About Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 kilometres along the Queensland coast. Accessed from Port Douglas in the Shire of Douglas, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Marine Park renowned for its diverse coral, 1,500 species of fish, and clear tropical waters. It is Australia's most iconic natural attraction and a major centre for snorkelling, diving and marine tourism.
Visitors guide
Visitors accessing the reef from Port Douglas board commercial tour vessels to outer reef sites such as Agincourt Reef and Low Isles. Expect open ocean, coral cays and reef platforms with clear water for snorkelling and diving, glass-bottom and semi-submersible boat viewing, and guided marine interpretation. The setting is entirely marine with no fixed structures on the reef itself; all facilities are on the vessels and at the Port Douglas marina.
Key highlights
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World's largest coral reef system at over 2,300 km long
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UNESCO World Heritage Site listed in 1981
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Outer reef sites Agincourt Reef and Low Isles accessible from Port Douglas
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Exceptional marine biodiversity with hard and soft corals, tropical fish, turtles and rays
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Snorkelling, scuba diving and glass-bottom boat viewing in clear offshore waters
History of Great Barrier Reef
The reef formed over millions of years and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1981 for its outstanding natural significance. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park was established by the Australian Government in 1975 and is managed by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA).
Culture & Context
The Great Barrier Reef is Sea Country for more than 70 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Traditional Owner groups, who have maintained cultural connections to the reef and its marine resources for thousands of years. It holds ongoing cultural and spiritual significance.
Route
| By air |
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