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aem-GridColumn--default--12 aem-GridColumn--offset--default--0 aem-GridColumn--default--none"},"gridClassNames":"aem-Grid aem-Grid--12 aem-Grid--default--12","columnCount":12,":items":{"editorial_hero_banne":{"title":"Great Barrier Reef Travel Guide: First Trip Essentials ","headlineColor":"#be4ffd","layoutVariation":"standardWidth","tag":{"colour":"#be4ffd","text":"Guide"},"breadcrumbItems":[{"active":false,"title":"Home","url":"/content/teq/in/en/home.html"},{"active":false,"title":"Things to Do","url":"/content/teq/in/en/things-to-do.html"},{"active":false,"title":"Traveller Type","url":"/content/teq/in/en/things-to-do/traveller.html"},{"active":false,"title":"First-Time Visitors","url":"/content/teq/in/en/things-to-do/traveller/first-time-visitor.html"},{"active":true,"title":"A first-timers guide to the Great Barrier Reef","url":"/content/teq/in/en/things-to-do/traveller/first-time-visitor/first-timers-guide-great-barrier-reef.html"}],"gallery":{"mediaCollection":[{"mediaType":"image","mediaProps":{"fileFormat":"","sku":"","src":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/the-whitsundays/blog-imges/editorial-hero-banner/2022_WYS_ExploreGroup_GreatBarrierReef_RiptideCreative_149915.jpg","alt":"Couple snorkelling on the reef, while on a Sail & Snorkel cruise to Whitehaven & Chalkies Beach with Explore Group | first-timers guide Great Barrier Reef","title":" ","link":null,"mobileSrc":"","attribution":null,"quality":60},"mediaPropsSlide":null}]},":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorial-hero-banner"},"editorialauthor":{"name":"Jess\t Pridmore","resourcePath":"/content/teq/in/en/things-to-do/traveller/first-time-visitor/first-timers-guide-great-barrier-reef/jcr:content/root/responsivegrid/editorialauthor","publishedDateISO":"2026-05-21T00:44:43.088Z",":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorialauthor","image":{"src":"/home/users/f/f7uUGAeBpxK-7cSsuq7N/profile.profile.image","alt":"Jess\t Pridmore"}},"editorial_descriptio":{"text":"\u003Cp\u003EPlanning your first Great Barrier Reef trip? One of the best time to visit is between May and October, when the water is calm, the weather is warm and dry, and visibility is on point. November to May can be a little wetter but brings turtle hatchings, coral spawning and some great deals. The Reef is safe to visit year-round, with expert operators and tours for every confidence level.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003Cbr\u003E\r\nFrom the best eco-tours on the Great Barrier Reef, to family-friendly itineraries, luxury experiences and ocean encounters, this giant living organism is something straight out of a fairytale – with the scenery to match. Here’s everything you need to know before booking your first holiday on the \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef.html\"\u003EGreat Barrier Reef\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Ch2\u003EGreat Barrier Reef: Key takeaways\u003C/h2\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003ELocation: \u003C/b\u003EQueensland coast, stretching 2,300km from Bundaberg to Cape York\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003Cb\u003EBest for: \u003C/b\u003EFirst-time reef visitors, families, snorkellers and bucket-list travellers\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003Cb\u003EBest access points: \u003C/b\u003ECairns, Port Douglas, Whitsundays, Townsville, Southern Great Barrier Reef\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003Cb\u003EBest time to visit:\u003C/b\u003E May to October for calm conditions; November to May for marine life and turtle season\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003Cb\u003EHighlights:\u003C/b\u003E Snorkelling, diving, island stays, scenic flights, liveaboards\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003Cb\u003EGood to know: \u003C/b\u003EYou don’t need to be a swimmer, many tours cater to beginners and non-swimmers\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EJump to: \u003C/b\u003E\u003Ca href=\"#special\"\u003EWhy it’s special\u003C/a\u003E | \u003Ca href=\"#how\"\u003EHow to get there\u003C/a\u003E | \u003Ca href=\"#time\"\u003EBest time to visit\u003C/a\u003E | \u003Ca href=\"#things\"\u003EBest things to do\u003C/a\u003E | \u003Ca href=\"#choose\"\u003EHow to choose your reef experience\u003C/a\u003E | \u003Ca href=\"#faqs\"\u003EFAQs\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Ch2\u003EWhere is the Great Barrier Reef?