Lizard Island has announced details and dates for its Reef Expedition experiences for 2019 offering guests access to normally unseen snorkelling areas around the island and exclusive areas of the Great Barrier Reef.
The four-night Reef Expedition program features a raft of extraordinary adventures of the World Heritage-listed reef, with the Lizard Island luxury lodge – along with all-inclusive gourmet dining, fine wines and special extras – as a base.
Dates for this year’s expeditions are June 20-24, 2019 and November 21-25, 2019.
Guests are urged to dive right in to the action, with included guided snorkel trips around the inner reef, a full day’s snorkelling or diving in the outer reef and guided tours above and below the water with Lizard Island’s naturalist Beth Bull. A four-kilometre hike to Cook’s Look follows Captain Cook’s original trail and delivers panoramic views of the island and reef from the summit.
With expedition numbers limited to just twelve guests, the experience of the reef on Expedition is a personal one. Lizard Island is the only resort located on the 1,013-hectare National Park, offering the rare privilege of simply stepping off the beach to snorkel, taking in the wonders of Giant Clam gardens and schools of tropical fish including Simon the resident Groper, manta rays, turtles and coral.
As a personal tour of Australian Museum Lizard Island Research Station is another highlight on the itinerary. A world-leading supplier of on-reef facilities for coral reef research and education, the Research Station provides a fascinating insight into the reef and the challenges in its conservation.
Private sunset drinks with the station’s directors, Dr Anne Hoggart AM and Dr Lyle Vail AM offer a first-hand understanding of the research into the reef’s incredible ecology and a chance to get involved.
Reef Society Founder Wendy Morris – a pioneer in reef-based ecotourism operations – said she was delighted to be leading the Reef Expedition again this year.
“The Reef Expeditions always bring together a small group of like-minded people who are interested in the incredible beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and who are keen to conserve it,” Ms Morris said.
Among the special touches as part of a Lizard Island stay are access to a private, motorised dinghy, use of clear view sea kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and snorkelling gear. A deluxe picnic hamper for private beach outings completes the picture.
Rates on the Lizard Island Reef Expedition start at $2924* per room per night (based on twin share), including expedition activities and events, equipment-use, all dining, all non-alcoholic and selected premium alcoholic beverages along with an in-suite bar and airport transfers. Flights are not included.
Those interested in a sneak preview of the plant and marine life around Lizard Island can view and download the Field Guide here: https://australianmuseum.net.au/get-involved/amri/lirs/lizard-island-field-guide/
*Based on availability, conditions apply
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