One of the main reasons for planning a trip to Far North Queensland is to visit the Great Barrier Reef. Spanning over 2,300 km down Australia’s eastern coastline it offers an abundance of coastal experiences unlike anywhere else in the world. Quicksilver Cruises are the largest operator out of Port Douglas taking up to 440 visitors out to the Agincourt Reef each day. We decided to join them to experience the reef for ourselves.
Getting to the Quicksilver base in Port Douglas
As we were conveniently staying in the centre of Port Douglas it was just a 15 minute stroll to the marina for us. Don’t worry if you happen to be staying further along the coast as Quicksilver operate a shuttle service from Cairns picking up at hotels along the way. The early morning coach journey is actually an added bonus as you can take in the dramatic coastal scenery. Do try to sit on the right hand side on your journey north for the best views. Passengers arriving by car are also well catered for as there’s a large car park adjacent to the marina. Ticket prices for the Quicksilver cruise and bus transfers can be found here.
Arrival and check-in
On arrival at the Quicksilver quay we just needed to check-in at the reservations desk to collect our boarding passes before joining a short queue to await boarding at 9.30 a.m. At first glance it appeared that there wouldn’t be many people taking the trip that day but we were soon to discover that this wasn’t the case.
A Carnival Cruise ship that had set sail from Brisbane earlier in the week had that morning moored off-shore with a large number of passengers who had opted to take this side trip, transferring to the Quicksilver boat quay by tender.
On-board the Quicksilver boat
On boarding the spacious Quicksilver wave piercing catamaran we had no need to worry as there was plenty of room to accommodate everyone on board, both in the two indoor saloons and out on deck. We opted to sit in the upper saloon managing to get window seats facing each other. Prior to departure complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits are available so we enjoyed our morning cups of coffee whilst chatting to the other passengers sitting around our table.
The catamaran journey was very smooth and took just 90 minutes to cover the 72 km to the outer reef. The journey on board the boat is all part of the adventure, and as we left the mainland behind we were treated to spectacular views of the mountains that drop dramatically into the Coral Sea.
Approximately 30 minutes after departing there was an interesting presentation from a qualified marine biologist followed by safety instructions from a lifeguard on snorkelling from the pontoon as well as details of the other activities available on the Agincourt Reef pontoon.
Agincourt Reef Pontoon
The boat docked at a large floating pontoon platform that serves as the base for the day and the launching point for all activities. From this spacious platform floating at the reef’s edge it’s possible to explore the reef in different ways. If you’re not confident in the water and not wishing to try snorkelling or scuba diving there is no need to worry as the reef can be viewed up close without even entering the water.
Agincourt Reef is the furthest reef system within a day trip’s reach of Port Douglas and part of the outer reef system. Thankfully because of the size of the pontoon and the numerous activities on offer, there was ample space for everyone to spread out and feel comfortable
Semi-Submersible coral viewing
Two semi-submersible boats were operating off one of the platforms on the pontoon so we decided to join this activity first. The boat is quite unusual as there isn’t an aisle so after getting on board and descending down a few steps we needed to move forward until we reached the first available pair of seats and then tilt them down to sit on them.
Seated just one metre underwater we experienced a diver’s view of the reef on the extremely interesting 25 minute tour. We also benefitted from a live informed commentary on the marine life observed during the journey and an overview of the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
We learned that Agincourt Reef is a ribbon reef located near to where the Great Barrier Reef meets the Continental Shelf and that it contains over 400 species of coral and 1,500 different types of fish.
Underwater Observatory
After enjoying the semi-submersible boat trip we then walked over to the other side of the pontoon to take a look at the views from the static underwater observatory.
Again, this was really interesting and along with the submersible boat trip, are ideal options for those not wishing to swim.
Buffet Lunch
A tropical buffet lunch is included in the ticket price with both hot and cold dishes on offer. We were tempted by the fresh prawns, salad and fruit and as this was replenished at regular intervals we were able to pop back later to have some more.
The pontoon is equipped with lots of picnic tables and benches and even though the boat was full to capacity that day, we didn’t have any difficulties finding a table.
Complimentary tea and coffee is available back on board the boat which only takes a minute to reach by crossing the wide canopied gangway.
Snorkelling
Snorkelling is the most popular activity out on Agincourt Reef. and one of the best ways to view the marine life. Snorkelling equipment is available to collect from the storage containers on the platform alongside full body lycra suits for protection against jellyfish stings. There are also floatation aids and life vests available as required.
Access is available from submerged platforms making it easy to get in and out of the water. A large area is roped off for snorkelling allowing swimmers to go quite far out if they wish. Lifeguards are always on duty to keep watch and there are also floating “rest stations” that you can grab onto to take a short rest.
Pre-booked guided snorkel, scuba, helmet diving and scenic helicopter flights are all available at an extra charge.
Fish Feeding
Fish feeding can be observed from the viewing platform and underwater observatory with feeding times being advised on the pontoon notice board.
Heading back to Port Douglas
Changing rooms are provided on the pontoon enabling everyone who has been in the water to put on dry clothes. Back on board, just before the boat departs, coffee, tea and hot chocolate is served along with a selection of cheese and crackers.
All that was left for us to do then was just sit back and enjoy the return cruise to Port Douglas after such a fun and memorable day out on the barrier reef. If you are planning a holiday in Northern Queensland then I recommend spending a day out on the reef with Quicksilver.
We were guests of Quicksilver Cruises and as always, all views and opinions are entirely my own.
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