Guest Survey Results for June 2009

Each month we are independently surveyed by the research team at James Cook University. Here are our latest results from JCU for our customer surveys;

Here is what our guests had to say about the trip:
Reef exceeded expectations: 78.3% said yes
Trip exceeded expectations: 73.9% said yes
Received value for money: 100% said yes
Would recommend the trip: 100% said yes
Average satisfaction score: 8.83 /10

Our passengers in the month of June comprised of the following groups:
39% North American, 26% Australian,
39.1% 30-39 years old, 26% 50-59 year olds,
48% professionals and 13% students,
35% travelling with their family, 30.4% travelling with their partner.

Thanks to all our passengers for making our jobs one of the best in the world! And again to our conscientious and diligent crew - Thank You!.

Customer Satisfaction Results for May 2009

The May customer satisfaction scores have been returned from JCU:
Here is what our guests had to say about the trip.
The Reef met expectations: 85.3% said very much
(15% said yes)
The Trip met expectations: 75.0% said very much
(25% said yes)
Received value for money: 100% said yes
Would recommend the trip: 100% said yes
Mean satisfaction score: 9.20 / 10

Our passenger in the month of May comprised of the following groups:

• 35% European, 30% Australian,
• 35% 20-29 year olds and 23.3% 30-39 years old,
• 33.3% professionals, 50% travelling with their partner

Thanks Again to our passengers for sailing with us and our great crew for their hard work!

Book Before You Travel - Travel Tip

Just a little heads up to the people trying to get some last minute bargains while traveling. We are getting a stream of people who arrive in town and trying to book a last minute trip to the reef on our boats. While we realize it is tempting to wait to see if there are standby or discount rates available this is a risky business. Typically our boats are sold out weeks or even months in advance during the peak season. So it is best to book ahead of time. We understand what a horrible experience it must be to get to one of the best places to dive and snorkel in the world only to find that the trip of your choice is unavailable and you have to settle for something else. Remember the difference in price is a often difference in quality. So to make your trip a lot less stressful and relaxing; research and call operators ahead of time to find peak times. Last minute deals are available but a little research ahead of time will save a lot of disappointment later. To secure your trip book ahead and make sure you get the best experience you can. We hope to see you shortly on the Great Barrier Reef!

10 Things to Check Before Your Next Dive Trip

Here are the Top Ten Things to Ask Your Dive Company Before You Book Your Trip with Them. Remember the difference in price is often the difference in quality.
1. Is your dive equipment serviced by trained and certified technicians?
This may seem obvious, but worth checking. Make sure the servicing is performed as per the manufacturers’ recommendations. Common mistakes include reusing consumable items, trying to service the equipment without the proper training and leaving it too long between servicing.
2. Are they a member of a reputable and recognized training organization?
There are too many too mention here but the most common ones are SSI, PADI, CMAS, BSAC, TDI/SDI. This is important too ensure that they are kept up to date with the latest in training and procedures in case anything does go wrong.
3. How Many People are Diving at Once?
To truly enjoy your dive experience it is best to keep the numbers in the group as small as your can. This also reduces any impact that you may have on the environment, such as scaring away fish and stirring up the bottom.
4. What is the Ratio from Instructor to Student or Guide to Diver?
There are regulations covering the first point so numbers will vary under that amount, but it is best to ask before you go so you are not shocked. If you want a smaller group you may have to pay for it. Smaller amount of divers per guide allows for a much smoother and personal dive, allowing the dive to be tailored for what you expect to see on the dive.
5. Are they a member of a relevant local dive organization?
Like point 2 above this ensures that you have a operator that is involved and up to date with the latest guidelines or safety procedures for that region.
6. Do they support local or global efforts in conservation or research?
This gives you a great indication on the attitude of the dive company and makes sure you get great dive karma. Sustaining the marine environment shows the company is interested in the longevity of the local or global ecosystem and is doing their bit to contribute.
7. Do you have travel or dive insurance that gives you the coverage you need?
This will include all sorts of things that may happen that can throw your dive trip into disarray. These may include an illness, illness of a relative, travel agent or operator going bankrupt, weather related cancellations, flight cancellations.
8. What is the cancellation policy of the dive company?
Do they give full refunds for weather or other cancellations? Do they have an immediate no refund policy for cancellations or are they flexible?
9. Are the owners or managers going on their own trips?
Quality control to make sure that you have a great experience is often done with management teams that have a more hands on approach. By taking the time to experience the trip and meet the guests shows that they are going the extra mile to make sure you have the best experience possible.
10. How far is the boat/resort really away from the hotel?
Often people follow the old "we're just 10 minutes away" story. Use Google Maps or other technologies to get a true picture of where you are in relation to the boat. Better still see if they can arrange transport for you to arrive at the boat on time and not have to lug dive gear around.

What a Great Year on the Great Barrier Reef

This year continues to be a fantastic year on the Great Barrier Reef with fantastic weather and great spectacles on show for the world to see on a regular basis. Lighter winds and calm seas for the most part this year have made diving and snorkeling on the outer reef defy the imagination with awesome visibility and active marine life.
Our guests on the extended private yacht charters earlier in the year got to enjoy some of the reefs that are rarely visited and some of the small uninhabited islands that dot the Great Barrier Reef. Dolphins seem to have adopted the bows of our yachts as a playground to surf the waves.
The reef surveys again were carried out by Reefcheck Australia, and continue to show the health and resilience of the reef with positive growth being shown across our dive sites.
We were privileged in June and July with regular Minke Whale visits around the reefs and now the humpback whales are continuing the show. The whales head north for the warm sun and calm seas of the tropics. These Humpback Whales are often seen enjoying their annual winter break from the cold water of the southern states. Whales playfully basking and breaching make a common and spectacular sight sailing to and from the reef.
All the while many of the seabirds that form an important part of the ecosystems are seen continually scann the water surface and then diving from great heights to secure their meals.
Our regular cast of characters such as Wally the Maori Wrasse, "nemo" (clownfish), turtles and many other beautiful fish and reef formations continue to keep us entertained and in awe of the wonder that is Great Barrier Reef. What a privilege to work and live around one the true natural wonders of the world.

Sea Cucumber - Species of the Reef

Like the vaccum cleaners of the sea, the sea cucumber scavages it's food along the sea floor, where it eats decaying matter and plankton. It is has and endoskeleton which means it's bone structure is just below it's leather and tough skin. The sea cucmber shoots out a sticky goo that it uses as a self defence mechanism to entangle any would be predators out there.

The sea cucumber is able to strengthen and loosen the outside of their body at will allowing them to squeeze through tight crevaces and then harden the outside of it's body again when it is in more exposed areas. Because ten percent of the sea cucumbers blood is vanadium and not hemoglobin their blood is not red but yellow.
Some of the earliest form of trade between Asia and indigenous Australia was the trade of sea cucumbers, which are highly regarding in some forms of eastern medicine and as a food dish.

