Eco Expedition

Join us in exploring the most beautiful marine sanctuary on the East Coast of Australia (during the southern humpback whale migration and manta season!)

We’re talking 6 days of exploring the Southern Great Barrier Reef, with the opportunity to snorkel with:

• Manta rays

• Humpback whales (if we are lucky!)

• Reef sharks

• Loads of turtles

• Octopus

• Dolphins 

• Countless fish species

• The most beautiful coral structures

This experience is expected to sell out so ensure you book your spot as soon as possible.

HIGHLIGHTS

Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort offers a once in a lifetime snorkelling/diving experience, renowned for its vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs. Here are some highlights:

Manta Ray Encounters

Lady Elliot Island is famous for its population of manta rays. Snorkelers often get the chance to swim alongside these graceful creatures, especially in the colder months. We have lined up these dates to be near the full moon (peak manta ray activity)

Humpback Whale Encounters

At Lady Elliot Island, snorkelers and divers are known to encounter humpback whales in the ocean during the migratory months (May to October). This means that we may have the opportunity to see humpback whales underwater! 

Turtle Sightings

The island is a haven for green and loggerhead turtles. Divers can often see turtles feeding in the lagoon or resting on the reef.

Coral Gardens

The island's coral reefs are home to a plethora of colourful corals, including hard and soft varieties. The coral gardens are teeming with life and are perfect for underwater photography.

Educational Talks

LEI Marine biologists and guides provide informative talks about the island, animals, and conservation efforts, enriching your understanding of the island.

Guided Snorkel Tour

This expedition offers 1x guided introductory snorkel tour led by knowledgeable LEI guides who can point out interesting marine life and will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Professional Photography Package

Our expedition host Terence will accompany you in the ocean to capture high-quality images and videos of your experience. This will be provided to you within 4 weeks after the expedition.

Scuba Diving

Whilst not compulsory, it is highly recommended to obtain your scuba diving certification for this expedition. It will be optional for guests to join Lady Elliot Island led scuba dives on some of the days. We will to enquire with the dive shop during our stay to organise this. (Please note: additional payment will be required by Lady Elliot Island Dive Centre for scuba diving if you choose to partake).

All Meals Included

The full buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner feature a variety of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, catering to diverse dietary preferences. The food includes a mix of international and Australian cuisine, with an emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Guests can enjoy their meals in the relaxed dining area with stunning views of the ocean (especially at sunset). Special dietary requirements can be accommodated upon request.

Eco-Cabins

The eco-cabins are designed to provide comfort while minimising environmental impact. These charming, rustic accommodations are perfect for nature lovers seeking an authentic island experience. Powered by renewable energy, they emphasise sustainability. Located close to the beach, you can enjoy the natural surroundings and the sound of the ocean.

Itinerary

(Example and subject to change)

Day 1:

• Arrive at Hervey Bay airport prior to flight departure time

• Scenic flight over parts of the Great Barrier Reef to Lady Elliot Island

• Group briefing and introductions

• Introductory snorkelling/diving session from the Lady Elliot Island boat

• Group sunset drinks and dinner

Days 2-5:

• Sunrise snorkelling session

• Buffet breakfast

• Free time/planned activities such as educational / octopus / epaulette shark walks

• Lunch

• Free time or afternoon snorkelling/diving

• Group sunset drinks and dinner

Note: There will be two days where we recommend the group to join scuba dives with the Lady Elliot Island Dive centre.

Day 6:

• Group debriefing 

• Depart Lady Elliot island with a scenic flight over parts of the Great Barrier Reef back to Hervey Bay airport.

• Goodbyes 🥲

• 5 nights' accommodation (twin share eco cabin) at Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort

• 5 days of snorkelling

• Snorkel equipment (mask, snorkel & fins)

• Return scenic flight over parts of The Great Barrier Reef

• Workshops and presentations

• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner

• Underwater photography/videography package to capture your experience

• Group activities and photography and videography tips

This is an experience tailored to experienced snorkelers to advanced freedivers. Due to the nature of the water activities, you will need prior snorkelling experience and need to be a confident swimmer to participate in the ocean-based activities. You must be able to swim at least 200m in open ocean water as well as tread water for long periods of time.

As mentioned above, it is highly recommended to have your scuba diving certification in order to join on some scuba diving tours with Lady Elliot Island (Not included in the package cost).

IMPORTANT

• Luggage - In addition to the 15kg checked luggage allowance, small personal items totalling up to a maximum of 2kg can be carried on board. These items may include a handbag/purse, tablet or laptop in a thin case, camera, coat/wrap etc.

• The cost of the trip includes your return scenic flight to Lady Elliot Island, 5 nights' accommodation, full-board meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner), 1 boat snorkelling/diving session, beach snorkelling sessions, a general underwater photography/videography package of your experience.

• Gear - Snorkelling gear can be hired at Lady Elliot Island, however, if you feel comfortable using your own gear it is recommended that you bring it all with you!

• In the (extremely rare) event that the expedition needs to be cancelled due to unforeseen weather events, we will consult with Lady Elliot Island Resort to ensure the best outcome for you.

• It is recommended that you purchase travel insurance to cover your flights and other expenses/valuables

• We reserve the right to cancel or amend the price structure due to circumstances beyond our control. For example, extreme weather events, flight changes, Lady Elliot Island Resort annual price changes.

• It is also important to remember that we are dealing with Mother Nature and unpredictable animal behaviour. Therefore opportunities will vary from day to day. Nothing in nature is guaranteed, however every effort will be made to ensure you have an amazing day in the ocean!

• We HIGHLY recommend booking your flights to and from Hervey Bay Airport (or nearby to drive to the airport) as soon as possible.

• The scenic flight from Hervey Bay to Lady Elliot is usually scheduled for 10:30am so it is recommended you stay overnight on 13 September, 2027 to avoid missing your flight.

The cost of this expedition is $3,250.00 AUD.

• There is a $750AUD non-refundable deposit required to be paid to secure your spot. It is only once this payment is submitted that your spot is secure.

• You have the option of either paying the remaining $2500 AUD upfront

• OR you can pay 2 instalments of $1250 AUD due before 14 March 2027 and 14 June 2027

• The final balance is due on the 14 June 2027 (3 months prior to the expedition)

• The entire balance will be non-refundable within 6 months of the expedition date.

• After the 14 March 2027, you will no longer be entitled to a full refund unless you can find another person to take your booking and pay in full.

• If full payment is not made by the 14 June 2027, your booking and will be forfeited, and your spot will become available to book by another person.