Expeditions
A Unique and Extraordinary Holiday
Join our team of scientists and conservationists for an 11 day luxury conservation cruise to the Coral Sea as part of "Project Lihou".This is an exclusive opportunity and a unique and extraordinary holiday. We'll be taking you to a place you could never normally visit, to learn about strange and wonderful animals. You'll get the chance to take part in some research, learn something new every day from a diversity of experts - including conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts - but most of all, you'll immerse yourself in a beautiful experience.
**This expedition suits both the diver and non-diver**
Last year, with the help of passengers, we produced a series of short documentaries on life at the reef, including pieces for the Copenhagen Climate Change conference. Here's some excerpts you might enjoy:
Also watch ...
This a once-in-a-lifetime adventure “beyond the Great Barrier Reef”, will see you dive and snorkel with sharks, see pristine coral reefs, watch the sun set behind thousands of soaring Frigatebirds and observe turtles nesting. Or… you can just lounge in the luxury of the Elizabeth EII and be waited upon by their experienced staff.
The islands we visit are part of Lihou Reef, which is a strict nature reserve and can only be accessed under Commonwealth permit. Visiting these islands is a unique privilege.
This expedition suits both the diver and non-diver. For the divers, there are superlative shark dives at Anne Cay and the sheltered lagoons offer the chance of night dives. We will aim to do at least two dives per day. The islands are also significant seabird breeding sites and we will go ashore morning and evening to do counts and photography.
Lihou Reef is also a photographer's paradise.
Colourful fish and tawny nurse sharks abound in just a couple of metres of water, whilst nesting boobies, noddies and frigatebirds are perfectly photogenic and approachable. Whether you know a little or a lot about ocean life, this is the trip for you.
Departing
Mackay, Saturday, 27 November 2010
Returning
Mackay, Wednesday, 8 December 2010.
Contact the expedition leader, Simon Mustoe for further information on this special opportunity. For more information, stories and videos about this trip, visit the Project Lihou Website .
Simon Mustoe
Mob: +61 (0) 405220830
Email: simonmustoe@ecology-solutions.com.au
Join us on a unique 9 day expedition aboard the Elizabeth E 11 from Cairns to Thursday Island.
This trip offers the opportunity for individuals, couples or groups to join the Elizabeth E II in Cairns and cruise some of Australia's most spectacular coastline and marine environments to Thursday Island.
At the same time it provides the opportunity to enjoy activities such as fishing and snorkeling at sites rarely visited by other people, a coastline steeped in history and a destination that is rich in culture.
Departing Cairns on Saturday, 6 November 2010.
Disembarking on Thursday Island on Sunday, 14 November 2010.
Cost: from $4,000 per person
This is an adventure expedition with no set itinerary as the group will be consulting with the skipper to determine actual destinations and the days activities. Options include:
Fishing
Fishing will definately be on the agenda. In this northern part of the Great Barrier Reef is some of the most untouched, prolific and rewarding fishing spots available. Targeting large species such as Coral Trout, Red Emperor, Long Nose Emperor and Nannygai, make sure that you have heavy tackle to deal with these large fish.
"Master 1 G.T. Benchmark set."
Graham, Mackay - Weipa to TI Oct08
Snorkeling
Swimming, spearing and snorkeling opportunities for those wishing to get wet at some of the most pristine and spectacular sites on the Great Barrier Reef.
'Unique experience' Noel, Noosa - TI to Weipa Oct08
Exploring
Go ashore at Cape York, the most northernly point of mainland Australia. Visit Stanley Island to see ancient rock art, visit Cooktown or put in some crab pots at Princess Charlotte Bay.
"A wonderful adventure to the top." Judy & Maurie, Eumundi - Cairns to TI Oct08
For an unforgettable experience contact us and discuss your requirements.
The Elizabeth E II is also available for charter for other expedition cruises, research trips and live aboard dive experiences.
