Visiting the Great Barrier Reef is an absolute must if you’re heading to Queensland, it’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Whether you’re based in Cairns or Airlie Beach, you’ll find some amazing tours that get you up close with this underwater wonderland. From Cairns, you can jump on a tour costing around $200 to $250, which typically includes snorkeling, submarine rides, glass-bottom boat tours, and diving for an extra fee. If you’re in Airlie Beach, expect to pay a bit more, around $200 to $300, but these tours often include trips to the stunning Whitsunday Islands and Whitehaven Beach.

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 kilometers off the coast of Queensland, and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s home to an incredible variety of marine life, from colorful fish to majestic sea turtles, and is basically an enormous underwater city built by tiny coral polyps. Despite facing threats like climate change, pollution, and coral bleaching, it remains a top destination and an essential part of local culture and economy. 

I did a snorkeling tour from Cairns and was totally blown away by the vibrant coral gardens and crystal-clear waters. I even spotted a sea turtle, which was an absolute highlight. Be ready for a bit of a tourist hustle and bustle, as these tours can get pretty crowded and the boat can be quite loud. But trust me, the experience of exploring this natural marvel is worth every bit of the excitement and noise!