Finally the New Website is Launched!

Finally after hours of hair pulling, the new website has been launched. A much simplier and less cumbersome design, that should make like easier for all of us. Check it out and let us know what you think.

Turtle Rescue Cairns - Saving the Sea Turtle

Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre was established as a facility designed for treatment of ill and injured turtles in Far North Queensland and Cape York Peninsula. The centre works towards the recovery of threatened marine turtle species in conjunction with a local veterinary clinic. Since 2002, 21 turtles have been successfully rehabilitated and released in the region where they were found. Unfortunately 24 turtles have died during attempts at rehabilitation, a not unexpected result when considering the poor condition of these animals when brought into the centre. The majority of the stranded animals brought to the centre from Great Barrier Reef waters had ‘floaters disease’ with only one suffering from fibropapilloma virus. Qantas -Link Airlines has assisted in transport of turtles from the west coast of Cape York Peninsula where the Napranum Land Protection Unit rescued many stranded turtles. These have been injured due to entanglement in ‘ghost nets’. Injuries can be so severe that flippers have been lost or had to be amputated.
Donations Can be made at:
Marlin Coast Veterinary Surgery
Cnr Aropa St & Cook Hwy, Trinity Beach, QLD 4879
Phone: +61 (0)7 4057 6033

Discount Flights to Cairns from New Zealand

Virgin Blue has on offering some great flights from New Zealand. So if you want to escape the cold and enjoy the tropics or visit a friend or a relative take advantage of these great prices and enjpy the tropical experience in Cairns. Make sure you book your trip to the Great Barrier Reef also.

Auckland → Cairns From $269 NZD
Christchurch → Cairns From $269 NZD
Wellington → Cairns From $269 NZD
Hamilton → Cairns From $269 NZD

For more details please visit the Virgin Blue Website.

What Do Turtles Eat?

Adult Green Turtles are herbivorous. They almost-exclusively feed on various species of seagrasses and seaweed. While mature green turtles are entirely herbivorous, juveniles are known to eat a variety of marine invertebrates. Their diet of plant matter grows larger as they age, until as mature adults they become complete herbivores.
As large and well-protected animals, adult green turtles have few enemies and even fewer predators. Only human beings and the larger sharks are known to feed on the sea turtle. Tiger sharks are known predators of adult green turtles. Juvenile turtles and recently emerged hatchlings have significantly more predators, including sharks, crabs, small mammals and shorebirds.

Damsel Fish - Species of the Reef

No one ever talks about the poor old damsel fish. But they are very important in the reef ecosystem, eating algae allowing for reef regrowth. Damselfish are one of the most abundant groups of coral reef fishes. They display remarkable diversity in habitat preferences, feeding habits, behaviour and colouration. Most species are highly territorial. Algal-eating species zealously defend their 'plot' against intruders, regardless of size. These algal feeders. These algal feeders generally have drab colour patterns whereas the plankton-feeding damsels are brightly coloured. Damselfish eggs are laid on coral rock and are guarded by the male until they hatch in 2-14 days. All damselfish, except the anemonefish (genus Amphiprion and Premnas), change sex from male to female. The anemonefish goes through a reverse sex change from male to female.

Responsible Reef Practices While Snorkelling

Practices that you can do to help sustain the Great Barrier Reef for generations to come

• Practice at first over sand patches and away from the coral:
• Get comfortable with buoyancy control and finning techniques.
• Be mindful of where your fins are to avoid accidentally hitting the reef or stirring up sand.
• Snorkel carefully near the Reef:
• Move slowly and deliberately in the water, relax and take your time – to remain horizontal in the water, and refrain from standing up.
• Do not snorkel into areas where the water is less than one metre deep.
• Do not touch the walls of semi-confined areas (for example, small swim throughs and overhangs), never squeeze through a small area.
• Use rest stations or other flotation aids (for example, float lines, swimming noodles, and flotation vests) if you need to rest while snorkelling.
• Do not lean on, hold onto, or touch any part of the reef or moving animals when taking underwater photographs.
• Be mindful of all marine life:
• Avoid making sudden or loud noises underwater.
• Avoid chasing or attempting to ride or grab free-swimming animals (such as turtles, whales, and sea snakes). Avoid blocking their path or making them change direction.
• Do not touching or relocating any animals or plants.
• Stay more than one metre away from giant clams.
• Do not feed the fish.
• Do not collect any shells or ‘souvenirs’.

Why are fish so brightly coloured?

'Why are fish so brightly coloured?' This is one of the questions most commonly asked by our guests.
Reef fish are able to see colour. Their bright colours are important in species recognition and in the determination of sex. Some species, such as angelfish, have juvenile patterns that are totally different to the adults. The different colour patterns of juveniles may prevent adults from seeing them as a potential threat to territories or as reproductive partners. They also use their colours to blend with the environment is an import way to ambush prey and to hide from predators.

Canada to Cairns, - Discounted Flights

Qantas has just sent around some more airfare discounts from Canada to Cairns, Australia. All prices are quoted in Canadian Dollars (CAD) and the offer expires at midnight Pacific Time (PT) on Thursday, 16 July 2009
Toronto to Cairns Round trip from $1458*
Vancouver to Cairns Round trip from $1158*

See the Qantas website for more details.

Our Latest Great Barrier Reef Yacht Charter

We have just finished a relaxing five days on a private yacht charter around the tropical reefs and islands off Cairns and around North Queensland, Australia. There is nothing more relaxing then enjoying the beauty of the natural wonders of the world. Several days on the outer Great Barrier Reef and several days sailing around the islands, a perfect balance of both worlds and a great escape from civilization.

Nothing like the fresh sea air and wide open ocean space to wind down and enjoy your time away from the office. Enjoying the underwater marine life and experiencing the best of the world's reefs is both a refreshing and humbling experience. The 5 days were perfect with the sea conditions flat to flatter and the skies clear, dotted by the occasional cloud to break the monotony of a perfectly blue sky. The days started with spectacular sunrises and ended with glorious sunsets. During thee days there were turtles, dolphins, whales, too many fish to mention and of course some spectacular diving and snorkelling.

Escape Winter - Cheap Flights to Cairns

It's Jetstar's Winter Escape sale!
Escape the cold of the southern winter and head north for a well deserved break.
Grab a fantastic sale fare now until midnight (23:59 AEST) Monday, 13 July 2009, unless sold out prior. Sale may be extended. Sale fares include JetSaver Light# fares, for when you travel with carry on baggage only. Or you can also choose a JetSaver fare for just $10 more for domestic flights with the full 20kg checked baggage allowance. StarClass promo fares are non refundable and include 30kg checked baggage allowance. So whichever fare you choose, you're sure of an amazing fare!
Sydney to Cairns from $109
Gold Coast to Cairns from $89
Visit the Jetstar website for more details...

