because they are – every day is an adventure for the crew as well and you will not be able to resist their enthusiasm and passion!
Unlike more conventional cruise experiences – True North crew are encouraged to interact with our guests. They will uniquely chaperone your every experience providing assistance, interpretation and genuine company. They will bait your hook and carry your SCUBA tank but they will also join you for dinner and entertain in the ship’s lounge. And not forgetting that they will also prepare fine meals of distinction, maintain your cabins with our renowned degree of attention and safely navigate ship, boat and helicopter to each destination. Guests on a True North adventure cruise never fail to recognize the outstanding involvement of the crew - they are one of the reasons that an adventure on the TRUE NORTH is not just another expedition cruise!
Inclusions
• All adventure boat excursions & activities,
• Destination-inspired dining and non-alcoholic refreshments throughout the day,
• All fishing & snorkeling equipment and cylinders & weight belts (on dive trips)
• Complimentary café style coffees and tea are available all day
Exclusions
• International and domestic flights
• Passport and visa costs where applicable
• Travel Insurance
• Scenic helicopter flights
• Visitors fee
• Transfers not listed in the itinerary
• Adventure wear and other purchases made on-board
• Alcoholic beverages (except as offered on special excursions)
Luxury Expedition
Our Associates Include