\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/h2\u003E\r\n","readMoreHeight":0,"headlinesColor":"#be4ffd","richText":true,":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorial-description"},"image_1072727366":{"componentName":"teq/components/image","src":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/the-whitsundays/blog-imges/2022_WYS_ExploreWhitsundaysSailing_Sailing_RiptideCreative_152303.jpg","fileReference":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/the-whitsundays/blog-imges/2022_WYS_ExploreWhitsundaysSailing_Sailing_RiptideCreative_152303.jpg","link":"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/tours/p-56b260857b935fbe730e0034-explore-group-australia","alt":"Yacht sails through the waters of The Whitsundays, surrounded by islands, sand cays and coral reef","srcUriTemplate":"https://www.queensland.com/in/en/things-to-do/traveller/first-time-visitor/first-timers-guide-great-barrier-reef/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/image_1072727366.coreimg{.width}.jpeg/1779324280646/2022-wys-explorewhitsundayssailing-sailing-riptidecreative-152303.jpeg","uuid":"1b69f17f-ecf6-4a7c-a20e-21a69c7b92a8","lazyEnabled":false,"title":"Explore Whitsundays Sailing Adventures, The Whitsundays",":type":"teq/components/image"},"editorial_descriptio_1516159812":{"text":"\u003Cp\u003EStretching over 2,300km, the Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks and one of the seven natural wonders of the world. From the southern Queensland city of \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/bundaberg.html\" title=\"Bundaberg travel guide\" target=\"_self\"\u003EBundaberg\u003C/a\u003E to the northern tip of \u003Ca title=\"Cape York\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/us/en/places-to-see/destinations/cairns-and-great-barrier-reef/cape-york\" target=\"_self\"\u003ECape York\u003C/a\u003E in the Coral Sea, the Great Barrier Reef hugs the coastline almost the entire length of the state and can be accessed from as little as four hours’ drive north of Brisbane.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Ch2\u003EWhy is it so special?\u003Ca id=\"special\"\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/h2\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EMaking up 10 per cent of the world’s coral reef ecosystem and home to some of the most \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/content/teq/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/marine-life.html\" title=\"Marine life Great Barrier Reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003Ediverse marine life\u003C/a\u003E on Earth, the Great Barrier Reef is as unique as it is breathtaking. So big it can be seen from space, and so famous even \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/adventure/diving-and-snorkelling/david-attenborough-southern-great-barrier-reef-diving.html\" title=\"David Attenborough Great Barrier Reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003ESir David Attenborough named it one of his most favourite places in the world\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EA UNESCO World Heritage natural wonder formed of over 3,000 individual reefs and 900 continental islands and coral cays, snorkelling and diving the Great Barrier Reef is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here, you can swim with \u003Ca title=\"Everything you need to know about swimming with dwarf minke whales\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/nature-and-wildlife/whales/swimming-with-dwarfe-minke-whales\" target=\"_self\"\u003Eminke whales\u003C/a\u003E, watch humpback whales leap from the oceans, swim with sharks, turtles, and \u003Ca title=\"How to swim with manta rays in Queensland\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/marine-life/swim-with-manta-rays-great-barrier-reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003Emanta rays\u003C/a\u003E, and uncover remote islands leading the way in global eco-conservation.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Ch2\u003EHow to get to the Great Barrier Reef\u003C/h2\u003E\r\n","readMoreHeight":0,"headlinesColor":"#be4ffd","richText":true,":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorial-description"},"image_14565163":{"componentName":"teq/components/image","src":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/the-whitsundays/blog-imges/2022_WYS_OceanRafting_RiptideCreative_150038.jpg","fileReference":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/the-whitsundays/blog-imges/2022_WYS_OceanRafting_RiptideCreative_150038.jpg","link":"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/tours/p-56b25e992cbcbe7073ad8257-ocean-rafting","alt":"Group of friends enjoy a thrilling ride on the Ocean Rafting boat","srcUriTemplate":"https://www.queensland.com/in/en/things-to-do/traveller/first-time-visitor/first-timers-guide-great-barrier-reef/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/image_14565163.coreimg{.width}.jpeg/1779324280721/2022-wys-oceanrafting-riptidecreative-150038.jpeg","uuid":"9b95b81e-7264-4ad9-9f5f-ce8110b10c73","lazyEnabled":false,"title":"Ocean Rafting, The Whitsundays",":type":"teq/components/image"},"editorial_descriptio_418816389":{"text":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca id=\"how\"\u003E\u003C/a\u003EGiven its size, it can easily feel overwhelming figuring out the best place to \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/accessing-the-reef.html\" title=\"How to access Great Barrier Reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003Eaccess the reef\u003C/a\u003E for the first time, but you can guarantee spectacular beaches, swimming and snorkelling wherever you end up. The five \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/great-barrier-reef-precinct-for-you\" title=\"Great Barrier Reef regions\" target=\"_self\"\u003Emain regions of the Great Barrier Reef\u003C/a\u003E each boast their own unique identity and things to do, making every visit to the reef extra special.