Great Barrier Reef

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Stretching over 3000 kilometres along the Queensland coast, the reef is the world’s largest organically created feature and is visible from space.  This series of coral reefs and small islands is home to a spectacular array of marine plant and animal life. Visitors watch for migrating whales, sea turtles, rare seahorses, and an endless variety of brightly coloured reef fish.

The Great Barrier Reef has long captivated the imagination of explorers and adventurers, including Captain James Cook, whose ship, Endeavour, was famously wrecked on the reef. Today, adventure seekers are able to explore the corals and uninhabited islets by sea and air.

Many of the species found within the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem do not exist anywhere else in the world.  The reef’s impressive coral gardens include more than 400 different kinds of coral, coral sponges, molluscs, over 200 types of birds and 1500 species of tropical fish.  Some of the reef’s larger inhabitants include dolphins, rays, around 20 types of reptiles such as sea turtles, and giant clams over 120 years old. Over 33,000 species can be found off the coastline. It is little wonder that the reef is such a popular destination for naturalists and travellers from around the world.

Much of the Great Barrier Reef is now protected, in recognition of the area’s unsurpassed natural heritage. However, Hayman visitors are able to access it under Queensland’s Plan of Management, which ensures the reef is enjoyed safely and preserved for future generations.

Hayman boasts a premier location within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, which stretches over 2300 kilometres (1400 miles) along the Queensland coast. We offer access by air or water to many unique and irreplaceable reef experiences.