A ribbon of kaleidoscopic colour that stretches for 2,300km along Queensland’s sun-drenched eastern coastline, the Great Barrier Reef offers a world of island beauty above the water and a deep-sea wonderland below.

Beneath the Pacific Ocean lies a genuine Eden of over 3,000 individual reef systems, coral cays and an abundance of unique marine life. Above the water are hundreds of picturesque islands boasting some of the world’s most enticing sandy beaches and plenty of unique experiences which offer something extra special for superyacht charters.

Inexhaustible Reef Adventures

The Reef can be explored in a myriad of different ways, each one as captivating and awe-inspiring as the next. Scattered with beautiful islands and idyllic coral cays covering more 344,400km2, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef ecosystem with over 600 types of hard and soft coral and an astonishing 1626 different species of fish. This is the pinnacle of an island-hopping adventure, and a superyacht is the best way to explore the 600 continental islands and 3,000 coral reefs that make up the Great Barrier Reef.

The sheer volume and diversity of the reefs guarantee a marine escapade like no other, and the route on which you can cruise this ethereal paradise can be as varied as your imagination. Head from the opulent seaside town of Port Douglas to the secluded gem of Low Isles, or coast through the Whitsundays, stopping at the perfect anchorage points of Whitehaven Beach and Butterfly Bay for some spectacular diving.

A Superyacht Hub

The Great Barrier Reef is primed to welcome superyachts with a wealth of world-class marina and shipyard facilities. To enhance the experience for superyachts cruising the Great Barrier Reef region, there are an array of world-class marinas and luxury facilities all in prime locations to explore the tantalising reefs.

Cairns, a gateway to the northern reefs and South Pacific islands beyond, is a well-established homeport for yachts with berthing in the centre of the city and a highly advanced maritime industry. For those cruising the southern reefs and Whitsundays, further incredible superyacht facilities can be found in both Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Superyachts from all corners of the globe have flocked to this region of Australia to take advantage of not just the sensational reef opportunities, but also the world-class refit and maintenance industry.

The combination of phenomenal infrastructure, an exquisite luxury offering, and sublime natural beauty has cemented the Great Barrier Reef as a superyacht hub for the South Pacific.

The Whitsundays

Renowned as one of the world’s most spectacular sailing grounds, The Whitsundays are a bewitching blend of sublime landscapes, intriguing marine life and endlessly perfect anchorages. Smooth seas and line-of-sight-navigation make the Reef an idyllic cruising ground for any yachting party. Plenty of luxury amenities and resorts throughout the Whitsundays will add extra delight to any superyacht charter, with Hamilton Island and Coral Sea Marina Resort offering two of the most opulent bases for superyachts in Australia.

Island Adventures

Boasting an impressive range of world-class resorts simply over-flowing with luxury offerings and exclusive services are Hayman, Heron, Bedarra and Lizard Islands. For a more nature-based escape, the islands of Green and Fitzroy in the north and Dunk, Orpheus, and Hinchinbrook in the south are lush oases rich in enchanting rainforests.

Among the most famous of the islands scattering the Reef are; Daydream, a party paradise; Hamilton, a water-sports hub; South Molle, a honeymoon heaven; and Great Keppel Island, a sun-worshippers dream.

Diving and Snorkelling

There is no better way to view the true beauty of the Great Barrier Reef than to sink beneath its water with mask and flippers. Whether snorkelling or SCUBA diving, the fascinating drop offs, underwater tunnels and coral gardens of the Reef are truly remarkable. The presence of whales, dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, sea snakes and tropical fish only increase its allure. The Great Barrier Reef boasts over 133 varieties of sharks and rays, so you are bound to come across some excitement as you explore the magnificent Marine Park. There is a wealth of dive guides in the region with experience working on superyachts, so you will be taken directly to the best underwater scenery in the region.

Tropical North Queensland

The Queensland mainland that protects this natural miracle is as rich in wildlife and forest beauty as the Reef Is brimming with marine treasures and flourishing seabeds. Docking along the brilliant north coast brings close the unique experiences of exploring the canopy of the Daintree Rainforest, bushwalking in the spectacular Eungella National Park or visiting the laid-back coastal towns of Cairns, Townsville and Mackay.

In Port Douglas, superyachts based at the luxurious Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina are perfectly positioned in a safe bay between the Northern Ribbon Reefs and the spectacular UNESCO Heritage protected Daintree Rainforest. There are incredibly unique experiences to immerse in, providing thrilling superyacht charters. Helicopter rides can take guests deep into the heart of the rainforest, where an authentic Aboriginal culture awaits. Jarramali Rock Art Tours will guide you through the untouched Australian wilderness, where you will uncover rock art dating back thousands of years and develop a connection with the land as you embrace the fascinating native culture.