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Ch3\u003ESouthern Great Barrier Reef\u003C/h3\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EFrom \u003Ca title=\"Brisbane\" href=\"/content/teq/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/brisbane.html\" target=\"_self\"\u003EBrisbane\u003C/a\u003E and the \u003Ca title=\"Gold Coast\" href=\"/content/teq/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/gold-coast.html\" target=\"_self\"\u003EGold Coast\u003C/a\u003E, the \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/southern-great-barrier-reef-visitors-guide.html\" title=\"Southern Great Barrier Reef visitors guide\" target=\"_self\"\u003ESouthern Great Barrier Reef\u003C/a\u003E is the closest Reef region. Hugging the coastline from Bundaberg up to Rockhampton and Yeppoon on the illustrious \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/places-to-see/destinations/capricorn\" title=\"Capricorn Coast Queensland\" target=\"_self\"\u003ECapricorn Coast\u003C/a\u003E, the Southern Great Barrier Reef boasts some of the best snorkelling and diving experiences in the world.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003Cb\u003EBest for:\u003C/b\u003E A taste of island life; \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/gladstone/lady-musgrave-island.html\" title=\"Lady Musgrave Island guide\" target=\"_self\"\u003ELady Musgrave Island\u003C/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/bundaberg/lady-elliot-island.html\" title=\"Lady Elliot Island guide\" target=\"_self\"\u003ELady Elliot Island\u003C/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/capricorn/pumpkin-island.html\" title=\"Pumpkin Island guide\" target=\"_self\"\u003EPumpkin Island\u003C/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/gladstone/heron-island.html\" title=\"Heron Island travel guide\" target=\"_self\"\u003EHeron Island\u003C/a\u003E, all revered for their eco-friendly practices, each acting as conservation havens for some of the reef’s most protected species.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003Cb\u003ENearest airport: \u003C/b\u003E\u003Ca title=\"Bundaberg\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/plan-your-holiday/information-services/p-56b260ae2cbcbe7073adac89-bundaberg-regional-airport\" target=\"_self\"\u003EBundaberg\u003C/a\u003E - 1 hour flight from Brisbane\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Ch3\u003EThe Whitsundays\u003C/h3\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EHeading further north, \u003Ca title=\"Mackay\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/places-to-see/destinations/mackay\" target=\"_self\"\u003EMackay\u003C/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/the-whitsundays.html\" title=\"Whitsundays guide\" target=\"_self\"\u003EThe Whitsundays\u003C/a\u003E are a playground for \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/plan-your-holiday/itineraries/whitsundays-sail-holiday-itinerary\" title=\"Sailing Whitsundays\" target=\"_self\"\u003Eisland-hoppers sailing enthusiasts\u003C/a\u003E. With 74 islands dotted across the region and an outrageously beautiful coastline.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003Cb\u003EBest for: \u003C/b\u003EVisiting the world-famous \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/beaches/how-to-do-whitehaven-beach\" title=\"Whitehaven Beach\" target=\"_self\"\u003EWhitehaven Beach\u003C/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/reasons-to-visit-heart-reef\" title=\"Heart Reef Whitsundays\" target=\"_self\"\u003EHeart Reef\u003C/a\u003E, and unique marine life.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003Cb\u003ENearest airport: \u003C/b\u003E\u003Ca title=\"Whitsundays Coast airport\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/plan-your-holiday/information-services/p-56b260a62cbcbe7073adac05-whitsunday-coast-airport\" target=\"_self\"\u003EProserpine\u003C/a\u003E or \u003Ca title=\"Great Barrier Reef Airport - Hamilton Island\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/plan-your-holiday/information-services/p-56b262612cbcbe7073adcc2d-great-barrier-reef-airport--hamilton-island\" target=\"_self\"\u003EHamilton Island\u003C/a\u003E - 1 hour 45mins flight from Brisbane\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Ch3\u003ETownsville\u003C/h3\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EThe gateway to the tropical north, \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/townsville.html\" title=\"Townsville travel guide\" target=\"_self\"\u003ETownsville\u003C/a\u003E is one of the best bases when exploring the Great Barrier Reef for the first time. Rich Indigenous culture greets you here, with ample experiences on offer to learn about Australia’s First Nation’s people.