Two Great Spectacles This Evening

This evening we were treated to two beautiful events at the same time on opposite horizons, a fantastic sunset in the west, and a stunning full moon rising over the reef to the west.

Don't Miss Out

With the peak season upon us there is very limited availability left on any of our cruises. Be sure that you don't miss out and secure your sail and dive adventure as soon as you can. For that extra special group vacation, go on a private charter and enjoy cruising around the islands and reefs off Cairns.

Responsible Reef Practices While Diving

The Great Barrier Reef and other reefs throughout the world are delicately balanced ecosystems and while they are spectacular as well as resilient, we must do our best to leave them as we found them. We compiled this list of reef safe diving practices to enable the reefs of the world to be enjoyed for years to come.
* Move slowly and deliberately in the water, relax and take your time – relax and avoid rapid changes in direction.
* Avoid making sudden or loud noises underwater.
* Avoid leaning on, holding onto, or touching any part of the reef. This needs to be adhered to especially when taking underwater photographs.
* Avoid touching the walls of semi-confined areas (for example, small swim throughs or overhangs) – never squeeze through a small area.
* Avoid kicking up and disturbing the sand.
* Avoid touching any animals or plants.
* Do not feed fish or other wildlife.
* Stay more than one metre away from giant clams and reefs.
* Keep clear of free-swimming animals (such as turtles, whales, and sea snakes). In particular, you must not chase, ride, grab or block the path of these animals.
* Do not wear gloves (unless they’re required for safety reasons) as you are less likely to touch the coral.
* Avoid collecting any shells, coral or ‘souvenirs’.
* Avoid relocating any marine life - particularly when taking photos and filming.
* Collect all litter from the Reef, even that which isn’t yours.

Pre-Season Tour Update

Well, first of all my apologies over the last couple of weeks for not keeping the blog up to date however we have been focussing on maintenance with Santa Maria for the upcoming season. She has had the hull sanded back and painted afresh removing years of built up of paint. The top deck paint has been retouched and some other minor maintenance has been carried out.
The upcoming season looks to be another busy and exciting time, with bookings for our reef trips selling out fast. The year so far has had some great marine sightings including birds, whales, turtles, dolphins and of course countless other species of the reef. Many of these creatures have to be seen to be believed, their behaviour is quite extraordinary and fascinating to watch. Entering their peaceful and relaxing environment and seeing their interactions and relationships that have developed over the centuries is quite amazing.
That's a quick update for now. So make sure that you make the time, come down to Australia and treat yourself to an adventure you will remember for a lifetime. We look forward to meeting you and relaxing on the deck in the afternoon after a great day of exploring the reef, maybe enjoying one of our fantastic sunsets.

Minke Whales - Species of the Reef

This young Minke whale decided to cruise around one of our dive sites on the outer reef. The curious young fellow was very intrigued with these strange creatures wearing bottles and blowing bubbles constantly. Jonny our intrepid young dive instructor happily snapped these photos as Fred swam around the boat and divers.
The Minke whales migrate from southern waters off Victoria to the northern areas of the Great Barrier Reef from about June every year. They grow to about 8m (26') log and adults can weigh about 6 tonnes.
More on the Dwarf Minke Project can be found at the CRC Reef Research website.

Water Filters for the Reef - Mangroves

As with any ecosystem there are many components that go to make a healthy and resilient system such as the Great Barrier Reef. The picture above shows a tributary off Trinity Inlet lined by dense mangrove forest on a beautiful sunny Cairns day. The mangroves provide home to hundreds of different species ranging from egrets and ospreys to mudskippers and crocodiles. The root systems are dense and interweave with roots from other trees to provide a very stable base for the mangrove forest. These roots serve many functions in the environment from protection for the many different fish species inhabiting the inlet to filter system. The dense root systems trap sediment and impede the tidal flow thus helping clean the water of heavy metals, silt, and other contaminents both natural and deposited by man.
The seeds drop to the mud or water and can float until they are washed to a suitable bank where they will then grow.
The picture below shows the dense mangrove forest with the individual trees packed together closely competing for both sunlight and forming a dense root system.

Angelfish - Species of the Reef

This is another of the vibrant and colouful fish found commonly seen our our trips to the Great Barrier Reef. There are over 80 different species of Angelfish. Most of which are about 30 cm (12") long. Most of the different species exhibit a friendly and curious personality and often come over to investigate what the divers are doing on their turf. Smaller species such as the bi-coloured angel are very popular with home aquariums. Angel fish are found at all levels of the bommie fields, from the surface to swimming around the base of the reef formations and seabed.
The angel fish changes colours as it reaches maturity, and can also change sex if the male in the group disappears. If this happens the dominate female in the group will then become the male. The angel fish releases it's eggs to float with the plankton until hatched.

Cuttlefish - Species of the Reef

This is one of the coolest fish on the reef or one of my favourites anyway. He just hangs out relaxed taking everything in his stride. They can often be seen hanging on the back edges of the reef and the juveniles often hang out by our mooring lines. The cuttlefish is related the squid, octopus and nautilus. The cuttle fish can also change colour (as the photo below demonstrates) and uses ink to defend itself.
The bone inside the cuttlefish is used for birds in the home and is often washed up on the beach or seen drifting on the ocean.
A couple of interesting facts about the cuttlefish are that they have amongst the best eyesight in the world although they do not differentiate colour the same as we do. The other fact is they have three hearts and green-blue blood instead of the usual red. Maybe this is why they act so cool, they have similar characteristics to the Vulcans from Star Trek.

Customer Satisfaction Surveys for April 2009

The latest independent customer satisfaction results have come back for April 2009, thanks to the diligent team at James Cook University.
Well done to the crew and every one involved again for a great job.

Received Value for Money: 96.5% said yes
Would Recommend the Trip: 100% said yes
Trip Met Expectations: 75% said very much
Average Satisfaction Score: 8.79

Discount Flights from Frankfurt, Germany - Cairns

Qantas keeping with their spontaneous theme has just announced another set of airfares to Australia. Yes, you can get to Cairns from Frankfurt for only EUR749. The catch you have to fly between yesterday and June 28th. So surprise your partner, friends and colleagues with a trip to Australia. Don't think about it just do it. More details are on the Qantas website. We'll see you when you get to Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.

Discount Flights from London UK - Australia

Think you're spontaneous? Well this is the big test Qantas has thrown out just for you. To take advantage of these specials you have to travel before June 23rd. Yes that's right you're leaving in the next few weeks. So throw caution to the wind and head on down to see the Great Barrier Reef, Rainforest, oh yeah and that rock in the middle.
If you're supposed to be heading down here but forgot to book the airline tickets this may just save your hide and a few quid as well.

