Great Barrier Reef

Thursday, March 6, 2024

Airlie Beach, Queensland, Australia

One of the seven wonders of the world and we’ve checked off another bucket list item ! The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for over 1,400 miles. The reef is located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland. The Great Barrier Reef can be seen from outer space and is the world's biggest single structure made by living organisms. It supports a wide diversity of sea life and was selected as a World Heritage Site in 1981.

We were transported to a pontoon in the midst of the Whitsunday islands where we could snorkel, swim, scuba, admire reef views and try to spot sea turtles, reef sharks, and myriad of fish. Jerry and other shipmates snorkeled and saw spectacular coral and underwater sights, while I opted to stay dry and view the coral from an observation room and a semi-submersible boat. It was the fulfillment of a dream and big fun, including an exciting bouncy ride back and forth from the pontoon.