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003Cb\u003EBest for:\u003C/b\u003E Diving shipwrecks and  \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/museum-of-underwater-art.html\" title=\"Museum of Underwater Art\" target=\"_self\"\u003EMuseum of Underwater Art\u003C/a\u003E, exploring \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/townsville/magnetic-island.html\" title=\"Magnetic Island travel guide\" target=\"_self\"\u003EMagnetic\u003C/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/townsville/hinchinbrook-island.html\" title=\"Hinchinbrook Island\" target=\"_self\"\u003EHinchinbrook Islands\u003C/a\u003E, and luxurious Great Barrier Reef island escapes like \u003Ca title=\"Orpheus Island\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/islands/7-reasons-to-holiday-on-orpheus-island\" target=\"_self\"\u003EOrpheus Island\u003C/a\u003E and \u003Ca title=\"Pelorus Private Island near Townsville\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/plan-your-holiday/accommodation/p-649b90168820ba8b071dcb3b-pelorus-private-island\" target=\"_self\"\u003EPelorus Private Island.\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003Cb\u003ENearest airport: \u003C/b\u003E\u003Ca title=\"Townsville\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/plan-your-holiday/information-services/p-56b260e9aeeeaaf773cf3e80-townsville-airport\" target=\"_self\"\u003ETownsville\u003C/a\u003E - 2 hour flight from Brisbane\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Ch3\u003ECairns & Great Barrier Reef\u003C/h3\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EArguably, the most famous regions to \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/great-barrier-reef-access-port-douglas.html\" title=\"Great Barrier Reef Port Douglas tours\" target=\"_self\"\u003Eaccess the Great Barrier Reef\u003C/a\u003E, both \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/cairns-and-great-barrier-reef/cairns.html\" title=\"Cairns travel\" target=\"_self\"\u003ECairns\u003C/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/cairns-and-great-barrier-reef/port-douglas.html\" title=\"Port Douglas travel\" target=\"_self\"\u003EPort Douglas\u003C/a\u003E boast gorgeous sandy beaches, coral cays, and some of the most famous reef formations. With the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics also on your doorstep, this region of Queensland is unlike anywhere else on earth.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003Cb\u003EBest for: \u003C/b\u003EAccessing the Great Barrier Reef’s ‘Wild North’ region that stretches from the sandy beaches of Port Douglas all the way up to the \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destinations/cairns-and-great-barrier-reef/cape-york.html\" title=\"Cape York travel\" target=\"_self\"\u003ECape York Peninsula\u003C/a\u003E. Untamed, rugged, and wild, this region of the reef is largely untouched, making for some extraordinary snorkelling, diving, and fishing trips. \u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003Cb\u003ENearest airport: \u003C/b\u003ECairns - 2 hour 30 mins flight from Brisbane\u003C/p\u003E\r\n","readMoreHeight":0,"richText":true,":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorial-description"},"editorial_descriptio_980610959":{"text":"\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Ca id=\"time\"\u003E\u003C/a\u003EWhen to visit the Great Barrier Reef\u003C/h2\u003E\r\n","readMoreHeight":0,"headlinesColor":"#be4ffd","richText":true,":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorial-description"},"image_2037335597":{"componentName":"teq/components/image","src":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/tropical-north-queensland/blog-images/156450-2025_TNQ_GBR_AgincourtReef_PortDouglas_Poseidon_JoshKelly_ThatHolidayFeeling_5-8.jpg","fileReference":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/tropical-north-queensland/blog-images/156450-2025_TNQ_GBR_AgincourtReef_PortDouglas_Poseidon_JoshKelly_ThatHolidayFeeling_5-8.jpg","link":"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/tours/p-5f7411709b3552ce2bde2ae5-poseidon--outer-reef-cruises","alt":"Snorkelling underwater exploring the coral and marine life of the Great Barrier Reef ","srcUriTemplate":"https://www.queensland.com/in/en/things-to-do/traveller/first-time-visitor/first-timers-guide-great-barrier-reef/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/image_2037335597.coreimg{.width}.jpeg/1779324280799/156450-2025-tnq-gbr-agincourtreef-portdouglas-poseidon-joshkelly-thatholidayfeeling-5-8.jpeg","uuid":"976720f1-f5b4-4659-a4d1-f06ab9d97f3a","lazyEnabled":false,"title":"Poseidon Outer Reef Cruises, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef",":type":"teq/components/image"},"editorial_descriptio_452552637":{"text":"\u003Cp\u003EThe beauty of the Great Barrier Reef is there’s no bad time to visit; this part of Queensland is blessed with an ‘endless summer’ ­– warm even in Australia’s winter months. Between May and October is when the conditions are just right; the water is refreshing; the weather is fine and the chance of rain is minimal.