Qantas has released the Walkabout fare for travel to one of 5 Australian destinations from £499. Qantas has obviously forgotten about Cairns again, so see if you can combine these deals with the Jetstar special to get the maximum travel for your money.
Travel for departure between 22 May to 23 June 2009. Sale ends 2 June 2009!

Perth from £499*
Melbourne from £499*
Brisbane from £499*
Sydney from £499*
Adelaide from £499*

Check Out the Qantas website for all the details and fine print.

Jetstar Offering Cheap Flights to Cairns

Jetstar is offering some great deals on flights to Cairns again. Escape the onset of winter with a quick jaunt up to Cairns and experience the warm weather, beatuiful beaches, tropical rainforest and a trip to the reef.

Fares from $AUD
Adelaide to Cairns - $119
Brisbane to Cairns - $79
Sydney to Cairns - $119

For more details, including travel dates and all the fine print see the airline's website.

Turtle Weed Algae - Species of the Reef

The unsung hero of the reef are the algaes. They provide food for the many herbivores on the reef providing the foundation of most marine food chains. In todays' world one of their most important roles is turning carbon dioxide into oxygen and food. As you can see, protecting the reef helps protect our oxygen supplies.
Large algae may also provide homes for a wide variety of small organisms. The algae above is known as turtle weed and is found on the Great Barrier Reef. It can be found from 5 m to about 20 metres deep. Turtle weed is popular in home aquariums also, playing its' part in the removal of nitrates and converting CO2 to oxygen.

The Parrot Fish - Species of the Reef

One of the most colourful fish on the Great Barrier Reef in the Parrot Fish. So named because of the parrot like beak which it uses to eat algae off coral and other organisms off corals. They are essential to the ecology of the reef and their gardening plays a pivotal part in the survival of the reef. The parrot fish feeding on the reef ensures that algae does not suffocate the reef. The coral they eat is ground up and excreted as sand.
Most of the Parrot Fish family grow to about 30-40 cm (12-16"). They release their eggs into the ocean where the eggs float until settling in the reef until they hatch.

Spinner Dolphins - Species of the Reef

Another favourite of all our guests and crew, the spinner dolphin. These playful and friendly creatures love to swim along the bow wave of the boat as we sail both to and from the reef. The most common sight is a group of half a dozen or so, however occasionally the come to join us in the dozens.
They grow to just over 2 metres long (7') and weigh up to about 75 kg (175lbs). It is one of the most athletic of the dolphins jumping out of and skimming across the water.

Canada to Cairns - Discounted Flights

Once again Qanta is offering specials to Cairns from Canada. The following Australia fare sale is valid for outbound travel departing between now and 21 September 2009 in Economy Class. This fare sale expires at midnight Pacific Time (PT) on Monday, 1 June 2009! Seats are limited so book today! All prices are quoted in Canadian Dollars (CAD).

Vancouver to Cairns round trip from $1098
Toronto to Cairn round trip from $1398

For more details and to secure your seat please visit the Qantas website. As this is in the middle of peak season places on our boats will be limited so make sure you secure your Great Barrier Reef tour as soon as possible.

Anemone Fish or Clown fish - Species of the Reef

OK, I was holding off including these little fellas, as they are superstars in their own right already and we were respecting their privacy as celebrities. It is tough for these guys to just blend in with the crowds anymore and the simplest of tasks such as taking the kids out often ends in a frenzy of paparazzi. But due to popular demand I have to include them.
There are 28 different types of clown fish, the largest being about 18cm (7"). The clown fish forms a symbiotic relationship with its host anemone and will defend its home with vigour. Spawning season lasts all year. The female lays their eggs next to the host anemone, which they then are guarded by both parents. The eggs take 7 days to hatch and hatch about an hour after sunset to avoid predators.
Now how does the clown find find his way home? Research at JCU suggests that the anemone fish smells the scent of the host anemone. When the baby clown fish are ready to move out and find a place of their own they use this scent to locate a suitable anemone.

Humpback Whale - Species of the Reef

An annual favourite with crew and guests alike, the annual whale migration (June-November), as whales swim north to escape the cold of winter. Whales were the earliest tourists to Cairns and for centuries have known what humans are now just discovering.
The humpback whale's common name is derived from the humping motion they make when diving below the surface (as seen in the above photo). They have a social networking where they hang out together for a few hours and then move on. They eat a variety of fish and they hunt fish by direct attack or by stunning them by hitting the water with its pectoral fins or flukes.
The humpback whale population has continued to grow at an average of 11% and is steadily returning to pre-hunting days, although these threats still exist even today. Their playful antics and curiosity amuse everyone and have to been seen in real life to get the true appreciation of this species.

Hong Kong to Cairns - Specials from Cathay Pacific

Want to break out of Hong Kong to visit Australia and Dive or Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef for a long weekend or take even a longer break? Well now the only thing stopping you is you, grab your partner, friends and anyone else interested in a good time and head on down to Cairns. You must book before June 4th so there is time to round up the whole gang. Don't delay too long though as seats are limited.

Hong Kong to Cairns travel from 01 May 09 to 30 Jun 09 - HKD $3,700
Hong Kong to Cairns travel from 23 Aug 09 to 30 Sep 09 - HKD $4,830

For further details and to book the flights visit the Airlines website. Don't forget t0 check the dates you want to travel on and make sure that there is availability to get to the Great Barrier Reef.

Jetstar's 5th Birthday Specials

Jetstar as part of their 5th brithday celebrations are offering both domestic and international specials to Cairns. The latest is their take a friend for free promotion. So if you are thinking of coming on a trip to Cairns and don't think your friend/partner is worth the airfare or if they are just too cheap, this is the deal for you!

Here is an example of what's on offer.
Adelaide <-> Cairns - $169 That's $84.50 each!
Brisbane <-> Cairns - $119 That's $59.50 each!
Cairns <-> Darwin - $169 That's $84.50 each!
Cairns <-> Gold Coast - $99 That's $49.50 each!
Cairns <-> Perth - $199 That's $99.50 each!
Melbourne <-> Cairns - $199 That's $99.50 each!
Sydney <-> Cairns - $179 That's $89.50 each

That just means more great times to be had in Cairns when you get here. As per always, before you book your flights please make sure we have availability on our boats for you and your freeloading friend/partner.
Please check the airline website for full details and flight dates.

The Best Time to Visit the Great Barrier Reef?

That is probably the most common question that people ask when planning your trip to Australia. The question is the same but the answer is different for everybody and we all have our personal preferences. Well there is always something going on, on the reef and around Cairns. Below are some of the key dates of events on the Great Barrier Reef out of Cairns and surrounds and I'll l let you choose what suits you best.