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003ESummer in the tropics – November to May – is hardly anything to sniff at, though. The weather can be wetter, but it’s when the reef comes alive and the water clarity improves. Divers and snorkellers need to wear a protective suit when in the water during this time of year, but you’re rewarded with some of the best visibility and marine life encounters.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Ca id=\"things\"\u003E\u003C/a\u003EThings to do here on the Great Barrier Reef\u003C/h2\u003E\r\n","readMoreHeight":0,"headlinesColor":"#be4ffd","richText":true,":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorial-description"},"image_112886623":{"componentName":"teq/components/image","src":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/bundaberg/blog-images/2022_BDB_LadyElliotIsland_DescentProductions_153304.jpg","fileReference":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/bundaberg/blog-images/2022_BDB_LadyElliotIsland_DescentProductions_153304.jpg","link":"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/destination-information/p-56b25d55aeeeaaf773cef40d-lady-elliot-island","alt":"Woman snorkels over shallow reef with two turtles at Lady Elliot Island","srcUriTemplate":"https://www.queensland.com/in/en/things-to-do/traveller/first-time-visitor/first-timers-guide-great-barrier-reef/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/image_112886623.coreimg{.width}.jpeg/1779324280873/2022-bdb-ladyelliotisland-descentproductions-153304.jpeg","uuid":"392c1fa6-41a4-4107-ace4-31e2603d90b7","lazyEnabled":false,"title":"Lady Elliot Island, Southern Great Barrier Reef",":type":"teq/components/image"},"editorial_descriptio_702701042":{"text":"\u003Cp\u003EWhether it’s coming face to face with one of the Great Eight deep beneath the ocean’s surface or skimming over bommies with nothing but a snorkel and a pair of fins; when it comes to keeping busy, the Great Barrier Reef offers some incredible things to do. To put it simply; if you’re bored here, you’re not living right.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003ESome of the most bucket list-worthy things to do:\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cul\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca title=\"Sleep on the reef\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/ways-to-sleep-on-the-great-barrier-reef.html\" target=\"_self\"\u003ESleep under the stars in the middle of the Reef\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003ECharter a \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/adventure/sailing/whitsundays-sailing-101-perfect-sailing-holiday.html\" title=\"How to sail in the Whitsundays \" target=\"_self\"\u003Eprivate sailboat\u003C/a\u003E at the Whitsundays\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca title=\"PADI certified diver\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/padi-dive-certification-great-barrier-reef.html\" target=\"_self\"\u003EBecome a PADI certified diver\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003EExplore one of the \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/islands-of-the-great-barrier-reef.html\" title=\"Great Barrier Reef islands\" target=\"_self\"\u003EReef’s many islands\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003C/ul\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EHoping to witness some of the spectacular marine life on the Great Barrier Reef?\u003C/b\u003E The Reef turns it on 365. January to March is \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/nature-and-wildlife/turtles/turtle-hatching-season-guide.html\" title=\"Turtle hatching season Queensland\" target=\"_self\"\u003Eturtle hatching season\u003C/a\u003E in the Southern Great Barrier Reef and northernmost edges of the Reef (November and December for nesting); June and July you’ll be most likely to \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/nature-and-wildlife/whales/swimming-with-dwarfe-minke-whales.html\" title=\"Swim with dwarf minke whales Queensland\" target=\"_self\"\u003Espot dwarf minke whales\u003C/a\u003E as they migrate north past remote Ribbon Reef off the coast of Cairns; July through October is when \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/nature-and-wildlife/whales/whale-watching-in-queensland.html\" title=\"whale watching Queensland\" target=\"_self\"\u003Ehumpback whales migrate north\u003C/a\u003E along the Queensland coast; and the winter months (May to August) is when \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/marine-life/swim-with-manta-rays-great-barrier-reef.html?redirect=blog.queensland.com/2014/10/07/really-like-swimming-monster-manta-rays/\" title=\"see manta rays great barrier reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003Emanta rays are at the most prevalent\u003C/a\u003E across the Southern Great Barrier Reef and at \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/plan-your-holiday/accommodation/p-56b25d142880253d74c443b1-lady-elliot-island-eco-resort\" title=\"Lady Elliot Island eco resort\" target=\"_self\"\u003ELady Elliot Island\u003C/a\u003E.