Reef Events
Whale Migrations - June to December
Turtle Mating - October to February
Reef Spawning - Early November, a night time event, six days after the full moon.
Wet Season - December to March, Fantastic Waterfalls and afternoon monsoon rains.
Fish Spawning - October to December

Major Cairns Events
Cairns Blues Festival - First Weekend of May
A Taste of Port - Arts and Wine - Last couple of weeks in May
The Cairns Show - July
Festival Cairns - End of August to the beginning of September
The Cairns Amateurs (Horseracing) - Second Saturday in September
Cairns Music Festival - December - Specific 2009 Date TBA

Be Sure You Don't Miss Out!

With the upcoming season almost upon us trips are almost full. So make sure that you reserve your spot on New Horizon's unique sailing and diving experiences to the Great Barrier Reef. Join the few that get to experience the reef in the most intimate and personal way. Fewer divers and snorkellers mean that the reef is your own to enjoy.

The Green Turtle - Species of the Reef

The green turtle is a common sight around the reefs of Cairns, lazily eating and swimming around the dive sites they make a peaceful presence to the fantastic underwater landscape.

Quick Facts
Breeding Season - Late October to February
Years between breeding - Two to Eight Years
Nesting female carapace length - 107 cm (42 inches) (range from 91-124 cm)
Nesting weight - 130 kg (286lbs) (range from 98-184 kg)
Clutch size - 115 eggs (range from 62-153 eggs)
Hatchling emergence season - December to May
Hatching success - 84%
Hatchling size - 4.97cm (2 inches) (range from 4.02-5.19 cm)
Hatchling weight - 24.83g (0.87 oz) (range from 19.8-28.4 g)
Predators of hatchlings - Crabs, herons, dingoes and fish such as trevally and sharks

Conservation Status - Internationally Endangered — World Conservation Union
Description - Adult green turtles have a smooth, high-domed carapace, are olive green in colour, with occasional brown, reddish-brown or black highlights. Hatchlings have a black carapace with white margins around the carapace, flippers and on the plastron. Green turtles have one pair of prefrontal scales between their eyes.
Threats to Survival - Threats to survival include incidental capture in fishing and shark control program gear, ingestion of synthetic materials, boat strike, predation of eggs or hatchlings at rookeries, incidental capture in dredges, Indigenous harvest of adults and eggs within Australia and overseas and increased incidence of disease (high incidence of fibropapillomas).
Distribution and Habitat - Green turtles are found in tropical, subtropical and temperate waters around the world and appear to be the most abundant of the six species of marine turtle found in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. They are found in subtidal and intertidal coral and rocky reefs and seagrass meadows of the continental shelf. Green turtles are principally herbivorous as adults, eating mostly algae, seagrass, mangrove fruit and jellyfish.
The proportion of a green turtle population that nests each year is highly variable (up to an order of magnitude difference) and is influenced by variations in the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) Index. Green turtles are the species of marine turtle for which this correlation has been shown and it may be based upon nutrition.
For green turtles nesting and foraging in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, tag returns indicate migration to Indonesia, Gulf of Carpentaria, Arnhem Land, Torres Strait, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and New Caledonia.
Breeding Areas
There is low density nesting on many islands and along the Queensland coastline. Although genetically distinct nesting aggregations are known, the stocks often occur in the same foraging habitat.

Giant Clams - Species of the Reef

One of our guests' favourite sights on our Great Barrier Reef Tours are the Giant Clams. They come in various brilliant colours and impressive sizes, colours include bright purples, reds and blues. Divers get to experience the larger specimens up close, but if you are not a certified diver don't worry you can probably take an introductory dive (FAQ#5).
The giant clam, Tridacna gigas, is the largest living bivalve mollusk. They can weigh more than 200 kilograms (440 pounds), measure as much as 1.2 metres (4 feet) across, and have an average lifespan in the wild of 100 years or more.
By day, the clam opens its shell and extends its mantle tissue so that the algae receive the sunlight they need to photosynthesize.

History and Legend
As is often the case with uncharacteristically large species, the giant clam has been historically misunderstood. It was known in times past as the killer clam or man-eating clam, and reputable scientific and technical manuals once claimed that the great mollusk had caused deaths; versions of the U.S. Navy Diving Manual even gave detailed instructions for releasing oneself from its grasp by severing the adductor muscles used to close its shell.
Today the giant clam is considered neither aggressive nor particularly dangerous. The process of closing the shell valves is slow enough not to pose serious threat. Furthermore, many large individuals are unable to close their shells completely.

Conservation Status
The IUCN lists the giant clams as vulnerable. There is concern among conservationists for the sustainability of practices among those who use the animal as a source of livelihood. The numbers in the wild have been greatly reduced by extensive overharvesting for food and the aquarium trade. On the black market, giant clam shells are sold as decorative accoutrements, and the meat, called Himejako in Japan, is prized as an honor.

Giant clams are found in abundance on our dive sites, and make brilliant photos that you are sure to treasure for years. If you don't have a underwater digital camera, you can hire them through us as well. Just let us know at time of booking or the day before the trip.

Birds of the Great Barrier Reef - Red-footed Booby

A common sight on the reef are the Booby Birds scanning the oceans in search of food. The Booby, a type of seabird, is part of the family Sulidae and the genus Sula. It is closely related to the gannets (Morus), which were often included in Sula in former times.
Boobies are large birds, with long pointed wings and long bills. They hunt fish, by diving from a height into the sea and pursuing their prey underwater. Facial air sacs, under their skin, cushion the impact with the water. Boobies are colonial breeders on islands and coasts. They normally lay one or more chalky-blue eggs, on the ground or sometimes in a tree nest.
Their name is possibly based on the Spanish slang term bobo, meaning "dunce", as these tame birds had a habit of landing on-board sailing ships, where they were easily captured and eaten. Owing to this, Boobies are often mentioned as having been caught and eaten by shipwrecked sailors, notably Captain Bligh of the Bounty and his loyalists, during their famous voyage after being set adrift by Fletcher Christian and his mutineers.

Birds of the Great Barrier Reef - The Nightjar

Not only do you get to see some great reefs, dolphins, and fish on our trips you also get to experience the birds that inhabit the Great Barrier Reef. One of these seen in the reef is the Night Jar.
Nightjars are medium-sized nocturnal or crepuscular birds with long wings, short legs and very short bills. They are sometimes referred to as goatsuckers from the mistaken belief that they suck milk from goats (the Latin for goatsucker is Caprimulgus). Some North American species are named as nighthawks. Nightjars usually nest on the ground.
Nightjars are found around the world. They are mostly active in the late evening and early morning or at night, and feed predominantly on moths and other large flying insects.
Most have small feet, of little use for walking, and long pointed wings. Their soft plumage is cryptically coloured to resemble bark or leaves. Some species, unusual for birds, perch along a branch, rather than across it. This helps to conceal them during the day. Bracken is their preferred habitat.
Nightjars lay one or two patterned eggs directly onto bare ground. It has been suggested that nightjars will move their eggs and chicks from the nesting site in the event of danger by carrying them in their mouths. This suggestion has been repeated many times in ornithology books, but while this may accidentally happen, surveys of nightjar research have found very little evidence to support this idea.