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Ch2\u003EChoose your Great Barrier Reef experience\u003Ca id=\"choose\"\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/h2\u003E\r\n","readMoreHeight":0,"headlinesColor":"#be4ffd","richText":true,":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorial-description"},"editorial_descriptio_311925813":{"text":"\u003Cp\u003EWith so many ways to explore the Great Barrier Reef, this quick guide will help you choose the experience that suits your travel style.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cul\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003EShort on time? Day trip from \u003Ca title=\"Great Barrier Reef from Cairns\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/great-barrier-reef-access-cairns\"\u003ECairns\u003C/a\u003E, \u003Ca title=\"Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/great-barrier-reef-access-port-douglas\"\u003EPort Douglas\u003C/a\u003E or \u003Ca title=\"Great Barrier Reef from the Whitsundays\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/8-ways-to-do-the-great-barrier-reef-from-whitsundays\"\u003EThe Whitsundays\u003C/a\u003E. \u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca title=\"Great Barrier Reef snorkeling first-timers\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/adventure/diving-and-snorkelling/snorkelling-101-first-timers-guide\" target=\"_self\"\u003EBest snorkelling?\u003C/a\u003E Outer reef tours or pontoons\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca title=\"Great Barrier Reef without getting wet\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/how-to-see-the-great-barrier-reef-without-getting-wet\" target=\"_self\"\u003ENot a confident swimmer?\u003C/a\u003E Semi-submersibles and glass-bottom boats\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca title=\"Great Barrier Reef luxury guide\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/great-barrier-reef-luxury-guide\" target=\"_self\"\u003EChasing luxury?\u003C/a\u003E Helicopters, private charters or island stays\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003ESerious diver? Liveaboards (Ribbon Reefs, Coral Sea)\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca title=\"Great Barrier Reef family guide\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/family-friendly-great-barrier-reef-guide\" target=\"_self\"\u003ETravelling with kids?\u003C/a\u003E Pontoons and island day trips\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003C/ul\u003E\r\n\u003Ch2\u003EHow to see the Great Barrier Reef\u003C/h2\u003E\r\n","readMoreHeight":0,"headlinesColor":"#be4ffd","richText":true,":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorial-description"},"image":{"componentName":"teq/components/image","src":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/the-whitsundays/blog-imges/2021_WYS_JourneyToTheHeart_GreatBarrierReef_RiptideCreative_141527.jpg","fileReference":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/the-whitsundays/blog-imges/2021_WYS_JourneyToTheHeart_GreatBarrierReef_RiptideCreative_141527.jpg","link":"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/attractions/p-56b25f98d5f1565045da2822-heart-reef","alt":"Woman looks out window of helicopter at views of Heart Reef and sprawling Great Barrier Reef","srcUriTemplate":"https://www.queensland.com/in/en/things-to-do/traveller/first-time-visitor/first-timers-guide-great-barrier-reef/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/image.coreimg{.width}.jpeg/1779324280982/2021-wys-journeytotheheart-greatbarrierreef-riptidecreative-141527.jpeg","uuid":"0d2ccb77-b424-4fa8-8526-6dd0086d33a5","lazyEnabled":false,"title":"Heart Reef, The Whitsundays",":type":"teq/components/image"},"editorial_descriptio_1483743982":{"text":"\u003Cp\u003EOnce you’ve figured out the kind of experience you’re after, it’s time to choose how you’ll see it. From quick day trips to multi-day expeditions, here’s how it all plays out on the water (and above it).\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EDay trip: \u003C/b\u003ENo matter which region of the reef you choose to visit, the easiest way to experience the reef is by chartered \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/how-to-explore-the-reef-in-a-day.html\" title=\"See Great Barrier Reef in one day\" target=\"_self\"\u003Eday trip\u003C/a\u003E. With experts on hand, equipment provided, and the best locations for seeing the \u003Ca title=\"Where to find Queensland great eight\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/marine-life/where-to-find-queenslands-great-8-marine-creatures\" target=\"_self\"\u003EGreat Eight\u003C/a\u003E, this is a \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/family-friendly-great-barrier-reef-guide.html\" title=\"family tours Great Barrier Reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003Epopular choice for families\u003C/a\u003E and first timers wanting a taste of the reef. Choose a tour with a \u003Ca title=\"Master Reef Guide experiences Queensland\" href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/master-reef-guide-experiences\" target=\"_self\"\u003EMaster Reef Guide\u003C/a\u003E and you'll come away with a true appreciation for your surroundings and how we can all help keep the reef thriving.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EMulti-day trip:\u003C/b\u003E Hopping aboard a \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/adventure/diving-and-snorkelling/liveaboard-diving-first-timers-guide.html\" title=\"Liveaboard diving Great Barrier Reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003Eliveaboard\u003C/a\u003E, meanwhile, gives you more time, offering unparalleled access to some of the more remote regions – and inhabitants – of the outer reef. Heading far beyond the route of reef day-trippers, a multi-day liveaboard gives a real insight into the reef’s intricate ecosphere.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EAbove the water is hardly a snooze fest; \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/adventure/surfing/surfing-the-great-barrier-reef.html\" title=\"Surf Great Barrier Reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003Ekitesurf\u003C/a\u003E over crystal clear waters to sandy cays, take a helicopter ride or hop on a seaplane to get a sense of the sheer scale (and beauty) of the place.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/best-eco-friendly-experiences-great-barrier-reef.html\" title=\"Eco friendly tours Great Barrier Reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003EVolunteering on one of the reef\u003C/a\u003E’s islands is a great way to see up close all the ways in which conservation is \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/ways-to-help-the-great-barrier-reef.html\" title=\"help save Great Barrier Reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003Esupporting the reef\u003C/a\u003E and its inhabitants. By simply \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/ways-to-help-the-great-barrier-reef.html\" title=\"Ways to help the Great Barrier Reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003Esupporting its tourism economy\u003C/a\u003E, you’re \u003Ca href=\"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/caring-for-the-great-barrier-reef.html\" title=\"Caring for Great Barrier Reef\" target=\"_self\"\u003Esupporting the conservation of the Great Barrier Reef\u003C/a\u003E for generations to come. \u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Ca id=\"faqs\"\u003E\u003C/a\u003EFAQs: Visiting the Great Barrier Reef for the first time\u003C/h2\u003E\r\n","readMoreHeight":0,"headlinesColor":"#be4ffd","richText":true,":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorial-description"},"spacer_503690206":{":type":"teq/components/spacer"},"social_video_player":{"type":"youtube",":type":"teq/components/social-video-player","videoId":"https://youtu.be/fFyeJC7enZY?feature=shared"},"editorial_descriptio_81041323":{"text":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EDo you need to be able to swim to visit the Great Barrier Reef?\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/b\u003ENope, many tours cater to non-swimmers with flotation devices, guided snorkels, semi-submersibles, glass-bottom boats and underwater observatories.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EHow many days do you need for the Great Barrier Reef?\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/b\u003EYou can experience the reef on a day trip, but giving yourself two to four days allows time to visit multiple sites, try different activities and explore the islands.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EHow much does it cost to visit the Great Barrier Reef?\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/b\u003EDay trips typically start at around $150 per person, while pontoon experiences and scenic flights cost more (around $300) but often include meals, transfers and snorkel gear. Multi-day liveaboards can range from $2,000 to $3,000 depending on duration and inclusions.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EIs the Great Barrier Reef safe to visit?\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/b\u003EIt sure is. Tours are run by experienced operators with strict safety standards. Follow your guide’s instructions and marine safety guidelines for a fun and safe experience.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003ECan you visit the Great Barrier Reef year-round?\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/b\u003EAbsolutely! The reef is a year-round destination, with each season offering different highlights, from whale migrations, turtle nesting to coral spawning.