Customer Satisfaction Surveys for March 2009

The latest customer satisfaction scores have come back from JCU. Again another great performance from our crew and the local reef and wildlife, showing guests the best parts of the Barrier Reef and providing unforgetable experiences enjoyed by all.

Satisfaction:
Trip Met Expectations: 91% said very much
Received Value for Money: 100% said yes
Would Recommend the Trip: 96% said yes
Average Satisfaction Score: 8.84 /10

Qantas Airfare Specials from Frankfurt, Germany to Cairns

Qantas have released another round of airfare specials to Cairns this time from Frankfurt, Germany.
Some great deals on offer in Economy Class for travel from 14 April until 23 June 2009.

Hurry, offer ends 30 April 2009!

Frankfurt to Cairns return from EUR914

Full Details can be found at the airline website.

Don't forget to book your Australian Great Barrier Reef Dive & Snorkel Trip before you leave.

Last Chance for Easter Weekend

There are a couple of spots left on Coral Sea Dreaming for the two day trip this weekend. Email us for a great rate this weekend and surprise someone for a great last minute get away. Only one spot remains on Santa Maria for the three day trip departing on Friday 10th April, so get in now before someone does.

CAIRNS MARINE INDUSTRY INFORMATION DAY

Date: Wednesday 8th April from 9 am to 5 pm
Venue: Cairns Pacific Hotel on the Esplanade

Time - Subject Department - Remarks/Presenter
0900 to 1100 - National Landscapes - GBRMPA - Chris Briggs
1100 to 1130 - Research Update - RRRC - Sheriden Morris
1130 to 1230 - GBR Rescue Plan - Dept of Environment - TBA
1230 to 1300 - Marine Sewage - MSQ - TBA
1300 to 1330 - Lunch
1330 to 1400 - Tinny to Tanker - AMSA - TBA
1400 to 1700 - National Approach - AMSA - TBA

Tea and coffee will be available throughout the day. Lunch is at your own convenience.

Objective:
The objective of the Australian Marine Park Tourism Operators Industry Training Day is to allow government and other agencies the opportunity to address the industry on one day rather than having to attend different meetings week after week. We encourage maximum involvement and attendance. All members of the Cairns marine industry are welcome.

Water Colours & National Geographic

Why are fish such incredible colours? We’ve never truly understood, because we’ve always looked through human eyes… At the very forefront of marine science, ‘WATER COLOURS’ is an epic exploration of underwater colour, seen for the first time ever, through the fishes eyes. Read more...
We extend our congratulations to Guy and Anita on the release of their series ‘WATER COLOURS’ and their partnership with National Geographic. Many years of passion, dedication and devotion to this project & marine life featured make this a unique film. New Horizon is proud to be affiliated with, and support Liquid Motion Film.

Water Colours Homepage
Ten Frequently Asked Questions about the Film.
The Making of.. (Featuring a Good Looking Crew and Yacht :) )
More Details About Each Episode.

Celebrating a brand new partnership, Underwater Excellence meets Wildlife’s Finest in an exclusive launch of what’s been referred to as ‘the blue-chip underwater series of the decade’
This week at MIPTV Cannes, leading independent Producer Liquid Motion Film joins world-famous National Geographic to launch their revolutionary ‘Water Colours’ Series for exclusive broadcast under the esteemed National Geographic brand umbrella.
“From the producers of the multi award-winning series ‘The Reef’, ‘Water Colours’ is a timely and unique portrayal of the fascinating and virtually unknown world of underwater colour communication” says NGTI. “Provocative and stimulating, ‘Water Colours’ provides a pioneering breakthrough in underwater communication and a landmark step towards improving our understanding in this field.

February Customer Satisfaction Ratings

Our latest independent customer satisfaction scores for February have been returned. Thanks go out again to our great staff and guests for making our trips fun and enjoyable for everyone.

Received value for money: 90%
Would recommend the trip: 100%
Mean satisfaction score: 8.90 / 10

Every Day has Earth Hour on New Horizon Boats

This Saturday is Earth Hour and we encourage everybody to conserve energy every day as well as this Saturday. By choosing a New Horizon sailing vessel to explore the Great Barrier Reef, you are making an environmental choice. We do not run our generators consistently thus avoiding the constant pollution emission. By using stored energy, you get to enjoy the peace and quiet of the reef, waves and birds, broken only by conversation and laughter.
If you're at home this weekend, and not lucky enough to be joining us out on the reef, show your support for the environment and switch off your lights.

Every Airline Jumping on Board - Cathay Pacific Specials from Hong Kong to Cairns

Cathay Pacific are also discounting airline tickets to Cairns from Hong Kong from HK$3740. Check the airline for more details.
Book Your Australian Great Barrier Reef Experience Here

Qantas Specials from Frankfurt to Cairns

Here's a sample of the great deals on offer in Economy Class, for travel from 13 April until 23 June 2009. Hurry, offer ends 26 March 2009!
Frankfurt to Cairns return from EUR802 Book Now and further details can be found here.
Book Your Australia Charter Here

Qantas Specials from Canada to Cairns

If you live in Canada and are interested in visiting the Great Barrier Reef, Australia, now is the time to take advantage of this offer. The following Australia fare sale is valid for outbound travel departing between now and 8 June 2009. This fare sale expires at midnight Pacific Time (PT) on Tuesday, 31 March 2009!

All prices are quoted in Canadian Dollars (CAD).
Vancouver to Cairns Round trip from $1198 Book Now
Toronto to Cairns Round trip from $1698 Book Now

See more of Australia with a Qantas Aussie AirPass from $1199 that gives you 4 cities for one low price!
Hurry, the Qantas Aussie AirPass expires on Tuesday, 31 March 2009. Book Now

Don't Forget to Book Your Trip to the Great Barrier Reef as well. Book Now
As per usual see the airlines website for all the details.

What Does the UV Index Mean?

A lot of of our guests hear on the local radio and TV reference to a UV index and ask what it means. UV is what gives Aussies our tanned, rugged, good looks and, like everything in life, everything in moderation. So we have included the table here for a reference for travellers to the region.

Anything above 3 can cause damage in the sun. In the tropics around the world the average reading is often much higher then this. So sun protection on the Great Barrier Reef and in the rainforest is just common sense and will help you enjoy your trip much more. These easy steps above will help protect you and make your experiences that much better, and remember drink lots of water.
The current index can be found on the BoM Website.