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n","readMoreHeight":0,"richText":true,":type":"teq/components/editorial/editorial-description"},"spacer":{"spacerType":"whitespace","paddingSize":"medium",":type":"teq/components/spacer"},"masonry_grid_article":{"title":"Explore more of the Great Barrier Reef","layoutVariation":"standardWidth","notch":false,"clipTopPadding":false,"componentID":"masonry-grid-articles_725161009","items":[{"title":"30 unforgettable things to do on the Great Barrier Reef","description":null,"image":{"src":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/tropical-north-queensland/blog-images/2022_TNQ_VlasoffCay_NautilusAviation_GreatBarrierReef_AWOLFamily_150789.jpg","alt":"guests having a private experience on Vlasoff Cay, Great Barrier Reef with Nautilus Aviation | things to do Great Barrier Reef","link":null,"quality":60.0},"tag":{"colour":"#ff4eff","text":"List"},"link":{"href":"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/30-things-to-do-great-barrier-reef","target":""},"pid":"_content_teq_au_en_places-to-see_experiences_great-barrier-reef_30-things-to-do-great-barrier-reef","date":null,"experience":{"editorialContentType":["List"],"pathToPurchase":["Dreaming"],"heroExperience":["Great Barrier Reef","Marine life experiences","Diving and snorkeling","Sailing"],"subExperience":["Boating and Canoe","Cruise","Eco-friendly"],"brand":["Body","Environment"],"destination":["Great Barrier Reef","The Whitsundays","Tropical North Queensland","Bundaberg","Gladstone","Mackay","Townsville","Cairns and Great Barrier Reef"],"segment":["HVT Travelling with children","HVT 18 - 49 travelling without children","HVT 50+ travelling without children"]}},{"title":"How to plan your ultimate Great Barrier Reef holiday","description":null,"image":{"src":"/content/dam/teq/consumer/global/images/destinations/tropical-north-queensland/blog-images/2022_TNQ_GBR_CapeTribulation_OceanSafari_TheEditSuite_152237.jpg","alt":"A couple, wearing snorkels, sit on the edge of a boat during an Ocean Safari tour in Cape Tribulation","link":null,"quality":60.0},"tag":{"colour":"#365ABD","text":"Exclude"},"link":{"href":"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/places-to-see/experiences/great-barrier-reef/how-to-plan-a-great-barrier-reef-holiday","target":""},"pid":"_content_teq_au_en_places-to-see_experiences_great-barrier-reef_how-to-plan-a-great-barrier-reef-holiday","date":null,"experience":{"editorialContentType":["Exclude"],"pathToPurchase":["Dreaming"],"heroExperience":["Great Barrier Reef","Islands","Diving and snorkeling"],"subExperience":["Boating and Canoe","Cruise","Resorts and Retreats"],"brand":["Environment","Mind"],"destination":["Great Barrier Reef","The Whitsundays","Tropical North Queensland","Townsville","Cairns and Great Barrier Reef"],"segment":["HVT Travelling with children","HVT 18 - 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Please try again later.","submitButton":{"label":"Continue"},"countryLabel":"Country","skipButton":{"label":"Skip"},"subtitle":"","submitSuccessLabel":"Preferences updated.","regionLabels":{"au":"State","gb":"County","nz":"Region","ca":"Province","us":"State"},"title":"Help us ensure we send you relevant and timely deals","countryDefaultLabel":"Select Country","validation":{"country":"This field is required","state":"This field is required"}},"preferenceCentre":{"subtitle":"We'd love to get to know you better, head to our preference centre to update your information.","link":{"href":"https://www.queensland.com/au/en/info/view-preferences","target":"_self","title":"View Preferences"},"title":"Hi there, looks like we're already connected!"},"interests":{"submitFailLabel":"Something went wrong. Please try again later.","submitButton":{"label":"Continue"},"skipButton":{"label":"Skip"},"subtitle":"","submitSuccessLabel":"Interests updated.","title":"Tell us what moves you","fields":[{"icon":{"src":"/content/dam/teq/demo/navigation-icons/icon-beaches.svg","alt":null,"link":null,"quality":0.0},"label":"Beaches","key":"beaches"},{"icon":{"src":"/content/dam/teq/demo/navigation-icons/icon-islands.svg","alt":null,"link":null,"quality":0.0},"label":"Islands","key":"islands"},{"icon":{"src":"/content/dam/teq/demo/navigation-icons/icon-nature.svg","alt":null,"link":null,"quality":0.0},"label":"Nature","key":"nature"},{"icon":{"src":"/content/dam/teq/demo/navigation-icons/icon-city.svg","alt":null,"link":null,"quality":0.0},"label":"Cities","key":"cities"},{"icon":{"src":"/content/dam/teq/demo/navigation-icons/icon-gbr.svg","alt":null,"link":null,"quality":0.0},"label":"Great Barrier Reef","key":"great-barrier-reef"},{"icon":{"src":"/content/dam/teq/demo/navigation-icons/icon-country.svg","alt":null,"link":null,"quality":0.0},"label":"Country","key":"country"}]},"signup":{"submitFailLabel":"Something went wrong. 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Need help planning your trip? Ask me anything!","errorMessage":"Please rephrase your question and I'll dig a little deeper.","profanityMessage":"Let’s turn things around! I’m here to help make planning your trip to Queensland easy. Can you share more details? By the way, there’s a vibe filter on so keep it friendly 😎","speechBubbleWelcomeMsg":" Welcome to Queensland! ☀️ How can I help you?","ratingPromptText":"How helpful was Bunji?","subtitle":"Let me help you plan your Queensland trip!","slowResponseMessage":"Daydream about Queensland for a moment and I’ll be with you shortly.","disclaimerText":"Bunji can make mistakes. Consider checking important information.","chatNotification":"","activateChat":true,":type":"teq/components/chat"},"in_page_banner_18084":{"componentID":"in-page-banner_1495740210","mediaType":"image","hasTint":false,"title":"Love what you're reading?","id":" ","subtitle":"Don’t stop now. 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