Reefcheck Australia Training Courses

Reefcheck Australia are now seeking Volunteer Coral Reef Surveyors.
• Become part of the community of coral reef surveyors.
• Learn how to monitor coral reef health.
• Improve your underwater knowledge and skills.
• Build your diving experience, log lots of dives.
• Some training costs are involved, but once qualified, you can participate in survey expeditions!!
More details on training can be found at their website
For expressions of interest please email or call !
Contact support@reefcheckaustralia.org or call (07) 4724 3950 for more information (including timetables for each course).

Lion Fish - Species of the Reef

The lionfish blends very well into it's environment. The photo above was taken by one of our guests, Hans Knudsen, trying to capture the ravine and beautiful fans. He was surprised to see a lion fish in the front right of the picture when he got home and looked at his photos from the trip.

A Lionfish is any of several species of venomous but not aggressive marine fish in the genera Pterois, Parapterois, Brachypterois, Ebosia or Dendrochirus, of the family Scorpaenidae. The lionfish is also known as the Turkey Fish, Dragon Fish, Scorpion or Fire Fish. They are notable for their extremely long and separated spines, and have a generally striped appearance, red, green, navy green, brown, orange, yellow, black, maroon, or white.
The lionfish is native to the tropical Indo-Pacific region of the world, but various species can be found worldwide. Due to a recent introduction, the lionfish has recently been spotted in the warmer coral regions of the Eastern Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Lionfish are an invasive species in the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea regions. Successful breeding of the lionfish in captivity has not been reported. In early 2009, the Lionfish was spotted in the Florida Keys, seemingly increasing its range.
There are many types of lionfish that vary in size. The common lionfish generally reaches a size of 30-35cm, while smaller lionfish, like the Fuzzy Dwarf, are typically the size of a tennis ball, not including fins.
We encourage everyone (divers and fishermen) to be extremely cautious and avoid contact with the venomous spines of the lionfish. Although they are not deadly, they are very painful. Lionfish are not aggressive toward humans and will almost always keep their distance when given the opportunity, so they pose a relatively low risk.
The lionfish is one of the most venomous fish on the ocean bottom floor. Lionfish have venomous dorsal spines that are used purely for defense. When threatened, the fish often faces its attacker in a head-down posture which brings its spines to bear. However, a lionfish's sting is usually not fatal to humans.
Lionfish are voracious predators. When hunting, they corner prey using their large fins and then use their quick reflexes to swallow the prey whole. In captivity, lionfish can be trained to eat frozen brine shrimp, mysis, and krill.
However the lionfish have very few natural predators, but the grouper and other lionfish have been found with lionfish remains in their stomachs.

Tawny Nurse Shark - Species of the Reef

The tawny nurse shark or giant sleepy shark is found in the tropical Indo-Pacific oceans between latitudes 31° N and 24° S, and reaches a length of 3.2 m.

The tawny nurse shark is a large, bulky species with a small mouth and small comb-like teeth, and with angular fins. The caudal fin is short, much less than half the length of body, and there are no ridges on the side of the body. The pectoral fins are sickle-shaped, and the spiracles are much smaller than the eye.

It is found on continental and insular shelves, from the intertidal zone down to a depth of at least 70 m. It occurs on or near the bottom in lagoons or along the outer edges of coral and rocky reefs, sandy areas near reefs and off sandy beaches. Primarily nocturnal, but may be active during the day. It prefers crevices and caves on reefs but may be found hiding in more exposed areas, forming resting aggregations, and often seen piled across or on top of one another.

It feeds on a wide variety of bottom invertebrates, small fish, crustaceans and sea urchins. It has a docile nature and has been known to allow itself to be touched, but as always it is best not to touch creatures in the wild.

Reproduction is ovoviviparous (producing eggs that are hatched within the body, so that the young are born alive but without placental attachment.) with 4 or more pups being born per litter. It survives in captivity.

The flesh is marketed fresh and dried-salted, the fins dried for the oriental sharkfin trade, and the liver is processed for vitamins and oil. The offal is processed for fishmeal, and the hide is potentially valuable for leather.

Colouration is brown dorsally, paler ventrally, with the fins slightly dusky. Nebrius ferrugineus, is a nurse shark in the family Ginglymostomatidae, the only member of the genus Nebrius.

Everyone Has a Stimulus Package

And now Qantas have added theirs to the mix with some great prices to Australia from the United States. At the moment they are not offering specials to Cairns directly, but maybe the Qantas management can step up to the plate and offer some packages including Cairns. If not here are several airlines such as Virgin Blue and Jetstar that fly into Cairns, so booking a cheap connecting flight should not be a hassle.
So here are the latest Qantas specials.
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Can't Miss Airfares from $299* each way!

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We're proud to announce the release of our "travel stimulus" offer! For a limited time, you can save up to 60%** off flights from Los Angeles or San Francisco and up to 55%** off flights from New York (JFK). So if you need to get away and Australia or New Zealand have been calling you, it's time to answer... but don't wait too long, this sale ends at midnight U.S. Pacific Time (PT) on Friday, 20 March 2009. Don't wait, book today!

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Australia & New Zealand Travel Stimulus Offers ================================================

Travel is valid for departures between 15 March 2009 and 24 October 2009 unless otherwise noted.

Fares listed are each way based on roundtrip purchase.

All prices are quoted in US Dollars (USD).

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Los Angeles to:

Sydney Each way from $299*

Brisbane Each way from $299*

Melbourne Each way from $299*

Auckland Each way from $299*

Book Now:

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San Francisco to:

Sydney Each way from $299*

Brisbane Each way from $299*

Melbourne Each way from $299*

Auckland Each way from $299*

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New York (Newark) to:

Sydney Each way from $449*

Brisbane Each way from $449*

Melbourne Each way from $449*

Auckland Each way from $449*

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Quick Facts About The Great Barrier Reef

Quick Facts About The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest structure built by living organisms on the Earth today.
The Great Barrier Reef region is the world’s largest group of coral reefs.
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park covers an area of 345 400 sq. km or 133 360 sq. miles.
It stretches 2300 km (1430 miles) along the Queensland coast.
There are three main types of reefs found on the Great Barrier Reef: Ribbon, Platform, and Fringing reefs.

• Fringing reefs are coral structures that are attached to the mainland or to continental islands. In the Great Barrier Reef most fringing reefs are found around islands. Fringing reefs are probably the reef type most commonly seen by visitors.
• Platform reefs are also known as patch reefs and are scattered in the calm, shallow waters between the mainland and edge of the continental shelf. They are usually round or oval patches and often tend to be broken up.
• Ribbon reefs only occur in the northern part of the Great Barrier Reef. They form along the edge of the continental shelf and can grow so high they form narrow walls.

Tiny masses of coral polyps are responsible for building coral reefs.
Reefs are masses of limestone made from skeletons of millions upon millions of tiny marine animals and plants.

It is not one long continuous reef, but a complex system of various marine habitats with more than:

• 2900 coral reefs
• 600 continental islands
• 300 coral cays

The Great Barrier Reef is home to approximately:

• 1,500 species of fish
• 360 species of hard coral
• one third of the world’s soft corals
• 4,000 species of molluscs (eg. shells)
• 800 species of echinoderm (eg. starfish, sea urchins etc)
• 24 species of seabirds that live and breed on the islands
• More than 30 species of marine mammals including whales, dolphins and dugongs
• 14,000 dugong (Australia’s entire dugong population is about 100,000)
• 6 species of marine turtles, all listed as threatened.

• Main threats to coral reefs include climate change, pollutants, coral bleaching and crown-of-thorn starfish outbreaks.

Reef Health Surveys for 2009

Ever wondered how they do surveys to determine health of the Great Barrier Reef? Want to experience and learn from the experts? The monitoring is part of Reef Checks global survey. You can view their methodology and what the surveys entail here.
This years reef surveys for our sites are scheduled on the Santa Maria 3 day trip departing Monday the 13th April 2009. If you want to join the cruise and watch the surveys in progress come and join us. You can reserve your place by booking online or contact us for more information.

News From the Great Barrier Reef on Twitter

To bring the Great Barrier Reef directly to you we have added twitter service to the boats. So now you can get realtime updates on what our guests are seeing, doing on the reef in realtime. Be amongst the first to follow us just click on the twitter link and add us to your twitter account.

Where Do Our Guests Come From?

A couple of questions we always get from people are where are your guests from and what sort of people come on your trip. I can tell you we have singles, couples, friends, father/son, mother/ daughter, as well as full families from all age groups, and people from all walks of life. So our demographics are very distributed. We do recommend that children younger than 5 do not come on the cruise.
Now where are they from? This map is a general overview of where our guests have come from in the past. So you can see that we get people from everywhere, maybe from your home town. All I can say is our guests are fun people and out to have a fantastic time on the Great Barrier Reef.

Great Barrier Reef E-Cards

Are you a past guest on Santa Maria or Coral Sea Dreaming?
Thinking of coming on a trip with us shortly?
Trying to talk your friends or family members on coming on a trip to the Great Barrier Reef?
Then have a look at our new e-card, slideshow and photo albums. Past guests can upload photos of their trip and send e-cards to their family and friends.
If you are just browsing you can also send e-cards to whom you choose with a few clicks of the button. Try it out and we hope to see you at the reef shortly.

Autumn (Fall) in Australia and the Great Barrier Reef

With Autumn starting here in Australia, we have immediately felt the cool weather break the summer months. This is great news environmentally as what, at the beginning of the summer, looked like it could have been a year where we see a lot of coral bleaching on the Cairns reefs. Mother nature has once again shown us that she is well on top of her game, and a lot smarter then the rest of us. Early seasonal monsoon rains gave cooling relief in the afternoons and kept the oceans cool and the reef in it's full spectacular colours.
Whale migration will be starting in the next few months, with whale numbers increasing year of year this year promises to be another spectacular year. It will be hard to beat the experiences and encounters our guests had with whales last year but as the whale population returns to normal and with their playful spirit we are sure that it will just keep getting better.
It's that time again when we start ramping up for a busy season and spots on the boats fill up months in advance. So if you are planning to visit the Great Barrier Reef this year make sure that you start planning your Australian sailing and diving trip early and book now to get the best trips and accommodation. Remember we only take 10 guests at a time for that unique experience so space is limited.

What Can You Do About Climate Change

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has put together a series of videos outlining the effects of Climate Change on the reef. More importantly they have a video about what YOU can do to make a difference, simple things that you do everyday that will help the planet and may also save you some cash.

The First Video outlines "What is Global Warming or Climate Change?"


The Second Video outlines "Actions You Can Take to Save the Reefs and the Planet"


The Third outlines the Impact Global Warming is Having on the Great Barrier Reef


More related videos can be found on YouTube or references are included in the previous article located here.

Digital Underwater Cameras Now Available

Diving the Great Barrier Reef is simply amazing and having a camera to capture your dives is a must. To help you out we now have digital cameras available for hire/rent on-board. We supply a quality digital camera hire which allows you to get quality digital underwater photography without the price tag and having to carry it around on your travels
As always we do this with a little extra service. We will deliver your camera to your accommodation the night before your departure. When you return from your trip we will pick up the camera from the boat, process and burn the images to disk and deliver them to your accommodation within 24 hours, or post anywhere in the world. To ensure your photos are great we automatically process your images through a special (secret) Photoshop recipe.
We chose Olympus 7.1 megapixel cameras for their image quality and toughness. The cameras feature 3 underwater settings and a video mode. If this sounds complicated don’t worry, part of the service is a brief underwater photography tutorial from one of our experienced representatives.
Just add the digital camera to your cart at time of booking and we'll take care of the rest, it's that easy.

Reef Birds Enjoying the Calm Weather

With the calm seas and good weather continuing on the Great Barrier Reef we are treated to some great experiences everyday. This last trip we experienced many different groups of reef birds feeding on the schools of fish. With the seas being so calm birds are getting treating to some perfect fishing conditions and taking advantage of every minute of it. Without disturbing the birds we sail smoothly past them getting to view them for some time as the spectacle continued.

Fantastic Start to 2009

The weather and fish life have had a great start to 2009 with beautiful blue and calm seas as well as the marine life including fish and turtles being very active. Some afternoon lightening providing a beautiful light show that only mother nature knows how to put on. Perfectly flat and clear seas all the way out to the reef and excellent visibility on the reef are making every trip something special. Come and join us in this wonderful experience, check to to see if spaces are still available on a date that suits you.

Thanks for a Great 2008

We at New Horizon Sail & Dive would like to thank our guests, agents and crew for a great year in 2008. This year we have had some fantastic weather and seen some great things throughout the year. Some of the highlights although there are too many to mention here are;

• The increased sightings of whales each year with this year proving the point again.
• Turtles are a great experience in their natural state, and this year we spotted 15 turtles of all different sizes behind a reef face, an occurrence rarely seen away from nesting areas.
• The turtle mating season was exciting with several different instances of mating being witnessed directly from the boat.
• Dolphins like to join us on the bow when sailing and this year our guides varied in numbers and species, as well as exciting us with some new tricks.
  
• Refit for both boats with Santa Maria getting a major overhaul and Coral Sea Dreaming enjoying some time on the drydock also.
• The sunrises and sunsets the start and end the day in such a glorious way.
  
• We must extend a great thanks to our crew for there hard work and our guests for our fantastic customer satisfaction scores that they consistently earn.
• A special mention goes out to our friendly housemates on the Great Barrier Reef who keep our jobs fresh and entertain all of us.
  
• To all the guests that continue to send in photos of their great experiences.
• Our new features on the website including instant chat, updated online bookings and of course "The Blog" were a big hit.
  

Thanks again for a great year in 2008 and we hope to see you all again in 2009.